KEF LS50 Wireless II User Manual
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KEF LS50 Wireless II User Manual

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LS50 Wireless II

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Summary of Contents for KEF LS50 Wireless II

  • Page 1 User Manual LS50 Wireless II...

  • Page 2: Table Of Contents

    2. General Information .........................6 Reading and Storing the User Manual ........................6 2.2 Signal Symbol/Word Definitions ..........................6 3. In the Box and Unpacking .......................7 4. Setting Up LS50 Wireless II ....................8 Selecting an Appropriate Router ..........................8 Connecting to Power ................................9 Onboarding ....................................10 4.3.1 Installing the KEF Connect App ........................10...
  • Page 3 12.3 Playback Controls .................................43 13. Playback with Auxiliary Input ..................... 44 13.1 Auxiliary Cable Connection ............................44 13.2 Selecting Auxiliary Mode ..............................45 13.3 Playback Controls .................................45 14. Using KEF Connect App ...................... 46 14.1 Home ......................................46 14.1.1 Overview ...................................46 14.2 Remote Control ..................................47 14.3 Music Contents ..................................47...
  • Page 4 14.7 Speaker Preferences ................................62 14.7.1 Power Saver – Standby Mode ...........................62 14.7.2 Power Saver – Second Wake-Up Source ....................62 14.7.3 Do Not Disturb – Top Panel Lock ........................62 14.7.4 Speaker System Options – Cable Mode ....................63 14.7.5 Speaker System Options – Inverse L/R Speakers ................63 14.8 Volume ......................................64 14.8.1 Volume Display Setting ............................64 14.8.2 Hardware Volume ..............................64...

  • Page 5: Introduction

    LS50 Wireless II, our compact, yet powerful speaker system for the digital music era. The new KEF LS50 Wireless II is a fully active wireless stereo system that delivers pristine, KEF sound coupled with instinctive usability and high-performance wireless capability.

  • Page 6: General Information

    General Information Reading and Storing the User Manual This user manual accompanies the LS50 Wireless II speaker system (hereafter referred to as the “speakers”), and contains important information on setup and handling. Before using your speakers, read this user manual and the safety information (as a separate booklet) carefully.

  • Page 7: In The Box And Unpacking

    In the Box and Unpacking NOTICE! Risk of damage! Using a sharp knife or other pointed object to open the packaging may damage the speakers. • Be very careful when opening the packaging. Follow the instructions on the packaging to lift up the speakers from the sides to avoid damaging the Uni-Q drivers (speaker cones).

  • Page 8: Setting Up Ls50 Wireless Ii

    Setting Up LS50 Wireless II Selecting an Appropriate Router The speakers must be “onboarded” to your personal Wi-Fi network (see chapter “Onboarding”) for the best sound quality, comprehensive control and to enjoy music streaming, Technical Requirements of your Router • Network standard: IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac, IPv4, IPv6, •...

  • Page 9: Connecting To Power

    After successful power connections, the Wi-Fi icon on the top panel of the Primary Speaker will blink white and amber. The speakers are now ready to go “onboarded” to your personal Wi-Fi network through the KEF Connect App (see chapter “Onboarding”).

  • Page 10: Onboarding

    Install the KEF Connect App on your mobile device to get the speakers “onboarded” to your personal Wi-Fi network. 1. Search “KEF Connect” in the App Store or Google Play Store to download and install the KEF Connect App on your iOS* or Android** device.

  • Page 11: Using Ios Devices

    1. Make sure your mobile device is connected to the network you want to onboard your speaker to. 2. Launch and login to the KEF Connect App on your mobile device. 3. Select “LS50 Wireless II” under “Speakers nearby”. The speakers with the warning sign ( ) are not set up yet.

  • Page 12: Using Android Devices With Google Play Service

    Home, you will be prompted to download and install the app in your device. [Step 3–5] 6. Tap “Set up LS50 Wireless II” at the top of the screen. 7. Tap “Add another home”. 8. Create a nickname for the home and then tap “Next”.
  • Page 13 9. When the process is completed, tap “Continue”. 10. Go back to the KEF Connect App to start using the speakers. • The Wi-Fi icon on the top panel of the Primary Speaker is solid white when the speakers are successfully connected.

