Studio Monitor Speaker

What are some recommendations for a good set of powered monitor speakers for a home recording studio?

Q:

A: Like with anything, it really depends on your budget. For inexpensive ones, I like these Mackies:

http://www.zzounds.com/item–MACMR8

If you have the money:

http://www.zzounds.com/item–JBLLSR4328P

If you are rich:

http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/1038B/

If you are poor, these actually sound pretty good:

http://www.zzounds.com/item–BEHMS16

Yamaha MSP5 Powered Studio Monitor @ FrontEndAudio.com


Event Studio Precision 8 Active Studio Monitor (Pair) $1,499.00

Event Studio Precision 8 Active Studio Monitor (Pair)

Studio Precision monitors deliver a sound that’s much wider, much deeper, much more defined, and packed with much more low-end punch than mere mortal direct field monitors….

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Logic Express 9 Upgrade [Old Version] $99.00

Logic Express 9 Upgrade [Old Version]

Record, edit, and mix your music on a Mac using the new Logic Express 9. Open your GarageBand files and get right to work, or start from scratch with a new composition. Logic Express 9 is a guitar player’s dream, with Amp Designer and Pedalboard, two new plug-ins that re-create the sound of legendary amps and stompbox effect pedals. You can build your own amp model and try any combination …

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5 1/4” 300-Watt 2-Way Amplified Studio Monitor $127.73

5 1/4'' 300-Watt 2-Way Amplified Studio Monitor

5.25IN 300 WATT 2-WAY BASS RE-FLEX AMPLIFIED STUDI2-way stereo desktop monitor Built-in high amplifier, high frequency and low frequency filters 5 1/4” diameter glass fiber cone with magnetic shieldingHigh temperature voice coil 1” diameter silk dome tweeter with magnetic shieldingFrequency response: 55Hz – 20kHz Crossover frequency: 5kHz RCA, XLR-F and 1/4 inputs150 watts RMS and 300 watts pea…

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iKey-Audio M808 IKEY AUDIO 8 BI AMPED 90W SPKRS $285.99

iKey-Audio M808 IKEY AUDIO 8 BI AMPED 90W SPKRS

The M-808 studio monitor is a 8 in., 125 watt Bi-amplified unit that provides professional clarity and accuracy for super tight and distortion-free audio reproduction. Boasting an array of key components such as XLR/TRS/RCA connectors for superior connectivity options, an adjustable HF cut/boost control with a frequency range of 45Hz – 20kHz, volume control and slotted ports for reduced distortion…

Click here to learn more about iKey-Audio M808 IKEY AUDIO 8 BI AMPED 90W SPKRS


RaXXess ERSS36 Studio Monitor Stands $129.95

RaXXess ERSS36 Studio Monitor Stands

These monitor stands are ideal for any studio and are constructed of 3/4″ furniture grade hardboard, finished in a black oak laminate. The speaker platform and base are 12″ square. The bottom is easily removed to allow the 5″ center post to be filled with bagged sand for acoustical de-coupling. Sold in pairs, these stands are shipped knocked down in one box and assemble in minutes.

Click here to learn more about RaXXess ERSS36 Studio Monitor Stands


PreSonus Monitor Station Studio Control Center $299

PreSonus Monitor Station Studio Control Center

The PreSonus Monitor Station is the ultimate desktop monitoring and communications system for your recording studio. Based on the award-winning Central Station, the Monitor Station provides talkback, speaker switching, input source switching and four ultra loud and clear headphone amplifiers delivering everything you need to control your recording environment.

Click here to learn more about PreSonus Monitor Station Studio Control Center


Adam A5X Powered Studio Monitor $499

Adam A5X Powered Studio Monitor

The small A5 managed to make itself a big name in both professional environments as well as in computer or desktop applications. A wealth of truly outstanding reviews and many awards helped to establish this speaker as one “of the best small monitors” and a “great choice for the small studio.” (Future Music, 01/2009).

