December 2024

Studio Monitors: MetaRanking

This page highlights the aggregate summary of studio monitors rankings posted by key online experts, as of December 2024.

Summary

On 12 Dec 2024, ReviewFinder team examined a total of 99 studio monitor endorsements from 10 reputable publishers.

57 studio monitors were endorsed in total, only 23 made it into this month's ranking. (ReviewFinder requires a minimum of 2 endorsements to be included)

As of 12 Dec 2024, Yamaha HS5 takes the cake as the most critically-acclaimed studio monitor with 6 expert endorsements. 1 expert out of 6 recommended it as the '#1 studio monitor' this month.

Brand breakdown
Show all brands

Price breakdown
As can be seen in the chart below, lowest high-ranking studio monitors start at $79 (Mackie CR3-XBT) and go up to $2495 (Neumann KH 310). Median studio monitor costs $274.74 (Mackie MR824).
$79
$2495

At a glance - December Ranking

Scroll horizontally to browse this ranking table
Rank Change Price Studio Monitor
Popular Science
Music Critic
woodandfirestudio.com
Hyperbits
Gearank
Careers In Music
Music Radar
PianoDreamers
Pocket-lint
higherhz.com
1
- $200
Yamaha HS5
The Yamaha HS5 is a powerful and reliable studio monitor that delivers accurate and detailed sound reproduction, making it a great choice for home studios and small recording spaces.
1
2
-
4
8
-
4
4
-
-
2
- Check price
JBL 305P MkII
The JBL 305P MkII is a highly recommended and affordable studio monitor that delivers accurate and detailed sound reproduction with advanced technology and excellent stereo imaging.
6
3
-
1
5
-
7
5
-
-
3
- $800
Adam Audio A7V
The Adam Audio A7V Studio Monitor is a powerful and accurate speaker that is ideal for professional recording studios, home studios, and music producers who require high-quality sound and accurate monitoring.
-
7
-
-
-
1
-
8
5
-
4
- Check price
Neumann KH 120 A
The Neumann KH 120 A is a bi-amplified speaker system designed for accurate and detailed sound reproduction, making it ideal for critical listening applications in professional recording studios, post-production facilities, and broadcast environments.
-
9
1
-
12
4
-
-
-
-
5
+2 Check price
KRK Rokit RP7 G4
The KRK Rokit RP7 G4 Studio Monitor is a powerful and versatile audio tool with a neutral and flat frequency response, making it suitable for music production, mixing, and mastering, and is ideal for use in recording studios and live sound reinforcement applications.
-
-
-
7
-
2
5
-
3
-
6
- Check price
Genelec 8010A
The Genelec 8010A Studio Monitor is a compact and powerful option for near-field monitoring in small studios or home recording setups, delivering exceptional sound quality in a small package.
-
-
8
8
-
-
-
-
2
2
7
+3 $200
PreSonus Eris E.45
The PreSonus Eris E.45 Studio Monitor is a compact and affordable nearfield monitor with a neutral sound signature, defined high and mid-range frequencies, and punchy bass response, making it a great choice for small home studios, desktop setups, and casual listening.
-
-
-
-
2
-
-
1
-
-
8
+3 $350
Yamaha HS7
The Yamaha HS7 Studio Monitor is a powerful and versatile speaker that provides precise and accurate sound with low resonance, making it ideal for critical listening, mixing, and mastering in larger studio spaces.
-
-
-
-
6
-
-
-
1
-
9
-4 $100
PreSonus Eris E3.5
The PreSonus Eris E3.5 Studio Monitor is a compact and powerful speaker that delivers clear and accurate sound, making it an ideal solution for a variety of audio uses.
-
1
-
-
-
-
-
-
6
-
10
-1 $399
Yamaha HS8
