12 best monitor speakers
Absolutely, let's dive into the world of monitor speakers, especially in the context of studio recording and musical instruments.
Monitor speakers, often referred to as studio monitors or reference monitors, play a crucial role in the audio production process. Unlike regular speakers, studio monitors are designed to provide a flat and accurate frequency response. This means they aim to reproduce sound without adding any coloration or enhancement, allowing producers and engineers to hear the audio as it truly is.
Key features of studio monitors include:
Flat Frequency Response: As mentioned, studio monitors aim for a flat frequency response, ensuring that the sound reproduction is as neutral as possible. This helps in making informed decisions during the mixing and mastering stages.
Nearfield vs. Midfield Monitors: Monitors come in different sizes and types. Nearfield monitors are designed to be placed close to the listener, often on the mixing console. Midfield monitors are placed farther away in larger studios. The choice depends on the size and acoustics of the studio.
Bi-Amped and Tri-Amped Monitors: Monitors can be bi-amped (separate amplifiers for the woofer and tweeter) or tri-amped (separate amplifiers for the low, mid, and high frequencies). This allows for more precise control over each frequency range.
Ported vs.Closed Cabinet Design: The cabinet design influences the bass response. Ported monitors have additional openings to enhance low-frequency response, while closed cabinets offer a tighter bass but might sacrifice some low-end extension.
Room Acoustics: The acoustics of the room where the monitors are placed play a significant role. Many studios use acoustic treatment to minimize reflections and create an optimal listening environment.
Popular brands in the studio monitor realm include KRK, Yamaha, Genelec, Adam Audio, and JBL, among others. The choice of a monitor depends on factors like budget, studio size, and personal preference.
When setting up a studio, it's crucial to consider the overall monitoring system, which includes not just the monitors but also the acoustics of the room and additional equipment like audio interfaces and headphones for reference.
So, whether you're producing music, mixing tracks, or mastering, having reliable and accurate studio monitors is essential for achieving professional and high-quality results.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best monitor speakers on the market
Presonus Eris E3.5-3.5" Near Field Studio Monitor (Pair) (E3.5)
PreSonus
Product description
Presonus Eris-series studio monitors are used worldwide by Studio engineers who need to hear every detail of their recordings. Ideal for gaming and home video production, The Eris E3. 5 delivers studio-quality sound yet is compact enough to fit almost anywhere. You get the flexibility of rear-panel, ¼-inch TRS and RCA inputs; front-panel 1/8” stereo, unbalanced line inputs for use with mobile audio devices; A convenient front-panel volume control; and an integrated headphone amplifier. Fine-adjust the speaker response with low- and high-frequency tuning controls. It may be small but the E3. 5 is loud, as well as clear, thanks to a 50W (25W/side) class AB power amp.
- The reviews speak for themselves!
- The only true studio monitor for multimedia, gaming, watching movies, or producing your next hit
- Studio-quality industrial design. They look as great as they sound. Protection: RF interference, output-current limiting, over-temperature, turn-on/off transient
- 3. 5-Inch woven composite drivers produce a more powerful bass response with a more accurate overall sound
- The only monitors in their class with acoustic tuning. This enables you to get pristine sound quality in any room. Crossover frequency: 2. 8 kHz
- Stereo aux input, headphone jack, volume, and power on/off are located on the front panel for your convenience
User questions & answers
| Question: | I am a Motivational Speaker, can I use these with a microphone when speaking to an audience of 75 people |
| Answer: | Dear customer,Thank you for your interest in Donner pianos,Our piano is powered by electricity. Power supply When you are playing, you don’t have to worry about the low sound of the horn due to insufficient battery power and your playing is not pleasant.Hope to help you, if you have any questions about the product, please feel free to contact us.Donner Customer Service Team |
| Question: | Hola, quisiera si al comprar el E3.5 (Pair) si son los dos monitores o solo uno |
| Answer: | Dear customer,Thanks for your question,Yes, our DEP-45 Digital Piano has a headset attachment with the keyboard. You can use it when practicing or creating music.Thank you for your question, and hope to help you.Donner Customer Service Team |
| Question: | Is the the Presonus E3.5 woofer speaker cone unprotected? It appears to have no fabric covering as many speakers would have |
| Answer: | The volume won't be changed by the hitting force. Our Donner DEP-45 portable digital piano has an 88-key semi-weighted keyboard which has more resistance than an unweighted one. This provides a playing experience that is far more responsive to your touch. |
| Question: | Does this come with all the necessary cords to connect this to a computer? Is it rca trs or xlr |
| Answer: | Dear customer,Thanks for your question,Yes, our DEP-45 Digital Piano has a record function. You can use it when practicing or creating music.Thank you for your question, and hope to help you.Donner Customer Service Team |
Product features
Woofers that deliver a cleaner overall sound.
Every Eris-series studio monitor utilizes a woven composite, low-frequency driver. The weave and nature of the Eris E3.5’s 3.5-inch woofer result in a more constant dispersion pattern throughout the frequency range, resulting in less time-smeared audio and cleaner overall sound.
