KEF Coda W

KEF Redefines Plug-and-Play Hi-Fi: Discover the Coda W - Wireless Speaker System

If you're interested in high-fidelity audio gear, you'll be excited to hear about the brand-new Coda W from KEF, a British-based and cutting-edge brand that has pushed the envelope with its approach to engineering and manufacturing speakers. The Coda W is a brand-new release, just announced Oct 21st, 2025. This is an active, wireless speaker system designed to bring together analogue heritage and modern convenience. Sound Approach was excited to get their hands on this unit as soon as it became available and we’re here to give you our thoughts on this phenomenal piece of equipment!

1. The Heritage & Concept

KEF has long been one of the most respected names in audio equipment. Founded in 1961 in Maidstone, England, the company has developed a number of key technologies (such as the Uni-Q driver and Metamaterial Absorption Technology) and has built a strong reputation within the audio community for both passive and active loudspeaker performance.

KEF launched the CODA 7 in 1995 and 30 years later is tapping into that nostalgia with a reimagined design and modern convenience through the versatility the CODA W offers in the digital realm, with aptX Adaptive and Lossless Streaming via 5.4 Bluetooth Tech, and a built-in phono stage to connect your turntable. The vintage CODA are often remembered for their musical balance and value in their era and the newly released Coda W is expected to do the same for a new generation!

With the Coda W, KEF revisits this ideal but in a modern, active, wireless form. The goal appears to be: simplify your setup, support sources old (vinyl), and new (streaming/Bluetooth), and deliver high-quality sound in a compact, affordable, all-in-one solution.

2. Key Features & Specifications

Here are some of the headline specs and features of the KEF Coda W:

  • Driver configuration: 12th-generation Uni-Q array, combining a 130 mm (5.25″) magnesium/aluminum cone woofer and a 25 mm (1″) aluminum dome tweeter.
  • Built-in amplification: The system delivers roughly 200 watts total Class D amplification (commonly described as 70 W to the woofer and 30 W to the tweeter per speaker)
  • The Frequency range is 41Hz-20kHZ (±3dB) measured at 85dB/1m (depending on EQ settings)
  • Inputs & Ouputs:
    • Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX Adaptive and aptX Lossless support
    • Wired inputs: USB-C (up to 24-bit/192 kHz in one spec sheet) for digital direct-from computer/source
    • Optical digital input, HDMI ARC for TV connection
    • RCA line input and RCA phono input for a turntable and Moving Magnet (MM) cartridge so you can plug in a record player directly. The phono stage does not support Moving Coil cartridges (MC)
    • Additionally, the speakers are connected to each other via USB C rather than speaker cables
    • RCA Subwoofer-output: So…you can expand the system if deeper bass is wanted/needed
  • Available in five finishes: Vintage Burgundy, Nickel Grey, Moss Green, Midnight Blue, Dark Titanium, letting it pair visually with modern interior design as a subtle statement piece.
  • Price & availability: currently retailing for $999.99

3. Why It Matters & Who will use it?

Here’s what makes the Coda W a fantastic option and which users it will suit:

      • One-Box Simplicity with Hi-Fi Ambitions

You get active speakers with built-in amplification and a phono stage. There's no external amplifier needed and no separate preamp for vinyl. These are speakers for someone who wants high-fidelity sound without building a large rack of components. 

      • Vinyl + Streaming Friendly

If you own a turntable (especially one without its own phono preamp), the Coda W’s built-in phono input simplifies setup. And if you also stream via Bluetooth or use your computer/TV, the wired digital inputs cover those too. Essentially, the system is built for modern mixed-sources of music as well as catering to the more dedicated or discerning audiophiles.

Additionally, the aptX Lossless capability allows you to stream through platforms like Spotify, which offers lossless signal quality for premium subscribers, that provides cd-level signal through streaming. This is an important option when looking at the ceiling of performance for the CODA W. However, it's important to note, something like a Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or newer chip is required to support Qualcomm's aptX Lossless technology for lossless wireless streaming of audio over Bluetooth.

     • Compact, Stylish & Versatile

Each speaker is fairly compact, coming in at about 25 lbs (11.3kg) and the finishing options make this less “big tower” and more “studio or living-room friendly”. That is a plus for smaller rooms or users who prefer minimalist setup.

     • Potential Trade-Offs to Consider

While the specs are impressive, some commentary notes the system lacks direct Wi-Fi or network integration (e.g., Chromecast, AirPlay), meaning it relies more on Bluetooth or wired inputs for streaming. While this is a nitpick of the capabilities, most listeners will appreciate the need for cables when setting up their electronics (computers, tv, video games, the list goes on and on…)

Rear-ported cabinet design: placement close to walls will affect bass performance, just something to be aware of. However, the Uni-Q drivers have excellent dispersion for a wide-range of speaker placement. The recommended placement is 1-3 meters of separation between the speakers and the included USB C Cable (linking the speakers) is approximately 3.0 (9.8ft) meters long. 

As always with smaller active speakers, while very capable, they aren’t going to rival larger driver floor-standing systems with big cabinets, dedicated and external amplifiaction, and/or paired with subwoofers in terms of deep bass extension or max loudness in really large spaces.

4. How It Compares (at a Glance)

  • Compared to traditional passive speakers + amp setups: The Coda W simplifies setup and system complexity. There is less gear and cabling required for an excellent hi-fi system! (less gear = less mess)
  • Against other wireless active speakers: The built-in phono stage and turntable-friendly input give it an edge over other similar wireless active speakers, especially for analogue lovers
  • Compared to ultra-high-end systems: The size and power output will naturally limit ultimate performance compared with large dedicated hi-fi towers, but the price point and features are definitely attractive

5. Final Thoughts

The KEF Coda W is a very compelling all-in-one speaker system for listeners who want serious sound quality, flexibility, and simplicity, especially if you value both vinyl and digital sources. It hits a sweet spot between convenience and price giving you the best of active speaker amplification, classic hi-fi driver technology with the UNI-Q system, and modern connectivity.

We recommend the KEF Coda W if you...

  • Have a room of small to moderate size, and want a clean, crisp, and dynamic setup
  • Own, or intend to own, a turntable and want to skip the separate preamp or phono-stage gear. (note - this unit has a line input as well, so upgrading to a phono preamp in the future is still a possibility)
  • Want a high-performance speaker that supports streaming and digital inputs that can connect to your TV, computer, or mobile device through wired or wireless connections
  • Care about aesthetics and finish as well as sound

For more about the KEF Coda W, please visit this link