Click here to learn more about Adam A5X Powered Studio Monitor


Event 2020BAS Bi-Amped Powered Studio Monitor Speaker $449.5

Event 2020BAS Bi-Amped Powered Studio Monitor Speaker

Simply put, the 2020bas delivers exactly what you want in a reference monitor system: superbly clear, detailed sound. Flat, uncolored, accurate frequency response. Precise imaging.

Click here to learn more about Event 2020BAS Bi-Amped Powered Studio Monitor Speaker


JBL LSR2325P Powered Studio Monitor (85 Watts, 1×5 in.) $199

JBL LSR2325P Powered Studio Monitor (85 Watts, 1x5 in.)

The JBL LSR2325P Powered Studio Monitor is a bi-amplified 2-way model with a detented level control that allows fine adjustment of individual speaker levels to balance the speaker in your system. Low Frequency and High Frequency Trim controls let you tailor the speaker’s response to preference or room acoustics. A neoprene rubber pad on the bottom of the speaker provides acoustic isolation and increases stability when the speaker is placed on a speaker stand or a console top. Mounting points are included and the enclosure has been reinforced for safe mounting using industry-standard mounting hardware.

Click here to learn more about JBL LSR2325P Powered Studio Monitor (85 Watts, 1×5 in.)


ADAM Audio P33A-A Powered Studio Monitor A Speaker $1549

ADAM Audio P33A-A Powered Studio Monitor A Speaker

The P33A-A powered monitor from ADAM Audio is an excellent choice for recording enthusiasts who want the advantages of ADAM’s unique mirrored S3A design for less. Like the S3A, one woofer acts as a full-range driver with the second woofer joining it only below 150Hz. This unusual approach effectively doubles the area and power of the woofer when it needs to respond to deeper frequencies, resulting in an exceptional low end without compromising midrange performance.The P33A-A is a shielded near/midfield monitor and has three 100W amplifiers that deliver outstanding dynamic performance. It can be used either horizontally or vertically, so that very flexible positioning within the studio is possible.Accelerated Ribbon TechnologyThe A.R.T. (Accelerated Ribbon Technology) tweeters and midrange units take a completely new approach in kinematics to move air and improve the quality of music reproduction. Based on the original works of Dr. Oskar Heil, who invented his “Air Motion Transformer” back in 1972, new electroacoustic transducers have been developed that are based on improved layouts and new materials. The membrane consists of a lamella like folded diaphragm whose single folds move according to the alternate current, thus squeezing air in and out. All other loudspeaker drive units, whether they are voice coil driven, electrostatics, piezos or magnetostatics, act like a piston, moving air in a 1:1 ratio. This is undesirable, as the specific weight of air is much lower than that of the driving mechanics. Speaking in terms of electrical Engineering one could say there is a bad match between source and load. The A.R.T. principle achieves a 4:1 velocity transformation between driving diaphragm and driven air, i. e. the air moves in and out four times faster than the folds itself are moving. This superior “motor” is responsible for the enormous clarity and transient reproduction that is to be heard from the A.R.T. drive units.A.R.T. tweeters are superior in musical clarity and transient reproduction. They have an above average efficiency of ~93 dB/W/m, a perfectly linear impedance of 3.2 ± 0.05 Ohms, an equally perfect phase response of +/- 1 degree within the used bandwidth, a reasonable directivity characteristic and a thermal power handling that exceeds that of 1″ domes by a factor of 2 to 3. Summed up here is a completely new transducer that has no weaknesses in terms of operation, compatibility, reliability or other electroacoustic specifications. Looking back into loudspeaker history you will not find anything comparable.Note: The P33A-A designed to be a matched pair with the Adam Audio P33A-B (sold separately).

