PSB iQ1 & iQ2: Active BluOS Speakers with HDMI eARC and Phono Input

The Canadian manufacturer PSB Speakers has launched the iQ series of active two-way loudspeakers. The iQ1 and iQ2 are relatively compact yet very complete. With BluOS as the streaming platform, an HDMI input, a turntable input, an optical input, and both a USB-A and a USB-C connection, the iQ members are versatile. The iQ2 is available in seven colors, while the iQ1 is only available in black and white.

The earlier Alpha iQ gave the Canadian manufacturer an early credible position in the compact streaming speaker market, featuring BluOS (by Bluesound), HDMI eARC, a phono input, and authentic stereo reproduction in a system that proved remarkably capable given its size (also read our review of the PSB Alpha iQ ). The new PSB iQ series builds on that foundation. By combining active amplification, BluOS streaming, HDMI eARC, a turntable input for MM cartridges, USB-C audio, and subwoofer integration, the iQ1 and iQ2 aim to offer the experience of a traditional PSB/NAD system in a format that may be more attractive to new buyers or audiophiles looking to add a second system or purchase a smaller system.

The iQ series includes the iQ1 and the more luxurious iQ2. Both are based on the acoustic platform first used in the Alpha iQ, but PSB has improved the amplification, the case finish, the connectivity, and the overall flexibility of the system.

Both models support BluOS streaming up to 24-bit/192kHz, with access to over 20 streaming services, internet radio, personal music libraries, multi-room playback, Apple AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, Qobuz Connect, and Bluetooth with aptX Adaptive. BluOS remains one of the better whole-house streaming platforms, particularly for those who want to combine a compact stereo system with other Bluesound, NAD, or BluOS-compatible products elsewhere in the home.

Moreover, PSB has made the iQ series particularly practical. Thanks to HDMI eARC, both devices provide a full-fledged upgrade to TV sound, without the need for a soundbar. There is an MM phono preamplifier for turntables, RCA and optical inputs for older sources, USB-C audio for laptops and mobile devices, USB-A connections, and a subwoofer output with DSP-controlled high- and low-pass filters.

That last feature can be important. A compact active speaker can deliver much more than you would expect based on its size, but a well-integrated subwoofer remains useful for larger rooms, movies, and anyone who wants a bit more bass.

The PSB iQ1 is the entry-level model. It is available in black or white vinyl and connects the two speakers with a cable. Fully wireless is more convenient, but the wired connection keeps both channels synchronized and allows PSB to focus the budget on amplification, drivers, DSP, streaming, and inputs, rather than turning the product into an expensive network experiment. Moreover, they are not the only manufacturer using this method.

The iQ1 utilizes a 4-inch polypropylene mid-bass driver with a steel housing and rubber surround, coupled with a 0.75-inch aluminum dome tweeter featuring a neodymium magnet and ferrofluid damping. The total system power is 270 Watts per pair, of which 90 Watts is allocated to each woofer and 45 Watts per channel to the tweeters.

The iQ2 features the same speakers, a 270-watt amplifier, a BluOS ecosystem, and connectivity options, but adds a low-latency wireless connection between the left and right speakers. This model is intended for those who want a sleek setup without compromising on a true stereo pair. More importantly, PSB has given the iQ2 a much wider range of finishes: black, white, ember red, boreal green, granite grey, sandstone beige, and premium walnut veneer.

The walnut version features accents with a copper finish, and PSB says the iQ2 cabinets have a fingerprint-resistant coating. A small detail perhaps, but anyone who has ever dealt with shiny speakers, children, dogs, or other people understands why that is important.