The Yamaha HS8 Studio Monitor is a powerful and reliable speaker with accurate sound reproduction and complete response control, making it ideal for professional use in larger studio spaces or for live performances.
-
-
2
6
7
-
-
-
-
-
11
New * $79
Mackie CR3-XBT
8
-
-
-
1
-
-
-
-
-
12
+11 $899
Focal Shape 65
The Focal Shape 65 Studio Monitor is a powerful and precise nearfield monitor suitable for professional use, praised for its accurate and detailed sound reproduction and well-balanced low-frequency performance.
-
-
-
12
-
-
1
-
-
-
13
- Check price
Kali Audio LP-6
The Kali Audio LP-6 is a powerful and reliable studio monitor that delivers high-quality sound for a range of applications, making it an ideal choice for music producers, sound engineers, and home studio owners who prioritize accuracy and clarity in their audio production.
-
10
-
5
-
-
9
-
-
-
14
- Check price
Genelec 8030C
The Genelec 8030C Studio Monitor is a compact and lightweight device that delivers exceptional sound quality with its bi-amped design, power response, and maximum SPL, making it ideal for critical listening and mixing applications in small to medium-sized studio spaces.
-
8
-
-
11
-
-
10
-
-
15
- Check price
Adam Audio T5V
The Adam Audio T5V studio monitor is a compact and powerful device that delivers exceptional sound quality and performance, making it an ideal choice for recording studios, home DJ setups, and other professional audio environments.
-
-
-
-
-
-
3
-
-
3
16
- $199
KRK Rokit 8 G4
The KRK Rokit 8 G4 Studio Monitor is a powerful and versatile audio solution with clear and accurate sound reproduction, making it ideal for studio recording, DJ monitoring, and other professional audio applications.
4
-
3
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
17
-9 $159
KRK Rokit 5 G4
The KRK Rokit 5 G4 is a powerful and versatile studio monitor with a bi-amp design, accurate sound reproduction, and impressive bass performance, making it ideal for mixing and mastering music in small to medium-sized studios or home recording setups.
-
-
-
2
-
-
-
6
-
-
19
-2 Check price
Presonus Eris E5
The Presonus Eris E5 Studio Monitor is a reliable and powerful speaker that delivers accurate and detailed sound reproduction, making it an ideal choice for musicians, producers, and audio engineers who need to mix and master their music.
-
-
9
3
-
-
-
-
-
-
20
-2 $200
Adam Audio T7V
The Adam Audio T7V is a powerful and versatile studio monitor that delivers high-quality sound at an accessible price point, making it an ideal choice for home recording enthusiasts, podcasters, and music producers.
-
-
5
-
4
-
-
-
-
-
21
-2 Check price
IK Multimedia iLoud MTM
The IK Multimedia iLoud MTM Studio Monitor is a compact and powerful speaker system that delivers exceptional sound quality for music production, mixing, and mastering, with advanced DSP processing, a unique design, and excellent stereo imaging and low-end.
-
-
-
-
-
5
6
-
-
-
22
- $2495
Neumann KH 310
-
-
-
15
-
-
-
-
4
-
23
New * Check price
Dynaudio BM5 mkIII
The Dynaudio BM5 mkIII Studio Monitor is a powerful and reliable option for small to medium-sized recording studios, home recording, and mixing, delivering clear and accurate sound reproduction with a transparent and natural sound that won't fatigue the listener during long mixing sessions.
-
-
-
10
9
-
-
-
-
-
24
- Check price
Focal Solo6 Be
The Focal Solo6 Be is a versatile and high-powered studio monitor that delivers remarkable clarity and an expansive soundstage, making it suitable for professional and personal use.
-
-
-
14
-
7
-
-
-
-

