Kanto Audio YU2
Tiny powered desktop speakers with a built-in USB DAC (16-bit/48kHz), AUX input and subwoofer out. Manufacturer-rated 80Hz–20kHz ±6dB response signals limited neutrality; comprehensive third-party full-band measurements are scarce. Engineering is sensible for the size, reliability/support are standard, and cost-performance is slightly below neutral given cheaper equivalent options (PreSonus Eris E3.5 plus a low-cost USB-C DAC).
Overview
YU2 is a compact 2-way powered desktop speaker featuring a 3/4-inch silk-dome tweeter, 3-inch Kevlar woofer and a Class-D amp rated at 25W RMS per channel. It provides USB audio (16-bit/48kHz), a 3.5mm AUX input and a subwoofer output (manufacturer specs) [1]. The enclosure measures roughly W100 × H150 × D135 mm. Current US direct price is 299.99 USD; Japan domestic price is 37,800円 via the distributor’s shop [2][7].
Scientific Validity
\[\Large \text{0.3}\]Public full-range third-party measurements (e.g., spin/NFS) for YU2 are limited at review time. The manufacturer lists 80Hz–20kHz ±6dB response, indicating a non-flat tonal balance within the band [1]. The integrated USB DAC supports 16-bit/48kHz, a conventional capability for desktop use [1]. Given limited independent data and the magnitude of the stated response variation, we conservatively set scientific validity to 0.3, pending robust external measurements.
Technology Level
\[\Large \text{0.6}\]Packing a 2-way design, Class-D amplification, USB DAC and sub out into a very small cabinet is a sensible implementation for desk use. The 2.5kHz crossover and I/O set match the intended application, though there’s no onboard DSP/autocalibration or novel IP [1]. We set technology level at 0.6.
Cost-Performance
\[\Large \text{0.4}\]Comparator = cheapest equivalent-or-better route. PreSonus Eris E3.5 provides similar user-facing capability (powered 2-way for desk use) and adds tone controls; to match YU2’s USB input, we normalize with Apple’s USB-C to 3.5mm DAC dongle. Third-party Klippel NFS/CTA-2034 data exist for the E3.5, allowing response characterization and basic trimming via its onboard controls [3]. Prices: 114.99 USD (E3.5, Sweetwater) [4] + 9.00 USD (Apple dongle) [5] = 123.99 USD. Review target price is 299.99 USD [2].
Computation: 123.99 USD ÷ 299.99 USD = 0.413 → rounds to 0.4.
Reliability & Support
\[\Large \text{0.6}\]Global limited warranty is 24 months [6]. Japan distributor’s page lists 1-year warranty for local units [7]. Given the simple active 2-way construction and the mixed warranty terms, reliability/support is 0.6.
Rationality of Design Philosophy
\[\Large \text{0.7}\]The design targets “small desk, minimal wiring” with USB/AUX and a sub out for extendability. It doesn’t pursue state-of-the-art transparency, but allocating cost to practical I/O and compactness is reasonable; thus 0.7 [1][2].
Advice
Choose YU2 if you need a very small, tidy USB-connected desktop setup and may add a sub later. Expect modest deep-bass output (roll-off above ~80Hz) and a response not tuned for strict neutrality [1]. If you prioritize adjustability and value, the PreSonus Eris E3.5 + a low-cost USB-C DAC is a cheaper, functionally equivalent alternative with third-party data and tone controls for basic response shaping [3][4][5]. Japan buyers should note the 1-year local warranty listing vs the global 24-month policy [7][6].
References
- Kanto Audio, “YU2 Powered Speaker — User Manual,” https://www.kantoaudio.com/wp-content/uploads/YU2SS_EngManual_2021-09-22-linear.pdf, accessed 2025-08-27. Key specs: 80Hz–20kHz ±6dB, USB 16-bit/48kHz, 25W RMS/ch, ~2.5kHz XO, dimensions.
- Kanto Audio, “Products — Powered Speakers (YU2 299.99 USD),” https://www.kantoaudio.com/products/, accessed 2025-08-27.
- Erin’s Audio Corner, “PreSonus Eris E3.5 Powered Monitor Review (Klippel NFS / CTA-2034),” https://www.erinsaudiocorner.com/loudspeakers/presonus_eris_e3_5/, 2021-05-14.
- Sweetwater, “PreSonus Eris 3.5 — 2nd Gen (114.99 USD),” https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/Eris3.5–presonus-eris-3.5-3.5-inch-powered-studio-monitors, accessed 2025-08-27.
- Apple, “USB-C to 3.5 mm Headphone Jack Adapter (9.00 USD),” https://www.apple.com/shop/product/MW2Q3AM/A/usb-c-to-35-mm-headphone-jack-adapter, accessed 2025-08-27.
- Kanto Audio, “Warranty — Limited Warranty to Original Purchaser (24 months),” https://www.kantoaudio.com/warranty/, accessed 2025-08-27.
- KANJITSU DENKI Online Shop, “YU2 (Price 37,800円 / Warranty 1 year),” https://shop.kanjitsu.com/product/yu2/, accessed 2025-08-27.
(2025.8.27)