PSB Alpha iQ, Black (Pair)

Alpha iQ

Active Streaming Speaker with BluOS

As a simplified approach to audio, the Alpha iQ comes with a built-in digital amplifier and BluOS streaming, so you can access and control everything from streaming services and digital music collections to EQ settings and multi-room speaker management. A versatile addition to any home audio system, whether in a stereo setup, a home theatre, as TV speakers, or as bookshelf speakers.

Since 1991, the PSB Alpha series has upheld design standards of simplicity, compactness and versatility. The Alpha iQ reimagines the legendary Alpha speaker for the next generation by integrating a built-in amplifier, streaming capability and BluOS multi-room technology into a pair of wireless bookshelf speakers. The result: a revolutionary all-in-one system that combines convenience with uncompromising audio quality.

Behind the Alpha series

The Alpha series was first designed and manufactured in 1991 in a small Canadian town, starting from the simple idea of building affordable speakers focused purely on performance. With passion and dedication in the pursuit of a naturally sounding speaker, and drawing on decades of research by PSB founder Paul Barton at the Canadian National Research Council, the Alphas quickly became one of the most famous speakers in the world and remain the benchmark for entry-level hi-fi speakers today.

One app to control it all

The BluOS Controller app simplifies streaming and controlling your music with a single app that connects automatically to the Alpha iQ thanks to a fully integrated network connection. Enjoy lossless music at up to 24-bit/192 kHz, wirelessly delivered to every room in your home without delay or loss of sound quality. Control all your music easily from anywhere in the house with the fully featured BluOS Controller app for iOS and Android devices.

Serious sound

PSB's Alpha iQ speakers feature a 4-inch polypropylene mid-woofer and a 0.75-inch aluminium dome tweeter with neodymium magnet and ferrofluid damping. Thanks to powerful amplifiers, tuned bass ports and DSP-enabled low-frequency extension, the Alpha iQ reveals the signature PSB sound while delivering bass that completely belies its small size.

A true all-in-one

The Alpha iQ is no average pair of stereo speakers. It's a compact, minimalist bookshelf speaker system that serves as a genuine all-in-one music system. With its elegant enclosure and sleek touch panels, the Alpha iQ can be placed anywhere in the house. Wireless stereo pairing does away with cable clutter, since only a power connection is needed. The unique placement of the tweeter below the woofer ensures consistent sound quality whether you're sitting or standing.

There's more to it

The Alpha iQ isn't just a full-fledged music system – it can also be a versatile addition to your home audio setup. Choose whether to stream from countless services in the BluOS app, connect it to a turntable, or elevate your TV shows, movies and games with incredible sound. With multi-room features you can set up several iQ pairs throughout your home and control the music in every room with a few taps in the BluOS app. There's nothing else quite like the Alpha iQ – it's a unique solution that revolutionises your approach to home audio.

Highlights

• ¾-inch (19 mm) aluminium dome tweeter with ferrofluid-cooled neodymium magnet
• 4-inch (100 mm) polypropylene mid-woofer with steel basket and rubber surround
• Tuned port and DSP-enabled bass extension
• Built-in network streamer based on the BluOS platform
• The audiophile DAC supports resolution up to 24-bit/192 kHz
• Supports Apple AirPlay 2, Bluetooth, Spotify Connect and Tidal Connect

Technical information

Frequency response

• On-axis at 0° ±3dB: 64Hz-20kHz
• LF limit -10 dB: 35 Hz

Power

• Amplifier power (per speaker): tweeter = 30 watts, woofer = 60 watts

Acoustic design

• Tweeter (nominal): 3/4 inch (19 mm), aluminium dome with ferrofluid, neodymium magnet
• Woofer (nominal): 4 inch (100 mm) cone, rubber surround, steel basket
• Bass reflex

Inputs

• Analogue: 3.5 mm, phono MM
• Digital: BluOS, HDMI eARC, optical
• Wireless: aptX™ HD Bluetooth (sink & source, 2-way *source function currently not supported)

Construction

• Cabinet: MDF
• Front baffle: MDF on aluminium
• Rear baffle: aluminium

Size and weight

• (W x H x D): 145 x 246 x 192mm (without packaging)
• (W x H x D): 268 x 402 x 385mm (with packaging)
  
• 7.36 kg (net) the pair
• 8.27kg (gross) the pair
  

Frequently asked questions

Do I still need an amplifier or streamer for the PSB Alpha iQ?

No, both are already built in. Each speaker has its own amplifiers with 30 watts for the tweeter and 60 watts for the woofer, plus an audiophile DAC up to 24-bit/192 kHz and the BluOS network streamer. All you need is power, your network and the BluOS app on your phone.

Can I connect a TV and a turntable?

Yes, both are catered for. The Alpha iQ has an HDMI eARC input for the TV, an optical digital input, a 3.5 mm analogue input and a phono MM input for turntables with an MM cartridge. That means your living room runs through a single pair of speakers – music, movies and vinyl included, without an extra box on the shelf.

Do I need a paid streaming subscription?

No, a subscription isn't required. The BluOS app plays your own digital music collection from the network just as well, and via Bluetooth, AirPlay 2, the turntable input or the TV, music plays entirely without a service. Streaming services like Tidal Connect or Spotify Connect are an option, not a requirement.

How many cables do I need between the two speakers?

None. The two Alpha iQ speakers pair wirelessly into a stereo pair, so classic speaker cables are eliminated entirely – only the power connection remains. That frees up placement: sideboard, shelf, desk. The tweeter sits below the woofer so the sound stays consistent whether you're sitting or standing.

What room size suits the Alpha iQ?

Small to medium-sized rooms. The 4-inch mid-woofer with tuned port and DSP-enabled bass extension reaches from 64 Hz to 20 kHz on-axis (±3 dB) and down to 35 Hz (-10 dB) – plenty of foundation for this format. In very large living rooms it eventually gets tight; tell us a bit about your room.

Why buy the PSB Alpha iQ in Black at HD Zürisee?

Because with us you get more than just a box – you get an honest assessment. The experienced team at HD Zürisee in Wädenswil will tell you honestly whether the black pair suits your room, your TV and your listening habits. Our own technician helps with setup and service. Call or write to us.