The PSB iQ2 is a wireless stereo setup that promises to deliver premium sound and smart-speaker convenience. With a sleek and modern design, the iQ2 looks like a pair of conventional shelf speakers, but with a range of inputs and wireless connectivity options.
The iQ2 has a comprehensive selection of inputs, including HDMI with eARC, phono/line, optical, and two USB ports. It also supports Bluetooth and AirPlay, making it easy to connect to a range of devices. The speakers can be controlled using the BluOS controller app, which offers a range of features and customization options.
Design and Connectivity
The iQ2 speakers are compact and stylish, with a gentle, modern aesthetic that adds a touch of sophistication to any room. They are available in seven different colors, ranging from white to bold red. The design makes it clear that the speakers are focused on delivering high-quality sound, rather than trying to be a smart home hub.
The speakers are easy to set up and can be connected wirelessly, making it easy to place them in any room. The primary speaker has touch-sensitive buttons on top for basic media and volume controls, and the app allows for more advanced customization and control.
Sound Quality
The iQ2 delivers high-quality sound, with a natural and relaxed tone that is well-suited to a range of music genres. The speakers are capable of producing deep, controlled bass and clear, detailed highs, making them ideal for music lovers. The built-in phono preamp is also capable of raising vinyl to enjoyable audio levels, although it may not be as detailed as a dedicated preamp.
The iQ2 is also well-suited to home theater use, delivering a natural and immersive sound that is well-suited to movies and TV shows. The speakers are compact and won’t fill large spaces with sound, but they are more than capable of delivering high-quality sound in smaller rooms.
Competition and Conclusion
The iQ2 is a premium product with a price to match, at $1,399. However, it offers a range of features and connectivity options that make it a compelling choice for music lovers and home theater enthusiasts. The BluOS app is intuitive and easy to use, and the speakers themselves deliver high-quality sound that is well-suited to a range of genres and uses.
While there are other options available on the market, the iQ2’s range of inputs and connectivity options make it a unique and compelling choice. The KEF LSX II is a direct rival, but it lacks a phono preamp and has a higher price point. The Wiim Ultra audio streamer offers similar connectivity, but requires a separate set of speakers.
Steve Lopez is the Editorial Page Editor for News Raise. He covers Health. He has won more than a dozen national journalism awards for his reporting and column writing at seven newspapers and four news magazines.
