By: Dipin Sehdev
KEF has long been a brand where industrial design and acoustic engineering are inseparable. For decades, the British audio specialist has balanced form and function, creating loudspeakers that are as visually compelling as they are sonically precise. Now, KEF is extending that philosophy with two new finishes—Moss Green and Sand Shell—for its acclaimed LS50 Meta and LS50 Wireless II models.
These fresh finishes are not simply aesthetic updates; they are part of KEF’s design ethos, which the company calls “soulful minimalism”—an approach where every visual element supports the listening experience. The Moss Green and Sand Shell tones are intentionally chosen to create calm, focus, and balance, aligning with the sonic purity KEF is known for.
The additions arrive as part of KEF’s broader commitment to giving audiophiles and design-conscious listeners more ways to personalize their spaces without compromising on performance. With the LS50 Meta carrying an impressive 92% CE Critic Score and the LS50 Wireless II earning a remarkable 94% CE Critic Score, both models are already recognized as leaders in their categories. Now, they’re available in colors that make them stand out visually while blending harmoniously into contemporary interiors.
Design as an Extension of Sound
In high-end audio, visual design isn’t just about aesthetics—it can be an extension of the acoustic experience. KEF has always understood this, and with Moss Green and Sand Shell, they’re exploring how color psychology can complement sonic performance.
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Moss Green: A deep, organic tone that KEF describes as a “hue of restorative tranquility.” It evokes the feeling of nature, grounding the listener in a space that feels peaceful yet focused—perfect for immersive listening sessions.
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Sand Shell: A lighter, neutral tone that KEF calls “a hue that conveys comfort, clarity, and calm.” Its soft warmth makes it a versatile option that can integrate seamlessly with light, modern décor while adding a touch of refinement.
KEF’s designers worked to ensure these new finishes maintain the LS50 series’ minimalist lines and iconic curves, making the speakers equally suited for blending in or standing out as statement pieces.
LS50 Meta: The Pioneer of Metamaterial Audio
When the LS50 Meta debuted, it marked a milestone in loudspeaker technology. As the world’s first speaker to use Metamaterial Absorption Technology (MAT), it tackled one of the biggest challenges in acoustic engineering—unwanted high-frequency distortion.
The MAT Breakthrough
MAT uses a complex, maze-like structure behind the driver to absorb 99% of unwanted sound from the rear of the diaphragm. This eliminates almost all distortion in the high frequencies, allowing the LS50 Meta to deliver an extraordinarily clean and natural sound. The result is a level of detail and transparency that even seasoned audiophiles find impressive.
Critical Reception
The LS50 Meta has been widely praised by reviewers and consumers alike. Its 92% CE Critic Score places it among the highest-rated passive bookshelf speakers in its class. Critics highlight its precision imaging, wide soundstage, and tonal accuracy, making it ideal for both nearfield and room-filling setups.
Now in Moss Green and Sand Shell
Until now, the LS50 Meta’s finishes were limited to select options like Carbon Black, Titanium Grey, Mineral White, and Royal Blue Special Edition. The addition of Moss Green and Sand Shell offers listeners a way to enjoy KEF’s groundbreaking acoustic performance in finishes that feel more organic and timeless.
LS50 Wireless II: High-End Hi-Fi, No Strings Attached
While the LS50 Meta appeals to purists who pair it with their choice of amplification, the LS50 Wireless II caters to those who want the same acoustic excellence in a self-contained, all-in-one streaming solution.
Streaming Without Compromise
The LS50 Wireless II integrates amplification, DAC, and wireless streaming in one elegantly designed package. With AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, and Bluetooth on board, it supports almost every major streaming protocol. High-resolution audio up to 24-bit/384kHz is handled effortlessly, and MQA decoding ensures Tidal Masters playback without compromise.
Engineered for Precision
Under the hood, each speaker contains a dedicated 280W Class D amplifier for the woofer and a 100W Class AB amplifier for the tweeter, delivering ample headroom and dynamic control. KEF’s Uni-Q 12th generation driver ensures precise imaging and a coherent soundstage, no matter where you’re seated.
Critical Acclaim
The LS50 Wireless II holds a 94% CE Critic Score, a testament to its position as one of the best-performing active speakers available. Reviewers have praised it for delivering both the detail and emotional impact typically reserved for much larger—and far more complex—hi-fi setups.
Now with Two New Finishes
Moss Green and Sand Shell join the existing palette of Carbon Black, Titanium Grey, Mineral White, and Crimson Red Special Edition, offering more flexibility for integrating these advanced speakers into diverse living environments.
Why These Additions Matter in 2025
The high-end speaker market is as much about lifestyle as it is about specs. More than ever, listeners are looking for products that integrate seamlessly into their homes, both visually and technically. The Moss Green and Sand Shell finishes respond directly to that trend, providing options that feel intentional, refined, and future-proof.
From a brand perspective, KEF’s move is strategic. By extending the LS50 Meta and LS50 Wireless II lines with new finishes—without altering the core acoustic design—they’re giving customers a reason to revisit products that are already market leaders. It’s a way to expand the product lifecycle, attract new buyers, and strengthen KEF’s presence in the design-conscious segment of the audio market.
LS50 Meta vs. LS50 Wireless II: Choosing the Right Model
While the two models share the same acoustic DNA and design language, their use cases differ:
| Feature | LS50 Meta | LS50 Wireless II |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Passive bookshelf speaker | Active wireless streaming speaker |
| Amplification Required | Yes (external amp) | No (built-in amps) |
| Connectivity | Speaker cable terminals | AirPlay 2, Google Cast, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect, Bluetooth, optical, HDMI eARC |
| CE Critic Score | 92% | 94% |
| Target Listener | Hi-fi purists who enjoy system building | Listeners seeking plug-and-play high-end audio |
The Broader Significance: Design Meets Audio Innovation
KEF’s decision to release new finishes for two of its most successful products underscores a broader point: the fusion of design and technology is becoming non-negotiable in consumer electronics. Just as smartphones, laptops, and TVs have embraced style alongside performance, high-fidelity audio is following suit.
By paying attention to color psychology and minimalist aesthetics, KEF is ensuring that its products don’t just sound like reference-grade audio equipment—they feel like part of a curated living space. The Moss Green and Sand Shell options aren’t just about expanding choice; they’re about deepening the connection between the listener and the product.
Final Thoughts
The LS50 Meta and LS50 Wireless II were already standout products in the high-end audio space, with industry-leading 92% and 94% CE Critic Scores, respectively. With the introduction of Moss Green and Sand Shell, KEF is adding another dimension to their appeal—design versatility that aligns with the brand’s long-standing commitment to sonic and visual harmony.
Whether you’re a purist drawn to the passive LS50 Meta or a convenience-focused listener opting for the LS50 Wireless II, KEF’s newest finishes prove that great sound can—and should—look as good as it sounds.
