Welcome to the world of professional audio mixing and mastering! In this blog post we delve deep into the heart of every home studio: the studio speakers and monitoring monitors. Why are they so crucial for your productions and which models will perform particularly well in 2024? Stay tuned if you want to discover the secret behind crystal clear sound!
What makes a studio speaker?
Studio speakers, often referred to as monitoring monitors, differ fundamentally from conventional hi-fi speakers. Your main goal? Pure, precise sound reproduction. Unlike hi-fi speakers, which often “beautify” the sound, studio monitors give an honest look into your mixes. This allows you to make fine-tuning adjustments that add the finishing touches to your productions.
Why do you need studio speakers and monitoring monitors in your home studio?
The answer is simple: to achieve professional audio quality. Whether you're producing music, recording podcasts, or editing sound for videos, accurate sound reproduction is crucial. It allows you to make mixing decisions based on what's actually there - not what your speakers add or leave out.
The best studio speakers & monitoring monitors 2024 for home studios
Quick overview:
- Presonus Eris E5
- KRK Rokit 5
- ADAM Audio T7V
- Yamaha HS7
- Neumann KH 120 II
- Genelec 1032 CPM
- HEDD Audio Type 07 MK2
- KS Digital C5 Reference
Presonus Eris E5
The Presonus Eris E5 speakers are characterized by a 5.25" Kevlar bass-midrange driver and a 1" silk dome tweeter capsule. They offer a frequency response of 53 Hz to 22 kHz, providing excellent clarity across the entire spectrum. With an output of 45W for the low frequency range and 35W for the high frequency range, they deliver a balanced and powerful reproduction. They also have acoustic adjustment options on the back to adapt the sound to different rooms.
With their compact dimensions, the Eris E5 easily fit on almost any desk or in smaller studio setups. Their size makes them an ideal choice for near-field monitoring in confined spaces.
- Type: Near Field Monitor
- Price: Click here to see the current price at Thomann. *(affiliate link)
KRK Rokit 5 G4
The KRK Rokit 5 G4 has a 5" glass aramid mid-bass driver and a 1" glass aramid tweeter capsule, paired with an integrated Class D amplifier for bass and treble. A special feature is the DSP-controlled room correction with 25 graphic EQ presets that enable adjustment to the acoustics of your room. Their frequency range extends from 43 Hz to 40 kHz.
Known for its size to fit in most home studio environments, the Rokit 5 G4 delivers impressive sound despite its compact dimensions.
- Type: Near Field Monitor
- Price: Click here to see the current price at Thomann. *(affiliate link)
ADAM Audio T7V
The ADAM Audio T7V features a 7" polypropylene woofer and ADAM's renowned U-ART tweeter, making it quite unique for its size. The T7V monitors offer a frequency response of 39 Hz to 25 kHz and feature a 50W Class D amplifier for the woofer and a 20W Class D amplifier for the tweeter.
The slightly larger 7" woofer configuration compared to other models on this list means the T7V offers more low-frequency output, making it a good choice for genres with emphasized bass response.
- Type: Near Field Monitor
- Price: Click here to see the current price at Thomann. *(affiliate link)
Yamaha HS7
The Yamaha HS7 monitors offer a 6.5" cone mid-bass driver and a 1" dome tweeter, with an output of 60W for the low frequency range and 35W for the high frequency range. Their frequency response ranges from 43 Hz to 30 kHz. They are known for their neutral sound reproduction, which enables precise mixing decisions.
Due to its balanced size, the HS7 fits well in medium-sized studios, where it offers excellent sound quality without taking up excessive space.
- Type: Near Field Monitor
- Price: Click here to see the current price at Thomann. *(affiliate link)
Neumann KH 120 II
The Neumann KH 120 II is known for its precise sound reproduction and has a 5.25" bass-midrange driver and a 1" tweeter capsule. It offers an impressive power of 50W for the low frequency range and 50W for the high frequency range and covers a frequency range of 52 Hz to 21 kHz.
Despite its professional performance, the KH 120 II is compact enough to fit into most studio environments, making it a flexible tool for critical listening.
- Type: Near Field Monitor
- Price: Click here to see the current price at Thomann. *(affiliate link)
HEDD Audio Type 07 MK2
The HEDD Audio Type 07 MK2 has a 7" woofer and AMT tweeter, with a frequency response of 38 Hz to 50 kHz. Thanks to 200W total power and HEDD Lineariser® technology, it enables phase-linear reproduction, ideal for detailed mixing.
