The KEF LS LUXE looks like a robot head, and we want one.
I’ve been watching a lot of sci-fi lately, and most recently, I binge-watched the Apple TV Japanese tech-dystopia gem Sunny.
So the first time I laid eyes on KEF’s new LS LUXE, one thought came to mind: the future is here. Watch the show, you’ll see exactly what I mean.
Because, look at it. Part speaker, part sculpture, part very expensive robot head, the LS LUXE is one of those pieces of tech that immediately makes everything else in the room look about ten years older.
Created with designer Ross Lovegrove (Apple computers, Sony Walkmans), the LS LUXE is KEF’s new wireless Hi-Fi system.
Lovegrove has worked with KEF before, most notably on the huge, sculptural Muon speaker, and you can see that same approach here. The LS LUXE isn’t trying to disappear into a room; it is definitely meant to be looked at.
It’s part of a broader move in high-end audio towards making speakers objects you actually want in the room, rather than big boxes you reluctantly find somewhere to put.
There is also plenty for audiophiles to dig into: It runs KEF’s 12th-generation 6.5-inch Uni-Q driver, MAT technology designed to absorb unwanted sound, and supports high-resolution audio up to 384kHz/24-bit.
Connectivity is also refreshingly straightforward, with HDMI eARC, Apple AirPlay, Google Cast and Spotify Connect, plus physical inputs and dual subwoofer outputs.
That ease of use is probably one of its biggest wins. You don’t need a degree in audio to get something out of it, connect your TV, stream from your phone and you’re off.
At $6K+ it’s obviously an investment, but between the audio tech, connectivity and design, you can see (and hear) where the money is going.
It’s also part of a wider shift in high-end audio, with brands like Bang & Olufsen and Devialet treating speakers as objects you build a room around rather than hide in it.
More importantly, KEF and Lovegrove haven’t made another expensive speaker that you’re supposed to tuck away in the corner. They’ve made the speaker the thing you want people to notice.
Check it for yourself here.
