KEF suggests providing the Muo with a minimum 10-hour break-in phase, akin to conditioning the drivers of a premium pair of Hi-Fi loudspeakers. As promised, following an overnight period of initial operation, the Muo began to exhibit audio characteristics less typical of a standard Bluetooth speaker and more reminiscent of a miniature, high-fidelity sound system.
When tested with dynamic classical pieces, alongside my diverse playlist including MF Doom, Waxahatchee, and Neil Young—streaming via Quobuz and Spotify from both iOS gadgets and a Windows computer—the Muo maintains remarkable poise. Distinct articulation across low, mid, and high frequencies enables your tracks to fully unfold, and its tonal balance steers clear of the exaggerated bass response frequently found dominating many Bluetooth speakers.
At elevated volumes, no discernible distortion was detected, and it provided a more pleasant auditory experience at higher volumes compared to less expensive competitors. This isn’t to say that compact speakers ought to be pushed to their absolute maximum, yet, should you decide to celebrate with it, you won’t experience discomfort.
Furthermore, the stereo linking functionality proves genuinely impactful. A pair of Muo units expands the soundstage, refines directional audio placement, and creates an experience more akin to a miniature high-fidelity system than anticipated. This also underscored the critical role of the speaker’s break-in phase concerning sound fidelity. My attempt to pair the review units occurred only after approximately a week of individual speaker use, and the contrast in sound quality between the seasoned unit and a brand-new, box-fresh speaker was surprisingly pronounced.
While stereo linking is a welcome feature in this context, for those considering an investment of over $500 in a pair of portable devices primarily for in-home audio, it’s prudent to evaluate if a purpose-built two-speaker sound system might better meet your requirements.
Intense Rivalry
Photograph: Chris Haslam
Acquiring superb portable audio currently doesn’t necessitate a $250 outlay. The JBL Flip 7, priced $100 less, continues to be WIRED’s preferred overall selection, and the Bose SoundLink series presently offers several appealing deals. Numerous other models feature robust batteries, powerful bass, high volumes suitable for gatherings, and comprehensive companion applications. However, they often fall short in terms of comparable refinement.
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