Choosing between the Sonos Five and the KEF LSX can feel like picking between two delicious desserts—both tempting, but which one truly satisfies your craving? These two wireless speakers frequently top best-of lists, and for good reason. They both deliver impressive audio, but their strengths lie in different areas. The Sonos Five, known for its powerful, room-filling sound, is perfect for larger spaces and those who love to crank up the volume. The KEF LSX, on the other hand, prioritizes precise, detailed audio, making it ideal for smaller rooms and critical listeners. This post will explore the nuances of each speaker, helping you decide which one best complements your listening style and home setup. We’ll cover everything from soundstage and bass response to user experience and smart features, giving you a comprehensive understanding of what each speaker brings to the table.
Key Takeaways
- Powerful sound for big rooms? Choose the Sonos Five: This speaker delivers robust audio with a wide soundstage, perfect for larger spaces and bass-heavy music. Plus, the Sonos app makes setup and control incredibly easy.
- Detailed listening in a smaller space? The KEF LSX II is your pick: This compact speaker excels in precise imaging and clear vocals. Its versatile connectivity options make it a great choice for various audio sources.
- Prioritize your listening experience: Consider your preferred music genres, room size, and must-have features to choose the best speaker. The Sonos Five offers simplicity and power, while the KEF LSX II delivers detailed, high-fidelity sound.
What Are the Sonos Five and KEF LSX?
The Sonos Five and KEF LSX are both popular wireless speakers, but they cater to different needs. Understanding their strengths and weaknesses will help you decide which one best suits your listening style and home. Let’s take a closer look at each:
Sonos Five
The Sonos Five is a powerful speaker designed for larger rooms. Think open-plan living spaces or dedicated listening rooms. It’s a substantial piece of hardware—a sleek, rounded rectangle available in black or white. The build quality is solid, typical of Sonos products. Six speaker units sit beneath the front grille, ready to deliver room-filling sound. This speaker prioritizes simplicity and seamless integration with the Sonos ecosystem. TechRadar’s review highlights its robust construction and impressive audio output. It’s less about intricate audiophile details and more about a consistently enjoyable listening experience. The consistent, blocky design, as pointed out by TechPowerUp, emphasizes its focus on performance over flashy aesthetics.
KEF LSX
The KEF LSX II is a compact, stylish system ideal for smaller spaces like bedrooms or offices. It’s a good fit for those who value high-fidelity sound but don’t want a complicated setup. What Hi-Fi? praises its ability to deliver impressive audio without the clutter of traditional component systems. A key feature of the LSX II is KEF’s Uni-Q driver, which places the tweeter within the midrange and bass cone. As Soundphile Review explains, this design creates a wider soundstage and more precise imaging, making music sound more immersive. The LSX II is a solid option for those who appreciate detailed sound in a smaller footprint.
Comparing Sound Quality
Let’s compare how the Sonos Five and KEF LSX perform across different sound aspects. This will help you understand their strengths and weaknesses and figure out which speaker best suits your listening style.
Soundstage and Dynamic Range
Soundstage refers to how “big” the sound feels—its width, height, and depth. Dynamic range describes the difference between the quietest and loudest sounds a speaker can reproduce. The Sonos Five creates a wider and taller soundstage, making for a more immersive experience. Think of it as being in the front row of a concert. The KEF LSX, on the other hand, excels in depth and precise imaging. It’s like having a more focused, detailed view of the musical performance. Darko Audio describes this difference well, noting how the Sonos “sounds much bigger,” while the LSX offers “better depth and image specificity.”
Mid-Range Performance and Vocal Clarity
Mid-range frequencies are crucial for vocal clarity and the richness of many instruments. The KEF LSX is known for its exceptional mid-range, making vocals sound clear and present. Some reviewers even call them “mid-range champions.” While the Sonos Five’s mid-range improves with Trueplay tuning, it doesn’t quite match the LSX’s detailed mid-range presentation. As Darko Audio points out, Trueplay helps bring “vocals out of the shadows” on the Sonos Five.