Our personal experiences with HEDD Audio products are consistently positive. Like DJ Jazzy Jeff and numerous other top producers, we also rely on high-quality speakers and headphones from HEDD Audio in our studios. Would you like to experience the exceptional sound quality for yourself? Take advantage of the generous 100-day return policy to test the devices at your leisure in your studio.
The Type 07 MK2 impresses with its compact size without compromising on sound quality. It is the ideal choice for demanding home studios that require particularly detailed and transparent sound.
- Type: Near Field Monitor
- Price: Click here to go to HEDD Audio.
Genelec 1032 CPM
The Genelec 1032 CPM offers a 10" mid-bass driver and a 1" metal dome tweeter, supported by a powerful amplifier with 180W for the low frequency range and 120W for the high frequency range. It offers a frequency response of 33 Hz to 23 kHz and is known for its automatic room adjustment technology.
Its size makes it a preferred choice for professional studios requiring midfield monitoring with the ability to cover larger rooms.
- Type: Midfield Monitor
- Price: Click here to see the current price at Thomann. *(affiliate link)
KS Digital C5 Reference
The KS Digital C5-Reference monitors are equipped with a 5" coaxial mid-bass driver and an integrated tweeter, which offers unique point source reproduction for precise stereo positioning. They offer a linear frequency response across the entire listening area and are known for their detailed and transparent sound reproduction known.
Their compact size makes them ideal as a reference for near-field monitoring in small to medium-sized studios where precision is the focus.
- Type: Near Field Monitor
- Price: Click here to see the current price at Thomann. *(affiliate link)
Consider this tip for new studio speakers
If you buy new monitoring monitors , you should first let them play music at room volume (not too loud) for a few hours. After unpacking, you can turn on any live stream and leave the house for a few hours. A so-called break-in time is rarely specified by manufacturers, but the sound of your studio monitors improves enormously after a few hours or days.
Why is that?
A loudspeaker fresh from the factory behaves in a similar way to a newly purchased shoe that you first have to wear in for a few days before the stiff rubber loosens a little and gives way. So if you turn the volume up completely immediately after unpacking, it can happen that the material used on or in the speaker tears and becomes damaged. Over time, the rubber surrounds become more flexible and the electrical components produce a better sound.
This is how you set up studio speakers correctly
Take a little distance from the wall when setting up your home studio and your near-field monitors , otherwise annoying reflections can occur due to the so-called pressure build-up effect.
- Triangle Formation : Place the monitors and your listening position in an equilateral triangle for the best stereo image.
- At ear level : The tweeters should be at the level of your ears when you are sitting.
- Avoid room modes : Experiment with positioning to minimize standing waves and bass boost.
Summary
Choosing the right studio speaker or monitoring monitor can be overwhelming, but the models above will ensure you make an informed decision. Always remember: the best monitor is the one that suits your individual needs and work environment.
Keep these tips in mind when choosing studio speakers
- Consider the size of your room.
- Decide whether you need nearfield or midfield monitors.
- Pay attention to the connection options and whether they are compatible with your current equipment.
- Test different models if possible to get a feel for how they sound.
Where can you buy studio speakers & monitoring monitors?
Specialist shops for musical instruments and audio technology, online marketplaces and directly from the manufacturers. Make sure to read reviews and, if possible, listen before you decide.
The most frequently asked questions about studio speakers and monitoring monitors
What is the difference between active and passive monitors?
Active monitors have built-in amplifiers, while passive ones require external amplifiers.
Do I need a subwoofer in my home studio?
This depends on your genre and your preferences. A subwoofer can be useful for hearing low frequencies more accurately, but is not absolutely necessary. Most producers and engineers rely on a simple 2.0 stereo system.
How important are room acoustics?
Very important. Even the best monitors cannot develop their full potential in a poorly treated room, so make sure the room acoustics are optimized. If you don't want to spend money on acoustic modules, you can at least improve the room acoustics a little with some home remedies, such as a carpet or plants.
Can studio monitors be used for entertainment purposes?
Yes, but they are designed for honest playback, not for “prettier” listening to music or films. A hi-fi system is designed to intensify your listening experience by boosting certain frequency bands and is more suitable for entertainment purposes.
How do I set up my monitors correctly?
They should be at ear level and form an equilateral triangle with your listening position, with the tweeters aimed directly at your ears.