Smooth high end and wide sweet spot.
The Eris E3.5 is equipped with a one-inch silk-dome tweeter that produces a smooth and refined sound, accurately reproducing transients and high frequencies. The tweeter is designed to radiate sound with a fairly wide dispersion pattern, creating a large optimal listening area or “sweet spot” so you can move around and still hear everything accurately.
Connect to virtually any line-level source.
With three different types of audio inputs, it’s easy to feed audio to your Eris monitors from a mixer, an interface, a media player, or almost any other line-level source. The Eris E3.5 is equipped with rear-panel, ¼-inch TRS and RCA inputs, as well as front-panel ⅛-inch stereo, unbalanced line inputs for use with mobile audio devices. With this selection, you’ll have no problem hooking your Eris speakers up with virtually any line-level source, including your smartphone or tablet. The loud, clear, front-panel headphone amplifier lets you work and play in stealth mode, without disturbing your housemates.
Accuracy defined.
Like all PreSonus monitor speakers, the Eris E3.5 offers consistent, accurate listening, with the smooth and even frequency response that has made Eris monitors popular around the world. Their compact and powerful design makes them an ideal solution for any small space.
Want extra-deep low end? Pair compact Eris E3.5s with PreSonus’ powerful Temblor T8 active subwoofer for a truly full-range sound system that fits almost anywhere.
Creative Pebble 2.0 USB-Powered Desktop Speakers with Far-Field Drivers and Passive Radiators for Pcs and Laptops (Black)
Creative
Product description
Creative PEBBLE 2.0 speaker USB (Black)
- Single USB cable for computers and laptops | enjoy a hassle-free Audio experience with a single USB cable without the need for a power adapter
- Far-field drivers and passive radiators | custom-tuned far-field driver solution with rear facing passive radiators for excellent audio and enhanced bass reproduction
- 45° elevated drivers | for enhanced audio projection and an immersive personal listening experience
- Modern and stylish aesthetics | perfect for any modern homes, offices and workspaces.
- Easy access volume control | Conveniently placed Front-facing controls for instant adjustments
- Frequency Response 100 Hz (Hertz) ~ 17 kHz (kiloHertz)
User questions & answers
| Question: | What is the actual height of the speaker? I want to know if it will fit beneath my monitor |
| Answer: | It goes out on me once a week have to fix the GPS system not that great |
| Question: | What is the frequency response |
| Answer: | Yes. It’s perfect for truck. There is a mode for truck on setting up. Input the size and weight of your truck. Then the GPS will provide better routes for you to avoid roads with width/height/weight restrictions. |
| Question: | will these speakers pic up interference from other thing lik modems |
| Answer: | The machine can be used about 60 minutes after being fully charged. But all the battery of GPS navigator will not last very long time. It is just for emergency used only, like the laptop. So it is better to charge it with car charger when using. |
| Question: | What is the actual hardwired cable length between the two speakers. How far those can sit apart of each other |
| Answer: | It did tell me in an audible voice when I went over the speed limit. |
Product features
Creative Pebble Modern 2.0 USB Desktop Speakers
Inspired by the zen Japanese rock garden, the orb-shaped Creative Pebble is a sleek and elegant 2.0 speaker system that looks perfect in any home and office. It features a 45° elevated sound stage for enhanced audio projection and is powered by a single USB cable for hassle-free music entertainment.
X MARKS THE SPOT
Featuring a 45° elevated custom-tuned far-field driver solution, the Creative Pebble directs audio to your ears, placing you in the sweet spot for great audio enjoyment.
SMALL BUT MIGHTY
With its built-in passive radiators and an impressive combined RMS of 4.4W, the small Creative Pebble is able to deliver balanced audio with depth, immersiveness and crystal clear details. Simply connect your device via the 3.5mm input and get ready to be blown away.
CONVENIENCE WITHIN REACH
Instantly control your volume with the Pebble’s convenient front panel control knob
NO DESK SPACE? NO PROBLEM!
Measuring at only 4.4 inches wide each, the Creative Pebble can be conveniently placed next to your PC monitor without compromising on valuable desk space. What’s more, the Pebble is conveniently powered by a single USB cable without the need for a wall outlet.
MUSIC TO MATCH YOUR STYLE
The Creative Pebble looks as good as it sounds. Choose from an exquisite black or pristine white to match your style and desk setup.
Redragon GS550 ORPHEUS PC Gaming Speakers, 2.0 Channel Stereo Desktop Computer Sound Bar with Compact Maneuverable Size, Headphone Jack, Quality Bass and Decent Red Backlit, USB Powered w/ 3.5mm Cable
Redragon
- Move Out, Shapeshifter - The maneuverable compact size of GS550 makes sure you are enchanted deeply at the first look. Whether it’s standing individually on each side of the monitor, or lying merged together underneath, you’ll love it in both ways.
- 2.0 Channel Stereo Core - Equipped with advanced sound drive unit with full range 2.0 channel stereo core….so, turn it up and get high.
