Short answer: the Genelec 8020D. It ranks #13 of 108 powered bookshelf speakers by sound quality (rated 4.4/5) at $1,390 and is still sold new; the Kanto YU ranks #58 (rated 3.7/5) and is discontinued, so it is only an option used.
The Genelec 8020D is the better-sounding pick. A compact, accurate studio monitor with well controlled sound across the desk, ideal for small studios. The catch: Small size limits deep-bass reach and headroom.
The case for the Kanto YU: A compact powered pair with Bluetooth, RCA inputs, a remote, tone controls and a subwoofer output for simple desktop setups. The catch: Standalone preference is 3.46 and the -3dB point is about 85Hz, so it lacks low-bass weight.
Buy the Genelec 8020D. It is rated higher for sound quality, and the Kanto YU is discontinued, so it is only available used.
Still deciding? The full Powered Home rankings cover every ranked option.
A compact, accurate studio monitor with well controlled sound across the desk, ideal for small studios.
A compact powered pair with Bluetooth, RCA inputs, a remote, tone controls and a subwoofer output for simple desktop setups.
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Specifications Side By Side
| Genelec 8020D | Kanto YU | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,390 per pair | $349.99 per pair Discontinued |
| Ranked | #13 of 108 in Medium Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers | #58 of 108 in Medium Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers |
| Dimensions | 9.5”H x 5.8”W x 5.6”D (241.3 x 147.3 x 142.2 mm) | 8.7H x 5.5W x 7.5D in |
| Frequency Response | 56 Hz - 25 kHz (-6 dB) (Manufacturer specified) | 60Hz - 20kHz (Manufacturer specified) |
| Inputs | XLR | RCA and Bluetooth 4.2 aptX |
| Weight | 7.1 lbs (3.2 kg) each | 6.2 lbs (2.8 kg) active, 5.3 lbs (2.4 kg) passive |
| Drivers | 4.1” woofer, 0.75” metal dome tweeter | 1” silk-dome tweeter, 4” Kevlar woofer |
| App | No | - |
| Bass Extension (-10dB) | 50Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) | - |
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 56Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) | - |
| Bluetooth | No | Yes |
| EQ | Yes (Bass tilt, desk proximity) | - |
| Amplifier Power | 100W (50W woofer + 50W tweeter) | 70W RMS / 140W peak per pair |
| Maximum SPL | 103dB @ 1m (manufacturer specified) | - |
| XLR Input | Yes | No |
| RCA Input | No | 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 |
| Bluetooth Codecs | - | SBC, aptX |
| Country | - | Canada (design) |
| Spinorama Preference Score | - | 3.46 |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | - | 6.38 |
| Subwoofer Output | - | Yes |
| Outputs | - | Subwoofer |
| Bluetooth Version | - | 4.2 |
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