Along with Audioengine A2+ and Kanto Yu2m you can also have a look at some alternatives from these brands and other similar brands. These speakers are best for cozy room or desktop table where you don’t want to include external amplifier.Playing games, listening to music or watching movies are enjoyable with either of these speakers.
Durability and sturdiness of these models are quite good. The A2+ and Yu2 can get quite loud despite its size without major noticeable distortion. A2+ gives you to choose between wired or wireless connectivity that makes it one of the best versatile computer speakers. The A2+ can be used for TV speakers as well because they are magnetically shielded.
The features make it clear and easy to find the best one for you. Choose the A2+ for Bluetooth or private listening option. Since the cost is almost similar, it is better to get more features out of the speaker. These speakers can get quite loud without dramatic distortion. What makes these more attractive is the need less space and doesn’t need amplifier to run.
Audioengine A2+ vs Kanto Yu2: Compare and contrast
There are several dissimilarities between the A2+ and Yu2. Let’s have a look.
Table: Audioengine A2+ vs Kanto Yu2
Audioengine A2+ vs Kanto Yu2
Product uniqueness:
Kanto Yu2 is a compact bookshelf speaker that has a big woofer driver and is quite powerful. On the other hand, Audioengine A2+ has Bluetooth connectivity and headphone out.
Major differences:
Comparing Kanto Yu2 speakers vs Audioengine A2+, the major difference at a glance is the lack of Bluetooth in Kanto Yu2. However, Kanto Yu2 is more powerful than Audioengine A2+ and has a larger woofer driver. While it doesn’t support Bluetooth directly, you can connect Bluetooth dongle to the 3.5mm port. On the other hand, Audioengine A2+ can reach up to 65 Hz, which is lower than Yu2.
It uses 16-Bit/48kHz Burr Brown DAC that ensures rich audio reproduction from wireless streaming or PC file via USB. Yu2 speakers use highly efficient Class D amplifier, whereas A2+ uses AB amp. Kanto Yu2 has 3.5mm in, USB Audio, speaker terminals and sub out. Use the 3.5mm Aux in to connect portable music player. In case you need to connect a turntable, simply use a phono preamp with the 3.5mm port and connect the turntable to the preamp.
For this you will need 3.5mm to RCA cable. Use 3.5mm-to-3.5mm cable to connect media player, CD/Blu-ray play, gaming console or PC to the speakers. Kanto Yu2 user manual suggests the use of Kanto Sub 6 or sub 8 with these speakers. But, more on that later. It has sensitivity of 89dB. The USB DAC supports 16-bit/48kHz resolution files. Connect PC through USB to avoid the noisy PC DAC.
To tweak the audio, you can use some equalizer software available online and run them on PC, such as the Equalizer APO. Audioengine A2+ has RCA L/R terminals, 3.5mm, USB, sub out and Bluetooth. Use the microUSB to play PC or laptop audio by using speaker DAC. You can use this port with Apple iPod/iPhone/iPad or Android smartphones/tablets. It has SNR of 95dB and THD+N of <0.05%.
An SNR of 87-88dB is considered average for speakers. In terms of aesthetics, although both are of same size, Kanto Yu2 comes with several color options allowing you to be colorful instead of choosing the boring ‘black’. It is available is Teal, Natural Bamboo, Grey, White, Black, etc. streaming from Laptop, phone, computer, tablet or any other music app to the A2+ is much easier than Yu2.
Performance:
How well speakers will perform depends a lot on its engineering and drivers. Silk tweeter that is dome shaped ensures bright and rich treble and broader audio dispersion. Kevlar woofers are sturdy and delivers decent bass performance. If you expect too much bass from these small woofers then you will be disappointed. For best results, we recommend pairing a subwoofer for both A2+ and Yu2.
One of the advantages of powered speakers is, you don’t have to match an amp and connect to it. Amplifier-free speaker setup will give you clean look with less number of wires. Comparing Audioengine A2+ vs Kanto Yu2, the A2+ uses thin sheet-like front ports whereas Yu2 uses similar shaped ports but on the back panel.
With back ports, you shouldn’t place the Yu2 too close to walls. It is capable of producing decent bass with clarity. Low end of Audioengine A2 is deep and clear but definitely not room shaking. It has a balanced audio profile and has a certain depth in their sound. these speakers can easily be used in small rooms along with mid-sized rooms.
