Short answer: the Edifier R1700BT, if you are buying new. The Kanto YU ranks higher than it (#58 vs #88 of 108 powered bookshelf speakers, 3.7/5 vs 3.2/5) but is discontinued, so only consider it used; the Edifier R1700BT is still sold new at $219.99.
Why pick the Edifier R1700BT: A compact powered pair with Bluetooth and analog inputs for easy desktop listening without a separate amplifier. The tradeoff: Listening impressions suggest a bass-and-treble-forward balance rather than strict neutrality.
The Kanto YU is the better-sounding pick. A compact powered pair with Bluetooth, RCA inputs, a remote, tone controls and a subwoofer output for simple desktop setups. The tradeoff: Standalone preference is 3.46 and the -3dB point is about 85Hz, so it lacks low-bass weight.
Buy the Edifier R1700BT, since the Kanto YU is discontinued and only worth hunting down used.
Still deciding? The full Powered Home rankings cover every ranked option.
A compact powered pair with Bluetooth and analog inputs for easy desktop listening without a separate amplifier.
A compact powered pair with Bluetooth, RCA inputs, a remote, tone controls and a subwoofer output for simple desktop setups.
Prices on this page were last checked October 31, 2026 at 7:11 PM UTC. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date/time and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
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Specifications Side By Side
| Edifier R1700BT | Kanto YU | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $219.99 per pair | $349.99 per pair Discontinued |
| Ranked | #88 of 108 in Medium Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers | #58 of 108 in Medium Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers |
| Dimensions | 10”H x 6.1”W x 8.4”D (254 x 154.9 x 213.4 mm) | 8.7H x 5.5W x 7.5D in |
| Frequency Response | 60 Hz-20 kHz (-3dB) (Manufacturer specified) | 60Hz - 20kHz (Manufacturer specified) |
| Inputs | Bluetooth, RCA Input | RCA and Bluetooth 4.2 aptX |
| Outputs | None | Subwoofer |
| Weight | 14.6 lbs (6.6 kg) | 6.2 lbs (2.8 kg) active, 5.3 lbs (2.4 kg) passive |
| Drivers | 4” (102mm) woofer | 1” silk-dome tweeter, 4” Kevlar woofer |
| App | No | - |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.1 | 4.2 |
| Bluetooth Codecs | SBC (inferred; additional codecs unverified) | SBC, aptX |
| EQ | No | - |
| Amplifier Power | 66w RMS Per Speaker | 70W RMS / 140W peak per pair |
| XLR Input | No | No |
| RCA Input | Yes | Yes |
| TRS Input | No | No |
| Optical Input | No | No |
| Coaxial Input | No | No |
| USB Input | No | No |
| HDMI Input | No | No |
| AES Input | No | No |
| Aux Input | No | No |
| Enclosure | - | 2-way powered, rear-ported MDF |
| Country | - | Canada (design) |
| Spinorama Preference Score | - | 3.46 |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | - | 6.38 |
| Subwoofer Output | - | Yes |
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