Kanto YU2 vs Audioengine A2+ – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Kanto YU2 & Audioengine A2+ share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Kanto YU2  rather than the Audioengine A2+. 

Why Do I Recommend The Kanto YU2

  • The Kanto YU2 features 3-inch Kevlar woofers for fuller midrange and tighter low-end response in nearfield setups, while the Audioengine A2+ uses smaller 2.75-inch aramid fiber woofers.
  • Kanto YU2 includes a dedicated subwoofer output for easy connection to an external sub to extend bass performance, whereas the Audioengine A2+ lacks a specific sub-out port.
  • It has an auto power-save function to reduce energy consumption during inactivity, while the Audioengine A2+ remains fully powered unless manually switched off.
  • The Kanto YU2 comes with a rear-ported enclosure design to produce deeper, more resonant bass in open setups, whereas the Audioengine A2+ uses a front-ported layout with slightly less low-end extension.
  • Kanto YU2 includes a compact external power brick for easier placement flexibility on small desks, whereas the Audioengine A2+ integrates the power supply internally.
  • It supports direct USB and 3.5 mm AUX connections for simple plug-and-play use across multiple devices, while the Audioengine A2+ relies on additional RCA or Bluetooth connections.
  • Kanto YU2 uses a clean minimalist design with no front controls for a clutter-free appearance suited to modern desk layouts, whereas the Audioengine A2+ places a front volume knob.

Maybe the Audioengine A2+ can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Kanto YU2. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

Side By Side Comparison

FeatureKanto YU2Audioengine A2+
Woofer Size3″ Kevlar2.75″ Aramid Fiber
Frequency Response80Hz – 20kHz65Hz – 22kHz
Input TypeUSB-B, 3.5mm AUXUSB-B, RCA, 3.5mm, Bluetooth
Output TypeSubwoofer OutRCA Variable Out
Port LocationRearFront
Enclosure TypeRear-Ported MDFFront-Ported MDF
Dimensions (H×W×D)6.9″ × 3.9″ × 5.3″6″ × 4″ × 5.3″
Weight (Pair)6.9 lbs6.7 lbs
Power SupplyExternal AdapterInternal Power Supply
Auto Power SaveYesNo
Subwoofer OutputDedicated Sub-OutNone
PriceCheck Kanto YU2 PriceCheck Audioengine A2+ Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Active Desktop Speakers: Both the Kanto YU2 and Audioengine A2+ are self-powered desktop speakers that include built-in amplifiers, meaning they do not require an external receiver or amp. This makes them ideal for computer setups, minimalist desks, and plug-and-play audio systems.
  • 2-Way Design: Each speaker pair uses a 2-way configuration combining a dedicated woofer for bass and a tweeter for treble. This design ensures balanced sound reproduction with clear highs and full midrange tones.
  • Silk Dome Tweeters: Both use 0.75-inch silk dome tweeters that provide smooth and detailed high-frequency response. Silk domes help reduce harshness, creating a warmer and more natural treble presentation.
  • Wood Cabinet: Both models feature MDF wood enclosures that reduce unwanted resonance. MDF construction contributes to a tighter, cleaner sound by minimizing vibration and coloration.
  • Amplifier Type: Both employ Class AB amplifiers, offering a balance of efficiency and sound quality. This type of amplification delivers clean audio output with minimal distortion, even at higher volumes.
  • Frequency Range: Each model is designed to cover a broad frequency spectrum suitable for desktop use. Their tuning ensures that bass, mids, and highs remain clear and distinct across typical music and media playback.
  • Detachable Power Cable: Both come with removable power cables, simplifying cable management and replacement if necessary. This design also makes transport and repositioning easier.
  • Compatible with Desktop Stands: Each speaker can be paired with optional angled stands designed to improve sound dispersion. Stands help tilt the speakers toward ear level for optimal listening position.
  • Plug-and-Play Setup: Both models are designed for simple setup—just connect power and an input source. This convenience appeals to users who prefer an easy, no-configuration audio solution.
  • Volume Controlled by Source: In both, volume can be adjusted through the connected device or computer, maintaining consistent control without needing physical knobs.
  • Designed for Nearfield Listening: Both are optimized for short listening distances typical of desktop setups. Their sound dispersion is tailored to deliver focused stereo imaging within arm’s length.
  • Magnetically Shielded: Each pair includes magnetic shielding to prevent interference with nearby monitors or hard drives. This ensures clean performance even when placed close to computer equipment.
  • Independent Left/Right Channels: Both have separate left and right speaker enclosures, allowing true stereo separation. This design enhances directional sound accuracy and immersive playback.

