Comparison Kanto YU2 vs Pioneer DM-40

The general specialization of the acoustic system.

Nowadays, this indicator distinguishes home, concert, monitor, information, outdoor and cinema systems, as well as solutions for expanding existing speakers. At the same time, the appointment is not a categorical prescription — many models also allow non-standard use cases. However, it is easier and more convenient to choose a column in accordance with the method of application that was originally intended for it. The specific features of acoustics for various purposes are as follows:

— Home. A kind of speaker designed, as the name implies, for individual use at home. Note that the characteristics of such models can be different — from the simplest bookshelf speakers to powerful multi-band speakers designed for home theaters and high-quality audio systems.

— Concert. A distinctive external feature of speakers designed for concerts is their large dimensions and high rated power (in some models it exceeds 1 kW). The latter is indispensable for vast spaces — halls, stadiums, etc. — where the sound must also “shout out” the reaction of the listeners (sometimes quite loud). But it makes no sense to purchase such speakers for home use — not only because of the high cost, but also because instead of hig...h-level inputs (as in home speakers), such systems have a connector for special equipment, musical instruments, etc. Most often, concert acoustics are sold in 1.0 configurations (see "Number of channels") in the expectation that sound engineers can assemble the desired acoustic configuration from a certain number of components.

— Monitor room. The main purpose of monitor acoustics is sound quality control; accordingly, all such models are distinguished by extremely high accuracy of transmission of all sound details, smooth frequency response and almost complete absence of distortion. This makes them indispensable for professional use (for example, in recording studios): a monitor speaker will allow you to very accurately determine all the shortcomings of the incoming signal, including amplifier noise, audio editing inaccuracies, etc. Like concert systems (see above), such systems are usually equipped with specialized inputs, but it makes no sense to use monitors for home listening for another reason: all sound flaws that are imperceptible on ordinary acoustics will then appear — and can significantly spoil the impression . And the price of such models is very high.

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— Outdoor. Acoustic systems designed for outdoor installation. They can be used, for example, for sound accompaniment of holidays in the country or in nature, playing music in the summer areas of cafes, etc. All models of this type necessarily have a waterproof and corrosion-resistant housing (see "Moisture protection") in case of adverse weather conditions; in addition, they are usually additionally protected from ultraviolet radiation. Outdoor acoustics can be mounted in different ways (see above), however, hanging options are most common.

— Cinema. Models designed, in accordance with the name, for use in cinemas — and not so much in the halls of the "home" format, for 6-10 spectators, but in large-format entertainment complexes for tens and hundreds of seats. Cinema speakers have the following common features. Firstly, they are all made passive, counting on connection to specialized amplifiers; accordingly, high-voltage connectors in the form of terminals or Euroblock sockets are used as inputs. Secondly, the power of such devices is quite high — from 100 W and above. Thirdly, cinema acoustics are usually produced in 1.0 format (see "Number of channels") — in other words, such models are not ready-made acoustic systems, but only separate components from which a specific multi-channel speaker is assembled. This output format makes it possible to accurately select the speakers needed for a particular hall. By type of installation, cinema acoustics usually refers to floor, built-in or wall-mounted. The latter variety is most often designed for installation on the side walls, and the first two are behind the screen. At the same time, floor versions can actually consist of two parts — a classic speaker for low frequencies and a horn for midrange and treble.

— Expansion of the acoustic system. A specific type of acoustics, which initially does not involve independent use and is used as an addition to traditional speakers. Such models are used mainly in multi-channel surround sound systems — to expand the sound stage vertically; they have a characteristic appearance: relatively small dimensions, an inclined top panel and a speaker built into this panel. Thus, the sound from the speakers is directed at an upward angle — in order to be reflected from the ceiling, reach the listener and give the impression that the sound source is from above. The use of "expanding" acoustics allows you to do without the use of specialized ceiling speakers. This is especially convenient in light of the fact that in-ceiling speakers are usually made built-in and rather difficult to install, while expansion modules often allow installation directly on the main speaker components. Also note that this type of acoustics can be initially designed for certain models of the main speakers; this point should be clarified before buying.

Possibility of using an acoustic system for monitoring the near field. Monitoring is called sound quality control - for example, during recording in a studio; for this, columns of the corresponding purpose are used (see above). The term "near field" means that acoustics are designed for use at a short distance - up to 1.5 m from the listener; such speakers have a relatively low power and are best suited for small rooms (as well as other conditions where there is no extensive space or it is not required) - in particular, amateur and even home studios.

