Fraunhofer IIS, primary developer of MPEG-H Audio, and KEF, a creator of revolutionary speakers, subwoofers, and wireless systems, proudly announce the release of a new, MPEG-H Audio enabled soundbar.
With the launch of the innovative XIO soundbar, which features support for MPEG-H Audio and 360 Reality Audio, KEF is setting a new benchmark for immersive audio experiences in the consumer electronics market. As part of its commitment to delivering high-quality audio experiences, KEF has also joined the MPEG-H Trademark Program. This ensures that the XIO soundbar meets the stringent quality and interoperability requirements set by Fraunhofer IIS for devices supporting MPEG-H Audio.
The integration of the advanced audio system in the KEF XIO soundbar ensures a fully immersive listening experience. It provides groundbreaking features such as interactive sound personalization, allowing users to adjust elements such as dialogue volume or audio object positioning. This not only enhances accessibility but also brings unparalleled flexibility to home entertainment.
“We are thrilled to see KEF bring their expertise in high-performance audio to the world of immersive sound with the XIO soundbar,” says Yannik Grewe, Senior Engineer Media Technologies at Fraunhofer IIS. “By integrating MPEG-H Audio, KEF ensures that users can experience their favourite movies, music, and other content in a truly immersive and customizable way. We are excited to see MPEG-H Audio technology reaching more users through KEF’s high-quality products.”
Commenting on the launch, Ken Tong, Product Manager at KEF stated: “At KEF, we are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of sound technology to deliver exceptional audio experiences. The XIO soundbar was created to deliver outstanding audio quality and by integrating MPEG-H Audio, we can now deliver immersive experiences to enhance our listeners’ experience even more.”
MPEG-H Audio is already widely adopted in broadcasting and by streaming services worldwide, powering Next Generation Audio experiences for millions of consumers. The collaboration between Fraunhofer IIS and innovative companies like KEF continues to drive the evolution of audio technology, bringing exciting new possibilities to listeners everywhere.
About KEF
Since 1961, KEF has been obsessed with the power of high-fidelity sound. By leading in technical innovation, design and craftsmanship, KEF creates revolutionary speakers, subwoofers and wireless systems that provide listeners with transformative audio experiences, capturing the meaning, magic and moments in creators’ work.
BBC engineer Raymond Cooke founded KEF, naming it after its original site, Kent Engineering and Foundry. The company continues to conduct research and development while manufacturing flagship speakers in Maidstone, Kent, UK.
KEF Music Galleries in key cities worldwide, including our global flagship in London, offer unique and inviting ‘listen and believe’ spaces for both seasoned audio enthusiasts and newcomers, serving as community hubs for partner and creator collaborations.
