Ranking the best studio monitors for 2022

Studio monitors are full-fledged acoustic systems, characterized by an amplitude frequency of ideal smoothness. By means of such devices, professional recording studios are equipped, in which the quality of the transmitted sound is important. Similar amplitudes can be applied to home theaters.

Features of choice

Based on the design features, such devices are divided into two types: active and passive. The first from the second will differ in the presence of a built-in amplifier. If you plan to purchase only passive elements, then you should additionally purchase a high-quality amplifier. There are plenty of admirers of both passive and active installations. It is impossible to determine with accuracy which of the designs is better. In passive, there are no extra elements. Active ones are more expensive, but amplifiers are provided with them, which makes the sound quality of the selected model as suitable as possible.

It should also be noted that studio settings differ in the degree of action: far, medium and near. A distinctive feature will be the dimensions of the selected devices.

To equip a home studio, you should consider the quadrature of the selected room. In small rooms, it is recommended to install models up to 8 inches (short range). Also, it will not be superfluous to take care of high-quality sound insulation.

	pros	Minuses
Active	1. Does not burn out over time, as the circuitry used undergoes serious checks. 2. Fine-tuning option, which will allow you to set the necessary parameters based on the characteristics of the room used. 3. The amplifier is included. 4. Abundance of analog and digital inputs. 5. Scope.	1. The sound engineer will not be able to control the volume from the workplace. 2. The complexity of subsequent repairs. 3. The abundance of wires.
Passive	1. Hardware volume control. 2. Thoughtful acoustic space. 3. Quick search for a breakdown and its further elimination. 4. There are no extra elements. 5. Equipped with signal wire only. 6. Easy to install.	1. Immobility after installation. 2. Only line and acoustic input is provided. 3. Auxiliary path of the reinforced type will be required.

Varieties of studio monitors

What are studio monitors? Professional studios are equipped with three lines of designs, which consist of near, mid and far fields. Depending on the destination, their subsequent location will be determined. Ceiling structures or near field monitors are considered to be one of the most sought after models on the market today. It is such a product that is better to buy for arranging the desktop of a sound engineer. With their help, a person can mount and mix tracks, as well as working phonograms. They do an excellent job of transmitting both high and medium frequencies.

Mid-field elements are used to create special (professional) acoustic effects. Up close, they are hard to hear, but they allow you to work with low frequencies that are not heard from nearby devices. There is a separate category of devices on the market that will allow you to transfer created phonograms to external drives (carriers). To mix an album or songs, you will need far-field products. They work at all existing frequencies and any volume. Such devices are used to equip large studios that specialize in transferring records to various media or their subsequent reproduction.

It should be noted that when creating your own studio at home, preference is given to near monitors (low-frequency devices) and combined models, which are very popular.It is also worth understanding that for mounting such monitors, you will need a number of auxiliary damping racks that will be responsible for preventing vibrations or damping them. This will prevent both the formation of vibrations and extraneous noise in the process of listening to the recording.

Criterias of choice

Many experts lay out recommendations on how to choose a device worthy of attention and which company is better. You can first review the rating of quality products, read user reviews. Choice advice is the right thing to do. But, nevertheless, it is necessary to rely on individual preferences. The best product is the one you're passionate about, regardless of how much it costs or whether it's in the top-selling category.

But there are some nuances that are worth listening to, and they are as follows:

1. Choose a few tunes that you know thoroughly. Try to keep them in the same style and genre with which to work. The quality must be top notch. Recordings should be transferred to a CD - disk. A flash drive will do. Take your devices to the store with you. It will not be superfluous to test discs, thanks to which you can understand the features of playback that are not subject to ordinary hearing.
2. Choose a place to place structures. Take a tape measure, clean sheets of paper and pencils as helpers. Draw a schematic plan of the room. Take measurements of all parameters: between products and the wall, between each monitor, operator and listeners. If you have to install elements in close proximity to the wall, then you should give preference to the front location of the phase inverter.If there is a distance of 30 - 40 centimeters from the wall, you can take devices with a rear phase inverter, which will allow you to calculate the possibility of the highest quality bass study.
3. Pay attention to the type of monitor. Popular firms produce desktop, floor, medium and near field models. It is worth remembering that there are differences in the location of the phase inverter, power, the presence or absence of the necessary interface connectors and regulators. Design solutions also vary. In order to avoid mistakes when choosing a product, it is necessary to evaluate its mass. When it comes to rating devices, they have significant weight. It all depends on the quality of the material used in the manufacture. It is worth noting that a large weight does not have as much resonance when playing bass. The device will not bounce or move from the set location. When a surface unevenness is detected, the light system, under the influence of vibration, will begin to move involuntarily and end up on the floor.
4. According to buyers, when choosing products, you should pay special attention to the functionality, appearance and main characteristics. Output power does not play a special role. There is no need for maximum volume. Sound tones will be felt at 30 - 50 watts. The most optimal power relative to nearby monitors is within 100 watts.
5. If, when playing a melody in a store, unheard-of early shades are heard, it may be worth giving preference to this model. In the absence of an interesting sound, it is necessary to raise the question of choosing a more sensitive product.