- Click here if you would like to find out more about it.
Musikhaus Thomann: Your reliable partner in the music world
As one of the leading providers in the music industry, Thomann has stood for the highest quality and comprehensive selection for years. The music store not only offers an impressive variety of instruments, equipment and accessories, but also first-class customer service.
The ability to put together individual creative bundles is just one of the many innovations that Thomann has to offer. With their many years of experience and their commitment to the needs of musicians, they have established themselves as a reliable partner for creative minds.
Advantages at Thomann
Why Thomann ? In addition to the unbeatable offers during Cyberweek, there are many reasons to shop at Thomann . Reliable customer service, fast delivery and a huge selection make Thomann the first port of call for musicians worldwide.
Put together your personal creative bundle and save money
Thomann already has an impressive selection of carefully put together sets in their range. But we know that every musician is unique and has different requirements for their equipment.
Thomann's Creative Bundles allow you to create your own customized set, ensuring you get all the components you need and save money in the process!
How exactly can I save money?
The answer is simple: by purchasing a Creative Bundle . Thomann offers you the opportunity to select not only the main product, but also additional items according to your needs. By purchasing an entire set, you can not only ensure you have everything you need, but also benefit from attractive discounts.
This is how you put together your bundle:
Do you want a bundle that suits you perfectly? No problem! From the product page of the main product you can choose your personal preferences. There is at least one product group that must be included in the set, but you also have optional products that you can add as you wish.
At the end of the compilation process, you will not only receive the total price for your individual bundle , but also information about the savings you will achieve by purchasing the set. With a single click, your tailor-made package ends up in your shopping cart - easy, convenient and cost-saving!
Shop offers for musicians, audio engineers & producers here!
Are you curious and want to get started right away? Discover the variety of Thomann Creative Bundles and find the perfect set for you. No matter whether you are a musician, audio engineer or producer, Thomann has something to offer for everyone. Take advantage of the opportunity to save money while ensuring you have everything you need for your creative projects.
Put together your personal bundle now and let yourself be inspired by the attractive offers from Thomann !
Our experiences with Thomann
Our own experiences with Thomann have been consistently positive - as passionate music lovers, we benefit from the variety of high-quality products that Thomann offers. Safe, fast delivery and competent customer service help us value Thomann as a reliable partner. When it comes to returns, our expectations are always met and we can say from our own experience that Thomann not only offers high-quality products and good prices, but also first-class service.
Most frequently asked questions about Thomann
How long does delivery take at Thomann?
The delivery time at Thomann varies depending on the location and product. As a rule, however, you can expect fast and reliable delivery.
Is there a guarantee on the products?
Yes, Thomann offers generous guarantees on all products. You can find details on the official Thomann website .
Celebrate 70 years of music history with Thomann!
Thomann , as Europe's largest music store, invites us to celebrate this special anniversary! Discover numerous exclusive and time-limited anniversary offers that start from March 1st, 2024 and extend over seven months up to and including September. Look forward to a variety of offers and promotions!
Celebrate with us too! 5 years of MPW – off to new horizons!
For the anniversary of MPW Lots of exciting changes await you in the coming year! Since our founding in 2019, we have continually evolved to bring you the best in music production and audio engineering.
Look forward to it improved features, new content and offers that we are introducing this year MPW to take it to a new level together with you!
The MPW Newsletter 2024 – Your monthly recap from the scene
We warmly invite you to sign up for our brand new MPW Newsletter Register because we want to grow together. As a free subscriber, you will receive a summary of the top news as well as exclusive offers or flash deals every month. Get in touch now here at or at the end of the post and become part of the rapidly growing MPW community !
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- Visit the MPW homepage that you want to bookmark.
- Tap the "Share" icon at the bottom center of the screen.
- Select the "Add to Reading List" or "Add Bookmarks" option.
- Enter MPW as the bookmark name and tap Add.
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- Step-by-step instructions: Add MPW directly to the home screen
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- Visit the MPW homepage .
- Tap the "Share" icon at the bottom center of the screen.
- Find and select the “Add to Home Screen” or “Add to Home Screen” option.
- Enter MPW as the name and tap Add.
- The MPW portal now appears directly on your home screen like an app.
With these simple steps you can access MPW in a flash and never miss any news. Enjoy faster and more efficient use of our platform directly from your smartphone!
Every Thursday – Fresh inspiration and news for music enthusiasts
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