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 YU6 ranks #41 (rated 3.9/5) and is discontinued, so it is only an option used. The Kanto YU6’s replacement, the Kanto YU6 G2, is rated 3.9/5 at $549.99.
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 tradeoff: Small size limits deep-bass reach and headroom.
What the Kanto YU6 does well: A powered bookshelf pair with a phono input, optical, Bluetooth and a remote, a simple multi source system. Watch for: Local response variation remains despite the mild overall tilt: the midrange span is 3.8dB and listening-window narrow-band deviation is 0.419.
Buy the Genelec 8020D. It is rated higher for sound quality, and the Kanto YU6 is discontinued, so it is only available used.
Looking for alternatives? See the complete Powered Home rankings.
A compact, accurate studio monitor with well controlled sound across the desk, ideal for small studios.
A powered bookshelf pair with a phono input, optical, Bluetooth and a remote, a simple multi source system.
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Specifications Side By Side
| Genelec 8020D | Kanto YU6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,390 per pair | $380.00 per pair Discontinued |
| Ranked | #13 of 108 in Medium Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers | #41 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) | 6.9W x 8.1D x 10.7H in each |
| Frequency Response | 56 Hz - 25 kHz (-6 dB) (Manufacturer specified) | 50Hz - 20kHz (Manufacturer specified) |
| Inputs | XLR | Bluetooth aptX, RCA phono preamp, 2x optical |
| Weight | 7.1 lbs (3.2 kg) each | 11.5 lbs (5.2 kg) (active), 8.6 lbs (3.9 kg) (passive) |
| Drivers | 4.1” woofer, 0.75” metal dome tweeter | 1” silk dome tweeter, 5.25” 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) | 200W peak Class D (100W RMS total) |
| Maximum SPL | 103dB @ 1m (manufacturer specified) | - |
| XLR Input | Yes | No |
| RCA Input | No | Yes |
| TRS Input | No | No |
| Optical Input | No | Yes |
| Coaxial Input | No | No |
| USB Input | No | No |
| HDMI Input | No | No |
| AES Input | No | No |
| Aux Input | No | No |
| Enclosure | - | 2-way active, MDF cabinet |
| Bluetooth Codecs | - | SBC, aptX |
| Country | - | Canada (design) |
| Spinorama Preference Score | - | 4.28 |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | - | 6.89 |
| Subwoofer Output | - | Yes |
| Outputs | - | Subwoofer |
| Bluetooth Version | - | 4.0 |
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