KEF Introduces Signature XIO Soundbar with Multi-Driver and Processing Innovations

Aiming for both hifi-level and cinematic sound experiences, KEF announced the XIO (pronounced zee-oh) Soundbar, an ambitious design in a competitive space that requires strong differentiation. Showcasing a sleek aluminium top plate and splash-proof fabric for style and durability, the XIO’s design will complement any space, featuring adaptive shelf and wall modes. An uncompromising home entertainment system from TV and movies to music and gaming, the XIO combines a remarkable suite of technical innovations. Powered by a 5.1.2 configuration (five main channels, one subwoofer channel, and two overhead channels) and with 12 Class-D amplifier channels, the XIO offers both high-resolution audio and spatial audio experiences, all in one soundbar.

Rethinking the soundbar as the hub of an entertainment system, the new XIO soundbar features KEF’s W2 Wireless Platform, which supports all major streaming services, including Tidal, Amazon Music, Qobuz, Deezer, and more.  Enhanced with Dolby Atmos and Sony 360 Reality Audio, the XIO also ensures wireless connectivity with AirPlay 2, Google Cast, and Bluetooth 5.3.

Through innovative technology and design, the XIO delivers high-impact sound through a suite of innovations including Uni-Q miniature coaxials, combined with the patent-pending Velocity Control Technology (VECO) motion-sensor on the low-frequency drivers, and the Music Integrity Engine (MIE) for Cinema.
 
The Music Integrity Engine (MIE) 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, ensuring an exceptional audio experience tailored to any environment and content source type. Supporting Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Sony 360 Reality Audio immersive formats, the XIO turns flat-screen monitors into dynamic, rich, three-dimensional soundscapes, bringing entertainment to life.

Ensuring the best possible sound is delivered in any setting, 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 also encompasses a dedicated Dialogue Mode to ensure every word is heard with detail. Located within the EQ presets, alongside Night and Music Modes, this mode enhances vocal frequencies while reducing background noise, making speech effortlessly clear.  The multi-driver configuration and immersive processing enhance the experience even further, offering a realistic 3D soundscape that is able to position individual sounds within the room, combined with deep and detailed bass performance. The XIO’s P185 LF driver, enhanced with KEF’s P-Flex technology, which has been adapted from the award-winning 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. KEF’s patent-pending Velocity Control Technology (VECO) is the game-changing built-in sensor at the heart of the P185 LF driver. The VECO monitors cone motion and employs a negative feedback loop to minimize distortion and compression.

While showcasing an ultra-slim design, the bass performance of the XIO is equivalent to that of a large-size 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.

The XIO also features six Uni-Q MX drivers, the miniature version of KEF’s iconic Uni-Q driver coaxial array. 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. As a result, the XIO delivers full-bodied, high-fidelity sound for everyone to enjoy no matter where they are in the room. Designed for flexibility and to fit perfectly with any TV, the XIO offers HDMI eARC, optical, and RCA subwoofer output, allowing for a variety of connection options to suit user 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 easily through the XIO top panel, via the remote, or through the KEF Connect app. There, they can tune the listening experience to suit their taste and their room space, making preferred adjustments easily via the normal and expert modes on the EQ settings.

The KEF XIO Soundbar is available in Slate Black and Silver Grey, and retails for USD $2,499.99.
www.kef.com