Impedance is the nominal electrical impedance of a speaker system. Nowadays, a set of standard impedance values are used; the most widely used speakers are 4 ohms, 6 ohms, 8 ohms and 16 ohms.

This parameter is of primary importance for passive acoustics (see "Type"). When connecting such speakers to a power amplifier, it is highly desirable that their impedance matches the speaker impedance for which the amplifier is designed; in case of a mismatch, either overload and distortion in sound (if the speaker impedance is below optimal), or a decrease in power (in the opposite case), are possible.

As for active acoustics, here the impedance is mainly of reference value — the speakers in such systems are initially selected for the corresponding amplifiers. However there is an opinion that a higher resistance reduces the level of interference and has a positive effect on the purity of the sound; however, the difference in impedance between different models is usually not so great that this effect is noticeable against the background of other factors that determine sound quality.

Rated power of one front speaker. See "Total Power Rating" below for details on power rating. Here we note that the higher the power, the louder the system component can sound — of course, with a properly selected amplifier. In addition, this parameter is very important for matching with the amplifier: it is desirable that the output power on the corresponding amplifier channel be less than the power of the speaker. If the incoming signal is more powerful, distortions in the sound and even damage to the speakers are possible, and if it is weaker, then the sound volume will decrease (in other words, it will not be possible to use the full potential of the acoustics), but this moment will be critical only for listening at maximum volume.

The highest power rating of an amplifier that the loudspeakers can handle safely. Too much input power can damage the speakers, so when connecting, make sure that the amplifier's characteristics do not exceed the capabilities of the speakers. It is worth noting that this parameter may be slightly higher than the total nominal power of the acoustics (see below), since in this case we are only talking about the safety of the equipment, and not about the absence of distortion in the sound.

The total rated power of all speaker components, in other words, the sum of the powers of all speakers. As a nominal one, they usually indicate the highest average (rms) power at which acoustics can operate for a long time without overloads and damage. In this case, individual power surges can significantly exceed this value, however, it is the rated power that is the main characteristic of any speaker.

First of all, the sound volume depends on this characteristic: the more powerful the speakers, the louder the sound they can produce if there is a suitable amplifier. In addition, in passive and passive-active models, compatibility with an external amplifier also depends on the power: the output power of the “amplifier” should not exceed the power of the acoustics connected to it, otherwise overloads and even breakdowns are possible.

Detailed recommendations regarding the choice of speakers for power for a particular situation can be found in special sources. However, in general, an indicator of up to 100 W by the standards of modern acoustics is considered quite modest, 100 – 200 W — average, 200 – 300 W — above average, and the most powerful sets give out up to 500 W or even more.

In conclusion, we note two more nuances. Firstly, when comparing different systems according to this ch...aracteristic, one must also take into account the sound format in which they work. In particular, if there is a subwoofer, it can account for a significant part of the total power — up to half or more. As a result, for example, a 2.1 set of 50 W with a 20-watt subwoofer at the main frequencies will not be able to pull out the same volume as a 40-watt 2.0 system: in the first case, each main channel will have only 15 watts, in the second — 20 watts. Secondly, in multichannel systems, the total power can be distributed among the channels in different proportions; so, say, two 5.1 systems with the same total power can differ markedly in front and rear balance at maximum volume.

The total frequency range that the speaker is capable of reproducing. Specified from the bottom of the range in the lowest frequency component to the top of the range in the highest frequency: for example, in a 2.1 system with main speakers at 100 – 22000 Hz and a subwoofer at 20 – 150 Hz, the total value will be 20 – 22000 Hz.

The wider the frequency range — the fuller the reproduced sound, the lower the likelihood that some part of the low or high frequencies will be "cut off". It is worth noting here that the human ear perceives frequencies on average from 16 Hz to 22 kHz, and from a practical point of view, it makes no sense to provide a wider frequency range in speakers. However, quite a few models go beyond this range, sometimes quite significantly (for example, there are speakers with a range of about 10 – 50,000 Hz). Such characteristics are a kind of "side effect" of high-end acoustics, and they are usually given for advertising purposes.

Thus, the lower limit of the range in modern speakers can be within frequencies up to 20 Hz, however, higher values \u200b\u200bare more common — 30 – 40 Hz, 40 – 50 Hz, or even more than 70 Hz. In turn, the upper limit in most modern speakers lies in the range 19 – 22 kHz, although there are deviations both upwards (see above) and downwards.

Various additional features provided in the design of the column.

