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- Main differences between Kanto YU2 vs Audioengine A2+
- Key specifications
- Kanto YU2 vs Audioengine A2+ feature comparison
- Kanto YU2
- Audioengine A2+
- Kanto YU2 vs Audioengine A2+ - Pros and Cons
- Kanto YU2
- Audioengine A2+
- The best alternatives to Kanto YU2 and Audioengine A2+ speakers
- Frequently asked questions about Kanto YU2 vs Audioengine A2+ speakers
- The Verdict – Do Kanto YU2 speakers sound better than the Audioengine A2+ speakers?
Anyone who spends a lot of time in front of a computer wants their speakers to sound great since a good pair of speakers makes video games, movies, or music sound more enjoyable. This Kanto YU2 vs Audioengine A2+ comparison will help you decide which of these desktop speakers is better.
Either of these models is frequently mentioned in discussions about the speakers for Macs and PCs, as they have remarkable audio playback capabilities for their size. Also, both Kanto YU2 and Audioengine A2+ can be paired with a broad range of audio sources.
Our Kanto YU2 vs Audioengine A2+ comparison will take a closer look at the features of these two desktop speaker models, and provide you with the information you need to decide which one is a better fit for your computer configuration.
You should also go through our guide to the best speakers for small rooms to learn more about compact speakers that can play audio loud.
The secret to the A2+ Wireless speaker’s powerful sound lies in its innovative acoustic and electric design. The A2+ speakers’ hand-crafted precision cabinets deliver the best sound quality possible from small enclosures.
Main differences between Kanto YU2 vs Audioengine A2+
The main differences between Kanto YU2 vs Audioengine A2+ are:
- Kanto YU2 speakers have a 50 W peak per channel, whereas Audioengine A2+ has the 30W peak per channel
- Kanto YU2 is equipped with a Class D amplifier, whereas the Audioengine A2+ features a dual class-AB monolithic amplifier
- Kanto YU2 has 3-inch composite drivers, whereas Audioengine A2+ has 2.75-inch aramid fiber woofers
- Kanto YU2 doesn’t support Bluetooth connections, whereas the Audioengine A2+ comes with the built-in Bluetooth feature
- Kanto YU2 allows you to choose between ten different color options, whereas Audioengine A2+ speakers are available in three colors
Key specifications
| Â | Kanto YU2 | Audioengine A2+ |
| Power output | 100W (50W RMS per channel) | 60W (30W RMS per channel) |
| Inputs | 3.5mm mini-jack, USB DAC, RCA L/R | 3.5mm mini-jack, USB DAC, RCA L/R, Bluetooth |
| Amplifier types | Class D amplifier | Dual-class AB monolithic |
| Drivers | 3-inch composite drivers
¾-inch silk dome tweeters |
2.75 aramid fiber woofers
¾-inch silk dome tweeters |
| Dimensions | 6 x 4 x 5.25 inches | 3.9 x 5.2 x 5.9 – inches |
| Weight | L:3.1lbs R:3.1lbs | L:3.55lbs R:3.15lbs |
| Latest price | Check latest price here | Check latest price here |
Kanto YU2 vs Audioengine A2+ feature comparison
Let’s take a closer look at the Kanto YU2’s and Audioengine A2+s most important features
Kanto YU2
Kanto is a Canadian computer electronics manufacturer that is probably best known for the YU series speakers. The YU2 speakers are the most affordable model from the series that also includes the YU, YU4, and YU6 speakers.
It is also the only model that is designed specifically for computers and Smartphones, as all other speakers from the YU series are bookshelf speakers that can be used with both analog and digital audio sources.
All models from Kanto’s YU series have excellent sound playback capabilities, and the YU2 speakers are not an exception. Their appearance may be deceiving since the sound quality they produce is uncharacteristic for such a small pair of speakers.
However, the setup of these speakers can be time-consuming, as they have no built-in wireless connection features.