In case you want the sound to be richer and more vibrant, a subwoofer is a must specially for medium sized rooms. Use the Audioengine DS1 speaker stands for a 15-degree tilt and isolation. These A2+ wireless speakers are capable of delivering crisp and rich audio.
Similarities:
Audioengine A2+ and Kanto Yu2 speaker size are almost similar. Driver material and cost of these speakers are similar as well. The dimension is best for desktop tables or to place anywhere in the house. While placing the Yu2 you can use the Kanto S2 speaker stands for a 16 degree tilt. You have to place them ‘open’ revealing their driver shape because none comes with grille. This can be an issue if you have children or any pet animal who can poke the drivers. They both use ports to enhance the low-end.
We didn’t like the volume knob on the back panel because it is inconvenient to go around to access the knob. None of the speakers has any remote control or app to control them. Audioengine A2+ cabinet is made of MDF. The build quality of both these speakers is quite good. Most users seek a headphone port for private listening specially from desktop speakers. This option isn’t available in these speakers. These speaker drivers are made from silk and Kevlar material.
Enhance the bass
Use a subwoofer if you have the budget. A2+ and Yu2 give you the option to expand your sound system to a 2.1. It is not mandatory to match speakers with subwoofers. You can use Audioengine S8 with Kanto Yu2 as well.
You can have a look at Sub6 as well because even a 6” driver would integrate well with Yu2 speakers. On the back panel you will see crossover frequency, Level and phase controls. These are same for S8 as well. It has no port on front or back side. The low-ends are crisp, clear and has a punch strong enough to annoy the neighbors. It is made of MDF, sits on rubber feet and comes with a metal grille.
Based on performance and sturdiness, it is one of the best subwoofers under $300. The S8 can reach a lower frequency level compared to the Sub8. Ports on the front panel make subwoofers less placement sensitive. It doesn’t display any distortion at high volume. Overall, the bass is tight and clean. It is powerful enough to shake tables and ideal to use in small to medium sized room.
Build quality is strong as well and the sub has isolation elastomer feet. You can connect S8 wireless with additional wireless adaptor. It also has 3.5mm and RCA L/R ports. On the other hand, Sub8 has only RCA L/R.
Alternatives
In case you are looking or something else or, have different range of budget, we have come out with a list of best alternative speakers to A2+ and Yu2.
Table: Best alternative speakers
Best speaker under $200:
Audioengine B2
Audioengine B2 will look like a center channel speaker to you as it sits vertically. Comparing Kanto Syd vs Audioengine B2, the Syd has more number of connection ports, higher power, larger woofer driver. They cost the same but more isn’t always better. For instance, if you have small space or room, then you won’t need a larger woofer.
Not all negative reviews are worth counting. Make sure you understand and find the acutal and original review of any product. With Audioengine B2, if you see people commenting that they sound muffled or poor, but what is really the truth? Well, we encourage you to allows the speakers to burn in, make sure you have proper speaker placement and try tweaking the audio.
For placing the speaker, use Audioengine speaker stands and for adjusting audio find out a easy-to-use equalizer. It is a decent speaker that will consume less space because it has a single speaker cabinet. Bluetooth makes it easy to stream wirelessly. The sound is rich with crisp treble and decent low-end.
Kanto SYD
If you compare Audioengine B2 vs Kanto Syd, you will be it has more number of connections including phono in, RCA and optical. So, if you want to use turntables often, choose the Kanto Syd. It is one of the best speakers under $200. Along with brilliant performance, this single speaker comes with remote control so that you don’t have to reach the rear panel for adjusting sound.
You can use the USB port for charging other devices. We love this speaker because they make this product quite user-friendly. It comes with a 16-degree speaker stand as well so you don’t have to buy another one. Make sure leave a gap of 8” between the speaker and the wall. The Auto on/off feature is handy as well because it will save power.
If the speaker doesn’t detect any signal for 15 minutes, it will turn off automatically. What’s more is, due to the speaker size, you can easily place under your TV and connect it as a soundbar. It is powerful enough to enjoy movies and music.