The list of such features may include general design nuances ( bipolar layout, magnetic shielding, horn design, Bi-Amping/Bi-Wiring, moisture protection), special types of emitters ( ribbon, electrostatic), adjustments to improve sound ( HF tuning, LF tuning, rotary tweeter), as well as special design elements to improve acoustic performance. Regarding the latter, it is worth noting that, in addition to the classic closed design, nowadays you can find sound system with bass reflexes( front, rear or bottom), acoustic labyrinths, passive radiators and acoustic spikes.

Here's a more detailed description of each of these features:

- Bipolar. Speakers of this design have two sets of emitters directed in different directions at an angle to each other (most often about 90° or slightly more). Such sound s...ystem are used in some specific cases - in particular, bipolar models are considered a good option for the rear channel in a home theater.

- Rotary tweeter. A tweeter is a high-frequency speaker that has a rotating design. This feature allows you to change the direction in which the speaker emits sound in the high-frequency range without rotating the body of the speaker itself (remember, the correct localization of such sound is quite important for adjusting the sound of the system as a whole). At the same time, there is no particular need to provide this function in stand-alone sound system: in such models, as a rule, there are no problems with rotating the entire body. Therefore, rotary tweeters are found exclusively in built-in speakers (see “Installation”) - after all, after installation, such a speaker no longer involves any movement.

— Magnetic shielding. In speakers with this feature, the housings are supplemented with special materials that are impenetrable to the magnetic field. Thanks to this, the powerful magnets that are usually equipped with speakers in modern speakers have virtually no effect on surrounding devices. This is especially important when used near sensitive electronics: plasma panels, high-end amplifiers and receivers, etc.

— Bass reflex. A device in the form of a characteristic tube installed in the column body with access to the surrounding space. The bass reflex (FI) amplifies the sound pressure and improves the sound of the speakers in comparison with similar closed-type sound system ; This is especially noticeable at low frequencies. True, the movement of air in the pipe can create additional noise; however, most models use various tricks to compensate for this phenomenon. But the clear disadvantage of such equipment is the increase in the overall dimensions of the column. We emphasize that this function should not be confused with an acoustic labyrinth (see below) - the FI is made straight and has a relatively short length.
We also note that the bass reflex can be installed in different ways: most often in the front, somewhat less often in the back, in some models - from below, and extremely rarely - from on top or from the side. And in some columns two FIs are installed at once, with different locations. These details are not indicated in the characteristics, since they can be easily determined from photographs. From an sound system point of view, it is impossible to say unequivocally which location is better - each option has its supporters and opponents, especially since the issue of sound quality is largely subjective. But from a purely practical point of view, the front FI is the most convenient: it allows you to place the speakers even close to the wall. When positioned in the rear, the speaker should be at a distance of at least 3–4 cm from the wall, and ideally at least at least the diameter of the bass reflex. The third popular option - installation from below - is found in certain models of bookshelf and floor-standing speakers equipped with stands of appropriate height, as well as in suspended models designed for a large amount of free space under the speaker.

— Acoustic labyrinth. Another device used to improve the richness and overall sound quality. In some ways similar to the bass reflex described on top, it is also an air duct of strictly selected length that connects the internal volume of the speaker with the external space. The key difference is that in this case the air duct is not made straight, but in the form of a “snake” with many bends (hence the name “labyrinth”). The walls of the labyrinth are covered with special materials that absorb sounds. This design has a number of advantages over traditional FIs. Thus, the speakers are more compact; with the same body dimensions, the labyrinth has a larger effective length, which has a positive effect on the power and saturation of low frequencies; and the winding air duct is almost not subject to the appearance of extraneous sounds (unlike bass reflexes, where in order to dampen such sounds it is necessary to very accurately calculate the design). On the other hand, labyrinths are noticeably more complex and, accordingly, more expensive, and therefore less common.

— HF adjustment. A control that allows you to adjust the sound level of high frequencies separately from the rest of the range. Due to this, you can change the color of the sound to a certain extent without resorting to external equalizers and other complex devices. This function can be combined with bass adjustment (see below), but there are also many speakers where only high frequencies are adjusted.

— Bass adjustment. A regulator that allows you to adjust the sound level of low frequencies separately from the rest of the range. Like the HF control described on top, it makes it possible to change the color of the sound to a certain extent without resorting to external equalizers and other complex devices. However, this function is very rarely used without a treble control (although such speakers also exist).

