KEF LS60 Wireless Review: Royal Blue Excellence” style=”max-width: 100%; height: auto; max-height: 180px; object-fit: contain;”>
Introduction
In the world of high-end audio, few products generate as much buzz as the KEF LS60 Wireless System in its striking Royal Blue finish. Priced at $5,999, this all-in-one wireless speaker system promises to deliver audiophile-grade sound without the clutter of traditional components like amplifiers, receivers, or miles of cabling. With a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 18 Amazon reviews, the KEF LS60 Wireless has earned praise for its clarity, imaging, and soundstage, but it’s not without some connectivity hiccups.
As an expert product reviewer, I’ve delved into the specs, user feedback, and real-world performance insights to bring you this comprehensive KEF LS60 Wireless review. Whether you’re an audiophile upgrading from passive speakers or a modern listener seeking seamless wireless hi-fi, we’ll explore if this system lives up to the hype. From its Uni-Q driver technology (a KEF hallmark) to support for high-res formats like 24-bit/384kHz, the LS60 aims to redefine home audio. Let’s dive in.
Product Overview
The KEF LS60 Wireless System is a pair of active floorstanding speakers designed for high-fidelity playback in a wireless package. Each speaker houses dedicated amplifiers for high, mid, and low frequencies, delivering a combined 1400 watts of power through a hybrid Class AB and Class D amplification setup. This ensures precise control and dynamic performance across the frequency spectrum.
Standing tall with a premium build, the Royal Blue finish adds a vibrant, eye-catching aesthetic to any living room. Key technologies include KEF’s Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT) for reduced distortion and the signature 12th-generation Uni-Q driver array, which places the tweeter at the center of the midrange for pinpoint imaging.
Connectivity is a standout: HDMI eARC for TV integration, analog/RCA/ optical inputs for turntables, CD players, or consoles, and subwoofer outputs for up to two KEF subs like the KC62. Wirelessly, it supports Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Bluetooth, and app-based streaming from Tidal, Spotify Connect, Qobuz, Deezer, Amazon Music, and more. Roon Ready certification is expected in Fall 2022. The KEF Connect app manages it all, including multi-room setups and EQ tweaks.
Interspeaker connection offers flexibility: low-latency wireless up to 24-bit/96kHz or wired for 24-bit/192kHz. It decodes MQA, DSD, and PCM up to 24-bit/384kHz, making it future-proof for hi-res libraries. Setup is straightforward via the app, with intelligent calibration for room acoustics.
Pros
The KEF LS60 Wireless excels in delivering flagship-level performance. Here are the top advantages based on its features and user acclaim:
- Exceptional Sound Quality and Imaging: Reviewers rave about the clarity, precise imaging, and expansive soundstage. Audiophiles with systems from Focal, Dynaudio, and GoldenEar agree it’s competitive without a subwoofer.
- Versatile Connectivity Options: From HDMI eARC for TVs to phono inputs for vinyl, it handles wired sources effortlessly. Wireless streaming covers every major service.
- Powerful Amplification: 1400 watts total ensures room-filling volume with headroom for dynamics, no external amp needed.
- Wireless Convenience: Cable-free interspeaker link simplifies setup, ideal for open-plan homes. Bluetooth and AirPlay make casual use seamless.
- Hi-Res Audio Support: Up to 24-bit/384kHz playback, MQA, and DSD decoding cater to discerning listeners with high-quality files.
- Stylish Design: The Royal Blue finish is a bold statement, complementing modern interiors while the slim profile saves space.
- App Integration and Customization: KEF Connect app offers EQ, room correction, and multi-room control for personalized sound.
Cons
No product is perfect, and at this price, shortcomings stand out. Here’s a balanced look at the drawbacks:
- Wi-Fi Connectivity Issues: Some users report unreliable Wi-Fi performance, dropouts, and setup frustrations, especially in congested networks.
- Customer Service Shortfalls: Feedback highlights poor support response times, which can be frustrating for a premium product.
- High Price Point: At $5,999, it’s a significant investment, potentially out of reach for casual listeners or those on a budget.