Bose companion 2 Series III
Bose companion 2 is ideal if you are on low budget. These are multimedia speakers and are recommended to pair with laptop or computer. The looks resemble of computer speakers. Comparing Kanto Yu2 vs Bose Companion, the looks are sober and you don’t find several color options to choose from. Connections and features are also limited. It has 2 Aux in, headphone out, RCA out.
Neither will you find Bluetooth or USB port with it. This is best if you seek a very simple setup. Bose is always quite secretive about revealing specs. It has a built-in amplifier in it. Low-ends are impressive even without a subwoofer. A volume control knob is on the front side for easy access. Measurements say the speakers can reach up to 90dB at full volume.
Although these are considered as entry level speaker, the speakers can produce broad soundstage, ensures clarity and prominent bass even without a subwoofer.
Best mid-range speakers :
Kanto Yu4
Comparing Audioengine A2+ vs Kanto Yu4, the Yu4 is slightly bigger is size as well as sound. Yu4 comes with a remote control that makes it easier to adjust speaker settings. The speakers perform quite well, you can use them with subwoofers or even without one. If you can increase your budget you can check the Audioengine A5+.
Comparing Kanto Yu4 vs Audioengine A5+, the A5+ has bigger drivers but the Yu4 comes with a remote control whereas the A5+ doesn’t.
HD3
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Audioengine HD3 is another mid-priced speaker. Comparing Audioengine HD3 vs Kanto Yu4, the Yu4 has bigger drivers. You can enjoy wired and wireless connectivity with these speakers.
HD6
Audioengine HD6 has rear sheet like port, has decent built and volume control on the front. It has an SNR of 95dB. Connect turntable, PC, laptop or TV with these speakers. Bluetooth connection make it easier to stream from mobile or tab. It is easy to use and has excellent audio quality. Comparing Audioengine HD6 vs Kanto Yu6, the Yu6 has built-in phono preamp so connecting turntables are easy.
Yu6
Kanto Yu6 is an excellent set of speakers. It uses Class D amplifier and supports basic ports with which you can connect wide range of devices. It has Bluetooth 4.0 and sub out. Similar to Yu4 it has remote control. Comparing Kanto Yu6 vs Audioengine HD6, the HD6 has more power. The Yu6 also cost more than the HD6.
A5+
Audioengine A5+ (audioengine vs klipsch) is an impressive set of speakers that you can use to achieve room filling sound with deep and tight bass. Comparing Kanto Yu6 vs Audioengine A5+, the Yu6 is more powerful. Overall A5+ is a decent speaker system to pair with computer or PC. It delivers pleasing and rich audio. The bass is tight and deep to use in small to medium rooms.
Conclusion
These speakers are best for near field listening and you will be disappointed if you keep your hopes too high. Simply adjust and manage your expectations and take a look at the driver size and cost. while the speakers won’t deliver room filling or powerful sound, they still manage to sound larger than their size. Rather, spend a decent amount on a subwoofer if you really want to enjoy listening to music or playing games.
Unless you have dramatic expectation or want powerful Dolby Atmos home theater sound, any one of these will be convenient for you. If you compare the Audioengine A2+ vs Kanto Yu2, while the cost and performance is almost similar, simply choose the one best suited for your everyday use. We reviewed Audioengine A2+ vs Kanto Yu2 and Alternatives because we don’t want you to feel tied up to specific speakers.
Based on the budget and features you can easily use other speaker models from Audioengine or Kanto Yu or even Bose. If remote control is a must have for you, choose Kanto SYD or Yu6. Both Audioengine A2+ and Kanto Yu6 are affordable but you can also have a look at our mid-priced bookshelf speakers. As long as they are placed correctly, at ear level, these speakers will give you a pleasant experience.
FAQ
Can I use bookshelf speaker only with TVs?
Bookshelf speakers come in different sizes. Speakers that are smaller in size, like the A2+ and Yu2 are designed to use with PC or laptop. However, you can also use them with other device but they are mainly built for near field listening. If you go for large bookshelf speaker, you can use them as TV speakers as well.
How to choose the best speaker?
Well, the best speaker for any user will depend vastly on their room and scenario. If you have mid-sized rooms, look for a moderately sized speaker with woofer size of 5” or more. Also, connect a subwoofer. If you don’t want the hassle of amplifier, go for powered speakers. Looking for wireless connectivity and ease of use? Then the best speaker for you is the one that has Bluetooth and remote control.
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