Engadget review positions PSB iQ2 as premium hi-fi alternative to smart speakers
Priced at $1,399, the PSB iQ2 targets listeners seeking high-fidelity sound and extensive physical connectivity, challenging the dominance of tech giants in the multi-room audio market.
Engadget has published a review of the PSB iQ2 wireless stereo speakers, a $1,399 device that deliberately eschews the voice assistant features common in modern smart speakers to prioritise audio fidelity. The review positions the iQ2 as a high-fidelity audio hub, noting that the absence of daily briefings and digital assistants is a feature rather than a compromise for users seeking a dedicated music and home theatre experience.
The device is designed to integrate seamlessly into existing media setups, offering a comprehensive array of physical inputs including HDMI eARC, optical, USB Type-A and Type-C, and a dedicated phono input for vinyl playback. Unlike many competitors that rely solely on wireless streaming, the iQ2 allows for near-native integration with legacy analog sources, a capability that distinguishes it from the typical smart speaker ecosystem dominated by smartphone and cloud service providers.
Connectivity is managed through the BluOS app, which Engadget describes as having near-native integration due to PSB’s affiliation with the BluOS family of companies. The review highlights the app’s intuitive interface for setup and multi-room grouping, though it notes a minor usability friction where switching between Line and Phono inputs was not immediately visible in the "Most Used" section. PSB has acknowledged this feedback and issued a statement confirming plans to update the phono preamp firmware to address early user concerns.
Sonically, the iQ2 is characterised by a "relaxed" sound profile with controlled low-end reproduction, avoiding the dominant bass often found in consumer-grade audio systems. The review suggests the speakers excel in smaller to medium-sized rooms, providing natural sound for both music and film without requiring excessive volume. However, the compact form factor means the units are not suited for large spaces or high-volume "party-level" listening, a limitation inherent to their bookshelf design.
In the broader market context, the iQ2 faces competition from established hi-fi brands such as KEF, whose LSX II retails for $1,500, and streaming-focused solutions like the Wiim Ultra at $329. While the Wiim offers comparable connectivity as a standalone hub, it requires separate speakers, whereas the iQ2 provides an all-in-one solution. Engadget concludes that while the price point is significant, the iQ2 offers a compelling case for listeners who value physical connectivity and high-quality audio over the smart home conveniences offered by traditional tech giants.