- Subwoofer Not Included: While bass is solid standalone, bass enthusiasts may need to add a KEF KC62 ($1,500+), inflating costs.
- Learning Curve for Full Features: Mastering the app and advanced settings requires time, not as plug-and-play as simpler systems.
Customer Reviews Analysis
With a solid 4.5-star average from 18 Amazon reviews, the KEF LS60 Wireless garners enthusiasm from audio enthusiasts but reveals pain points in connectivity and support. Let’s break it down.
Positive Feedback (Majority of Reviews): A standout 5-star review from a 45-year audiophile veteran praises its “clarity, imaging, and soundstage,” noting it impressed a listening group with high-end passive systems. They bought blindly based on Stereophile and Darko.audio endorsements, relying on Amazon’s return policy, and even added a sub optionally—not out of necessity. Other positives echo this: “Exceptional sound without multiple components,” “eliminates the need for an amplifier/receiver,” and love for wireless capability. Users highlight its ability to handle vinyl, streaming, and TV audio seamlessly, calling it a “high-quality system” that rivals traditional setups.
Negative Feedback (Minority but Notable): Despite some review listings errors (positive comments mislabeled as 0-stars), genuine critiques focus on Wi-Fi woes: “Wi-Fi connectivity can be greatly improved.” Customer service is another sore spot, with delays in troubleshooting. No widespread complaints on build quality or core sound, but a few wish for stronger out-of-box bass.
Overall, 80-90% of sentiment is glowing, skewed toward experienced listeners. Newer reviews (post-2025 purchase) confirm reliability improves with firmware updates, but Wi-Fi remains a weak link. Compared to competitors like Sonos Arc or Bowers & Wilkins Formation, KEF wins on pure fidelity but lags in ecosystem polish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to common queries about the KEF LS60 Wireless System:
1. Does the KEF LS60 Wireless support high-resolution audio?
Yes, it handles PCM up to 24-bit/384kHz, DSD, and MQA decoding via wired or wireless (up to 24-bit/96kHz interspeaker wireless).
2. Can I connect a turntable or TV to the LS60?
Absolutely—built-in phono stage for turntables, HDMI eARC for TVs, plus optical, coaxial, and analog inputs. Subwoofer outputs support KEF models.
3. Is setup wireless between speakers?
Yes, low-latency wireless interspeaker connection is standard, or use wired for higher res. The KEF Connect app guides calibration.
4. What streaming services are compatible?
Wi-Fi streaming via app for Amazon Music, Qobuz, Deezer; native support for Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect; AirPlay 2, Chromecast, Bluetooth, and Roon Ready (Fall 2022).
5. Do I need a subwoofer?
No, bass is impressive standalone, but adding a KEF KC62 enhances movies and bass-heavy genres.
Who Should Buy This Product
The KEF LS60 Wireless is ideal for:
- Audiophiles Seeking Wireless Hi-Fi: If you crave reference-level sound without cables, this trumps passive speakers + amp setups.
- Modern Home Entertainers: Perfect for open spaces with TV, vinyl, and streaming integration.
- Tech-Savvy Users: Those comfortable with apps and who prioritize sound over simplicity.
- Design-Conscious Buyers: Royal Blue adds flair to upscale interiors.
Avoid if you’re on a budget (<$2,000), need rock-solid Wi-Fi for multi-room, or prefer all-in-one simplicity like soundbars. Families with kids might find floorstanders less kid-proof.
Final Verdict
The KEF LS60 Wireless System in Royal Blue earns a strong recommendation for serious music lovers, scoring 4.5/5 stars in our book. Its sonic prowess—crystalline highs, textured mids, and authoritative bass—sets it apart in the wireless speaker arena, backed by innovative tech like MAT and Uni-Q. Power, versatility, and aesthetics make it a joy for daily use, from Spotify streams to vinyl spins.
However, Wi-Fi glitches and support issues temper the perfection, especially at $5,999. Firmware updates help, but expect some tinkering. If you can audition or use return policies, it’s a transformative upgrade. For pure wireless hi-fi, it’s among the best—rivaling wired flagships. Pair with a sub for cinema thrills, and you’ve got a system for the ages.
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