Bass Response and Low-End Precision
Bass response impacts how you experience the lower frequencies in music, from the rumble of a bass guitar to the thump of a kick drum. The Sonos Five delivers a more powerful low-end, reaching deeper bass notes with better control than the KEF LSX. This gives it a more robust and impactful sound, especially for bass-heavy music genres. Again, Darko Audio highlights this, saying the Sonos Five’s bass has “better control” and a “more muscular, robust sound.”
Stereo Imaging and Instrument Separation
Stereo imaging refers to how well a speaker system creates the illusion of instruments being placed in a specific space. Instrument separation is about how distinctly you can hear each instrument, even in complex musical passages. The KEF LSX excels in both areas, thanks to its Uni-Q driver. This design places the tweeter in the center of the midrange and bass driver, improving the speaker’s ability to create a wider soundstage and more precise imaging. Soundphile Review explains how the Uni-Q driver contributes to “a wider stage and better imaging,” allowing for clearer distinction between instruments and vocals.
User Experience and Smart Features
A speaker’s sound quality is essential, but so is its user-friendliness. This section examines the Sonos Five and KEF LSX, focusing on how easy they are to use and integrate into your existing setup.
App Integration and Ease of Use
The Sonos app is generally considered one of the best in the audio industry. It makes setting up and managing your Sonos Five a breeze. Connecting the speaker to your network and controlling playback is straightforward, even for non-technical users. One reviewer noted how simple the app makes the onboarding process: “Sonos have one of the best apps out there bar none… it’s super slick, it makes onboarding the speakers on your network super easy.” This ease of use contributes significantly to the overall positive experience with the Sonos system. The KEF LSX also uses an app for control, but some users have reported occasional connectivity problems and a less intuitive interface. Finding an app that works seamlessly with your system is crucial for a smooth listening experience. For more information on wireless speaker setups, check out our resource on speaker types.
Source: Darko Audio, “SONOS Five or KEF LSX?” YouTube Video
Streaming Service Compatibility
The Sonos Five shines regarding streaming service compatibility. It supports a wide array of platforms, giving you plenty of choices for music, podcasts, and other audio content. As one review points out, “Sonos also has another little ace up its sleeve…[integrating] 30, 40 different streaming services.” This broad compatibility makes the Sonos Five a versatile option for accessing your favorite audio content. The KEF LSX also offers streaming capabilities, but its range of supported services isn’t as extensive. This difference might be a deciding factor if you rely on a less common streaming platform. If you’re curious about different ways to enjoy audio content, our article on in-ear monitors might be of interest.
Source: Darko Audio, “SONOS Five or KEF LSX?” YouTube Video
Room Correction Technology
The Sonos Five uses Trueplay, a room correction technology that adjusts the speaker’s output to optimize sound quality based on your room’s acoustics. This feature can dramatically improve the listening experience, especially in rooms with challenging acoustics. One reviewer found that “the sound quality from the fives really improved once Trueplay had been done.” The KEF LSX also offers room correction, but its implementation and effectiveness vary depending on the specific setup. For more information on how room acoustics affect sound, our article on subwoofers provides helpful information.
Source: Darko Audio, “SONOS Five or KEF LSX?” YouTube Video
Multi-Room Audio Capabilities
Sonos is known for its excellent multi-room audio functionality. Pairing multiple Sonos Fives or combining them with other Sonos speakers is simple through the Sonos app. This allows you to create a synchronized audio experience throughout your home. A reviewer highlighted this, mentioning how easy it was to pair two Fives: “Sonos call a pair of fives the two room pro set… pairing these two behind me is just a piece of cake inside the app.” While the KEF LSX can also be used in a multi-room setup, the process is generally considered less user-friendly. If you’re considering a multi-room audio system, our article on soundbars might offer helpful insights into different setup options.
Source: Darko Audio, “SONOS Five or KEF LSX?” YouTube Video
Design and Connectivity
Aesthetics and Placement
The Sonos Five and the KEF LSX II take distinct design approaches. The Sonos Five, a refresh of the Play:5, keeps its minimalist aesthetic. It’s a sleek, rounded rectangle available in black or white. This simple design helps it blend into most environments. The Five is substantial, reflecting its robust build. This speaker can be placed horizontally or vertically, offering flexibility for different room setups.
