Set up and On-boarding

A1.1. I don’t have a home network and/or a smartphone for set-up. It is possible to use LSX without a Wi-Fi network?

Yes you can. However it is highly recommended you connect the LSX to a home network with a live internet connection, as most of the important features (TIDAL, Spotify Connect) and the KEF Control/Stream apps rely on these.

In addition, without an internet connection you will miss out on important updates including bug fixes and new features.
Please refer to (A9.How to setup the speaker without Wi-Fi network?) for more details on how to disable the network functionality so you can use the LSX without a Wi-Fi network.

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A1.2. How do I turn on the Secondary speaker*?

The Secondary speaker* does not need be turned on. When you plug the Secondary speaker* in to the AC, the Secondary speaker* LED indicator will briefly light up orange and will then go off. This indicates that the Secondary speaker* is working.
The Primary speaker* will automatically find the Secondary speaker* when powered on.

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A1.3. How do I connect the Primary and Secondary speakers* wirelessly?

The Primary and Secondary speakers* will wirelessly connect to each other automatically after you plug in the power cables and turn on the LSX.

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A1.4. When do I need to connect the Primary and Secondary speakers* together with the inter-speaker cable?

A. When you are performing a speaker firmware update.
B. When you prefer listening to music at 96kHz/24bit.

• Wireless mode: 48kHz/24bit
• Cable mode: 96kHz/24bit

C. When you are experiencing audio dropouts due to interference.
Cable mode can be initiated in the KEF Control app. Please refer to (A13.What is Cable mode?) for more details.

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A1.5. How can I distinguish between the Left and Right speakers?

By default the Primary speaker* will be the Right channel. It should be placed on the right hand side of the speaker as you face it.
The Secondary speaker* or Left channel should be placed on the left hand side of the speaker.
You can swap the channels inside the KEF Control app: Settings > Inverse L/R Speakers.

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A1.6. How far should I separate the Primary and Secondary speakers*?

For the best stereo experience/soundstage, place the speakers 1 to 3 meters apart.
Maximum distances between the Primary and Secondary speakers*:

• Wireless mode: Up to 5 meters, although interference from Wi-Fi and Bluetooth can reduce this distance.
• Cable mode: Up to 8 meters using a shielded Cat-6 Ethernet cable

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A1.7. What router should I use?

The default router from your Internet Service Provider usually comes with poor speed and range. They are not recommended.
For better streaming stability, especially on Hi-Res music files, a 5GHz Wi-Fi network with a router transmission speed of at least 1300Mbps is recommended.

Below are detailed technical requirements:

• Support IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n
• Use security protocol WPA2
    o Open networks are not recommended for security reasons
    o WEP is an old encryption and may lead to setup and streaming problems
    o Refer to the user guide of your router to select the encryption method

• LSX supports 5.2 GHz channel 36, 40, 44, 48 and 5.8GHz* channel 149, 153, 157, 161, 165. To change router channels, please refer to the user manual of your router.
*5.8GHz is prohibited in Japan

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A1.8. What is the optimal listening position?

For the best sound experience separate the Primary and Secondary speakers* by 1 to 3 meters.
Optimal distance between the speakers and the listener will depend on the Primary and Secondary speakers* separation. Try to aim for approximately the same distance to the listener (i.e. form an equilateral triangle).

In other words, the speaker distance between the Primary and Secondary speakers* (A) should be the same as the distance between the Secondary speaker* and the Listener (B) and the distance between the Primary speaker* and the Listener (C).
Also, try angling the speakers inwards towards the listener.

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A1.9. How to setup the speaker without Wi-Fi network?

Using the LSX without a Wi-Fi network is not recommended and severely limits the usability of the speaker.
In addition, you will miss out important updates including bug fixes and new features.
To set up the speaker without a Wi-Fi network

1. The speaker must be in setup mode. The Primary speaker’s* LED should be alternating between white and orange. If it is not, you will have to factory reset into set-up mode. Please refer to (Factory Reset) for details.

2. Point the physical remote control at the Primary speaker* and then hold the "source" button for 5 seconds until the LED alternates between blue and orange. This indicates that non-Wi-Fi mode has been disabled. In this mode the Wi-Fi source is disabled.

3. To resume using the LSX with a Wi-Fi connection, reset the speaker to setup mode. Please refer to (Factory Reset) for factory reset into set-up mode.

