Kanto Powered Speakers Buying Guide Overview
In this Kanto Powered Speakers guide, we'll go over the differences and similarities between all Kanto Powered Speakers including the following Kanto Speaker Models:
- Kanto YU
- Kanto YU2
- Kanto YU4
- Kanto YU6
- Kanto ORA
- Kanto ORA4
- Kanto REN
- Kanto TUK
Why Kanto Speakers Deserve Your Attention
Whether you're curating your first HiFi system, upgrading your desktop audio, or replacing a soundbar for better TV sound, choosing the right powered speaker makes all the difference. And if you’re after audiophile-worthy performance without breaking the bank or diving into complex gear setups - Kanto Audio is a brand worth knowing.
This guide cuts through the clutter, comparing eight Kanto powered speaker models to help you choose the best one for your space, sound preferences, and lifestyle.
Meet Kanto Audio: Designed in Canada, Heard Worldwide
Founded in 2007, Kanto Audio quickly earned its place among trusted audio brands by creating speakers that blend audiophile-grade sound with minimalist, space-saving design. Based in Canada, Kanto is known for:
- All-in-one powered bookshelf speakers (no external amp needed)
- Modern aesthetics with multiple color finishes
- Thoughtful features like USB-C, HDMI ARC, and phono preamps
- Designed for modern music lovers, creators, gamers, and vinyl enthusiasts alike
From home offices to home theaters, Kanto’s mission is simple: make great sound accessible.
Why Choose Kanto Powered Speakers?
What makes Kanto stand out from the crowd? Here’s why these speakers are a favorite for beginners and enthusiasts alike:
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Audiophile-Grade Sound Without the Complexity
Class D Amplification: Tuned for each model, providing energy-efficient, distortion-free power
High-Fidelity Drivers: Silk dome tweeters, Kevlar or aluminum woofers, and even AMT tweeters on premium models
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Versatile Connectivity
Whether you’re spinning vinyl, streaming from your smartphone, or connecting your TV or computer, there’s a Kanto model with the right inputs and outputs—often including Bluetooth, RCA, optical (TOSLINK), USB DAC, and HDMI ARC.
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Beautiful, Modern Design
Multiple finish options let you match your speakers to your room - not the other way around.
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Smart DSP & Crossovers
Some models integrate digital signal processing (DSP) and automatic crossovers that optimize sound when pairing with a subwoofer.
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Set and Forget Features
Auto-standby, remote control, and signal detection make daily listening effortless.
Kanto Powered Speakers - What They Have in Common
While each model has unique features, Kanto speakers share several core qualities:
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High-Quality Tweeters
Most Kanto speakers use 1-inch silk dome tweeters, delivering bright and refined highs. Some upper-tier models use AMT tweeters for even more precise treble.
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Sturdy Woofer Materials
Kevlar, aluminum, or paper-cone woofers for precise bass
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Integrated Amplification
Each speaker pair includes a built-in Class D amp tuned for that specific model, saving space and ensuring a convenient all-in-one solution.
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Bluetooth Streaming
Even the entry-level models typically feature Bluetooth 4.0 or newer, often with aptX or aptX HD for high-fidelity wireless audio.
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Easy Subwoofer Integration
Every model offers a sub-out port, and many include an automatic crossover that activates once a subwoofer is connected, optimizing performance across the whole frequency range.
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Auto-standby & signal detection
When no audio is playing, Kanto speakers often enter standby to conserve energy, then power up automatically when you press play.
Kanto Powered Speakers - Model Specifications and Features
Let's look into the specifications and features for each of Kanto’s powered speaker models. Each item includes technical specs, ideal use cases, price points, and pros and cons to help you decide which fits your needs best.