The KEF LSX II opts for a more contemporary look. Its compact size and array of color options, including vibrant hues designed by Michael Young, make it a statement piece. The LSX II adds a touch of modern elegance to any space. Its smaller footprint also makes it easy to position on bookshelves or desks.
Build Quality and Durability
Both speakers offer excellent build quality. The Sonos Five feels durable and well-made. Its weight suggests a robust internal structure designed to minimize vibrations. The Sonos Five’s seamless, rounded edges and high-quality materials contribute to its premium feel.
The KEF LSX II, despite its smaller size, also feels remarkably solid. Its carefully crafted cabinet and finish demonstrate attention to detail. While not as hefty as the Sonos Five, the LSX II still exudes quality.
Wireless Features and Physical Inputs
Connectivity is a key difference between these speakers. The Sonos Five excels in its wireless capabilities, integrating seamlessly into the Sonos ecosystem. It supports Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, and Spotify Connect, offering various streaming options. While it lacks Bluetooth, the Sonos system prioritizes Wi-Fi connectivity for stability and high-fidelity audio. It also includes an Ethernet port.
The KEF LSX II offers a wider range of connection options. It supports Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, Chromecast, and other streaming protocols. This makes it simple to connect to various devices. The LSX II also includes a USB-C input, an optical input, and a subwoofer output, providing flexibility for different audio setups.
Explaining Performance Metrics
Understanding a few key performance metrics helps clarify the differences between the Sonos Five and KEF LSX. This isn’t about getting overly technical, but about understanding the strengths of each speaker.
Frequency Response and Distortion Levels
Frequency response tells us how accurately a speaker reproduces sound across the audible spectrum—from the lowest bass to the highest treble. A flat frequency response is generally desirable, indicating the speaker isn’t overemphasizing any particular frequencies. GearLab found the Sonos Five excelled in this area, performing well across the board. This suggests a balanced sound, making it a solid option for critical listeners. The KEF LSX uses its Uni-Q driver to create a wider soundstage. This design, with the tweeter nestled inside the midrange and bass cone, aims for a more immersive experience, especially with orchestral music or layered soundtracks.
Power Output and Volume Handling
Power output, often measured in watts, indicates how loud a speaker can get. The KEF LSX II uses a dual-amplifier setup—30W for the tweeter and 70W for the mid-woofer—allowing it to handle a wide volume range while maintaining clarity. The Sonos Five, described as a “heavy, blocky wireless speaker” by TechPowerUp, prioritizes powerful sound. While specific wattage isn’t readily available, its robust design suggests it’s well-suited for larger rooms and higher volumes, making it a good fit for parties or home theater systems.
Choosing the Right Speaker for You
So, you’ve learned about the Sonos Five and KEF LSX. Now, how do you pick the right one for you? Let’s break down some key considerations.
Home Audio Setup Considerations
Setting up your home audio system shouldn’t feel like rocket science. If you’re not especially tech-savvy, the Sonos app is generally considered much easier to use. One reviewer even called it “one of the best apps out there,” praising how simple it is to connect speakers to your home network. This straightforward setup is a big plus for anyone who wants a plug-and-play experience. Check out our beginner’s guide to soundbars for more tips on setting up home audio.
Music Genre Preferences
Think about what kind of music you usually listen to. If you’re a fan of acoustic music, jazz, or music with prominent female vocals, the KEF LSX might be a better fit for your listening style. You can explore our beginner’s guide to speaker types to understand how different speakers handle various frequencies. On the other hand, if you prefer modern music genres, the Sonos Five’s expansive soundstage might be more appealing. That same reviewer pointed out how the Sonos Five’s wider sound is well-suited to modern music, creating a more immersive experience.
Room Acoustics and Size Impact
The size and acoustics of your listening room play a significant role. One listener in a mid-sized room (roughly 16 by 19 feet) found the Sonos Five delivered solid sound pressure levels at a reasonable volume. However, it’s worth noting that the Sonos Five’s digital signal processing (DSP) can create a slight delay. This audio delay can be a problem if you plan to use the speaker with your TV, as it can throw off lip-sync. Consider your room’s characteristics and how you plan to use the speaker before making a decision. For more information on room acoustics, take a look at our beginner’s guide to subwoofers, which touches on how low frequencies interact with room size.
