Studio Monitors

A wide range of studio monitor combinations are available, with a wide range of features and configurations to choose from. On the other hand, there are active studio monitors that have built-in amplifiers as well as passive studio monitors that rely on external amplifiers; nearfield studio monitors that have small low-frequency drivers as well as large studio monitors that have multiple drivers for mid and low frequencies. Some studio monitor models even include an onboard DSP for acoustic management capabilities. It is possible to find an advantage in any studio monitor style or configuration.

About Studio Monitors

Studio monitors placed on a speaker stand are must-have audio gear for today's musicians and audio professionals. Hooked up to your computer or digital audio workstation, studio monitors give you an accurate picture of what is going on with your music.

With a variety of configurations available, small low-frequency drivers and large studio monitors are used for mid and low frequencies, onboard DSP delivers precise frequency management and consistent sound output, style, and configuration of Studio Monitors.

Studio Monitor Size & Cabinet Configuration

Studio monitor manufacturers typically focus on two key aspects of the speaker, both of which ultimately determine the sonic quality of your recordings. The first is the characteristics of the driver assemblies and how they interact with your room. The other is a cabinet design and break-up modes in the bass frequencies.

These relate directly to how accurately you can perceive bass, lower mids, and treble detail. While each manufacturer’s cabinet is designed to minimize these effects, not all cabinets are created equal. While there are many trade-offs between price and quality for small studio monitors, there are three basic types: active reference monitors (which include models offered by Avantone and Genelec), small nearfield monitor systems that were popularized in the late ’70s by Yamaha’s NS-10, medium-sized models found in an upscale production house.

Powered vs. Passive Studio Monitors

Studio monitors are important for accurate mixing and mixing with a music monitor is preferred. There are two basic types of studio monitors: powered studio monitors, also known as active studio monitors, and unpowered studio monitors, also known as passive studio monitors.

Powered studio monitors feature active crossovers and multiple built-in amplifiers designed to provide ideal power to each individual speaker. In contrast, passive studio monitors are relatively rare today but some engineers swear by them and also require separate power amplifiers their lack of onboard electronics to ensure the desired amplifier's features can remain intact.

Subwoofers & Surround Sound Systems

Home recording enthusiasts know the importance of high-quality monitor speakers. Our range of studio monitors includes both active and passive models, so whether you’re an experienced or beginner music producer or engineer, you’ll find a suitable set of speakers for your needs.

Many of our monitors feature single or bi-amplified designs and can be connected to your main studio amplifier or a separate power amp via speaker cable. When used in conjunction with a subwoofer, these two-piece speaker systems allow you to monitor in stereo or surround sound.

Monitoring Headphones & Studio Monitor Management

Now that your home studio has a set of reference monitors, you can discover what a difference they make. Instead of just putting up with your headphones, you can use your studio monitors to audition mixes, without any effect on your neighbors! Check out the Dangerous Music Monitor ST or Mackie Big Knob series, both excellent studio monitor management systems suitable for even the smallest home studios.