KEF has introduced the LS Luxe, a compact active speaker system designed by Ross Lovegrove. Combining built-in amplification, wireless streaming and HDMI eARC, the two-speaker system is intended to handle both music and television sound without requiring a separate amplifier or a conventional stack of hi-fi components.
A sculptural approach to active speakers
The LS Luxe places its electronics and amplification inside the speaker cabinets, creating a self-contained stereo system. Each enclosure measures 336 x 223 x 298 mm, while the complete pair weighs 20 kg. The two-way bass-reflex design is offered in three colors, including the Eclipse Black finish.
Ross Lovegrove’s industrial design gives the cabinets a strongly sculpted appearance, distinguishing the LS Luxe from more conventional rectangular compact speakers. Matching floor stands are available separately, although the speakers do not include an integrated wall-mounting system.
The inter-speaker connection can operate wirelessly, reducing the need for a signal cable between the two cabinets. A wired connection remains available for installations that require the system’s highest supported inter-speaker resolution. Each speaker still requires its own AC power connection.
Uni-Q, MAT and VECO technologies
At the center of the LS Luxe is KEF’s 12th-generation Uni-Q driver array. The 6.5-inch bass and midrange section surrounds a centrally positioned one-inch aluminum-dome tweeter, creating a coaxial arrangement in which the drivers radiate from the same point. The Uni-Q assembly is mechanically decoupled from the cabinet to limit the transfer of unwanted vibration.
Behind the tweeter sits KEF’s Metamaterial Absorption Technology, or MAT. Its internal labyrinth of channels is designed to absorb 99 percent of the unwanted sound radiating from the rear of the tweeter diaphragm.
The LS Luxe also introduces VECO bass control. A sensor monitors the movement of the bass driver, while dedicated amplification continuously corrects deviations from the intended motion. The system is designed to reduce distortion and maintain tighter control at low frequencies. KEF specifies a frequency response of 42 Hz to 28 kHz, measured within a 3 dB range, and a maximum sound-pressure level of 110 dB.
Dedicated amplification and hi-res playback
Each LS Luxe speaker contains separate amplification for its drive units. The bass section is powered by a 280-watt Class D amplifier, while the tweeter uses a 100-watt Class AB amplifier. This arrangement removes the need to match the speakers with an external integrated amplifier or power amplifier.
Network playback supports resolutions up to 24-bit/384 kHz. When the two speakers communicate wirelessly, the inter-speaker link operates at up to 24-bit/96 kHz. Connecting the speakers by cable raises that limit to 24-bit/192 kHz.
A subwoofer can be connected through the RCA output for systems requiring additional low-frequency extension. KEF subwoofers can also be used with an optional wireless adapter, reducing the number of signal cables needed around the system.
Streaming, television and wired sources
Wireless connectivity includes dual-band Wi-Fi, Apple AirPlay, Google Chromecast and Bluetooth 5.3. Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect and Qobuz Connect are supported, while the KEF Connect app provides access to additional music services, internet radio, podcasts and room-correction controls. Music stored on a network-attached storage device can also be played over the local network.
For television use, HDMI eARC allows a compatible TV to send digital audio to the speakers while retaining volume control through the television’s existing remote. An optical input provides another digital TV connection. Additional wired inputs include coaxial digital and 3.5 mm analog, while Ethernet is available for a wired network connection.
The analog input can accommodate sources such as a CD player or turntable, but record players require a separate phono preamplifier because the LS Luxe does not include one. A USB-C power output rated at 5V/2A is also provided. KEF’s C3 remote control is included with the system.
System scope and feature availability
The LS Luxe is positioned as a complete two-channel system for listeners who want compact speakers, integrated amplification and modern source handling in one package. It cannot be expanded into a surround-sound system, making it a stereo-focused alternative to an AV receiver and multichannel speaker installation.
Roon Ready support is scheduled to arrive in 2027 rather than being available at introduction. The system’s other listed network and app-based playback options provide its initial streaming functionality. No USD price has been announced in the supplied product information.
With its Lovegrove-designed cabinets, active amplification, Uni-Q driver array and broad selection of wired and wireless inputs, the KEF LS Luxe brings music streaming and TV audio into a single compact stereo platform. Its wireless inter-speaker option and built-in electronics further reduce the equipment needed for a complete two-channel setup.
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