Kanto YU Speakers - Bluetooth Simplicity
Kanto YU Speakers Features and Specifications
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Power & Drivers
- 4″ Kevlar drivers
- 1″ silk dome tweeters
- Class D amplifier
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Connectivity
- Bluetooth 4.2 with aptX
- RCA input
- Subwoofer out
-
Frequency Response
-
Price
Kanto YU Speakers - Pros, Cons, and Ideal Use Cases
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Pros
- Simple, streamlined design
- Great Bluetooth performance
- Perfect for casual listening or as a TV/desktop upgrade
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Cons
- Limited wired input options (only one RCA)
- Not as loud or detailed as higher-end models
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Ideal Use Case
- Small living rooms, bedrooms, or desktop setups
- Minimalist systems with a single analog source and Bluetooth
Buy Kanto YU Speakers
Kanto YU2 Speakers - Compact & USB Friendly
Kanto YU2 Speakers Features and Specifications
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Power & Drivers
- 3″ composite woofers
- 3/4″ silk dome tweeters
- Built-in DAC, 50W RMS total
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Connectivity
- USB DAC input
- 3.5 mm AUX
- Subwoofer out
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Frequency Response
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Price
- Starting at $249.99 per pair
Kanto YU2 Speakers - Pros, Cons, and Ideal Use Cases
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Pros
- Ultra-compact form factor
- Great for desktop use (computer audio, gaming)
- Simple USB connectivity bypasses noisy onboard sound cards
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Cons
- Not ideal for medium or large rooms
- Limited volume and bass extension without a subwoofer
- No Bluetooth
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Ideal Use Case
- Perfect for a space-constrained desktop or home office environment
- Ideal if you want a plug-and-play solution via USB
Buy Kanto YU2 Speakers
Kanto YU4 Speakers - A Vinyl Starter’s Dream
Kanto YU4 Speakers Features and Specifications
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Power & Drivers
- 4″ Kevlar drivers
- 1″ silk dome tweeters
- 70W RMS total
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Connectivity
- Bluetooth 4.0 with aptX
- RCA with built-in phono preamp
- 2 × Optical (TOSLINK), 3.5 mm AUX
- USB charge port
- Subwoofer out
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Frequency Response
-
Price
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Starting at $429.99 per pair
Kanto YU4 Speakers - Pros, Cons, and Ideal Use Cases
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Pros
- Flexible connectivity (ideal for turntables, TV, computer)
- Built-in phono preamp
- Good power for small-to-medium rooms
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Cons
- Might be underpowered for larger listening spaces
- Bass-lovers may still want a sub
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Ideal Use Case
- Entry-level vinyl setups, small home theater, nearfield desktop audio
- Great “first serious speaker” for budding audiophiles
Buy Kanto YU4 Speakers
Kanto YU6 Speakers - Bigger Room, Bigger Sound
Kanto YU6 Speakers Features and Specifications
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Power & Drivers
- 5.25″ Kevlar drivers
- 1″ silk dome tweeters
- 100W RMS (200W peak)
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Connectivity
- Bluetooth 4.0 with aptX
- RCA with built-in phono preamp
- 2 × Optical (TOSLINK), 3.5 mm AUX
- USB charge port
- Subwoofer out
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Frequency Response
-
Price
- Starting at $499.99 per pair
Kanto YU6 Speakers - Pros, Cons, and Ideal Use Cases
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Pros
- Bigger woofer for stronger bass and higher volume
- Highly versatile (vinyl, TV, streaming)
- Enough power to fill medium-sized rooms
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Cons
- Larger cabinet footprint
- Bass-heads might still prefer a dedicated sub
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Ideal Use Case
- Living rooms, offices, or bedrooms where you want higher volume
- Users looking for a do-it-all speaker that can handle vinyl, TV, and Bluetooth
Buy Kanto YU6 Speakers
Kanto ORA Speakers - Reference Studio Sound in Small Form
Kanto ORA Speakers Features and Specifications
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Power & Drivers
- 3″ paper cone woofers
- 3/4″ silk dome tweeters
- 50W RMS total (bi-amplified)
