Short answer: the Audioengine HD6, if you are buying new. The Kanto YU ranks higher than it (#58 vs #79 of 108 powered bookshelf speakers, 3.7/5 vs 3.3/5) but is discontinued, so only consider it used; the Audioengine HD6 is still sold new at $1,048.
The Kanto YU is the better-sounding option. A compact powered pair with Bluetooth, RCA inputs, a remote, tone controls and a subwoofer output for simple desktop setups. Watch for: Standalone preference is 3.46 and the -3dB point is about 85Hz, so it lacks low-bass weight.
Why pick the Audioengine HD6: A self-contained powered stereo pair with Bluetooth, analog and optical inputs, and an RCA output, no separate amplifier needed. It supports aptX HD Bluetooth, which the Kanto YU lacks. It keeps a wired aux input, which the Kanto YU lacks. Watch for: Listening impressions describe bass and treble emphasis with a recessed midrange, which may suit casual listening better than neutral monitoring.
Buy the Audioengine HD6, since the Kanto YU is discontinued and only worth hunting down used.
Want more options? Browse the full Powered Home rankings.
A compact powered pair with Bluetooth, RCA inputs, a remote, tone controls and a subwoofer output for simple desktop setups.
A self-contained powered stereo pair with Bluetooth, analog and optical inputs, and an RCA output, no separate amplifier needed.
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
| Kanto YU | Audioengine HD6 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $349.99 per pair Discontinued | $1,048.00 per pair |
| Ranked | #58 of 108 in Medium Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers | #79 of 108 in Medium Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers |
| Enclosure | 2-way powered, rear-ported MDF | - |
| Drivers | 1” silk-dome tweeter, 4” Kevlar woofer | 5.5” (140mm) woofer |
| Dimensions | 8.7H x 5.5W x 7.5D in | 11.7”H x 7.2”W x 10”D (298.4 x 184.1 x 254 mm) |
| Weight | 6.2 lbs (2.8 kg) active, 5.3 lbs (2.4 kg) passive | 17.4 lbs (7.9 kg) |
| Amplifier Power | 70W RMS / 140W peak per pair | 50w RMS Per Speaker |
| Inputs | RCA and Bluetooth 4.2 aptX | Bluetooth, Aux, RCA Input, Digital Optical |
| Bluetooth Codecs | SBC, aptX | SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD |
| Country | Canada (design) | - |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 3.46 | - |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 6.38 | - |
| Subwoofer Output | Yes | Yes |
| Outputs | Subwoofer | RCA variable output (subwoofer) |
| XLR Input | No | No |
| RCA Input | Yes | 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 | Yes |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth Version | 4.2 | 5.0 |
| Frequency Response | 60Hz - 20kHz (Manufacturer specified) | 45Hz-40kHz (-3dB) (Manufacturer specified) |
| App | - | No |
| EQ | - | No |
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