These Compact Bookshelf Speakers Promise to Make Stereo Hi-Fi Easy

In late 2022, PSB introduced the Alpha iQ. It was an active speaker system comprised of two compact bookshelf speakers that supported Wi-Fi and Bluetooth streaming, and offered a variety of wired connections in case you wanted to use them as desktop, TV or turntable speakers. And the system came in several fun colors.

Four years later, the respected Canadian hi-fi company is effectively introducing the next generation of its active speaker systems. Like their predecessors, the all-in-one stereo system is designed to deliver hi-fi sound without the complexity of a traditional stereo system.

But, uniquely, PSB is offering its all-new iQ Series in two distinct models.

PSB iQ Series

PSB Speakers

Familiar drivers, upgraded amps

PSB’s all-new iQ Series consists of two models: the iQ1 and the iQ2. And, for the most part, both of these active speaker systems are basically identical.

Both are built on the same acoustic platform as PSB’s Alpha iQ, meaning each speaker is the same size as before and features the same driver combination: a 0.75-inch tweeter paired with a 4-inch woofer.

PSB Speakers

PSB Speakers

With both new models, PSB updated each with improved amplification. Both models feature a new Burr-Brown Class-D amplifier that delivers 270 watts of total system power, with 90 watts to each woofer and 45 watts to each tweeter.

By comparison, PSB’s older Alpha iQ was a 180-watt system. So the new models promise to be significantly beefier.

“From the new amplifier platform to the DSP tuning and driver integration, we focused on maximizing output, clarity, and control within a compact form factor,” explained Matt Simmons, the vice president of product development at PSB Speakers. “The result is a system that performs well beyond its size while maintaining the accuracy and balance that define PSB.”

PSB Speakers

PSB Speakers

Plug-and-play systems

Just like their predecessors, both iQ1 and iQ2 are incredibly versatile, “plug-and-play” speaker systems.

On the streaming side, they run BluOS and can be grouped in a multi-room system with other BluOS-enabled speakers and receivers (made by the likes of Bluesound, NAD, Dai, Monitor Audio and Roksan). They also both support AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, Tidal Connect and Qobuz Connect.

Both systems have a built-in MM phono preamp, making connecting a turntable super easy. And they support numerous inputs (HDMI eARC, RCA, optical, USB-C and USB-A), allowing you to use them as TV or desktop speakers, too.

PSB Speakers

PSB Speakers

So, what’s the difference between the two iQ Series models? There are two big ones.

First, the iQ1 speakers must be tethered together using the included speaker cable, while the iQ2 uses a low-latency wireless connection to pair the two speakers. This gives listeners greater flexibility to place the iQ2 speakers where they want in a room without worrying about extra cables.

And second, both iQ1 and iQ2 speakers look identical and have been updated with modern designs and come with cloth fabric grilles. However, the iQ2 speakers come in way more colors.

The iQ2 speakers will be available in seven finishes: black, white, red, green, grey, beige, and walnut. The iQ1 speakers only come in black or white.

PSB Speakers

PSB Speakers

Availability and pricing

PSB is positioning the iQ2 speaker system as the higher-end option. And naturally, the wireless connection and more color options come at a price: the iQ2 will cost $1,399, while the iQ1 will cost $999. (And the iQ2 in walnut will cost $1,499.)

The iQ2 will be available in six finishes starting June 23rd; the walnut model won’t be available until November. The iQ1 will be available starting August 10th.

PSB Speakers

PSB iQ Series

• $999 at PSB (iQ1)
• $1,399 at PSB (iQ2)

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