In this article, we will review the new Kanto REN powered bookshelf speaker. The REN is the newest addition to Kanto’s line of powered speakers and is intended to be a large step up from their previous releases.
Review
The Kanto REN speaker is compact enough to be put on a desk but also big enough to put aside a TV and fill a small or medium-sized room with sound. On the front, you have an integrated LED and a volume knob, which also functions as a button to switch between sources. It is available in five matte colors, Black, White, Blue, Orange, and Gray. The speakers look gorgeous and will match the aesthetics of almost any room. Kanto also included a remote control that lets you control all the options right from your listening position.
The Kanto REN has a specified frequency response of 50 Hz – 22 kHz. It has a 100-watt Class D amplifier. This amplifier powers four drivers, two in each speaker. The 5.25-inch Aluminum Cone woofer is Kanto’s highest bass driver to date, and the 1-inch Silk dome tweeter gives you better presentation.
The right speaker has the amplifier for both speakers and has all the input and output ports on the back panel. You only have to plug in the right speaker, connect it to the left speaker, and you’re ready to go. Ports include an RCA input, a 3.5mm mini-jack AUX, one optical input, a USB charge port, a USB-C port, and a HDMI ARC input. The Kanto REN also has Bluetooth 5.3 with AAC. The speaker does not have a built-in phono pre-amp, which means that you will have to add one between the turntable and the speakers.
The REN also has a subwoofer output, this sends all of the bass below 80 Hz to the subwoofer, helping the REN to focus on frequencies above 80 Hz for better clarity and lower distortion. If you end up using the REN in a larger room, a subwoofer is a must-have. With these speakers, you can use the Vocal Boost option to enhance midrange frequencies and make dialogue sound a bit clearer when you’re watching movies.
With HDMI ARC, the Kanto REN speakers can connect to your TV. With the two speakers placed on either side of your TV, you will get a better sound experience than most soundbars. If you are using your TV’s speakers, the Kanto RENs will be a worthwhile upgrade and you will see the difference instantly. The speakers have a switch that automatically receives audio from HDMI ARC when it detects a signal.
The Kanto REN speakers give off a clean sound, and it is much more dynamic than you would think for speakers that are so small. If you use an external subwoofer, you will get much better sound and bass, but the speakers also work fine on their own. When listening to music, you will hear all the instruments with clarity, and the soundstage and imaging are amazing for a speaker at this price point.
Verdict
The Kanto RENs will appeal to those who want a compact speaker system. While you will get a better listening experience with a subwoofer and amplifier, the speakers sound great on their own. The RENs look great with their matte finishes, and you have many input options. If you are not happy with your current soundbar, or if you’re still using your TV’s speakers, then you should consider the Kanto REN speakers.