What is an Air Motion Transformer (AMT) tweeter?

An AMT tweeter uses a folded diaphragm that moves air by squeezing it out of the folds. This design allows for a much faster response than a traditional dome tweeter, resulting in greater clarity and a wider frequency response.

Do I need a separate amplifier to use the Kanto TUK?

No, the Kanto TUK is a powered speaker system with a built-in 130W total output amplifier. You can connect your sources directly to the speakers without any external amplification.

Can I connect a turntable directly to the Kanto TUK?

Yes, the TUK features an integrated phono preamp and a dedicated RCA input. This allows you to connect a turntable directly to the speakers without needing a separate phono stage.

What Bluetooth codecs does the Kanto TUK support?

The Kanto TUK supports Qualcomm aptX HD and AAC codecs. These provide high-quality wireless audio streaming from compatible smartphones, tablets, and computers.

What are the benefits of the aluminium concave-cone woofer?

The aluminium material is very rigid and lightweight. This allows the woofer to move precisely with minimal distortion, providing a clean and accurate midrange and bass response.

Can I use these speakers with my computer?

Absolutely. The Kanto TUK features a built-in USB DAC, allowing you to connect it directly to your computer via a USB cable for high-quality digital audio playback.

Is there a way to add more bass to the TUK system?

Yes, the TUK includes a dedicated subwoofer output. This allows you to connect an external powered subwoofer to enhance the low-frequency performance of your setup.

Does the Kanto TUK have a headphone jack?

Yes, there is a built-in headphone jack on the front of the speaker. This allows for private listening using the TUK's internal amplification and DAC.

How much power does the Kanto TUK deliver?

The system delivers 65W of Class D power per channel, totaling 130W for the pair. This is sufficient to fill most small to medium-sized rooms with high-volume sound.

What digital inputs are available on the TUK?

The TUK provides two main digital inputs: an asynchronous USB DAC input for computers and a TOSLINK optical input for devices like televisions or game consoles.

What is the role of DSP in these speakers?

The on-board Digital Signal Processing (DSP) is used to manage the crossover and fine-tune the frequency response. This ensures the AMT tweeter and aluminium woofer work together seamlessly.

What finish options are available for the TUK?

The Kanto TUK is notably available in a Matte White finish, as well as Matte Black, designed to complement modern home and office aesthetics.

Gear article

Kanto Audio TUK Powered Bookshelf Speakers

The Kanto Audio TUK is a high-performance powered bookshelf speaker system featuring an Air Motion Transformer (AMT) tweeter and an aluminium concave-cone woofer. Priced around £699, it combines 130W of total Class D amplification with versatile connectivity, including an integrated USB DAC and Bluetooth with AptX HD support.

Kanto Audio Kanto TUK Powered Bookshelf Speakers Matte White

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Background and Design

Kanto Audio developed the TUK to serve as their flagship active speaker, pushing the boundaries of the traditional bookshelf format. The 'TUK' name is derived from Tuktoyaktuk in the Arctic, reflecting the Canadian brand's heritage. Unlike their smaller YU series, the TUK utilizes premium materials like aluminium and AMT technology to cater to audiophiles seeking a desktop or living room solution that does not require an external amplifier.

Technical Specifications and Features

The TUK is built around a 28mm x 35mm Air Motion Transformer (AMT) tweeter, which provides a faster response and wider frequency range than traditional dome tweeters. This is paired with a 5.25-inch aluminium concave-cone woofer designed for rigidity and clarity. The system is driven by an internal 65W per-channel amplifier, eliminating the need for bulky outboard gear.

A key feature of the TUK is its integrated Digital Signal Processing (DSP). This technology optimizes the audio output and allows for a sophisticated crossover system. Connectivity is extensive, featuring a dedicated phono input for turntables, an asynchronous USB DAC for computer audio, and an optical TOSLINK input for televisions.

Kanto Audio Kanto YU4 Powered Bookshelf Speakers Matte White

Wireless and Digital Connectivity

For modern streaming needs, the TUK includes Bluetooth 4.2. It supports high-quality codecs including Qualcomm aptX HD and AAC, ensuring that wireless audio maintains high fidelity when paired with compatible mobile devices or media players. The inclusion of an internal USB DAC allows for a direct digital connection to a PC or Mac, bypassing inferior internal soundcards to provide a cleaner signal path.

Sound Profile

The TUK is characterised by its sonic clarity and detailed high-end, a direct result of the AMT tweeter implementation. The aluminium woofers provide a punchy and precise midrange and low-end, aimed at capturing the nuances of complex recordings. The soundstage is notably wide, making it suitable for both critical listening and home entertainment use. Users looking for more low-end extension can utilize the dedicated subwoofer output.

Target Audience and Applications

The Kanto TUK is positioned for vinyl enthusiasts, desktop users, and home cinema fans alike. The built-in phono preamp makes it a plug-and-play solution for record players, while the headphone jack provides a convenient option for private listening. Its matte white finish and minimalist aesthetic allow it to integrate into modern interior designs.

Market Comparisons

Within the Kanto range, the TUK represents a significant step up from the YU4 and YU6 models due to the AMT tweeter and improved amplification. When compared to lifestyle speakers like the Teenage Engineering OD-11, the TUK offers a more traditional stereo imaging experience and wider physical connectivity. It also stands as a more premium, feature-rich alternative to entry-level active speakers like those from AVCOM.

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Frequently asked questions

What is an Air Motion Transformer (AMT) tweeter?: An AMT tweeter uses a folded diaphragm that moves air by squeezing it out of the folds. This design allows for a much faster response than a traditional dome tweeter, resulting in greater clarity and a wider frequency response.
Do I need a separate amplifier to use the Kanto TUK?: No, the Kanto TUK is a powered speaker system with a built-in 130W total output amplifier. You can connect your sources directly to the speakers without any external amplification.
Can I connect a turntable directly to the Kanto TUK?: Yes, the TUK features an integrated phono preamp and a dedicated RCA input. This allows you to connect a turntable directly to the speakers without needing a separate phono stage.
What Bluetooth codecs does the Kanto TUK support?: The Kanto TUK supports Qualcomm aptX HD and AAC codecs. These provide high-quality wireless audio streaming from compatible smartphones, tablets, and computers.
What are the benefits of the aluminium concave-cone woofer?: The aluminium material is very rigid and lightweight. This allows the woofer to move precisely with minimal distortion, providing a clean and accurate midrange and bass response.
Can I use these speakers with my computer?: Absolutely. The Kanto TUK features a built-in USB DAC, allowing you to connect it directly to your computer via a USB cable for high-quality digital audio playback.
Is there a way to add more bass to the TUK system?: Yes, the TUK includes a dedicated subwoofer output. This allows you to connect an external powered subwoofer to enhance the low-frequency performance of your setup.
Does the Kanto TUK have a headphone jack?: Yes, there is a built-in headphone jack on the front of the speaker. This allows for private listening using the TUK's internal amplification and DAC.
How much power does the Kanto TUK deliver?: The system delivers 65W of Class D power per channel, totaling 130W for the pair. This is sufficient to fill most small to medium-sized rooms with high-volume sound.
What digital inputs are available on the TUK?: The TUK provides two main digital inputs: an asynchronous USB DAC input for computers and a TOSLINK optical input for devices like televisions or game consoles.
What is the role of DSP in these speakers?: The on-board Digital Signal Processing (DSP) is used to manage the crossover and fine-tune the frequency response. This ensures the AMT tweeter and aluminium woofer work together seamlessly.
What finish options are available for the TUK?: The Kanto TUK is notably available in a Matte White finish, as well as Matte Black, designed to complement modern home and office aesthetics.