Studio Monitor
#11 $79 Mackie CR3-XBT
#9 $99.99 PreSonus Eris E3.5
#17 $159 KRK Rokit 5 G4
#16 $199 KRK Rokit 8 G4
#7 $199.95 PreSonus Eris E.45
#1 $199.99 Yamaha HS5
#20 $199.99 Adam Audio T7V
#8 $349.99 Yamaha HS7
#10 $398.99 Yamaha HS8
#4 $640 Neumann KH 120 A
#3 $799.99 Adam Audio A7V
#12 $899 Focal Shape 65
#22 $2495 Neumann KH 310

We ranked Yamaha HS5 #1 in December 2024 because:

  • 6 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
  • Out of those, 1 expert ranked Yamaha HS5 as #1.
Expert Consensus
(as of 18 Jun 2023)
The Yamaha HS5 is a powerful and reliable studio monitor that delivers accurate and detailed sound reproduction, making it a great choice for home studios and small recording spaces.
Critic endorsements:
Popular Science

Best overall

Precise stereo imaging
Accurate, pro-proven mix translation
Built-in filters and level control

Built-in filters and level control
No cables included
Narrow listening sweet spot

Go to ranking

Music Critic

Neutral sound reproduction for critical listening
High-quality build with robust components
Room control features for optimizing in any space

Go to ranking

Hyperbits

Best Entry Level Monitors (less than $400/pair)

Go to ranking

Gearank

Amazing for critical listening
Compact Size
Great build quality
Good value

Not ideal for bass-heavy music

Go to ranking

Music Radar

The best for a true representation of your recordings

A budding mix engineer's dream
Iconic design
Amazing value

Controls located at rear

Go to ranking

PianoDreamers

Best Studio Monitor Under $500 (for intermediate studios)

Really affordable price point for the quality you receive
Ideal flat frequency response
Legendary heritage; an aspiring mixing engineer’s perfect companion

Not quite stellar low-frequency response on the HS5 model
Volume and trim controls on the rear

Go to ranking

We ranked JBL 305P MkII #2 in December 2024 because:

  • 6 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
  • Out of those, 1 expert ranked JBL 305P MkII as #1.
Expert Consensus
(as of 18 Jun 2023)
The JBL 305P MkII is a highly recommended and affordable studio monitor that delivers accurate and detailed sound reproduction with advanced technology and excellent stereo imaging.
Critic endorsements:
Popular Science

Best for home recording studios

Wide soundscape
Broad listening sweet spot
Room-tuning features

Glossy finish isn’t for everyone
Audio cables not included

Go to ranking

Music Critic

Wide sweet spot with Image Control Waveguide
Punchy bass with Slip Stream low-frequency port
High power output for larger spaces

Go to ranking

Hyperbits

Best Entry Level Monitors (less than $400/pair)

Go to ranking

Gearank

Author's Pick

Neutral frequency response
Fast transients on high and midrange
Wide sweet spot
Top tier sound at a good price

Bass not its strong suit
Sounds "boring" to unaccustomed ears

Go to ranking

Music Radar

The best studio monitors for beginners

Bargain price point
Clear and detailed sound
Wide sweet spot

Lacking low end

Go to ranking

PianoDreamers

Best Studio Monitor Under $500 (for intermediate studios)

Nice low-end response
Hi-tech image control
Durable

Potentially difficult to balance

Go to ranking

Methodology: combine opinions of key experts

Identify Experts

We identify key publishers and experts that consistently review and recommend studio monitors.

Capture Rankings

For each publisher we find a currently recommended "top 10" list of studio monitors, it must be updated in the last 9 months.

Aggregate Rankings

We put all those lists together and aggregate them. The more frequently a product is recommended, the higher it is in our ranking

Experts chosen for December 2024 ranking

We ranked Adam Audio A7V #3 in December 2024 because:

  • 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
  • Out of those, 1 expert ranked Adam Audio A7V as #1.
Expert Consensus
(as of 18 Jun 2023)
The Adam Audio A7V Studio Monitor is a powerful and accurate speaker that is ideal for professional recording studios, home studios, and music producers who require high-quality sound and accurate monitoring.
Critic endorsements:
Music Critic

X-ART ribbon tweeter for superior high-frequency response
DSP tuning for customized room-matching
Powerful 2-way design with a newly designed 7-inch woofer

Go to ranking

Careers In Music

Versatile
Sonically clean and precise

Expensive
Probably too powerful for smaller rooms

Go to ranking

PianoDreamers

Best Studio Monitors Under $1500 (For The Serious Home Studios)

Great transient response
High-end sounds crisp and clean
Front bass ports and front panel controls

A little more expensive than other monitors on this list
May take a while to get used to if you have listened to other monitors

Go to ranking

Pocket-lint

Best mid-priced studio monitors

Unique mineral woofer provides extended low frequencies
DSP engine for fantastic crossover
Room adaption

Struggling to think of one

Go to ranking

We ranked Neumann KH 120 A #4 in December 2024 because:

  • 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
  • Out of those, 1 expert ranked Neumann KH 120 A as #1.
Expert Consensus
(as of 22 Jun 2023)
The Neumann KH 120 A is a bi-amplified speaker system designed for accurate and detailed sound reproduction, making it ideal for critical listening applications in professional recording studios, post-production facilities, and broadcast environments.
Critic endorsements:
Music Critic