Key features
- 100W peak power total (50W RMS per channel)
- USB-DAC and 3.5mm mini-jack inputs
- Built-in subwoofer port
- 80Hz – 20 Hz frequency response
- Class D amplifier
- MDF cabinets
- 8 rubber feet
Overall design
There is nothing in the appearance of the YU2 speakers that directs your attention towards them, which is actually a good thing as they fit into any room. The manufacturer lets you choose between ten color options so that you can select the one you like the most.
The front of the YU2 speakers doesn’t have a grill which leaves its ¾-inch silk dome tweeters and 3-inch composite drivers exposed. The cabinet of these speakers is made of MDF which is a part of the reason why their sound is so clear.
The weight of left and right speakers is identical, and they weigh around 6lbs together, while their compact size ensures that they won’t occupy much space on your desk. Attaching these speakers to a wall is not possible, since there are not built-in wall mounts.
8 rubber feet that are located at the bottom side of YU2 speakers so that they can’t slip across the surface. Purchasing Kanto’s S2 speaker stands will enable you to place the YU2 speakers at different angles.
With its built-in soundcard, YU2 can stream high-quality audio directly from your computer’s USB port, giving you seamless connectivity to your PC or laptop. Its 3.5mm AUX input also lets you connect to any device with a headphone jack, including smartphones, tablets, or other media players.
Playback capabilities
Kanto YU2 are not the most powerful desktop speakers on the market, as they only offer 50W RMS per channel. Nonetheless, the overall 100W power output capacity and a Class D amplifier are still enough to fill any room in your home with sound.
There are just two ways to connect these Kanto’s speakers to an audio source, as you can use the AUX 3.5 mini-jack or the USB-DAC connection.
You will have to connect the left and right speakers with a speaker wire, but you should bear in mind that the manufacturer only includes a 10-foot wire speaker in the package.
Also, the length of the 3.5mm Auxiliary cable is just 6.5 feet, and you should consider getting a longer cable if you want to have more room to operate. The YU2 desktop speakers have an 80Hz to 20Hz frequency range which enables them to play midrange and high frequency sounds accurately.
However, they may struggle with the playback of heavy-bass songs, but the manufacturer resolved this issue by the inclusion of the subwoofer output port that lets you connect the YU2 speakers to a subwoofer like the Kanto SUB8.
Other noteworthy features
The USB-DAC connection allows you to pair the YU2 speakers with all digital audio playback devices and enables you to bypass their DAC that usually lowers the audio quality.
Consequently, you can plug these speakers directly into a computer and they will improve the quality of sound your computer is generating.
The YU2 speakers are the only model from Kanto’s YU series that doesn’t support Bluetooth connection. Even so, Mac users can connect the YU2 speakers to the AirPort Express using the 3.5mm Auxiliary cable that comes with the model if they want to stream music wirelessly from their iPads or iPhones.
The volume knob is located at the back of the left speaker, but it can be reached easily so that you can control the volume level. This model doesn’t come with remote control and you cannot increase or decrease its volume level remotely.
Reliability
Each component of the YU2 is designed with durability and performance in mind, which ensures that you can continue using these speakers for years. The manufacturer offers a two-year limited warranty for their YU2 speakers that cover all defects that are not caused by daily wear and tear.
Although they can deliver clear and accurate sound at high volume, turning up the volume frequently will likely damage them. However, chances are that you will be able to use these speakers for a long time if you don’t exceed their limitations too often.
Audioengine A2+
Over the course of the last couple of decades, Audioengine has established itself as one of the leading speaker manufacturers in the industry. Their A2+ model is far from being their most powerful model, but these speakers still deliver remarkably clear sound.
The A2+ speakers are an upgraded version of the brand’s A2 model that was among the first desktop speakers the company released. Although they are often advertised as bookshelf speakers, the A2+ perform best when utilized as computer speakers.
Their maximum power output is not sufficient for playback of media that is either streamed or played on Smart TVs. Despite their limitations, the A2+ speakers still deliver superb audio clarity for lightweight speakers that are not designed for professional sound editors or musicians.
Nonetheless, gamers or people who like to listen to various genres of music will enjoy the Audioengine’s A2+ speakers. You should check out our Audioengine A5+ review if the A2+ model doesn’t meet your expectations.