Click here to learn more about ADAM Audio P33A-A Powered Studio Monitor A Speaker


Behringer Behritone C5A Active Studio Monitor $99.99

Behringer Behritone C5A Active Studio Monitor

Behringer Behritone C5A full-range reference studio monitors let you hear what your mixes will sound like on real-world systems such as car stereos, computers, televisions, iPod stations and other bass-challenged systems. Each 6.5″ cube contains its own dedicated 30-Watt Class-D power amp and a specially designed 5-1/4″ full-range speaker for crystal-clear audio reproduction. Both models accept balanced XLR and 1/4″ TRS, as well as unbalanced RCA connections, and are magnetically shielded so they won’t disrupt your computer video monitors.

Click here to learn more about Behringer Behritone C5A Active Studio Monitor


Behringer Behritone C50A Active Studio Monitor $119.99

Behringer Behritone C50A Active Studio Monitor

Behringer Behritone C50A full-range reference studio monitors let you hear what your mixes will sound like on real-world systems such as car stereos, computers, televisions, iPod stations and other bass-challenged systems. Each 6.5″ cube contains its own dedicated 30-Watt Class-D power amp and a specially designed 5-1/4″ full-range speaker for crystal-clear audio reproduction. Both models accept balanced XLR and 1/4″ TRS, as well as unbalanced RCA connections, and are magnetically shielded so they won’t disrupt your computer video monitors.

Click here to learn more about Behringer Behritone C50A Active Studio Monitor


Tannoy Reveal 601a Active Studio Speaker $249

Tannoy Reveal 601a Active Studio Speaker

Whether you’re building a studio on a budget and don’t want to compromise on sonic quality, or you need an active monitor with a small footprint, the Reveal 601a offers the perfect solution. Built to the same superior standard as the rest of the new Reveal range, the Reveal 601a packs performance, accuracy and value into a compact enclosure. Priced competitively with the entry-level recording setup in mind, the all new Reveal 601a delivers a wide bandwidth performance that will impress even the most seasoned pro.

Click here to learn more about Tannoy Reveal 601a Active Studio Speaker


iKEY M-606 V2 Active Studio Monitor 886830091988 $152.96

iKEY M-606 V2 Active Studio Monitor  886830091988

The redesigned iKEY M-606 active studio monitor takes value-priced monitors to a new performance level. Including all the dynamics of the original M-Series the MV2 Series monitor features a refined sleek design inside and out that provides for better monitoring accuracy. Designed for class and built for power and precision, the MV2 Series monitor speaker easily produces a crisp and extensive range of frequencies, perfect for professional studios seeking versatile monitors. From small mixing environments to multichannel surround sound setups, this monitor speaker provides a truly professional level of accuracy, sonic clarity and transparency, giving you the ultimate combination of full range monitoring.

Click here to learn more about iKEY M-606 V2 Active Studio Monitor 886830091988


iKEY M-606 V2 Active Studio Monitor $179.95

iKEY M-606 V2 Active Studio Monitor

The redesigned iKEY M-606 active studio monitor takes value-priced monitors to a new performance level. Including all the dynamics of the original M-Series the MV2 Series monitor features a refined sleek design inside and out that provides for better monitoring accuracy. Designed for class and built for power and precision, the MV2 Series monitor speaker easily produces a crisp and extensive range of frequencies, perfect for professional studios seeking versatile monitors. From small mixing environments to multichannel surround sound setups, this monitor speaker provides a truly professional level of accuracy, sonic clarity and transparency, giving you the ultimate combination of full range monitoring.

