Kanto REN 200W Powered Speaker System User Manual

1. Introduction

Welcome to the Kanto REN 200W Powered Speaker System. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your new speakers. Please read these instructions carefully to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your product.

Front view of the Kanto REN 200W Powered Speakers in Matte White, showcasing their minimalist design.

2. Product Overview and Features

The Kanto REN is a high-performance powered speaker system designed to deliver clear and dynamic audio. It features a 1-inch silk dome tweeter and a 5.25-inch aluminum concave cone woofer, powered by a 200W peak (100W RMS) Class D amplifier. The system offers a frequency response of 50 Hz to 22 kHz.

Key Features:

• HDMI ARC with CEC: Enables seamless integration with your TV, allowing for automatic power-on and control with your TV remote.
• True Stereo Sound: Provides a wide soundstage and precise audio imaging.
• Vocal Boost and Night Mode: DSP-controlled sound modes to enhance dialogue clarity and soften loud effects for late-night listening.
• Bass Management: Automatic 80 Hz high/low pass filter when a subwoofer is connected, optimizing sound distribution.
• Versatile Connectivity: Includes HDMI ARC, USB-C, Bluetooth 5.3, RCA, Optical (TOSLINK), and 3.5mm AUX inputs.
• USB Charge Port: Conveniently power network streamers or smart home devices.

Close-up of the Kanto REN active speaker's front, highlighting the 1-inch silk dome tweeter, 5.25-inch aluminum concave cone woofer, and the integrated volume/input control knob.

3. What's in the Box

Upon unpacking your Kanto REN speaker system, please ensure all the following components are present:

• Kanto REN Powered Speakers (Active and Passive)
• Remote Control
• Speaker Wire
• Power Cord
• Magnetic Grilles
• 8 Adhesive Rubber Feet
• Quick Start Guide

Visual representation of the Kanto REN speaker system's included accessories.

4. Setup

4.1 Speaker Placement

For optimal stereo imaging, place the speakers equidistant from your listening position and spaced appropriately apart. Ensure the active speaker (with controls and inputs) is connected to a power outlet and the passive speaker is connected to the active speaker.

Example of Kanto REN speakers positioned on stands in a living room for an immersive audio experience.

4.2 Connecting the Speakers

1. Connect the included speaker wire from the SPEAKER OUT terminals on the active speaker to the SPEAKER IN terminals on the passive speaker. Ensure correct polarity (red to red, black to black).
2. Connect the power cord to the active speaker and then to a wall outlet.
3. Flip the power switch on the rear of the active speaker to the ON position. The LED indicator on the front will illuminate.

4.3 Input Connections

The Kanto REN offers multiple input options. Choose the appropriate connection for your audio source:

• HDMI ARC: For connecting to a TV with an HDMI ARC port.
• USB-C: For connecting to computers or other USB-C audio sources.
• Bluetooth 5.3: For wireless connection to smartphones, tablets, and other Bluetooth-enabled devices.
• RCA: For analog audio sources like turntables (with a pre-amp) or CD players.
• Optical (TOSLINK): For digital audio sources like TVs, gaming consoles, or media players.
• 3.5mm AUX: For connecting portable devices with a headphone jack.

Detailed view of the Kanto REN active speaker's rear panel, showing all available input and output connections.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Power On/Off and Volume Control

• To power on or off, press the Power button on the remote control or the volume knob on the active speaker.
• Adjust volume using the Volume +/- buttons on the remote or by rotating the volume knob.

5.2 Input Selection

Select your desired audio source using the dedicated input buttons on the remote control (AUX, RCA, HDMI, Bluetooth, USB, OPT) or by pressing the volume knob on the active speaker to cycle through inputs.

5.3 Bluetooth Pairing

1. Select the Bluetooth input on the speakers. The front LED will flash blue.
2. On your device, enable Bluetooth and search for "Kanto REN".
3. Select "Kanto REN" to pair. The LED will turn solid blue once connected.
4. To reset Bluetooth pairing, press and hold the Bluetooth Reset button on the remote.

5.4 HDMI ARC Functionality

When connected to a TV's HDMI ARC port, the Kanto REN speakers can automatically power on/off with the TV and be controlled by the TV's remote for volume adjustments. Ensure HDMI CEC is enabled in your TV's audio settings.