  • Page 14: Using Android Devices Without Google Play Service

    Using Android Devices without Google Play Service 1. Make sure your mobile device is connected to your local Wi-Fi network. 2. Launch and login to the KEF Connect App on your mobile device. 3. Allow the app to access your device’s location when requested.
  • Page 15 • The Wi-Fi icon on the top panel of the Primary Speaker is solid white when the speakers are successfully connected. • After successful connection, you may be prompted if there is a new firmware update available. Follow the instructions in the KEF Connect App to complete the update process.

  • Page 16: Speaker Placement And Connection

    For the best stereo experience, soundstage and stable connection, place the speakers within 8 meters apart. *The left and right channels can be swapped through the KEF Connect App. See chapter “Speaker System Options – Inverse L/R Speaker”.

  • Page 17: Connection And Control Interface

    Connection and Control Interface Front Panel Secondary Speaker Primary Speaker IR receiver...

  • Page 18: Back Panel

    Back Panel Controls and connections are found on the back panel of each speaker, marked as shown. V TV port Plays audio input from a source (e.g. television, game console) through an HDMI cable. O Optical input jack Plays audio input from a source (e.g. Blu-ray player, cable box) through an optical cable.
  • Page 19 B Bluetooth pairing button Enables Bluetooth pairing. The speakers will be ready to pair with a new device. Any Bluetooth connected device will be disconnected. T Primay/Secondary Connects the Primary Speaker and Secondary Speaker connection port with the inter-speaker cable. S Subwoofer output jack Connects a subwoofer to the speakers through an RCA cable.

  • Page 20: Bottom Panel

    • Additionally, four threaded holes (M8 × 1.5) are also available for mounting on a stand (remove the rubber feet first before mounting). For the best sound performance and cable management, use the KEF S2 speaker stands. WARNING! Be aware of the potential hazards from tipping or knocking the speakers off the stands...

  • Page 21: Top Panel

    Top Panel Control buttons and mode indicators are found on the top panel of the Primary Speaker. Mode indicator Bluetooth Optical Auxiliary Wi-Fi Coaxial On/off Mute Volume up Source Volume down Control button...

  • Page 22: Remote Control

    Remote Control On/off button Mute button Volume up button Previous source button Next source button Volume down button Play/pause button Previous button Next button • Insert two AAA batteries into the battery compartment before use. To do so, slide open the battery compartment cover on the back and insert the batteries into the compartment according to the polarity (+/–).

  • Page 23: Kef Connect App

    KEF Connect App The KEF Connect App allows you to set up the speakers, apply sound settings, turn on/ off the speakers, switch sound sources, and access and play back your streaming and locally stored music. Latest news and stories from KEF...

  • Page 24: Wi-Fi Streaming

    ) in the playback screen and then tap the AirPlay icon ( 3. Select “KEF LS50 Wireless II” (or the name you have created for the speakers) from the selection menu to start streaming. The availability for streaming depends on the app compatibility.

  • Page 25: Chromecast

    If your devices is Chromecast-enabled, you can stream audio output from the device to the speakers. 1. Start music or video playback on your Chromecast-enabled device. 2. In the Google Home App, tap “KEF LS50 Wireless II” (or the name you have created for the speakers). 3. Tap “...

  • Page 26: Roon Ready

    Note: KEF LS50 Wireless II will be Roon Ready soon. 2. To stream music, click the “Zone Picker” next to volume at the footer of Roon and then select “KEF LS50 Wireless II” (or the name you have created for the speakers) from the device list.

  • Page 27: Music Streaming Apps Native Protocols

    1. Browse and select music to play in the Spotify App. 2. Tap the device icon ( ) at the bottom of the playback screen. 3. Select “KEF LS50 Wireless II” (or the name you have created for the speakers) from the selection menu to start streaming. [Step 1–3]...

  • Page 28: Qplay

    1. To stream music, launch the QQ Music App and enable QPlay in the settings. 2. Browse and play music. 3. Tap the QPlay icon ( ) on the playback screen. 4. Select “KEF LS50 Wireless II” (or the name you have created for the speakers) from the device list to start streaming.

  • Page 29: Kef Connect App Streaming

    TIDAL is a subscription-based music, podcast and video streaming service that combines lossless audio and high-definition music videos with exclusive content and special features on music. You can access your TIDAL account through the KEF Connect App to play hi-resolution audio. A valid Hi-Fi tier subscription is required.

  • Page 30: Spotify

    6.1.5.5 Spotify Through the KEF Connect App, you can be prompted to the Spotify App on your device to stream music to the speakers. See chapter “Spotify Connect”. 6.1.5.6 Internet Radio The KEF Connect App offers access to thousands of Internet radio stations which provide digital radio service via the Internet.

  • Page 31: Tips On Choosing Streaming Protocols

    Tips on Choosing Streaming Protocols Recommendations for the best wireless streaming options with regard to music/media apps on your mobile devices. Wireless streaming protocol AirPlay 2 Chromecast ROON Music Bluetooth Ready streaming Connect app native protocol Spotify Spotify – – Connect TIDAL TIDAL...

  • Page 32: Multi-Room Streaming

    Multi-Room Streaming AirPlay 2 Apple Airplay 2 can extend the speakers to become part of a multi-room wireless music system which can be controlled with iOS devices. If you have more than one pair of AirPlay speakers connected to the same network, select the pairs for playback of the same audio output at the same time.
  • Page 33 5. Tap “Next” 6. Enter a name for your group. 7. Tap “Save”.

  • Page 34: Roon

    ROON The speakers are compatible with ROON Ready for multi-room streaming. Roon supports “Zone Grouping”, or synchronizing audio playback in several zones within your house. Note that “Zones” can only be grouped with other zones of the same type (e.g. RAAT, AirPlay etc.). 1.

  • Page 35: Voice Control Over Mobile Device

    Voice Control Over Mobile Device Siri You can use Siri to control playback (e.g. skipping tracks, controlling the volume level) while your mobile device is streaming music to the speakers. Hey, Siri Hey, Siri Google Assistant You can use Google Assistant to control playback (e.g. skipping tracks, controlling the volume level) while your mobile device is streaming music to the speakers.

  • Page 36: Playback With Bluetooth

    Bluetooth connection. Selecting Bluetooth Mode • In the KEF Connect App, tap the Bluetooth button ( ) to switch to Bluetooth mode. • Alternatively, press the source button on the top panel of the Primary Speaker; • Or, press the source button on the remote control.
  • Page 37 2. Turn on the Bluetooth feature of your device and select “KEF LS50 Wireless II” (or the name you have created for the speakers) from the list of available devices to pair. When Bluetooth pairing is done, the Bluetooth icon will stay lit.

  • Page 38: Playback With Hdmi Earc Input

    Playback with HDMI eARC input The speakers are compatible with HDMI eARC (enhanced Audio Return Channel) output from your TV for integrated control through a single HDMI cable. The speakers must always be first connected to your local network before HDMI connection. The speakers are also backward compatible with ARC and HDMI CEC.

  • Page 39: Selecting Tv Mode

    10.2 Selecting TV Mode • In the KEF Connect App, tap the TV Mode button (TV) to switch to TV Mode. • Alternatively, press the source button on the top panel of the Primary Speaker; • Or, press the source button on the remote control.

  • Page 40: Playback With Coaxial Input

    Playback with Coaxial Input You can connect your devices with coaxial output (e.g. DVD/CD player) to the speakers through a coaxial cable. The speakers must always be first connected to your local network before coaxial connection. 11.1 Coaxial Cable Connection Connect the coaxial output jack of your device and the coaxial input jack (C) on the back panel of the Primary Speaker via a coaxial cable.

  • Page 41: Selecting Coaxial Mode

    11.2 Selecting Coaxial Mode • In the KEF Connect App, tap the Coaxial button (CX) to switch to Coaxial mode. • Alternatively, press the source button on the top panel of the Primary Speaker; • Or, press the source button on the remote control.

  • Page 42: Playback With Optical Input

    Playback with Optical Input You can connect your devices with optical output (e.g. TV and game consoles) to the speakers through an optical cable. The speakers must always be first connected to your local network before optical connection. 12.1 Optical Cable Connection Connect the optical output jack of your device and the optical input jack (O) on the back panel of the Primary Speaker via an optical cable.

  • Page 43: Selecting Optical Mode

    12.2 Selecting Optical Mode • In the KEF Connect App, tap the Optical Mode button (OPT) to switch to Optical Mode. • Alternatively, press the source button on the top panel of the Primary Speaker; • Or, press the source button on the remote control.

  • Page 44: Playback With Auxiliary Input

    Playback with Auxiliary Input You can connect your devices with 3.5 mm audio output (e.g. turntables, computers, portable music players) to the speakers through an audio cable. The speakers must always be first connected to your local network before auxiliary connection. 13.1 Auxiliary Cable Connection Connect the audio output jack of your device and the auxiliary input jack (X) on the back...

  • Page 45: Selecting Auxiliary Mode

    13.2 Selecting Auxiliary Mode • In the KEF Connect App, tap the Auxiliary Mode button (AUX) to switch to Auxiliary mode. • Alternatively, press the source button on the top panel of the Primary Speaker; • Or, press the source button on the remote control.

  • Page 46: Using Kef Connect App

    Using KEF Connect App The KEF Connect App allows you to set up the speakers, apply EQ settings, turn on/ off the speakers, switch sound sources and access and play back your music streaming services. 14.1 Home 14.1.1 Overview Latest news and stories from KEF...

  • Page 47: Remote Control

    • To turn off the speakers, tap the active source button. 14.3 Music Contents The KEF Connect App allows you to access and play back music from your music streaming services as well as Internet radio stations and podcasts.

  • Page 48: Playing Music From Music Streaming Services

    14.3.1 Playing Music from Music Streaming Services 14.3.1.1 Amazon Music 1. To stream music, tap “Amazon Music” under “Music in the Cloud” in the KEF Connect App. 2. Login to your Amazon Music account. 3. Browse and play music to start streaming.

  • Page 49: Deezer

    14.3.1.2 Deezer 1. To stream music, tap “Deezer” under “Music in the Cloud” in the KEF Connect App. 2. Login to your Deezer account. 3. Browse and play music to start streaming.

  • Page 50: Qobuz

    14.3.1.3 Qobuz 1. To stream music, tap “Qobuz” under “Music in the Cloud” in the KEF Connect App. 2. Login to your Qobuz account. 3. Browse and play music to start streaming.

  • Page 51: Spotify

    14.3.1.4 Spotify Through the KEF Connect App, you can be prompted to the Spotify App on your device to stream music to the speakers. See chapter “Spotify Connect”. 14.3.1.5 TIDAL 1. To stream music, tap “TIDAL” under “Music in the Cloud” in the KEF Connect App.

  • Page 52: Internet Radio

    14.3.1.6 Internet Radio 1. To access Internet radio, tap “Radio stations” under “Live Stream” in the KEF Connect App. 2. Browse and play a radio station to start streaming. 14.3.1.7 Podcast 1. To access podcast contents, tap “Podcasts” under “Live Stream” in the KEF Connect App.

  • Page 53: Playback Controls

    14.3.2 Playback Controls The below features are available to control playback order or behaviour. Please note that these features may not be available to all music sources and there may be slight differences in the control interface. 14.3.2.1 Playback Screen Hide playback screen Queue Favourites...

  • Page 54: Favourites

    14.3.2.3 Favourites • Selecting or Deselecting as Favourites In the playback screen, tap the favourite icon ( ) to select or deselect an item (music, podcast, radio station) as favourites. Alternatively, tap the option icon ( … ) and then select “Add to Favorites” or “Remove from Favourites”.

  • Page 55: Playlists

    14.3.2.4 Playlists A playlist is a list of tracks that can be played back in the preferred sequential order. Playlists can be saved for future listening. • Accessing the Playlists In the current music source, tap “Playlists” in the main menu. •...
  • Page 56 • Editing a Playlist 1. In the playback screen of the track to be removed, tap the option icon ( … ). 2. Tap “Remove from playlist”. • Deleting a Playlist 1. In the playlist, tap the option icon ( ) at the top right corner. 2.