Click here to learn more about iKEY M-606 V2 Active Studio Monitor


Used Yamaha Msp5 Studio Powered Studio Monitor $250.24

Used Yamaha Msp5 Studio Powered Studio Monitor

The Yamaha MSP5 STUDIO is a two-way bi-amplified bass reflex speaker system that delivers outstanding monitoring precision for digital or analog production in stereo or surround formats. The more compact dimensions of the MSP5 STUDIO make it an ideal monitor choice for smaller project studios and DAW based production systems. The MSP5 STUDIO features a 5-inch cone woofer driven by a 40-watt amplifier and a 1-inch dome tweeter driven by a 27-watt amplifier. The woofer and titanium-dome tweeter feature advanced magnetic structures that achieve exceptionally low distortion, and the tweeter works with a unique waveguide horn that achieves broad, uniform high frequency dispersion over 120 degrees for optimum balance regardless of listening position. Advanced driver and enclosure design – including the low-diffraction rounded baffle – also ensure smooth, uniform dispersion across the system’s full reproduction range. Flat frequency response out to 40kHz makes the MSP5 STUDIO great for mastering, where high sample and bit rates are the norm.Magnetically Shielded EnclosuresAlong with their compact size and excellent performance, full magnetic shielding allows the MSP5 STUDIO speakers to be positioned near all types of audio, video, and computer equipment without sound degradation or negative effects on surrounding equipment. Professional ConnectivityThe MSP5 STUDIO has a balanced XLR type input for direct compatibility with professional equipment. Balanced lines are ideal if the speakers are to be placed at the end of long cable runs which, if unbalanced, might be susceptible to hum and induced noise. The MSP5 STUDIO also offers an unbalanced 1/4″ phone jack connector.2-way bass-reflex bi-amplified near field studio monitor5″ cone woofer and 1″ titanium dome high-frequency unit delivers 50Hz- 40kHz frequency response67 watts (LF 40W + HF 27W) dynamic bi-amplified powerXLR balanced input and 1/4″ unbalanced input31 positions Level Control facilitates precise overall system level matching.TRIM Control(High/Low)Full magnetic shielding

Click here to learn more about Used Yamaha Msp5 Studio Powered Studio Monitor


Yamaha Msp5 Studio Powered Studio Monitor $274.99

Yamaha Msp5 Studio Powered Studio Monitor

The Yamaha MSP5 STUDIO is a two-way bi-amplified bass reflex speaker system that delivers outstanding monitoring precision for digital or analog production in stereo or surround formats. The more compact dimensions of the MSP5 STUDIO make it an ideal monitor choice for smaller project studios and DAW based production systems. The MSP5 STUDIO features a 5-inch cone woofer driven by a 40-watt amplifier and a 1-inch dome tweeter driven by a 27-watt amplifier. The woofer and titanium-dome tweeter feature advanced magnetic structures that achieve exceptionally low distortion, and the tweeter works with a unique waveguide horn that achieves broad, uniform high frequency dispersion over 120 degrees for optimum balance regardless of listening position. Advanced driver and enclosure design – including the low-diffraction rounded baffle – also ensure smooth, uniform dispersion across the system’s full reproduction range. Flat frequency response out to 40kHz makes the MSP5 STUDIO great for mastering, where high sample and bit rates are the norm.Magnetically Shielded EnclosuresAlong with their compact size and excellent performance, full magnetic shielding allows the MSP5 STUDIO speakers to be positioned near all types of audio, video, and computer equipment without sound degradation or negative effects on surrounding equipment. Professional ConnectivityThe MSP5 STUDIO has a balanced XLR type input for direct compatibility with professional equipment. Balanced lines are ideal if the speakers are to be placed at the end of long cable runs which, if unbalanced, might be susceptible to hum and induced noise. The MSP5 STUDIO also offers an unbalanced 1/4″ phone jack connector.2-way bass-reflex bi-amplified near field studio monitor5″ cone woofer and 1″ titanium dome high-frequency unit delivers 50Hz- 40kHz frequency response67 watts (LF 40W + HF 27W) dynamic bi-amplified powerXLR balanced input and 1/4″ unbalanced input31 positions Level Control facilitates precise overall system level matching.TRIM Control(High/Low)Full magnetic shielding