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Connectivity
- Bluetooth 5.0
- USB-C (16-bit/48 kHz)
- RCA
- Subwoofer out (100 Hz crossover)
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Frequency Response
-
Price
Kanto ORA Speakers - Pros, Cons, and Ideal Use Cases
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Pros
- Ultra-compact desktop-friendly design
- Accurate DSP tuning for nearfield listening
- Great for creators, gamers, and casual audio work
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Cons
- Not ideal for larger spaces
- Smaller woofer can’t match the bass of bigger models
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Ideal Use Case
- Desktop music production, gaming, or office setups
- Anyone wanting crisp nearfield sound without taking up much room
Buy Kanto ORA Speakers
Kanto ORA4 Speakers - Pro-Grade Desktop Monitors
Kanto ORA4 Speakers Features and Specifications
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Power & Drivers
- 4″ aluminum woofers
- 3/4″ silk dome tweeters
- 70W RMS total (140W peak), bi-amplified
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Connectivity
- USB-C (24-bit/96 kHz)
- Bluetooth 5.0
- RCA
- Subwoofer out (80 Hz high-pass filter)
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Frequency Response
~60 Hz – 22 kHz
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Price
Kanto ORA4 Speakers - Pros, Cons, and Ideal Use Cases
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Pros
- Reference-quality response for mixing, mastering, or HiFi listening
- Bi-amplified design ensures clarity across the range
- Upgraded woofer for more bass compared to the regular ORA
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Cons
- Still a compact speaker—those craving big, room-filling bass may need a sub
- Price jumps over standard ORA
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Ideal Use Case
- Semi-professional audio work, demanding nearfield setups
- Users wanting the accuracy of pro monitors with the convenience of Bluetooth and USB-C
Buy Kanto ORA4 Speakers
Kanto REN Speakers - A Soundbar Killer with HDMI ARC
Kanto REN Speakers Features and Specifications
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Power & Drivers
- 5.25″ aluminum woofers
- 1″ silk dome tweeters
- 100W RMS (200W peak), Class D
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Connectivity
- HDMI ARC with CEC
- USB-C (24-bit/96 kHz)
- Optical, Bluetooth 5.3, RCA, and 3.5 mm AUX
- Subwoofer out (80 Hz crossover)
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Frequency Response
-
Price
Kanto REN Speakers - Pros, Cons, and Ideal Use Cases
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Pros
- HDMI ARC simplifies TV connection and remote control
- Flexible “sound modes,” including Vocal Boost and Night Mode
- Perfect all-in-one home theater alternative to soundbars
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Cons
- Slightly larger footprint than smaller models
- Price may be higher for those only seeking a simple desktop solution
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Ideal Use Case
- TV-based home theater setups or living rooms
- Users seeking an alternative to soundbars with better stereo imaging
Buy Kanto REN Speakers
Kanto TUK - Audiophile Flagship Speakers
Kanto TUK Speakers Features and Specifications
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Power & Drivers
- 5.25″ aluminum drivers
- AMT tweeters
- 130W RMS (260W peak), Class D
- DSP with an active crossover
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Connectivity
- Phono preamp input (separate from line-level RCA)
- USB DAC (24-bit/96 kHz)
- Optical, Bluetooth 4.2 aptX HD, Headphone out, Subwoofer out
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Frequency Response
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Price
Kanto TUK Speakers - Pros, Cons, and Ideal Use Cases
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Pros
- Outstanding clarity and stereo imaging via AMT tweeters
- Dedicated phono and line inputs
- Active crossover for better subwoofer integration
- Premium build and performance
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Cons
- Higher price bracket
- AMT tweeters reveal every detail—some may prefer a warmer sound
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Ideal Use Case
- Serious audiophiles wanting top-tier bookshelf performance
- Nearfield or living-room setups where ultimate clarity is a priority
Buy Kanto TUK Speakers
Kanto YU Series Speakers Compared: YU vs YU2 vs YU4 vs YU6
Kanto's YU series covers a wide range of listener needs, from ultra-compact desktops to room-filling bookshelf setups.
