Editors’ Choice: Best Integrated Systems Under $3,000

If real high-end audio engineers made a “Bluetooth” portable speaker, the Brane system is what they’d come up with. The Brane is a portable, battery-powered, single-box system that accepts Wi-Fi (for hi-res) and Bluetooth (outdoors) and analog signals. And holy schmoly, is this thing a game-changer. Bass output (to below 40Hz) and detail are steps (plural) above other speakers in this category; the bass balance is more like what many listeners want than quite a few full-on stereo rigs. Brane gives users over 200W of power, so this speaker can deliver ample volume within reason. And the Brane has two midrange drivers and two tweeters, positioned to make a mono speaker sound spacious. TAS YouTube

This tabletop, wireless all-in-one brings the expertise and sensibility of PSB Speakers’ founder Paul Barton to the integrated system. The solidly built Pulse 2i accommodates a wide range of inputs, but will most likely be driven by streaming sources via the BluOS app. The sound has a warmth and richness in the bass and midbass that are often missing in the category. The Pulse 2i projects a sound far larger than its size would indicate and can fill a mid-sized room. The mids and treble are warm and engaging, again defying expectations. Pulse 2i Mini simply a smaller version. Forthcoming

It may be similar in size and shape to a generic tabletop system, but once you hear what this compact system (with three smallish cone drivers per side, 75W on tap for each driver, and integrated preamp, DAC, streaming, and DSP) can do, there will be no mistaking it for a typical all-in-one unit. It is a different creature entirely. Its best qualities compare favorably to systems of separate components up to about twice its price, though it will not play super-loud (an expected result for amps and speaker drivers of this size) and won’t give you the kind of wide, deep soundstage that you get from individual speakers. Nonetheless, the Mu-so 2 is supremely musical. MK, 306

The KEF LSX IIs are wireless marvels. There is no tether necessary to connect the primary and secondary speakers, although using the tether bumps resolution from 24-bit/48kHz up to 24-bit/192kHz. The KEFs sport sleek, gorgeous looks, including real cloth wrappings that feel almost luxurious. They’re powered by a 70W Class D amp for the mid and bass driver, and a 30W amp for the tweeter. The inputs are simple: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi streaming, one optical connection, and a 3.5mm analog AUX port. Their small size belies their huge sound: Bass is big and tight when adjusted via the Control app, and the midrange is a delight. For anyone looking for an all-in-one solution in a small package without sacrificing sound quality, the KEF LSX IIs are highly recommended. DK, 335

Built to celebrate KEF’s 50th anniversary, the original LS50 monitor spun pure coincident-driver magic thanks to its blushing pink-gold Uni-Q coaxial midrange/tweeter. Visually arresting and sonically satisfying, the LS50 delivered tonal neutrality at just the right pitch, with superb midrange sonics, full-bodied presence, and potent midbass punch. Comes now an “all-in-one” version of this same speaker, the LS50 Wireless, with built-in amplifier, DAC, streaming preamp (Tidal- and Roon-ready), and DSP room-EQ that gives you the same sonics without any need for outboard electronics. JM, 286