— Tape emitter. Ribbon-type emitter installed in one or more speakers; For a number of reasons, this design is used primarily in high-frequency tweeters. The difference between such devices and traditional emitters is that in this case, instead of a traditional coil, a metal strip is installed between the poles of the magnet (hence the name). This provides a number of advantages: high sensitivity, minimal distortion, wide horizontal coverage. The main disadvantages of the ribbon design are high cost and poor suitability for low frequencies.

— Electrostatic emitter. Electrostatic type emitter installed in one or more speakers. The design of such a device is based on a thin and light membrane, fixed between two stator grids - a signal is sent to the bottom, and the membrane vibrates with an electric field. In this way, you can achieve a very reliable, clean sound, with a minimum of nonlinear distortion. At the same time, electrostatic drivers are effective mainly at mid-high and high frequencies, so for effective operation the speaker inevitably has to be supplemented with traditional speakers. Among the obvious disadvantages of such equipment are the large dimensions, high cost and specific requirements for amplifiers: a radiator of this type requires a high-quality “amplifier”, always with an output transformer. Therefore, this function is rarely found - in some premium speakers.

— Horn design. The presence in the speakers of speakers built according to a horn circuit. Such a speaker has the appearance of a characteristic bell, in the depth of which there is an emitter. Due to their narrow directivity and specific influence on the propagation of sound waves, horns improve the efficiency of sound transmission over a fairly wide frequency range. In fact, we can say that the presence of a horn increases the sensitivity of the speaker. For a number of reasons, it has turned out that the horn design of the main speaker is used mainly in information speakers (see purpose), in other cases, this form is provided for the tweeter (tweeter).

— Passive emitter. The presence of a passive radiator in at least one speaker. Such a device can be described as a low-frequency speaker from which the coil and magnet have been removed, leaving only the outer membrane of the emitter. This membrane vibrates due to sound waves created by conventional speakers, and plays the role of a resonator, enhancing the sound of low frequencies. In this regard, a passive radiator is similar to a bass reflex and an acoustic labyrinth (see on top); at the same time, unlike FI, it is almost not subject to the appearance of extraneous noise, and costs significantly less than a labyrinth. On the other hand, an additional emitter on the front panel significantly increases the dimensions of the speaker - usually in height.

- IMAX Enhanced. The IMAX Enhanced Mark of Conformity is awarded to equipment that meets the audio certification requirements of IMAX Corporation. Combined with DTS audio technology to deliver signature IMAX theater-like sound in the home. The most accurate reproduction of such audio is possible in systems with a large number of channels (5.1 or more). Note that for a fully immersive experience, IMAX Enhanced certification must also apply to video equipment for playing content (TV, projector, etc.).

— Bi-Amping/Bi-Wiring. Possibility of operating sound system in Bi-Amping or Bi-Wiring format. Models with this feature are multi-band (see “Number of bands”) and have not one, but two sets of terminals for each speaker - for low and high frequencies. This allows you to use the mentioned connection methods. So, when working in the Bi-Wiring format, each contact at the output of the power amplifier is connected by two separate wires to two terminals on the corresponding speaker at once: for example, the positive contact of the left channel - to the positive contacts of the LF and HF inputs on the left speaker, the negative - to the corresponding negative contacts, etc. This allows you to improve the frequency response: thanks to the separation into separate cables, the low-frequency signal does not “steal energy” from the rest of the range, and each band receives enough power for the corresponding speakers to operate effectively. In the Bi-Amping format, two separate amplifiers are used, each with two pairs of output contacts - as a result, each speaker terminal is connected strictly to its “own” contact. This connection method is not cheap, but it allows you to achieve even greater sound purity and frequency response uniformity; Bi-Amping is considered the ideal option for tech who do not accept compromises in matters of sound quality.

— Moisture protection. The presence of special protection against moisture in the speaker design. This feature is highly desirable in three cases: if the system is planned to be used outdoors; if the indoor conditions are not very different from the outdoor ones (hangar, large garage, etc.); or if we are talking about a place with high humidity (swimming pool, greenhouse, some types of workshops, etc.). It is worth considering that the specific degree of moisture protection may vary - from the ability to withstand exposure to rain to the possibility of complete immersion under water; These details should be clarified separately.

— Acoustic spikes. Specially shaped supports, mainly used in floor-standing speakers. In accordance with the name, such supports are made pointed, and it is the sharp ends that rest on the floor; To protect the floor from damage, special small plates are usually used. In any case, the point of such a design is to minimize the contact area of the column with the surface underneath it. This, in turn, increases the pressure at the contact points and minimizes the so-called parasitic vibrations - vibrations transmitted from the speaker to the floor. Acoustic spikes are considered an almost mandatory element of equipment for Hi-Fi class floor-standing sound system - without such equipment, the mentioned parasitic vibrations can irreparably spoil the sound of high-quality speakers and negate all their advantages. Note that speaker spikes are also sold separately; however, buying sound system that were initially equipped with such stands is often easier than looking for third-party accessories.

