Canadian audio company Kanto Audio has made waves in the audio industry with the announcement of their latest creation, the Kanto ORA 4 desktop speakers. Revealed at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2024, these active desktop speakers are designed to provide a significant sonic upgrade for music enthusiasts, gamers, and creative professionals alike.
The Kanto Audio ORA 4 desktop speakers come as a follow-up to Kanto's previously successful ORA desktop monitors. Customers' demand for a larger and more powerful version prompted the development of the ORA 4, which boasts an impressive 70W of output power and a host of modern features.
One of the standout features of the Kanto ORA 4 is its connectivity options. With Bluetooth 5.0, an analog line-in, and a USB-C input supporting audio up to 24-bit/96kHz, these speakers offer versatility in connecting various audio sources, from smartphones like the iPhone 15 to PCs, Macs, and Android devices. This flexibility positions the ORA 4 as an ideal choice for those looking to enhance their desktop listening experience.
The Kanto ORA 4 desktop speakers also cater to audio enthusiasts who demand precision and clarity. Kanto has incorporated separate Class D amplifiers for both the tweeters and woofers, resulting in a "smooth, accurate frequency response" that audiophiles will appreciate. Each tweeter is rated at 12W, while each woofer receives 23W, creating a combined bi-amplified power output of 70W.
For those seeking even deeper bass, the Kanto Audio ORA 4 includes a subwoofer output with a built-in automatic crossover at 80Hz. This feature should enable seamless integration with powered subwoofers, such as the Kanto Audio SUB8, for an enhanced low-end experience. The combination of bi-amplification and subwoofer support should ensure a dynamic and balanced sound profile.
Despite their compact size, the Kanto Audio ORA 4 desktop speakers are designed to outshine their competitors. The 10cm mid/bass drive unit and 19mm silk dome tweeter promise "clear highs, detailed midrange, and an impressively powerful bass." This makes them suitable not only for music listening but also for immersive gaming experiences.
In terms of usability, Kanto Audio has considered the practicality of these desktop speakers. The main speaker, housing all the inputs and power controls, features a front dial for input selection and volume adjustment. An LED indicator changes color to indicate the active audio source. While initially available in a sleek black finish, Kanto Audio has hinted at potential alternative color options based on customer feedback.
For those looking to optimize their setup, Kanto Audio has introduced optional stands made from solid steel with silicon bases, which should provide stability and secure placement for the Kanto ORA 4 speakers. These stands also include a thread for screwing the unit into place, further enhancing user convenience.
Kanto Audio ORA 4 Desktop Speakers Main Specifications:
As for pricing and availability, the Kanto Audio ORA 4 desktop speakers are set to hit the market in April 2024, with a price tag of $399 / £349 per pair. Given their combination of power, versatility, and design, the ORA 4 speakers are poised to be a strong contender in the desktop speaker market.
