This week's CEDIA Expo isn't just about big TVs, complicated components and space-hogging speaker cabinets. KEF is introducing a little something for those smaller setups: the X300A digital hi-fi desktop speaker system.
This hot little loudspeaker set is designed to work with smaller sources, such as the iPod, iPhone and iPad, as well as Android devices and even Amazon's Kindle Fire. Using a distortion-free USB input, the set promises to deliver the highest sound reproduction possible from all of those gadgets and even computers. Basically, that means you can enjoy everything you've hoarded on your smartphone or computer, as well as streaming services like Pandora and Spotify -- with sound worth cranking up.
Besides that USB, each X300A boasts an output of 150 watts per channel at 1kHz, as well as two Class AB audiophile-grade amplifiers. One is dedicated to high frequencies, with the other taking on the lows and mids. There's also a toroidal transformer, which is designed to reduce the hum that can sometimes be heard from powered speakers.
Another thing to set this set apart from other desktop solutions is KEF's patented Uni-Q driver array. Adapted from the company's flagship Blade speaker, this 5.25-inch array is something that only KEF can deliver. That Uni-Q array places the tweeter in the acoustic center of the woofer, which allows it to act as a single, focused sound source. The end result promises big sound for the entire room, office or whatever area you stash a set of these in.
Other features include Z-flex surround and large neodymium magnets with copper caps, an integrated digital/analog converter (DAC), and adjustable EQ modes. The X300A also has the option to receive music without all of the wires, via an add-on Bluetooth dongle or Apple's Airport Express.
"Innovation has been the guiding force behind KEF's success for over five decades. The X300A continues that tradition" said Alec Chanin, president of KEF America. "The X300A addresses the challenges of reproducing today's modern music formats, and delivers them in the highest possible quality. Additionally, this new loudspeaker represents all of the characteristics that make KEF products legendary: superior engineering, premium sound performance and stylish aesthetic design."
KEF expects to ship the X300A sometime this fall, with a brushed gun metal finish. Expect the speaker set to be priced at $799.99 per pair.
Where to Buy:
