KEF XIO
Score: 85/100
Klipsch Reference Cinema Bundle
Score: 91/100Rankings
The Klipsch Reference Cinema bundle pairs a 5.1.4 speaker set with an Onkyo 9.2-channel AV receiver, delivering immersive Atmos, 8K video support, and advanced Dirac Live room correction. It offers high efficiency, deep bass, and extensive connectivity, though the system is heavy and calibration can be time-consuming.
The KEF XIO 5.1.2 soundbar delivers powerful, immersive Atmos sound with deep bass and high-resolution streaming, though it depends on a separate wireless subwoofer for extra low-end impact and requires app-based configuration.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
820 Wbest | — | |
34 Hzbest | 28 Hz | |
20,000 Hzbest | 20,000 Hzbest | |
— | 103 dBbest | |
1 | 7best | |
1 | 3best | |
5.3best | 5 | |
| ↓ lower better | 10.5 kgbest | 53 kg |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Connectivity(1) | ||
Bluetooth Version | 5.3 | 5.0 |
Video(2) | ||
HDMI Inputs | 1 | 7 |
HDMI Outputs | 1 | 3 |
Build & Design(1) | ||
Overall Weight (kg) | 10.5 kg | 53 kg |
Warranty & Support(1) | ||
Warranty Period (months) | 24 months | 60 months |
Audio(3) | ||
Channel Configuration | 5.1.2 | 5.1.4 |
Supported Audio Formats | Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, MPEG-H, Sony 360 Reality Audio, FLAC, WAV, AIFF, ALAC, AAC, WMA, MP3, M4A, LPCM, Ogg Vorbis | Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, IMAX Enhanced, Auro-3D |
Frequency Response (Low) (Hz) | 34 Hz | 28 Hz |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers from What Hi-Fi? and Crutchfield laud the XIO for its powerful, clean bass, precise imaging and ability to handle both movies and high-resolution music with equal finesse, calling it one of the best premium soundbars available.
Everyday users consistently praise the XIO's immersive Atmos experience, deep bass that often eliminates the need for a separate subwoofer, and the convenience of the KEF Connect app, while noting the lack of rear speakers and the requirement to buy a separate wireless subwoofer for extra low-end punch.
Professional reviewers highlight the bundle's ultra-wide 5 Hz-100 kHz receiver bandwidth, the superiority of Dirac Live full-bandroom correction, and the efficiency of Klipsch's Tractrix horn design, while noting the size and calibration complexity.
Everyday users rave about the immersive soundstage, easy Optimize Mode setup, deep tight bass, and the dramatic impact of Atmos height effects, but complain about the system's weight, the time-consuming Dirac calibration process, and the basic remote.
“Crisp dialogue and immersive Atmos effects - feels like a real theater.”
“Bass is shockingly deep for a soundbar - no subwoofer needed in my 20 ft × 15 ft room.”
“Love the KEF Connect app - streaming Qob”