  • Page 57: Equalizations

    14.4 Equalizations For the best audio performance, apply sound settings according to your listening area. 1. In the KEF Connect App, tap the EQ settings icon ( ) at the bottom of the Home screen to access EQ settings. The settings include: •...
  • Page 58 Understanding the EQ Settings On a desk/distance from the front edge of the table (Expert Mode: Desk Mode): This setting adjusts the “presence” region (170 Hz +/- 1 octave). Too much causes a muddy sound, while a lack of presence makes the sound distant and empty.

  • Page 59: Profile

    Profile This menu allows you to edit your personal details (account name and profile picture) of your registered user account. 1. In the KEF Connect App, tap the Setting icon ( ) at the bottom of the Home screen. 2. Tap “View profile”.

  • Page 60: Choosing Your Speaker

    14.6.1 My Speaker and Speakers Nearby This menu allows the KEF Connect App to switch to another pair of speakers for control and streaming. All speakers must first be set up through the same KEF Connect App before they are available for selection.

  • Page 61: Speaker Info

    2. Tap the name of the connected speakers. 3. Tap the info icon ( ) next to the name of the speakers. 4. Check the MAC address, IP address and firmware version of the speakers. You can also rename the speakers or forget the speakers (disconnect them from the KEF Connect App).

  • Page 62: Speaker Preferences

    14.7 Speaker Preferences This menu allows you to configure various speaker preferences. To access this menu: 1. In the KEF Connect App, tap the Setting icon ( ) at the bottom of the Home screen. 2. Tap “Speaker preferences”. 14.7.1 Power Saver –...

  • Page 63: Speaker System Options - Cable Mode

    14.7.4 Speaker System Options – Cable Mode You can connect the Primary Speaker and Secondary Speaker with the provided inter- speaker cable through the “To L/R” connection ports on the back panels of the speakers. Once the cable is connected, enable this setting to enable Cable mode and disable the wireless connection.

  • Page 64: Volume

    14.8 Volume This menu allows you to configure volume settings. To access this menu: 1. In the KEF Connect App, tap the Setting icon ( ) at the bottom of the Home screen. 2. Tap “Volume”. 14.8.1 Volume Display Setting This setting allows you to configure how the volume control should be displayed.

  • Page 65: Speaker Volume Sensitivity

    14.8.3 Speaker Volume Sensitivity This setting allows you to configure the volume steps for each single press of the physical volume buttons of your device. 14.8.4 Maximum Volume This setting allows you to configure the maximum level when adjusting the volume. 14.8.5 Balance Control This setting allows you to adjust the volume balance between the left and right channels.

  • Page 66: Firmware Upgrade

    14.9.1 Automatic Firmware Update After you have successfully set up the speakers with the KEF Connect App, you may be required to update the firmware if a new version is available. Follow the instructions in the KEF Connect App to complete the update process.

  • Page 67: Application

    • Normal (MP3 quality): Select this setting when the speakers are in a crowded network and experiencing audio drop-outs. 14.10.2 Analytics – Improve App/Speaker This setting allows the KEF Connect App to send improvement analytics to the manufacturer. We recommend to enable this setting.

  • Page 68: Support

    14.11 Support This menu allows you to report issues, give suggestions and make general enquiries. To access this menu: 1. In the KEF Connect App, tap the Setting icon ( ) at the bottom of the Home screen. 2. Tap “Support”.

  • Page 69: Cleaning And Maintenance

    Cleaning and Maintenance WARNING! Risk of electric shock! Improper cleaning of the speakers may result in injury. • Always unplug the power cables from the power sockets/outlets before cleaning the speakers. NOTICE! Risk of short circuit! Water and other liquids that have penetrated the housing may cause a short circuit. •...