Rating of the best inexpensive models

Axelvox PM - 5 A

Belongs to the category of studio monitors of the new series. Corner models that belong to the budget price segment.Unlike most products on the market, they come in pairs in this set. It is recommended to use when arranging a small recording studio due to the compact dimensions of the installation. The developers were especially successful in maximizing the sound frequencies and detailing the high and medium ranges by adapting the mid/bass drivers. Evenness on the applied ranges can be achieved by setting the frequency response parameters. With the tasks set, namely the work with high frequencies, the designs cope excellently. There is an option to separate filters. The weight of the set is 11 kg.

The average price is 12570 rubles.

• 75W;
• price;
• dimensions;
• Possibility to set up a small studio.

• basses can hardly be called flawless.

KRK ROKIT 5 G3

Easy to use and inexpensive fixture, which is considered a popular product from the eminent manufacturer KRK. Two-lane design for 50W near field development. The slotted phase inverter has undergone significant changes. Guarantees improved transmission of low frequencies. The maximum SPL has undergone B and A class upgrades. Gives out 106 dB and operates in the range of 45-36 thousand Hz. The Bi-amping option deserves special attention, which is responsible for amplifying and separating the upper and lower ranges. High quality MDF is used to make the case. The weight of the set is 5.9 kg, with dimensions of 18.8x28.4x24.6 cm.

Price - 13200 rubles.

• design;
• shielding;
• auto shutdown;
• wide range;
• clean mids and tops;
• assembly.

• factory marriage is not uncommon.

Pioneer S-DJ50X

Popular model from the legendary manufacturer. The build quality is felt, even though the design belongs to the middle price segment. Recommended for arranging the office of producers and DJs. The kit puts out 80 watts. Element dimensions - 1 inch (HF) and 5 inches (LF). A characteristic feature is the presence of convex type diffusers and a soft dome. It should be noted that the manufacturer has successfully integrated the DECO technology, which was previously only seen in top models. It has become easier to control the upper frequencies, due to the spatial direction of the diffusers.

The membranes contain reinforced fiber, which favorably affects the characteristics of the front low-frequency reflection system. Regardless of the set volume, the playback quality will be amazing. The port for the phase inverter is located on the front side of the case. Only standard connectors are used. The system will automatically enter standby mode after 25 minutes of complete inactivity. The weight of the kit will be 6.5 kg, with dimensions of 19.7x30.1x26.2 cm.

Price - 14500 rubles.

• auto-off option;
• high-quality bass;
• sound;
• top manufacturer.

• there is no bass adjustment.

Behringer Truth B 2031 A

Products from the German manufacturer are famous for their quality and functionality. Phase inverter active monitor of two-way type. High-quality materials are used in the manufacture: Kevlar is designed for the woofer with a membrane, the chassis is made of aluminum, cast under high pressure. High resolution 2" ribbon emitter.The presence of a dual amplification system to increase the power rating. To achieve the most even frequency response, the manufacturer performs manual correction during the assembly process. The protocol of measurement is attached to each copy.

Monitor with a rated power of 140 watts, a maximum of 265 watts. A possible sound pressure indicator is 116 dB SPL. Bass and treble are supported separately. Magnetic protection is present. Product weight - 15 kg with parameters 25 * 40 * 29 cm.

The average price is 16264 rubles.

• separation filters for adjusting the sound in manual mode are conveniently placed;
• excellent detailing of subtle shades;
• Kevlar membrane;
• price-quality ratio.

• auto-off threshold is too high.

Devices of the middle price segment

Yamaha H S 8

Who is not familiar with a Japanese company with a worldwide reputation. Its products are sold in huge quantities all over the world. It is also known in our country. It differs from its counterparts in the type of dynamic heads. Twitter size is inch. There are white polypropylene woofer cones. The metal grill on the domed fabric tweeter prevents mechanical damage. The adjustment is carried out by means of two switches: the sensitivity regulator and the cutoff frequency of the filters. The high frequency can be reduced with the High Trim switch.