Price-to-Performance Analysis
When we look at the price-to-performance ratio of the Sonos Five and KEF LSX, we consider both cost and audio quality. The Sonos Five is priced around the same as a pair of KEF LSX speakers, making them direct competitors in terms of your investment. Darko Audio points out that a pair of KEF LSX speakers sells for roughly the same price as a pair of Sonos Fives. (Watch the Darko Audio comparison)
The Sonos Five creates a larger soundstage. It sounds wider and taller, creating a more immersive experience. However, the KEF LSX offers superior depth and imaging—better precision in sound reproduction. (Watch the Darko Audio comparison) This difference is due to the KEF LSX’s advanced driver technology. The Uni-Q driver array places the tweeter in the center of the midrange and bass driver, resulting in remarkably detailed and cohesive sound. (Read the Soundphile Review) Ultimately, your choice depends on your preferred sound characteristics and what you want from your listening experience.
Debunking Speaker Myths
Let’s clear up some common misconceptions about the Sonos Five and KEF LSX. Both speakers have their strengths, and understanding them means looking past some oversimplified narratives.
One frequent claim is that Sonos speakers lack audio quality. That’s simply not true. As audio expert Darko Audio points out in his Sonos Five vs. KEF LSX comparison, Sonos establishes a solid baseline for streaming speakers. They might not be the absolute top performers, but they deliver a satisfying listening experience. Another misconception revolves around streaming quality. Some believe it’s all the same, regardless of the platform. Again, Darko’s video highlights the audible differences between services like Spotify and Tidal, proving your streaming platform choice does impact sound quality, regardless of your speaker choice.
Size also plays a role in these myths. The Sonos Five is physically larger, leading some to assume it automatically sounds “better.” The reality is more nuanced. Darko notes that while the Sonos Five delivers a bigger sound, the KEF LSX excels in depth and image specificity. It’s not about size, it’s about how the speakers use their size. Features are another area ripe for misunderstanding. The Sonos Five, for example, boasts Tidal Connect, allowing direct streaming from your smartphone. This convenient feature isn’t always highlighted, but it’s a significant advantage for Tidal subscribers.
Meanwhile, the KEF LSX, while praised for its sound, has a more basic app, as pointed out in Darko’s review. There’s a persistent idea that the KEF LSX is the only path to high-quality sound in this category. While the LSX delivers impressive audio, thanks partly to its Uni-Q driver, it’s not the only contender. The Sonos Five offers a different flavor of high-quality audio, making it a viable alternative. As What Hi-Fi? notes, the KEF LSX II is a stylish streaming system without the complexity of traditional setups, but that doesn’t diminish other excellent streaming speakers like the Sonos Five.
Making Your Decision
Assessing Your Audio Priorities
When choosing between the Sonos Five and the KEF LSX, think about what you want from your audio. The KEF LSX shines with mid-range frequencies, making it great for genres like acoustic music, jazz, and vocals. One reviewer noted, “If you’re into acoustic music, jazz, female vocal, I really think the LSX is the better loudspeaker for you” (Darko Audio). The Sonos Five, however, creates a wider soundstage, better for modern music; the same reviewer mentions its “gargantuan nature of the soundstage draw” and “bigger dynamics.” Consider which sound profile best suits your listening habits. Do you value pinpoint accuracy in vocals and instruments, or do you prefer a more immersive, room-filling experience? Your answer will guide your choice. If you want to learn more about soundstage, check out our article on speaker types.
Balancing Features and Sound Quality
Sound quality isn’t everything. Think about how you’ll use the speaker and what features are important to you. The Sonos app is known for its simplicity and smooth integration with music streaming services. As one reviewer puts it, “Sonos have one of the best apps out there bar none… it makes onboarding the speakers on your network super easy” (Darko Audio). The KEF LSX II, on the other hand, offers hi-res audio streaming and receives praise for its sound quality. Stereo Guide calls it “The sound highlight among the minis!” (KEF LSX II review). The Sonos Five has a broader range of features, but the KEF LSX II prioritizes audio fidelity. Consider what matters most to you. Are you looking for a simple, all-in-one solution, or are you willing to trade some convenience for better sound? If you’re setting up a home theater, you might want to read our soundbar article for more information on integrating speakers into a larger system.