Because the YU line covers everything from an ultra‑compact 3‑inch desktop cube to a 5¼‑inch room‑filling bookshelf, a simple spec sheet doesn’t always tell the full story. Below you’ll find extra context on real‑world loudness, bass authority, connectivity quirks, and ideal room placement so you can decide which YU is the perfect fit.
Shared DNA of the Kanto YU Speaker Series
- Same acoustic tuning philosophy. All four models use a gentle “smile” EQ curve from the factory - slightly lifted bass and treble - so music sounds energetic even at moderate volume.
- Silk‑dome tweeters for smooth highs that never get fatiguing.
- Kevlar mid‑bass drivers (except the composite cone in YU2) for tight, well‑controlled lows.
- Class‑D amplification & auto‑standby with <0.5 W idle draw.
Kanto YU Series Speakers - Quick‑Glance Upgrade Path
- Start at YU2 if you need the smallest footprint and a clean USB link.
- Jump to YU4 if you’re spinning vinyl or juggling TV + computer.
- Go straight to YU6 if you crave deeper bass, louder parties, or plan to add a hefty 10‑inch sub later.
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YU remains the "just Bluetooth and chill" option - perfect spare‑bedroom speaker when the audiophile itch hits.
Kanto YU Series Speakers - Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: Do any YU speakers support aptX HD or AAC?
Not in the YU line. For aptX HD you’ll need the Kanto TUK; AAC arrives with REN and ORA models.
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Q: Is the phono preamp switchable to line?
Absolutely - both YU4 and YU6 have a rear toggle so you can run an external preamp or other analog source on the same RCA jacks.
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Q: Why no HDMI ARC in YU?
Keeping the YU family affordable meant focusing on universal analog and optical inputs. If you want ARC & CEC, REN is the next step up.
Kanto YU2 vs YU vs YU4 vs YU6 - YU Series Speaker Comparison Table
| Model |
Woofer Size |
Power (RMS) |
Key Inputs |
Features |
Best For |
Price |
| YU2 |
3" Composite |
50W |
USB DAC, AUX |
Compact form,
great for desktops |
Plug-and-play USB setups,
tight spaces |
$249.99 |
| YU |
4" Kevlar |
60W |
RCA, Bluetooth 4.2 aptX |
Simple,
Bluetooth-enabled |
Bedroom listening,
minimalist streaming |
$329.99 |
| YU4 |
4" Kevlar |
70W |
RCA (Phono), Optical x2,
AUX, Bluetooth |
Built-in phono preamp,
versatile inputs |
Vinyl starters,
small TV setups |
$429.99 |
| YU6 |
5.25" Kevlar |
100W |
RCA (Phono), Optical x2,
AUX, Bluetooth |
Bigger drivers,
more volume & bass |
Medium-sized rooms,
all-in-one audio |
$499.99 |
Kanto YU Series Speakers - Recommendations:
- Choose the Kanto YU2 Speakers if you want a sleek, USB-friendly desktop speaker with minimal wiring.
- Choose the Kanto YU Speakers if you’re after a Bluetooth-focused, no-frills speaker for casual listening.
- Choose the Kanto YU4 Speakers if you want to connect a turntable or enjoy multiple input options.
- Choose the Kanto YU6 Speakers if you need the extra power to fill a medium room with rich, dynamic sound.