Amplification power indicator 120 W. Playback of sounds in the range from 38 to 30000 Hz. Moreover, high and low frequencies can be amplified separately. LF - emitter at 203.2 mm, tweeter - 25 mm. To connect the device, TRS and XLR connectors are provided. The case is made of MDF.Design parameters - 25 * 39 * 33.4 cm. Product weight - 10.2 kg.

The purchase price is 23,900 rubles.

• sound purity;
• improved range;
• modern design;
• intelligibility and clarity of the middle;
• functionality;
• durability;
• build quality.

• not found.

JBL LSR 308

The American manufacturer did his best and launched the production of quality products at an affordable price. Acoustics and audio equipment at height. The monitor is active, two-way, near field. The total power is 112 watts. The production uses its own innovative Image Control Waveguide technology. It helps to maintain sound quality even in large auditoriums, without spatial distortion.

The undoubted advantages of the model include:

• accurate sound picture;
• the distinctness of the imaginary center;
• the presence of special switches to select the input sensitivity;
• bass and treble can be adjusted.

The device is equipped with 8 and 1 inch neodymium speakers. Sound pressure - 112 dB SPL. The amplification power of HF and LF is 56 watts each. Dimensions: 25.4 * 41.9 * 30.8 cm, weight - 8.6 kg, excluding packaging.

On the shelves, the product is set at a price of 23,990 rubles.

• flatness of the frequency response;
• sound field uniformity;
• high detail;
• acceptable cost;
• wide radiation pattern.

• The tweeter emits a slight hiss that can not be heard in complete silence.

Focal Alpha 80

Products from the French manufacturer. It is considered the flagship in its line. Equipped with a near-field monitor, active, two-way.High frequencies and minimal equalization defects are obtained by equipping a one-inch inverter tweeter made of aluminum and having a dome membrane. Conical woofer - an eight-inch speaker. In its manufacture, reinforced fiberglass and high-quality polymers are used. The peculiarity of the device lies in the unique design of the bass display. Sound pressure rating - 109 dB with a range of 35 - 22000 Hz. Possibility to adjust separately in high and low frequencies. Support for AutoStandby mode. Individual product features include:

• low directivity, allowing you to evenly distribute sound throughout the room;
• the presence of neutrality without distortion;
• low and high volumes with the same sound balance;
• lack of sensitivity to wall effects;
• optimal acoustic integration;
• You can connect multiple sources.

Product weight - 12.8 kg, dimensions - 28.7 * 39.7 * 34.8 cm. Color - black vinyl. In the manufacture of the case, high-quality MDF 15 cm thick is used.

The goods are sold at a price of 41,300 rubles.

• sound quality;
• the clarity of the attack;
• price-quality ratio;
• perfect high-frequency detail;
• sleep mode.

• missing.

Premium segment products

Genelec 8030 A

It is difficult to call the acquisition a novelty. Produced by a famous Finnish company. Despite the compactness of the near-field monitor, it has sufficient power. A frequent guest in professional studios. They equip workstations and installations with surround sound.In the manufacture of the case, a special innovative patented Minimum Diffraction Enclosure technology is used. The corners of the body are rounded. Visually observed curvature of the sides and the front panel, which makes it possible to nullify the interference from the return signal. The frequency response is flat. The sound is high quality.

The main difference is the use of a progressive phase inverter design. The body of the improved type, is made of aluminum. The surface is matte. Airflow is optimized. The waveguides used are brand name Genelec Directivity Control Waveguide. The device is equipped with a protective mesh with individual acoustic optimization.

The model has full magnetic shielding. The electronic circuits are equipped with overload protection. Produces a maximum power of 80 watts. The maximum sound pressure indicator is 108 dB SPL with a range of 58 - 20000 Hz. Crossover with a frequency of 3 kHz. High-frequency emitter 253.4 mm, low-frequency - 127 mm. A small weight of 5.6 kg allows you to attach it to the wall. For these purposes, the manufacturer provides special mounts on the rear panel and an additional thread on the bottom. The device can also be installed on the floor. Equipped with an Iso - Pod stand, which helps to align the product with high quality, making the sound perfect.

The average cost is 45144 rubles.

• high level of detail;
• control on the frontal area;
• compactness;
• the quality of the bottoms;
• in finishing from shade.

• not installed.

Mackie HR824

The cost of the model compared to the previous version is almost three times lower. As for the functionality, it clearly loses.But the system is more than worthy. Experts note excellent quality and great opportunities. Belongs to the category of two-way studio monitors. Outputs surround and stereo mixing. Creates high resolution audio for modern video games and movies. There is an 8.75" woofer. The level of distortion is minimal. The dome tweeter is made of titanium. Gives a realistic sound, regardless of the reproduced frequency spectrum.