- Plug & Play for Broad Compatibility - USB powered with 3.5mm audio and mic cables allows this rockstar to party on wide type of stages for PC, TV and Laptop. Get it all connected well on your device and let the party begin.
- Indispensable Red LED - Our Redragon themed red LED backlit.
- Handy Volume Knob - Delicate volume knob combined with on/off switch ensures you a convenient and precise volume adjustment. Additional geared up with extra audio and the mic port supports your other peripheral devices needs.
User questions & answers
| Question: | Can i hook this up to the back of my gaming monitor wired |
| Answer: | Hello, the battery is a small one inside the dash cam. It can't support the dash cam work for a long time. So you need always connect to the power to use the dash cam |
| Question: | Can you turn the red led down or off |
| Answer: | No, it doesn't have the GPS function. |
| Question: | How far apart can the speakers be placed? Can the cable between the speakers be replaced |
| Answer: | If you want to use it as a reverse camera you have to hook it up to the reverse lights in the back (its comes with the wires to do it) if you want the actual dash cam to stay on 24/7 and monitor you need to buy the hardware kit for 15 dollars |
| Question: | How do you connect this to your device |
| Answer: | 5.5 x 2.6 x 1.6 (inch), it's compact to hold in hand or carry in your bag. |
Product features
Redragon GS550 ORPHEUS 2.0 Channel Stereo PC Gaming Speakers, let’s party till the sunrise!
Rock it up in either way!
Unique and ingenious maneuvering design with compact size offers two enjoy ways for the same high.
Stereo Core For Extreme Media
Full range 2.0 channel stereo core with upgraded sound driver will get you fully covered and move the media scene to your room.
Classic Volume Knob
Plug it, play it, whirl it, easily get hyped with three simple steps.
TaoTronics Gaming Computer Speaker, Dual Powerful 7W Drivers PC Soundbar, Colorful RGB Light, Wireless Bluetooth 5.0 or 3.5mm Aux-in Connection, Stereo Audio Computer Sound Bar for Desktop
TaoTronics
Product description
TaoTronics - enhance your life
enjoy life to the fullest with TaoTronics. From industry-leading LED lighting solutions to home goods and audio devices, we put users at the center of our decisions and design products that address life's needs and help you make the most of your daily activities.
technical specifications:
timer Duration: 1.5Hrs
frequency range: 60hz-20khz
dimension: 42 x 7 x 7.5cm/ 16.5 x 2.8 x 3in
weigh: 928G/ 32.7Oz
what’s in the box:
1 x TaoTronics PC sound bar (model: TT- SK027)
1 x Power adapters x 3. 5mm aux cable
1 x User guide
- Powerful stereo sound: TaoTronics PC sound bar packs Audio prowess with finely tuned dual 7W drivers to bring sound to life for a fantastically dynamic Audio experience
- Vibrant RGB lights: colorful RGB lighting elevates gaming performance, Easily turn on/off the light or change the color mode with the button on the top
- Effortless connectivity: wireless Connection to Bluetooth-enabled devices via Bluetooth 5.0 & wired Connection to other devices via the 3.5 mm aux cord
- Mini size: remarkably compact computer speaker is slim enough to sit flat below monitors to save space & keep your desk clutter free
- Uniquely versatile: built-in timer lets you record gaming sessions, Plug in your wired headphones via the 3.5mm aux port to game at night without disturbing others
User questions & answers
| Question: | Anybody else’s speaker get really hot? After running it for 3 hours, the top part (by buttons), is really hot. I have it mounted on the wall |
| Answer: | I used 2 AAA |
| Question: | Can this tell time |
| Answer: | Try to recalibrate the scale 1. Place scale on hard flat surface. 2. step on the scale with one foot until the display lights up, then step off 3. The will show "0.0" indicating that the calibration was successful. Hope that helps. |
| Question: | Anyway to turn off the display |
| Answer: | I just purchased this sleek looking scale but there are no directions, or manual, to show how to turn the scale on. Can I get a manual on-line? |
| Question: | Will this work with xbox |
| Answer: | Definitely worth the price, Been using it for roughly 3 months since August 2019 and the scale has worked for what it's intended. Some words of advice is to make sure your router and scale are within close proximity to each other so they connect properly; I also recommend visiting their support (https://help.fitbit.com/) forum for instructions. |
Soundbar, Maboo USB Powered Sound Bar Speakers for Computer Desktop Laptop PC, Black (USB)
: MABOO Model: FD0004
Material: Plastic
Output Power: 3W
Channel: 2.0
Frequency Response Range: 25Hz-20KHz
Separation: ≥40dB
Power Supply: USB 5V
SNR: ≥80dB
Voltage: 5V
Current: 60Ma
USB Cable: approx. 1m
Audio Cable: approx. 1m
Size: approx. 32*6.4*6.8cm / 13*3.7*3inch
Weight: approx. 549g
Color: Black
Package List:
1 * Wired Speaker
1 * User Manual