Now let's compare all Kanto Powered Speaker models side-by-side:
Kanto Powered Speakers Comparison Table
Here’s a quick reference to see how each model stacks up in key areas:
| Model |
Woofer |
Tweeter |
Power (RMS) |
Inputs |
Best For |
Price |
| YU2 |
3" |
0.75" Silk |
50W |
USB DAC, AUX |
Tiny desks,
plug-n-play |
$249.99 |
| YU |
4" |
1" Silk |
60W |
RCA, Bluetooth 4.2 aptX |
Simple setups,
streaming |
$329.99 |
| YU4 |
4" |
1" Silk |
70W |
RCA (Phono), Optical x2,
AUX, BT |
Vinyl starters,
TV, desktop |
$429.99 |
| YU6 |
5.25" |
1" Silk |
100W |
RCA (Phono), Optical x2,
AUX, BT |
Bigger sound,
vinyl+TV |
$499.99 |
| ORA |
3" |
0.75" Silk |
50W Bi-amp |
USB-C (16-bit), BT 5.0, RCA |
Compact studios,
gaming |
$349.99 |
| ORA4 |
4" |
0.75" Silk |
70W Bi-amp |
USB-C (24-bit), BT 5.0, RCA |
Audio production,
hi-fi desk |
$399.99 |
| REN |
5.25" |
1" Silk |
100W |
HDMI ARC, USB-C,
Optical, BT 5.3, RCA |
TV,
media rooms |
$649.99 |
| TUK |
5.25" |
AMT |
130W |
USB DAC, Phono,
Optical, BT aptX HD |
Audiophile setups |
$849.99 |
Kanto Powered Speakers - Buying Guide Recommendations
Speakers for a Small Room or Limited Budget - Kanto YU, YU2, or ORA
If you're limited on space or just starting your audio journey, the YU, YU2 and ORA models offer compact form factors and easy setup. The Kanto YU is perfect for a those seeking a Bluetooth speaker setup. YU2 is ideal for plug-and-play desktop use with USB audio, while ORA adds bi-amplification and Bluetooth 5.0 for a more balanced, reference-friendly sound.
Speakers for playing Vinyl - Kanto YU4, YU6, or TUK
For vinyl lovers, go with the YU4, YU6, or TUK. Each has a built-in phono preamp, allowing you to connect your turntable directly without extra gear. The YU4 is perfect for entry-level vinyl setups, the YU6 brings more power and better bass, and the TUK provides the cleanest detail with its high-end tweeters and phono-stage separation.
Versatile Everyday Speaker - Kanto YU4 or YU6
YU4 or YU6 are excellent middle-ground solutions for vinyl, TV, and casual streaming. If you want slightly bigger sound, go YU6; if space is at a premium, YU4 is a great pick.
Speakers for Desktop Sound - Kanto ORA4 or TUK
The ORA4 and TUK both deliver extra clarity, making them excellent choices for audio production, gaming, or hi-fi listening at your desk. ORA4 delivers reference-grade clarity with USB-C (24-bit), DSP tuning, and compact size. TUK pulls out all the stops with premium AMT tweeters, active crossover control, and exceptional nearfield accuracy.
Replacing a Soundbar? - Kanto REN
Want great stereo sound from your TV without the bulk of a full surround system? REN is built for this. With HDMI ARC, tailored DSP modes like Vocal Boost and Night Mode, and full remote control, REN is a serious upgrade over even high-end soundbars - and it looks good doing it.
Living Room / Home Theater Speakers - Kanto REN or TUK
REN and TUK are top-tier picks for TV setups. REN simplifies your life with HDMI ARC, voice-clarifying modes, and a more affordable tag than TUK, while TUK caters to those craving the absolute best clarity and detail.
Audiophile Powered Speakers Experience - Kanto TUK
If you're chasing the best sound Kanto has to offer, Kanto TUK Speakers are the flagship for a reason. They combines premium components - like AMT tweeters and aluminum woofers - with a dedicated phono input, USB DAC, and active crossover. They are revealing, immersive, and perfect for those who demand the absolute best from their gear.
Ready to Upgrade Your Sound with Kanto Speakers - Buy Kanto Speakers From ListenUp Today
Kanto's powered bookshelf speakers merge high-fidelity sound, flexibility, and an intuitive all-in-one design that appeals to both newcomers and seasoned audiophiles. From the ultra-compact YU2 for tight desktop setups to the audiophile-grade TUK with AMT tweeters, there’s a Kanto speaker designed to help you experience your favorite music, movies, and games the way they were meant to be heard.
Whether you're a new audiophile or a seasoned listener, Kanto makes it easy to enjoy great sound with less hassle.
Shop Kanto powered speakers now at Authorized Online Kanto Dealer ListenUp. We're your go-to destination for HiFi & Home Theater expert service, free shipping, and in-store demos.