Built-in 250W amplifiers guarantee high performance. Wide coverage is provided by the presence of the most optimized waveguide. There is high-quality internal damping. It is compatible with a variety of professional-grade equipment. The connection is made via TRS, RCA and XLR connectors, the location of which is the rear panel. High- and low-pass filters are adjusted separately.

Low-frequency radiation with a size of 222 mm, high-frequency radiation - 25.4 mm. The peak sound pressure indicator is 120 dB SPL in the range of 39 - 20000 Hz. The resistance value is 6 ohms. To connect to a standard amplifier, a 6.3 mm jack is required. Line and balanced inputs are available. System dimensions 42.7 * 27.4 * 35.1 cm with a weight of 15.7 kg.

You can buy the product at a price of 77,900 rubles.

• bass quality;
• excellent detail;
• ideal microdynamics;
• prompt response to an impulse;
• The best ratio of price and quality.

• missing.

Adam A 8 X

This product is designed and manufactured in Germany. It has no equal in quality. Belongs to the category of active two-way near-field monitors. The total power indicator is 200 watts.Assignment to the near field is considered not quite correct. Due to its power and excellent qualities, it can be used on the middle field. So say many experts in this field. The indisputable advantage of the model is the ideal ratio of cost and quality.

The general product description is as follows. It has an X-ART tweeter, a 56 mm aperture. 220mm woofer. Appearance is attractive. Beautiful beveled corners on the case look perfect. It has nothing to do with design. The design is made to minimize interference from the reflective signal. The front panel is equipped with a double phase inverter.

It differs from its counterparts in the presence of two amplifiers: 50 W (high ribbon radiator) and 150 W (midwoofer). The peak sound indicator reaches 120 dB SPL with a range of 38 - 50,000 Hz. Crossover with a frequency of 2.3 kHz. Possibility to adjust bass and treble separately. There is overload protection inside. The rear panel is equipped with balanced and line inputs. Nearby are equalizing filters in the amount of two pieces. Parameters: 25.5 * 40 * 32 cm, weight without box - 13 kg.

Specialized retail outlets offer products at a price of 79,920 rubles.

• impeccable sound balance;
• phase inverters are located in the front;
• the microdynamics of the ribbon tweeter is excellent;
• can be placed both vertically and horizontally.

• there is no magnetic protection, but this does not bother everyone.

Focal SM 9

Among professionals, it is considered the standard of studio systems. The composition includes not one, but several elements located in one housing.One is a two-way type, the other is a three-way type. The best manufacturers categorize the design as a reference monitor due to the presence of an ideal stereo picture in all respects. Allows you to effortlessly reproduce the elusive moments of sound signals. Both the main and auxiliary structures in the Focus mode can function in the final stages of mixing in two modes in turn.

Beryllium is used in the manufacture of the inverted driver dome. Passive bass - 11" sound. As for the emitters, they are made of a three-layer material: glass - foam - plastic. To adjust the system to the specific dimensions of the room, there is an adjustment of seven components. The sensitivity can also be adjusted. Three class AB amplifiers have a power of 600 watts.

The sound division index is 116 dB SPL. The range of reproducible frequencies is 30 - 40000 Hz. High-frequency emitter with a power of 100 W with parameters of 25 mm, mid-frequency with a size of 165 mm - 100 W, low-frequency with 203 mm - 400 W. Bass and treble can be adjusted. This also applies to the crossover frequency. Product dimensions: 49*32*39 cm. Weight - 35 kg. Produced exclusively in black. Removable grille included.

The average price is 236,000 rubles.

• impeccable processing of the scene;
• significant power;
• naturalness of timbres;
• two devices in one case;
• unobtrusive and deep bass;
• durability;
• functionality.

• the cost is skyrocketing.

Conclusion

Monitors are a very individual element.The choice should be made on the basis of not only personal preferences, but also the dimensions of the equipped room. You should also focus on the style of the recorded music. The list of general recommendations is as follows:

1. During installation, it is necessary to adhere to the principle of an equilateral triangle.
2. To create a high-quality near field, the speakers are placed side by side, and not placed in the corners.
3. The parameters of the equipped premises are taken into account.
4. Size matters. Often used 5.6 and 8 inch devices. 4 and 7 are extremely rare.

Every modern recording studio, regardless of whether it is amateur or professional, must be equipped according to certain rules. However, such premises cannot do without such structures as studio monitors. Compared to conventional speakers, they are characterized by a correct and clear sound. This is an excellent solution if mistakes were made during the recording process, which can be immediately identified. They make it possible to create surround stereo sound, which helps to improve the sound background.