Types of inputs provided in the design of the AU.

Note that the standard high-level terminal-based inputs used to connect passive acoustics to power amplifiers are not indicated in this list — their presence in the corresponding types of speakers is assumed by definition. The rest of the options could be:

— RCA. Inputs for working with analogue audio signal using RCA connectors (this connector can be used in other interfaces, but they have their own names). Usually, they are used in active systems and are designed for a line level signal, however, in some models, RCA is intended for connection to a power amplifier. In general, this interface does not differ in noise immunity, but its capabilities are quite enough at least for home acoustics, including quite advanced ones. Note that with this connection, each audio channel requires its own connector; therefore, RCA jacks are usually installed in pairs — stereo left and right.

— mini-Jack (3.5 mm). Standard connector for most modern portable audio equipment. The speakers are mainly used to connect similar equipment — primarily pocket media players. It uses analogue signal transmission, while the resistance to interference, like RCA, is not high, and the quality may even be lower due to the fact that both channels of stereo sound are transmitted over the same cable.

— Jack (6.35 mm)....A connector similar in shape to the mini-jack described above, but having a larger size; as a result, it is found mainly in stationary audio equipment, and is also used in musical instruments. 6.35 mm Jack is considered more durable and reliable than 3.5 mm mini-jack, besides, it is technically able to provide the so-called balanced connection (see below), although in fact this is rarely possible. To do this, this connector can be combined with an XLR connector (combo port), which allows you to connect one of the types of plugs of your choice.

— Balanced XLR. XLR connectors have three pins, according to the number of cable strands. They can be used to transmit a different type of signal, but in this case, an analogue balanced connection is implied. With this connection, one channel of audio is transmitted per connector, and a fairly large part of the interference that occurs during transmission is extinguished by the cable itself. The latter ensures the purity of the transmitted sound even at fairly large distances (of the order of several metres). Balanced XLR refers to professional interfaces and is found mainly in speakers of the corresponding class. Can be combined with a Jack (6.35 mm) connector (combo port), which allows you to connect one of the types of plugs of your choice.

— Balanced digital AES/EBU. A variation of the XLR interface, designed to transmit a signal in digital format. It also belongs to professional ones, uses the same connectors and cables and the same balanced transmission method, which ensures the cancellation of most interference; however, due to differences in the type of signal, it has a large bandwidth and allows even multi-channel audio to be transmitted through one connector.

— Optical. One of the varieties of the S / P-DIF standard is, along with the coaxial one described below. In this case, the signal is transmitted via a TOSLINK fibre optic cable. The main advantage of this interface is its complete insensitivity to electrical interference, while its capabilities are sufficient even to work with multi-channel audio. Among the shortcomings, it is worth noting the high price of connecting cables, as well as the need for careful handling of them.

— Coaxial. An electrical version of the S / P-DIF standard, using a coaxial cable with a “tulip” connector for signal transmission. Do not confuse this interface with the analogue RCA described above — despite the identity of the connectors, these standards are fundamentally different: "coaxial" works in digital format and even multi-channel audio can be transmitted over a single cable. Compared to optical S/P-DIF, this interface is less resistant to interference, but more reliable because electrical cables are not as delicate.

— Speakon. Professional interface used to connect the signal from the power amplifier to the speakers. It is used in the technique of the corresponding class, in particular, concert systems (see "Purpose"). Due to the features of the connectors (presence of latches, high degree of isolation) it can be used even with the most powerful amplifiers.

— USB port. The USB interface in speaker systems can have different purposes and use different types of connectors; these points should be clarified separately. So, one of the most popular formats for using this input is connecting speakers to the USB port of a PC or laptop to work as computer acoustics; models with this capability are equipped with USB Type B connectors — a characteristic square shape. Such acoustics will be useful, in particular, if the computer's specialized audio inputs are busy, out of order, or not available at all; in addition, it is often equipped with high-end built-in DACs and allows you to achieve higher sound quality than the average sound card.
There is another option — speakers with USB A inputs and built-in players that can independently play music from a flash drive or other external drive, as well as charge various gadgets like smartphones via USB.

Passive models (see "Type") are usually equipped with so-called high-level inputs designed for a signal from a power amplifier; this is a separate category of connectors installed in such models by default.