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A1.10. Can I use a mesh Wi-Fi router?

Rather than broadcasting Wi-Fi from a single point, Mesh routers utilize multiple access points and rebroadcast the signal among them. As there is no industrial standard for handling this "meshing", each router brand handles this in their own way. Like other Wi-Fi speakers, streaming stability on the speaker may vary dependent on the router you are using. Hence, mesh routers are in this case not recommended.

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Operations

A2.1. How can I turn on and turn off the speakers?

You can either use the physical remote control or the KEF Control app to power the speakers ON or OFF.
On the physical remote control press the power button once to toggle between ON and OFF.
On the KEF Control app from Standby press the desired source to power ON the speaker. Press the active source icon to power OFF the speaker.
Note: Direct playback from Spotify Connect can also wake up the speaker.

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A2.2. How can I change input sources?

You can either use the physical remote control or the KEF Control app to switch sources.
On the physical remote control press the source button once to toggle between inputs.
On the KEF Control app press the source icon once to switch to a particular input. The colour of each source corresponds to the colour of the LED on the Primary speaker*.

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A2.3. How can I inverse the left and right speakers?

In the KEF Control app: navigate to Settings > Enable/disable Inverse L/R Speaker.

The status of the Primary speaker* will change from RIGHT Channel (disabled) to LEFT Channel (enabled).

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A2.4. What is Cable mode?

Cable mode disables the wireless pairing between Primary and Secondary speakers*.

Cable mode is needed when:

1. you are performing a speaker firmware update
2. you prefer listening to music at 96kHz/24bit
    • Wireless mode: 48kHz/24bit
    • Cable mode: 96kHz/24bit
3. you are experiencing audio dropouts due to interference

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A2.5. How do I enable/disable Cable mode?

In the KEF Control app: navigate to Settings > enable/disable Cable Mode

To turn on/off this feature you need to have the inter-speaker cable connected between the Primary and Secondary speakers*
If Cable mode is enabled without the inter-speaker cable being connected, the LEDs on the Primary and Secondary speakers* will alternate between light blue and yellow. This indicates that the speakers cannot find each other.

If Cable mode is disabled while the inter-speaker cable is not connected, the Secondary speaker* will not receive the signal to switch back to Wireless Pairing mode. The LED of the Secondary speaker* will alternate between yellow and blue. Press the M/S pairing button on the back of the Secondary speaker* once. The Secondary speaker* will start looking for the Primary speaker*. Once found the LED will go off, indicating normal operation

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A2.6. How can I adjust the auto-standby time?

In the KEF Control app: navigate to Settings > Standby Mode > set to "Never" or "60 minutes"
Please note that if you set to "Never" the speaker will not power OFF automatically. Remember to power OFF the speaker manually.

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A2.7. What does “Enable limitation” do?

Enable limitation in the volume settings refers to adjusting the maximum volume of the speaker to a preferred level. For example if you Enable limitation and set the volume limitation to 50, you will not be able to adjust the volume over 50.

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A2.8. How can I enable maximum volume limitation?

In the KEF Control app: Navigate to Settings > Volume Settings > Enable Limitation

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A2.9. What do the Hardware Volume Buttons do (iOS only)?

The Hardware Volume Buttons refer to the physical volume buttons on your device.
Disable this feature on iOS devices when you are experiencing conflicts with other music apps streaming over Wi-Fi.

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A2.10. How can I adjust volume button sensitivity?

In the KEF Control app: Settings > Volume Settings > Volume Button Sensitivity
Adjust the volume steps for each single press of the hardware volume buttons of your device.

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A2.11. Can I stream Apple Music contents using the KEF Stream app?

Apple Music streaming subscription is not supported.
Purchased or imported music must be downloaded into the local iTunes library for offline listening before it can be streamed to the speaker.

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A2.12. What file formats does the LSX support?

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A2.12. What file formats does the LSX support?

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A2.13. Can I use the LSX with my TV?

Yes. The LSX contains a very high-quality optical input that will work with the vast majority of televisions via a standard optical TOSLINK cable. Ensure that your television is set to output digital audio in PCM format (please see your television manual for details).
The LSX Aux input also works with an RCA/ 3.5mm analog output on common televisions.

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A2.14. At what resolution does my speaker play?