Common Features

FeatureKanto YU2Audioengine A2+
Active Desktop SpeakersYesYes
2-Way DesignYesYes
Silk Dome Tweeters0.75″0.75″
Wood CabinetMDFMDF
Amplifier TypeClass ABClass AB
Frequency RangeWide RangeWide Range
Stereo Pair ConfigurationYesYes
Front-Firing TweetersYesYes
USB Audio InputYesYes
3.5mm AUX InputYesYes
Compact SizeYesYes
Multiple Finish OptionsYesYes
Detachable Power CableYesYes
Compatible with Desktop StandsYesYes
Plug-and-Play SetupYesYes
Volume Controlled by SourceYesYes
Designed for Nearfield ListeningYesYes
Magnetically ShieldedYesYes
Independent Left/Right ChannelsYesYes
Price Check Kanto YU2 Price
Check Audioengine A2+ Price

FAQ

Are both the Kanto YU2 and Audioengine A2+ active speakers?
Yes, both are active speakers with built-in amplifiers, so they don’t need an external receiver or amp to function. This makes them simple to set up and ideal for desktop or small-room use.

Do the Kanto YU2 and Audioengine A2+ have USB inputs?
Yes, each includes a USB-B input that connects directly to a computer, allowing digital audio playback without relying on the computer’s sound card.

Can both speakers be used for nearfield listening?
Yes, both models are designed specifically for nearfield listening on desks or studio setups, providing focused sound and accurate stereo imaging at close distances.

Are the cabinets made of wood or plastic?
Both use MDF wooden cabinets, which help minimize resonance and enhance tonal accuracy compared to plastic enclosures.

Do the Kanto YU2 and Audioengine A2+ come with tweeters?
Yes, each has 0.75-inch silk dome tweeters, which deliver smooth and natural treble response suitable for long listening sessions.

Can you connect a phone or tablet to these speakers?
Yes, both support a 3.5 mm analog input, making them compatible with phones, tablets, and other portable devices through a simple AUX cable.

Do both models feature stereo sound?
Yes, both are true stereo systems with dedicated left and right channels, producing a wide and realistic soundstage.

Are the speakers magnetically shielded?
Yes, both pairs include magnetic shielding to prevent interference when placed near computer monitors or hard drives.

Can both speakers be mounted or placed on stands?
Yes, both can be used with optional desktop stands that tilt them toward ear level for better sound dispersion and listening comfort.

Do they have similar tweeter and woofer configurations?
Yes, both use a 2-way design featuring one woofer and one tweeter per speaker, ensuring a balanced mix of low, mid, and high frequencies.

Do they work with both Windows and macOS systems?
Yes, both are plug-and-play compatible with Windows and macOS, requiring no additional drivers for basic USB audio playback.

Do the Kanto YU2 and Audioengine A2+ include built-in DACs?
Yes, each has an internal DAC for digital-to-analog conversion, providing clear and direct audio from computers and other digital sources.

Can the speakers be used with a subwoofer?
Both can integrate with external subwoofers, though the Kanto YU2 includes a dedicated sub-out port while the Audioengine A2+ can connect via RCA outputs.

Are there multiple color options available?
Yes, both come in several finishes, including matte and gloss variants, allowing users to match them with different workspace styles.

Do both support easy plug-and-play installation?
Yes, both are designed for quick setup—just connect the power and input cables, and they’re ready to play without complex configuration.