PSB iQ2 review: Premium sound meets smart-speaker convenience

The PSB iQ2 review highlights a premium sound experience combined with smart-speaker convenience. This wireless stereo setup, priced at $1,399, is a capable hub for home audio, marking a shift from smart speakers' previous focus on secondary features. Since the emergence of hi-fi speakers that combine streaming convenience with premium audio and physical connectivity, PSB's iQ2 emerges as a suitable product in this emerging trend.

The iQ2 prioritizes speaker functionality over smart features, positioning its lack of voice assistants and daily briefings as a feature rather than a compromise. The sleek and modern design of the iQ2, measuring 9 x 6 inches, adds a stylish detail to any room without being overly conspicuous. The compact size makes it suitable for various spaces, although it might not be ideal for smaller rooms or practical areas like kitchens.

One of the key advantages of the iQ2 is its extensive range of inputs, including HDMI (with eARC), phono/line, optical, and two USB ports (Type-A and Type-C). It also offers wireless connectivity via Bluetooth (aptX Adaptive) and AirPlay, along with network sharing capabilities. Despite the lack of a 3.5mm connection, the iQ2 supports music sources from discs or data, with only an RCA adapter needed for older devices.

The accompanying app, BluOS, offers a user-friendly interface for setting up the speakers, connecting them to various music sources, and controlling playback. While some users may find the source toggling process slightly confusing initially, the app's customization options and advanced configurations cater to individual preferences and provide a seamless listening experience.

Compared to the reviewer's existing Sonos system, the iQ2 revealed an immediate sonic difference, delivering a relaxed and well-balanced sound. It performed well during boomy-bass tests, proving its ability to handle action scenes and dense music genres without sounding thin or overpowering. For music, the iQ2 speakers provide a natural and open sound, particularly for electronic and acoustic genres.