Click here to learn more about Yamaha Msp5 Studio Powered Studio Monitor


ADAM Audio P33A-B Powered Studio Monitor B Speaker Black $1749.5

ADAM Audio P33A-B Powered Studio Monitor B Speaker Black

The P33A-B Powered Studio Monitor is an excellent choice for recording enthusiasts who want the advantages of ADAM’s unique mirrored S3A design for less. Like the S3A, one woofer acts as a full-range driver with the second woofer joining it only below 150Hz. This unusual approach effectively doubles the area and power of the woofer when it needs to respond to deeper frequencies, resulting in an exceptional low end without compromising midrange performance.The P33A-B is a shielded near/midfield monitor and has three 100W amplifiers that deliver outstanding dynamic performance. It can be used either horizontally or vertically, so that very flexible positioning within the studio is possible.Accelerated Ribbon TechnologyThe A.R.T. (Accelerated Ribbon Technology) tweeters and midrange units take a completely new approach in kinematics to move air and improve the quality of music reproduction. Based on the original works of Dr. Oskar Heil, who invented his “Air Motion Transformer” back in 1972, new electroacoustic transducers have been developed that are based on improved layouts and new materials. The membrane consists of a lamella like folded diaphragm whose single folds move according to the alternate current, thus squeezing air in and out. All other loudspeaker drive units, whether they are voice coil driven, electrostatics, piezos or magnetostatics, act like a piston, moving air in a 1:1 ratio. This is undesirable, as the specific weight of air is much lower than that of the driving mechanics. Speaking in terms of electrical Engineering one could say there is a bad match between source and load. The A.R.T. principle achieves a 4:1 velocity transformation between driving diaphragm and driven air, i. e. the air moves in and out four times faster than the folds itself are moving. This superior “motor” is responsible for the enormous clarity and transient reproduction that is to be heard from the A.R.T. drive units.A.R.T. tweeters are superior in musical clarity and transient reproduction. They have an above average efficiency of ~93 dB/W/m, a perfectly linear impedance of 3.2 +/- 0.05 Ohms, an equally perfect phase response of ± 1 degree within the used bandwidth, a reasonable directivity characteristic and a thermal power handling that exceeds that of 1″ domes by a factor of 2 to 3. Summed up here is a completely new transducer that has no weaknesses in terms of operation, compatibility, reliability or other electroacoustic specifications. Looking back into loudspeaker history you will not find anything comparable.Note: The P33A-B designed to be a matched pair with the Adam Audio P33A-A (sold separately).

Click here to learn more about ADAM Audio P33A-B Powered Studio Monitor B Speaker Black


Adam Audio P33a-B Powered Studio Monitor B Speaker Black $1749.5

Adam Audio P33a-B Powered Studio Monitor B Speaker Black

The P33A-B Powered Studio Monitor is an excellent choice for recording enthusiasts who want the advantages of ADAM’s unique mirrored S3A design for less. Like the S3A, one woofer acts as a full-range driver with the second woofer joining it only below 150Hz. This unusual approach effectively doubles the area and power of the woofer when it needs to respond to deeper frequencies, resulting in an exceptional low end without compromising midrange performance.The P33A-B is a shielded near/midfield monitor and has three 100W amplifiers that deliver outstanding dynamic performance. It can be used either horizontally or vertically, so that very flexible positioning within the studio is possible.Accelerated Ribbon TechnologyThe A.R.T. (Accelerated Ribbon Technology) tweeters and midrange units take a completely new approach in kinematics to move air and improve the quality of music reproduction. Based on the original works of Dr. Oskar Heil, who invented his “Air Motion Transformer” back in 1972, new electroacoustic transducers have been developed that are based on improved layouts and new materials. The membrane consists of a lamella like folded diaphragm whose single folds move according to the alternate current, thus squeezing air in and out. All other loudspeaker drive units, whether they are voice coil driven, electrostatics, piezos or magnetostatics, act like a piston, moving air in a 1:1 ratio. This is undesirable, as the specific weight of air is much lower than that of the driving mechanics. Speaking in terms of electrical Engineering one could say there is a bad match between source and load. The A.R.T. principle achieves a 4:1 velocity transformation between driving diaphragm and driven air, i. e. the air moves in and out four times faster than the folds itself are moving. This superior “motor” is responsible for the enormous clarity and transient reproduction that is to be heard from the A.R.T. drive units.A.R.T. tweeters are superior in musical clarity and transient reproduction. They have an above average efficiency of ~93 dB/W/m, a perfectly linear impedance of 3.2 +/- 0.05 Ohms, an equally perfect phase response of 1 degree within the used bandwidth, a reasonable directivity characteristic and a thermal power handling that exceeds that of 1″ domes by a factor of 2 to 3. Summed up here is a completely new transducer that has no weaknesses in terms of operation, compatibility, reliability or other electroacoustic specifications. Looking back into loudspeaker history you will not find anything comparable.Note: The P33A-B designed to be a matched pair with the Adam Audio P33A-A (sold separately).