Playback resolution depends on the connection between Primary and Secondary speakers*.
In wireless mode, the resolution is at 48kHz/24bit. Media above 48kHz/24bit will be downsampled. Media below 48/kHz/24 bit will be upsampled.
In cable mode, the resolution is at 96kHz/24bit. Media above 96kHz/24bit will be downsampled. Media below 96/kHz/24 bit will be upsampled.

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A2.15. How do I stream music using Spotify Connect?

Spotify Connect allows you to stream music directly from Spotify app.

1. Connect your speaker to your Wi-Fi network.
2. Open up the Spotify app on your phone, tablet or laptop whilst connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
3. Play a song and select Devices Available.
4. Select your speaker and start listening.

For more information on how to use Spotify connect and country compatibility, please look at the following webpage (http://www.spotify.com/connect).

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A2.16. How do I stream music using Qplay?

QQ Music is one of China’s most popular online music streaming services. QPlay allows you to stream music directly from the QQ Music app.
How to use QPlay

1. Connect your iOS/Android device and speaker to the same network
2. Open the QQ Music app and enable QPlay in Settings
3. Play a song
4. Press the QPlay icon ‘Q’ on the playing page then choose your speaker from the device list
For more information on QQ Music, please see https://y.qq.com

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KEF Control App and KEF Stream App

A3.1. What is the minimal supported Android version for KEF Control app and KEF Stream app?

The KEF Control app supports Android 4.4 and above.

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A3.2. What is the minimal supported iOS version for KEF Control app and KEF Stream app?

The KEF Control app supports iOS10 and above.

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A3.3. What are the differences between the KEF Control app and the KEF Stream app?

The KEF Control app provides set-up and comprehensive remote control functionality for LS50 Wireless and the LSX.
The KEF Stream app allows you to stream music from your local library, media servers, TIDAL and Spotify Connect to LS50 Wireless and the LSX.

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Maintenance

A4.1. How do I clean the speaker cone?

Regular cleaning is important in order to keep the driver free from dirt and ensure optical acoustic performance. Use an anti–static cleaner to clean the Uni-Q driver carefully with a soft sponge.

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A4.2. How do I clean the fabric areas of the LSX?

Normal cleaning
Regular cleaning is important in order to keep the fabric looking its best and to prolong its life. Vacuum frequently, ideally every week. May also be vacuum cleaned with a soft brush.

Stain removal
Scrape off any liquids or hardened residues with a spoon or a scoop. Any loose particles must be vacuum cleaned before further cleaning.
Liquids must be soaked up with an absorbent napkin or cloth.
Remove non-greasy stains by carefully dabbing with a lint-free cloth or sponge wrung out in warm water. Edge marks can be avoided by dabbing gently in circular motions towards the center of the stain
with a clean lint-free cloth. Remove greasy stains by using appropriate detergents or solvents. In all cases, we recommend you test stain removal agents on an inconspicuous area first to see if there is any effect on the fabric.

Warning
1) Do not rub the material hard because this could result in loss of colour or potentially damage the nap.
2) Never use unconcentrated detergents or bleach, ammonia or soap intended for hard surfaces.

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Comments and Requests

A5.1. I have a feature request, where can I submit a request?

Please send your requests to dev@kef.com.

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*Previously named as Master and Slave speakers respectively

B1. The LED on the Secondary speaker* doesn't show up. Is there something wrong?

In normal operation the LED on the Secondary speaker* will not light up. The LED on the Secondary speaker* will only light up if there is a problem.

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B2. I cannot find my LSX in the Wi-Fi list during set-up (Step 3), what should I do?

It may take up to a minute for the LSX to become discoverable after the power is turned on. If you are still unable to find the LSX after a minute please perform a Factory Reset.

1. Use a paperclip/pin to hold the reset button (marked with a triangle) on the back of the Primary speaker* for approximately 5 seconds until the back LED flashes orange. Wait until the back LED stops flashing.
2. Close down the app completely.
3. Unplug the power cable from the Primary speaker*.
4. Wait approximately 60 seconds.
5. Reinsert the power cable.
6. The Primary speaker* LED should be alternating between white and orange. It may take up to 1 minute for the LSX to become discoverable.
7. Run the KEF Control app, choose ‘Setup New Speaker’ and follow the instructions.

If the problem persists please check the following:
The LSX broadcasts at 2.4G on channel 1. If your router is also broadcasting at 2.4G on channel 1, you may not be able to see your LSX. Try to change your router to another channel (please see your router manual for details).

