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Advice for killer desktop speakers

I am looking to upgrade my desktop listening experience and could use the advice of the community. Is there anything in the same price range as the Audioengine 5+ that I should consider? The Audioengines seem to be the consensus choice, but am unsure if this is just online hype and inertia. I do not want a subwoofer and I do not have enough desk space to go any bigger than the Audioengine 5. I tried using a pair of Kef Q150 speakers paired with a Dayton Audio APA 150 amp, but the speakers are just too big for my desk.  I think i would prefer to have powered speakers for the simplicity and utilize the Dayton in another room. I  normally listen at moderate volumes and need them to sound good at relatively low levels.  Any suggestions?
jplunkettj
akg_ca's avatar
akg_ca
2,334 posts
 
KANTO YU5 / YU6 ..... highly recommended ...I use them with a USB DAC in my desktop PC near-field  “C” system 

Inputs
Bluetooth™ 4.0,
RCA with Phono Preamp Switch,
 AUX, 2 x TOSLINK

https://9to5mac.com/2016/07/05/review-kanto-yu5-powered-bookshelf-speakers-bluetooth/

https://www.wifihifi.ca/LatestNewsHeadlines/Hands-onReview:KantoYU6PoweredSpeakers.html

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=i2eWC3iWaJE

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=SQkKVXhk7Cs

brayeagle
362 posts
 
If these are for your computer, the B&W MM1 speakers may surprise you. They have their own DAC, and connect to the computer via a USB2. 

erik_squires
16,558 posts
 
I do things a little differently, using an NAD D 3020 which is a super small integrated/DAC/AMP. 

Then you can pick any small speakers you like. :) 

Best,

E
jeffersondavis
31 posts
 
The MM-1s have pretty audible hiss IMO due to the DSP unit.
lak's avatar
lak
4,713 posts
 
When push comes to shove I think it's going to be pretty hard to beat the Audioengine 5+. I have to wonder if those that suggest other options have actually heard the Audioengine 5+ in their systems and/or in a store set up for a true compairson? Many times it's simply a slightly different flavor.
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