5.5 Sound Modes (Vocal Boost & Night Mode)

The Kanto REN features DSP-controlled sound modes:

• Night Mode: Reduces dynamic range, softening loud sound effects for comfortable late-night viewing without disturbing others.
• Vocal Boost: Enhances dialogue clarity, making speech easier to understand.

To activate these modes, press the Sound Modes button on the remote control. Press once for Night Mode, and a second time for Vocal Boost. A third press will return to normal audio mode.

5.6 Bass Management

If a subwoofer is connected to the SUB output, the Kanto REN automatically applies an 80 Hz high/low pass filter. This sends frequencies below 80 Hz to the subwoofer and allows the main speakers to focus on mid-range and high frequencies, reducing distortion and improving overall sound quality.

Kanto REN speakers integrated with a subwoofer for enhanced bass performance.

5.7 Remote Control Functions

The included remote control provides full command over your Kanto REN speakers:

Detailed layout of the Kanto REN remote control with all button functions labeled.

• Power Button: Standby On/Off.
• Sound Modes: Cycles through Normal, Night Mode, and Vocal Boost.
• Bass Control (+/-): Adjusts bass levels.
• Treble Control (+/-): Adjusts treble levels.
• Volume Control (+/-): Adjusts overall volume.
• Bass Reset: Resets bass to default.
• Treble Reset: Resets treble to default.
• Mute: Mutes/unmutes audio.
• Input Select Buttons (AUX, RCA, HDMI, Bluetooth, USB, OPT): Directly select audio source.
• LED Brightness Adjust: Adjusts the brightness of the front LED indicator.
• Sub Mute: Mutes/unmutes the connected subwoofer.
• Bluetooth Reset: Resets Bluetooth pairing.
• Playback Controls (Previous, Play/Pause, Next): Controls media playback in Bluetooth mode.

6. Maintenance

To maintain the appearance and performance of your Kanto REN speakers, follow these guidelines:

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the speaker cabinets. Avoid abrasive cleaners, waxes, or solvents.
• Grilles: The magnetic grilles can be removed for cleaning or if you prefer the aesthetic without them. Handle gently to avoid damage.
• Placement: Avoid placing speakers in direct sunlight, near heat sources, or in areas with high humidity. Ensure adequate ventilation around the speakers.
• Connections: Periodically check all cable connections to ensure they are secure.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Kanto REN speakers, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

7.1 No Power / No Sound

• Ensure the power cord is securely connected to both the speaker and a working wall outlet.
• Verify the power switch on the rear of the active speaker is in the ON position.
• Check that the volume is not set to minimum or muted.
• Confirm the correct input source is selected.
• Ensure the speaker wire connecting the active and passive speakers is correctly and securely attached.

7.2 Bluetooth Connection Issues

• Ensure the speakers are in Bluetooth pairing mode (flashing blue LED).
• Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your source device and it is within range.
• Try resetting the Bluetooth connection on both the speakers (using the remote) and your source device.
• If previously paired, try forgetting "Kanto REN" on your device and re-pairing.

7.3 HDMI ARC Problems

• Ensure your TV's HDMI ARC port is used and that HDMI CEC (Consumer Electronics Control) is enabled in your TV's audio settings. The specific name for CEC may vary by TV brand (e.g., Anynet+, Bravia Sync, SimpLink).
• Try disconnecting and reconnecting the HDMI cable.
• Restart both the TV and the speakers.
• Confirm the TV's audio output is set to HDMI ARC or external speakers.

7.4 Sound Mode Behavior (Vocal Boost / Night Mode)

The order of sound modes when pressing the Sound Modes button on the remote is: Normal > Night Mode > Vocal Boost > Normal. If you experience unexpected behavior, ensure you are pressing the button sequentially to reach the desired mode. Note that Vocal Boost may reduce subwoofer output as it focuses on vocal frequencies.

7.5 Subwoofer Integration

For optimal bass performance, especially in larger rooms or for specific content, connecting an external powered subwoofer is recommended. The Kanto REN automatically manages the crossover at 80 Hz when a subwoofer is detected, ensuring balanced sound.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

The Kanto REN 200W Powered Speaker System comes with a 2-year manufacturer warranty. For warranty claims, technical support, or any questions not covered in this manual, please contact Kanto customer support directly. Refer to the official Kanto website for the most up-to-date contact information.