Disable any VPN apps on your phone as they may interfere with Wi-Fi detection.

If the problem persists, please send a log with a description of the problem from inside the KEF Control app (Settings > Send Logs & Feedback) or contact KEF.

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B3. I cannot see my Wi-Fi network in the KEF Control app during set-up (Step 4), what should I do?

The app checks with the speaker which Wi-Fi networks are visible. If the speaker can't see your network, move the Primary speaker* closer to the router. If the problem persists, connect a LAN cable directly from the Primary speaker* to the router.

If the app still can't see your Wi-Fi network during setup, please send a log from inside the KEF Control app (Settings > Send Logs & Feedback) or contact KEF.

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B4. I am unable to see my LSX inside the network, what should I do?

Make sure the speaker is powered on and already onboarded to your network. The LED of the Primary speaker* should have a solid colour.

1. Make sure you are connected to the network where the speaker is onboarded
2. Select your speaker and press "Connect"
3. In the KEF Control app: Navigate to "Add new speaker" > "Connect to existing" > "Search again"
4. If the speaker does not show up in your network:

• Pull the power plug from both the Primary and Secondary speakers*
• Wait approximately 60 seconds
• Plug both speakers back into the power
• Run the KEF Control app
• Select your speaker from the speaker drop down menu

If the problem persists, please send a log with a description of the problem from inside KEF Control app: Settings > Send Logs & Feedback to dev@kef.com.

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B5. There is a bug or an issue with the KEF Control app, how do I report this issue?

KEF strives to deliver the best user experience and it is our wish to deliver you a bug free app. Unfortunately, due to many factors (e.g. device, firmware, network setup, etc) this may not always be the case. In these cases, we rely on our KEF users to help us out.

Please use the "Send logs & feedback" option inside the corresponding app. If you find an issue inside the KEF Stream app use KEF Stream app to send a log, and if you find an issue with KEF Control app use KEF Control to send a log.

It is important to add a description about the issue you encountered, the steps to reproduce it, a video, screenshots, etc. The more information we have the easier it will be for our developers to identify the root cause of the issue and develop a fix.

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B6. There is no sound from either speaker.

1. Please make sure that the power cable is plugged in securely both to the speaker and the AC socket. When it is correctly plugged in, the LED on the Primary speaker* should light up.
2. Please make sure the volume is not muted (the source LED will be blinking).
3. Try adjusting the volume on the KEF Control app or physical remote control.

If the problem persists please contact your local KEF representative or send an email to KEF.

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B7. There is no sound from my Secondary speaker*.

1. Please make sure that the power cable is plugged in securely both to the speaker and the AC socket. When it is correctly plugged in, the LED on the Secondary speaker* should light up briefly orange and then go off.
2. Please make sure the volume is not muted (the source LED on the Primary speaker* will be blinking)
3. Try adjusting the volume on the KEF Control app or the physical remote control

If the problem persists please contact your local KEF representative or send an email to KEF.

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B8. I am experiencing dropouts in my music listening.

If the speakers are experiencing dropouts this may be caused by poor network connection.
1. It is recommended you connect over 5G
2. It is recommended you keep the router in line of sight
3. If the problem persists, try connecting the speaker via the LAN cable directly from router to speaker ((N)network port)

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B9. I am experiencing dropouts on my Secondary speaker*.

The wireless pairing technology works over a 2.4GHz frequency. It is recommended you onboard the speaker to a 5G network rather than a 2.4G network.

Devices such as microwaves, cordless phones, Bluetooth, mouse or Wi-Fi devices connected to 2.4GHz that run on the same frequency may cause interference and result in dropouts. Try to remove this type of device from the vicinity. You can also make use of network analyzer apps available on the market to check the network and interference status.

If the problem persists due to heavy interference, please use cable mode by plugging in the inter-speaker cable to the Primary and Secondary speakers*. Enable cable mode inside the KEF Control app: Settings > Enable Cable mode.

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B10. I notice a delay between video and audio output.

There is a 40 milisecond delay in audio when the speaker is paired wirelessly. This is to make sure the audio between the Primary speaker* and Right Speakers is synchronised.
There are some TV or video player apps (e.g VLC) that can compensate for this audio delay. Alternatively, you can use the cable mode by plugging in the inter-speaker cable to the Primary and Secondary speakers*. Enable cable mode inside the KEF Control app: Settings > Enable Cable mode. 

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