Click here to learn more about Adam Audio P33a-B Powered Studio Monitor B Speaker Black


Yamaha Msp7 Studio Powered Studio Monitor $399.99

Yamaha Msp7 Studio Powered Studio Monitor

No matter where the Yamaha MSP7 Powered Monitor Studio monitors are used, and with what sources or other audio gear, you know that you’re always receiving the benefits of a perfectly matched power amplifier and speaker system. You’ll hear the difference. You’ll also benefit from the convenience of not having to deal with external amplifiers and cabling. By integrating and matching the power amplifiers and speakers, the relationship between them can be kept under perfect control for superior performance in the widest possible range of systems. Naturally the power amplifiers themselves are of the finest quality and, unlike component power amplifiers that must be designed for acceptable matching with the widest possible range of speakers, are designed and manufactured specifically to drive the MSP7 system’s woofer and tweeter in their specific enclosure. Advanced bi-amp designWith the MSP7 STUDIO everything you need is built-in — all you have to do is supply the line-level input. The 6.5 inch cone woofer is driven by an 80-watt power amplifier, while the 1 inch dome tweeter has its own 50-watt power amplifier. In the MSP7 STUDIO this particular power and driver combination results in the perfect balance between the low-mid and high frequency ranges. The frequency ranges are divided via a carefully designed electronic crossover before the power amplifier inputs, featuring steep 30-dB/octave roll-off curves in both the low- and high-pass filters. The steep roll-off minimizes inter-modulation between the frequency bands at the crossover point, achieving significantly smoother, cleaner crossover performance in the critical midrange. And the fact that the crossover is a line-level electronic design completely eliminates the loss, distortion, and sometimes severe inter-modulation that are almost unavoidable in conventional passive crossover networks driven by a single power amplifier.Details that define superior performanceThe MSP7 STUDIO woofer and tweeter units feature some important design innovations that contribute directly to improved sound quality. The 6.5 inch woofer, for example, features a specially treated polypropylene cone with low-damping rubber surrounds for exceptionally smooth response. Low-reflection high-rigidity die-cast magnesium baskets both maximize mechanical precision while minimizing unwanted coloration of the speaker’s output. The 1 inch tweeters feature titanium domes that offer the perfect combination of light weight and rigidity for precise reproduction right up to 40 kHz. The tweeters have a powerful magnetic circuit that results in extremely fast response for crisp, natural transients, and are integrated with a waveguide that achieves uniform high frequency dispersion of 120 degrees. But precision manufacturing makes a huge contribution to performance as well as basic materials and design. The slightest eccentricity in the alignment of the tweeter domes and waveguides, for example, can seriously affect performance. So c

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Behringer B2030A Active Studio Monitor $327.95

Behringer B2030A Active Studio Monitor

The TRUTH B2030A has all of the great features of an active TRUTH monitor packed in a compact cabinet! It’s a high-resolution, active 2-way reference studio monitor that is perfect for nearfield monitoring applications: from small mixing environments to multi-channel surround setups.

Click here to learn more about Behringer B2030A Active Studio Monitor

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