Key features
- 60W peak power total (30W per channel)
- CRS8670 internal D/A converter
- 18mm MDF cabinet thickness
- 100ft Bluetooth range
- 65HZ – 22kHz frequency response
- Dual-class AB monolithic amplifier
- Micro USB, 3.5mm mini-jack, and RCA ports
Overall design
At first sight, the design of the A2+ may seem generic, as there are no distinctive features that would separate visually these speakers from similar models offered by other brands.
Its 2.75-inch aramid fiber woofers and ¾-inch silk dome tweeters are not covered, since this Audioengine’s model doesn’t come with front grills. Each speaker has the dimensions of 6 x 4 x 5.25 inches which makes the A2+ model slightly larger than the Kanto YU2 speakers.
Also, the A2+ speakers are available in three colors, and you can choose between Satin Black, Hi-Gloss red, and Hi-Gloss White options. The 18mm cabinets are made from the same material as the Kanto YU2 speakers and they work together with other components to produce high-quality sound.
In addition to impressive bass response, the A2+ speakers can also be connected to a subwoofer for a more balanced audio output.
Playback capabilities
The wireless connectivity option is arguably one of the greatest A2+ speakers have to offer. Besides these speakers weigh just under 7lbs, which enables you to take them camping with you, but you should keep in mind that you need access to a 120V or 240V power source to use them.
The panel on the back end of the left speaker contains the Volume knob that is easily accessible, but the Audioengine’s A2+ model doesn’t come with a remote. Besides a 3.5 mm mini-jack input, USB, and RCA inputs and outputs are also located at the rear of the left speaker.
These speakers support Bluetooth 5.0 connections, and they are compatible with aptX, AAC, and SBC codecs.
Hence, you can connect the Audioengine A2+ speakers to any digital audio playback device that is within 100ft away from them, while the 3.5mm mini-jack enables you to use these speakers with turntables and similar analog devices.
Other noteworthy features
The pair button that is placed at the back of the left speaker enables you to connect the left and right speakers wirelessly. In case, you don’t want to use this option, the manufacturer also includes a 6.5ft speaker wire that allows you to connect speakers.
Also, you will get a 4.9ft mini-jack cable that requires you to place the speakers in close proximity to the audio source you’re using. All additional accessories, such as RCA cables or speaker stands must be purchased separately.
The speakers come in a microfiber bag that can be useful if you are often carrying different audio equipment as it offers a convenient storage solution.
The secret to the A2+ Wireless speaker’s powerful sound lies in its innovative acoustic and electric design. The A2+ speakers’ hand-crafted precision cabinets deliver the best sound quality possible from small enclosures.
Reliability
The capability to handle heavy-bass without buzzing or noise, while displaying midrange and high frequency sounds accurately is the reason why so many PC and Mac users opt for the A2+ model.
Although you can pair these speakers with a subwoofer, you probably won’t have to, even if you like to listen to songs with complex bass lines very loud.
All Audioengine’s models including the A2+ model are covered with a 3-year limited warranty which goes to show you that each of the custom-made components meets the highest industry standards.
Kanto YU2 vs Audioengine A2+ – Pros and Cons
Kanto YU2
Pros
- Excellent Digital to Audio converter that eliminates noise
- Occupies very little space on a desk
- Good sound quality
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- A subwoofer is required for accurate bass playback
- No Bluetooth connectivity option
Audioengine A2+
Pros
- Amazing sound quality for small speakers
- The quick and easy setup process
- Built-in Bluetooth feature with a 100ft operation range
- Equipped with a powerful amplifier
Cons
- Available in just three colors
- Not powerful enough to be used with Smart TVs
The best alternatives to Kanto YU2 and Audioengine A2+ speakers
Kanto’s and Audioengine’s speakers are facing fierce competition, as brands like Bose or Logitech offer a broad range of speakers that produce clear audio.
In addition, you can choose between models that support wireless connection and those that require you to use cables to connect the speakers to each other and the audio source.
We’ve shortlisted some of the best alternatives to Kanto YU2 and Audioengine A2+ speakers, so let’s take a look at what they have to offer.