The Verdict: Complementary Strengths
When comparing the Sonos Five and the KEF LSX, it’s clear both speakers excel in different areas, making them suitable for various listening preferences and rooms.
The Sonos Five creates a noticeably larger soundstage than the KEF LSX, offering a wider, taller audio experience. This expansive quality delivers a robust, powerful sound, especially beneficial for bass-heavy music. As one reviewer noted, “Sonos sounds much bigger than the LSX; it’s wider, it’s taller in terms of soundstage.” (Darko Audio, “SONOS Five or KEF LSX?” YouTube Video). This makes it a great option if you enjoy a more immersive experience. For more information on soundstage, check out our article on speaker types. If you’re considering pairing your speakers with a subwoofer for even more powerful bass, our subwoofer guide might be helpful.
Conversely, the KEF LSX shines in stereo imaging, producing precise, detailed sound. Its Uni-Q driver technology creates a focused soundstage, ideal for critical listening where nuance and clarity are paramount. The same reviewer observes, “In terms of stereo imaging the KEF really do have it all over the Sonos.” (Darko Audio, “SONOS Five or KEF LSX?” YouTube Video).
The Sonos app contributes significantly to the user experience. Known for its sleek interface and intuitive controls, it’s considered one of the best single-product apps available. (Darko Audio, “SONOS Five or KEF LSX?” YouTube Video). Meanwhile, the KEF LSX II is celebrated for its stylish design and user-friendly setup, providing a streamlined streaming experience. The LSX II has received positive reviews for its minimalist aesthetic and ease of integration into modern homes (What Hi-Fi?, “KEF LSX II review” What Hi-Fi?). If you’re setting up a home theater system, understanding speaker placement is crucial. Our soundbar guide offers helpful tips for optimizing your audio setup.
Your choice between these two speakers depends on your individual needs. The Sonos Five suits those who prefer a larger soundstage and powerful bass, while the KEF LSX is a strong choice for listeners who appreciate precise imaging and a compact, stylish design. Both speakers offer distinct advantages, catering to different listening styles and room setups. If you’re using in-ear monitors for critical listening, the principles of soundstage and imaging still apply. You can learn more about IEMs in our guide to in-ear monitors.
Related Articles
- KEF KC62 Subwoofer: How To Get Powerful Bass – Supermarket Sound
- GoldenEar BRX Speaker Review: Unveiling Transparent Sound – Supermarket Sound
- Beginner’s Guide To Wireless Multi-Room Audio Systems – Supermarketsound.com
- Buchardt A500: Customizable Sound And Advanced Features – Supermarket Sound
- D15 Speakers & Denon DRA-800H: An Audio Upgrade Guide – Supermarket Sound
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a separate amplifier for the Sonos Five or the KEF LSX II?
No, both the Sonos Five and the KEF LSX II are active speakers, meaning they have built-in amplifiers. You don’t need any extra equipment to power them. Just plug them into a power outlet and connect them to your network.
Which speaker is better for movies and TV shows?
While both can work with your TV, the Sonos Five’s larger soundstage and powerful bass make it a more immersive option for home theater use. However, be aware of potential audio delay issues if connecting it directly to your TV. The KEF LSX II, while offering excellent clarity, might not provide the same cinematic impact.
Can I use these speakers outdoors?
Neither the Sonos Five nor the KEF LSX II is designed for outdoor use. They are not weatherproof and should be kept in a dry, temperature-controlled environment.
What’s the difference between a soundstage and stereo imaging?
Soundstage refers to the perceived size and spaciousness of the sound, how “big” the music feels. Stereo imaging, on the other hand, is about how accurately the speakers place individual instruments and vocals within that soundstage. The KEF LSX II generally excels in stereo imaging, while the Sonos Five creates a wider soundstage.
Which speaker is easier to set up for someone new to wireless audio?
The Sonos Five, with its user-friendly app and simple setup process, is generally easier to get up and running. The KEF LSX II, while not overly complicated, might require a bit more technical know-how.
