KEF has launched the XIO soundbar, which delivers hyper-realistic sound through a suite of innovations including Uni-Q MX, P185 LF driver with P-Flex, patent-pending Velocity Control Technology (VECO), and the Music Integrity Engine (MIE) for Cinema. Supporting Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Sony 360 Reality Audio, the XIO turns flat screen monitors into dynamic, rich, three-dimensional soundscapes, bringing entertainment to life.
Powered by a 5.1.2 configuration (five main channels, one subwoofer channel, and two overhead channels) and with 12 Class D amplifiers, the XIO offers high-resolution spatial audio experience in one soundbar.
The XIO includes Intelligent Placement Technology (IPT). This built-in calibration tool automatically adapts the audio output based on the objects around the soundbar.
The XIO encompasses a dedicated Dialog Mode to ensure every word is heard. Located within the EQ presets, alongside Night and Music Modes, this mode enhances vocal frequencies while reducing background noise, making speech effortlessly clear. Enhancing the immersive experience even further, the XIO has exceptional sound imaging, offering a realistic 3D soundscape, positioning individual sounds at different pinpoints within the room.
The XIO’s P185 LF driver, enhanced with KEF’s P-Flex technology, which has been adapted from the KC62 and KC92 subwoofers, resists acoustic pressure within the cabinet, enabling the driver to move with greater precision and achieving deeper bass extension with remarkable clarity.
While showcasing an ultra-slim design, the bass performance of the XIO is equivalent to a 4- x 4-inch low-frequency driver (otherwise known as a woofer). The ample cabinet space allows for twin P185 LF drivers to be positioned back-to-back in a force-cancelling configuration that significantly reduces mechanical vibrations. This results in a pure and resonant low-frequency response, free from unwanted distortions.
Showcasing a sleek aluminum top plate and splash-proof fabric for style and durability, the XIO’s contemporary, minimal design will complement any space and aesthetic. Available in Slate Black and Silver Grey, it features adaptive shelf and wall modes, the result is an uncompromising home theatre experience, tailored to its environment.
Uni-Q MX, VECO, and MIE
The XIO features six Uni-Q MX drivers, the miniature version of KEF’s Uni-Q driver array. These drivers ensure a balanced soundstage, delivering crisp, accurate audio across the entire room. The decoupler, engineered as a precise crossover, separates the low-frequency cone and high-frequency tweeter dome, a design that allows the diaphragm to move freely at low frequencies while isolating the dome for high-frequency precision.
KEF’s patent-pending Velocity Control Technology (VECO) is the built-in sensor at the heart of the P185 LF driver. The VECO monitors cone motion and employs a negative feedback loop to significantly minimize distortion and compression to produce pristine, undistorted clarity.
The Music Integrity Engine for Cinema is KEF’s in-house suite of DSP algorithms specifically designed for the XIO. This sophisticated technology delivers multi-channel processing, virtualization, and adaptive placement capabilities. Users benefit from transcendent soundscapes that enhance movie watching.
Connectivity and Control
W2 Wireless Platform, adapted from KEF’s LS Wireless Collection, supports all major streaming services, including TIDAL, Amazon Music, Qobuz, Deezer, and more. Enhanced with Dolby Atmos and Sony 360 Reality Audio, the XIO ensures connectivity and streaming ease with pristine sound quality.
Designed for flexibility and to fit perfectly with your TV, the XIO offers HDMI eARC, optical, and RCA subwoofer output, allowing for a variety of connection options to suit your preferences. While the soundbar itself has sufficient bass for the majority of use cases, should it be required any KEF subwoofer can be paired wirelessly with the KW2 RX receiver, an accessory specifically designed to ensure effortless and reliable connectivity.
Offering easy-to-use settings, users can adjust audio preferences and manage playback through the XIO top panel, via the remote, or through the KEF Connect app. Here, you can tune your listening experience to suit your taste and your space, and make your preferred adjustments easily, via the normal and expert modes on the EQ settings.
The XIO Soundbar will retail for $2499.99.
For more information, visit us.kef.com.