Logitech Z625
Logitech has been one of the industry-leading brands for decades, so it is hardly surprising that the Z6625 2.1 Sound Speaker System delivers excellent sound to TVs, computers, or any other analog and digital audio source.
This system contains a pair of satellite speakers and a subwoofer that have a maximum power output of 400W, while the THX certification guarantees that all sounds are going to be played accurately.
The Logitech has optical, 3.5 mm mini-jack, and RCA audio inputs, but it doesn’t have wireless connection features. All controls are located on the front of the satellite speaker which allows you to customize their sound effortlessly.
THX Certified audio is designed to deliver the most accurate audio experience straight out-of-the-box. These Logitech Z625 THX Certified speakers are tuned to exact specifications to truthfully deliver the artist’s vision right into your living room.
Harman Kardon SoundSticks III
The unique design of the Harman Kardon SoundSticks III makes them a great fit for a broad range of spaces. Besides using them as computer speakers, you can pair Harman Kardon’s Sound Sticks with a broad range of digital and analog audio playback devices.
However, these speakers don’t have optical or RCA connection ports which can limit your options if you want to pair them with devices that don’t have a mini-jack input. The touch volume control allows you to increase, decrease or mute the speakers by touching one of the satellites.
The subwoofer features a 6-inch transducer that is powered by a 20W amplifier, while each of the satellite speakers contains 4 transducers that are powered by 10W amps. Read our Harman Kordon Onyx review if you’re looking for speakers that support wireless connection options.
As a three-piece, 2.1-channel multimedia sound system, SoundSticks III brings a new level of excitement to music, games and movies to your home - with its exceptional sound clarity, enhanced color scheme and bare minimum of wiring.
Bose Companion 2 Series III
The features of the Bose Companion 2 Series III don’t seem impressive when compared to Kanto YU2 or Audioengine A2+ models. However, they are significantly less expensive, and you should consider getting this Bose’s model if you are looking for an affordable pair of computer speakers.
The Aux port enables you to connect these speakers to Macs and PCs, but also iPhones, iPads, or Android devices. RCA or Bluetooth connection options are not available, which means that you will have to deal with speaker wires and cables if you decide to get these speakers.
Sit down at your computer or laptop and get ready to hear sound that seems to extend far beyond the actual speakers. It's spacious and lifelike, made possible by TrueSpace stereo digital processing circuitry.
Frequently asked questions about Kanto YU2 vs Audioengine A2+ speakers
Question: Are Kanto YU2 speakers good for gaming?
Answer: Yes, they are. Most video games require speakers that have accurate playback of midrange and high-frequency sounds which makes Kanto YU2 ideal for gaming purposes.
Question: Can I use batteries to power Kanto YU2 speakers?
Answer: The only way to power Kanto YU2 speakers is through the AC/DC Adapter that comes with the speakers, and you cannot use the batteries to power the YU2 model.
Question: Is it possible to connect the Audioengine A2+ speakers to a TV?
Answer: Yes, you can but the Audioengine A2+ speakers may not be powerful enough to serve as TV speakers.
Question: Do Audioengine A2+ speakers have a remote?
Answer: Unlike other Audionegine’s models, the A2+ speakers don’t have a remote and the only way to control their volume is through the volume knob that is located on the back of the left speaker.
The Verdict – Do Kanto YU2 speakers sound better than the Audioengine A2+ speakers?
Whether you will opt for Kanto YU2 or Audioengine A2+ depends on the type of desktop speakers you’re searching for. If you want speakers that can be connected to an audio source wirelessly the Audioengine A2+ is the right choice for you.
These speakers are capable of playing bass-rich songs even without a subwoofer, but their maximum power output somewhat limits their performance capabilities.
Kanto YU2 speakers deliver more power than Audioengine A2+, but you must connect them to a subwoofer to get a well-balanced sound out of them.
Which of these desktop speakers are you going to choose? Let us know in the comments, or continue reading about the best outdoor Bluetooth speakers to learn more about portable wireless speakers.
The secret to the A2+ Wireless speaker’s powerful sound lies in its innovative acoustic and electric design. The A2+ speakers’ hand-crafted precision cabinets deliver the best sound quality possible from small enclosures.