  • Page 70: Disposal

    Disposal 16.1 Disposing of the Packaging Sort the packaging before you dispose of it. Dispose of paperboard and cardboard with the recycled paper service and wrappings with the appropriate collection service. 16.2 Disposing of the Speakers Old appliances may not be disposed of in the household waste! Should the speakers no longer be capable of being used at some point in time, dispose of them in accordance with the regulations in force in your city or county.

  • Page 71: Faq And Troubleshooting

    LS50 Wireless II. However, as there is not yet an industrial standard for mesh routers, each manufacturer may have their own meshing technology. If your mesh router does not work with LS50 Wireless II, make sure you have updated your router to the latest firmware or contact the manufacturer for solutions.
  • Page 72 After connecting the inter-speaker cable, you must also enable Cable Mode in the KEF Connect App. 9. Can I rename the speaker? • Yes, renaming can be done in the KEF Connect App. This will change the name for both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections.

  • Page 73: Playback And Streaming

    = Supported and recommended for the best audio quality and streaming stability. 2. Can I stream audio output from Youtube, Netflix and other media contents to LS50 Wireless II? • Depending on the service, you can stream through AirPlay, Chromecast or Bluetooth.

  • Page 74: Troubleshooting

    LED light above the button blinks. 2. What should I do if I cannot find my LS50 Wireless II in the network during set-up? • Wait for about 30–40 seconds for the speakers to be visible on the speaker list.
  • Page 75 • Change the HDMI cable (our internal tests noticed that HDMI cables of lower qualities may not be able to establish the connection). • If the problem persists, please report the issue in the Support section of the KEF Connect App for our investigation.
  • Page 76 • We are constantly updating and expanding our database for radio stations and podcasts. Please use the Support function in the KEF Connect App and send us the RSS link of the website. After verification, we will add it to our database.

  • Page 77: Led Indicators

    17.4 LED Indicators The connection and operation status can be checked through the colours and patterns of the LED indicators on the top panel of the Primary Speaker. LED indicator Status The speakers are trying to connect to a Wi-Fi network. Wi-Fi icon is blinking white and amber.
  • Page 78 2. Wait approximately 60 seconds. 3. Plug the power cables back to both speakers. 4. Perform the firmware update again on the KEF Connect App. If the problem persists, please contact your KEF dealer. There is a system error. 1. Pull the power cables from both speakers.

  • Page 79: Appendix

    Appendix 18.1 Specifications Model LS50 Wireless II Drive units Uni-Q Driver Array: LF: 130 mm (5.25 in.) aluminium cone HF: 25 mm (1 in.) vented aluminium dome with Metamaterial Absorption Technology Frequency range (-6 dB) 40 Hz – 47 kHz...
  • Page 80 For further information and troubleshooting, please visit the KEF website: KEF.COM KEF reserves the right, in line with continuous research and development, to amend or change specifications without prior notice. E. & O.E The Bluetooth word mark and logos are registered trademarks owned by Bluetooth SIG, Inc.
  • Page 81 Apple and AirPlay are registered trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. Deezer is a registered trademark of Access Industries. Google Play store and Chromecast are registered trademarks of Google LLC. Qobuz is a registered trademark of Xandrie SA. QQ Music is a registered trademark of Tencent Music Entertainment Group (TME).

  • Page 82: Explanation Of Symbols

    18.2 Explanation of symbols 18.2.1 Warning Symbols The lightning flash with arrowhead symbol, within an equilateral triangle, is intended to alert the user to the presence of uninsulated “dangerous voltage” within the products enclosure that may be of a sufficient magnitude to constitute a risk of electrical shock to persons.
  • Page 83 The Japan PSE Mark Certification indicates that the product meets the technical requirements of the Electrical Appliance and Material Safety Law (DENAN). These marks indicate compliance with technical and design requirements for telecommunication terminal equipment in Japan. The Korean Certification mark indicates that the product complies with Korea’s product safety requirements for electrical and electronic equipment.

  • Page 84: Ir Command Codes

    18.3 IR Command Codes LS50 Wireless II works with universal programmable remote control provided that the remote control manufacturers have implemented KEF IR command codes in their remote controls. The following table lists the command codes required. Code Format: Factory Code:...
  • Page 85 For more support, please visit kef.com...

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