High SPL capability with extended bass
DSP-based room alignment and automatic calibration
Razor-sharp imaging with minimal distortion

Go to ranking

woodandfirestudio.com

Best Studio Monitors

High End Monitors
Neutral frequency response, so you can trust these monitors
Incredible detail and impulse fidelity

Not cheap

Go to ranking

Gearank

The Best Studio Monitors under $1000

Extremely critical sounding
Natural and lifelike sound signature
Premium components and build quality
Top choice for Mastering

Sound isn't for impressing clients in the studio

Go to ranking

Careers In Music

Designed by mathematical modeling
Comprehensive acoustic controls
Reasonably priced

Odd looking

Go to ranking

We ranked KRK Rokit RP7 G4 #5 in December 2024 because:

  • 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 18 Jun 2023)
The KRK Rokit RP7 G4 Studio Monitor is a powerful and versatile audio tool with a neutral and flat frequency response, making it suitable for music production, mixing, and mastering, and is ideal for use in recording studios and live sound reinforcement applications.
Critic endorsements:
Hyperbits

Best Advanced Monitors ($400-$1000/pair)

Go to ranking

Careers In Music

DSP driven room tuning
Thumpingly good bass
Iso-foam pad for great isolation
Great value

Not as distinctive looking as they were

Go to ranking

Music Radar

The best studio monitors for electronic music production

Impressive DSP at this price
On-board graphic EQ
Great for electronic production

A little bass-heavy

Go to ranking

Pocket-lint

Best studio monitor for bass

In-built graphic EQ
Incredible bass response
Ideal for electronic music

Better options out there for different genres

Go to ranking

We ranked Genelec 8010A #6 in December 2024 because:

  • 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 17 Jun 2023)
The Genelec 8010A Studio Monitor is a compact and powerful option for near-field monitoring in small studios or home recording setups, delivering exceptional sound quality in a small package.
Critic endorsements:
woodandfirestudio.com

Best portable studio monitors

Exceptional portability
Very good construction quality
Very good sound for the size

High price for 3-inch monitors

Go to ranking

Hyperbits

Best Advanced Monitors ($400-$1000/pair)

Go to ranking

Pocket-lint

Best compact studio monitors

Ideal for tight spaces
Extremely well balanced
Bi-amping provides great headroom

Some may prefer more power

Go to ranking

higherhz.com

Best compact

Neutral and detailed.
Perfect for small studios.
Robust design.

Quite expensive.

Go to ranking

We ranked PreSonus Eris E.45 #7 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
  • Out of those, 1 expert ranked PreSonus Eris E.45 as #1.
Expert Consensus
(as of 18 Jun 2023)
The PreSonus Eris E.45 Studio Monitor is a compact and affordable nearfield monitor with a neutral sound signature, defined high and mid-range frequencies, and punchy bass response, making it a great choice for small home studios, desktop setups, and casual listening.
Critic endorsements:
Gearank

The Best Cheap Studio Monitors Under $100

Neutral sound and clear high end
Includes useful accessories
Many input options
Lightweight and portable

Limited headroom
Limited bass response, slightly congested mids
Pots get scratchy after a while

Go to ranking

PianoDreamers

Best Studio Monitor Under $200 (for beginner studios)

Easy to tweak the sound
Acoustic switch
Multiple I/O

Bass may be a bit weak
Some might find the highs a little harsh

Go to ranking

We ranked Yamaha HS7 #8 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
  • Out of those, 1 expert ranked Yamaha HS7 as #1.
Expert Consensus
(as of 21 Jun 2023)
The Yamaha HS7 Studio Monitor is a powerful and versatile speaker that provides precise and accurate sound with low resonance, making it ideal for critical listening, mixing, and mastering in larger studio spaces.
Critic endorsements:
Gearank

The Best Studio Monitor under $500

Exceptionally neutral
Mixes translate well to different devices
Built to last

Bright power indicator light
Size not for untreated rooms

Go to ranking

Pocket-lint

Best studio monitors overall

Well balanced between frequencies
Room control and high trim controls
Bi-amp system

Clarity suffers at really high volumes

Go to ranking

We ranked PreSonus Eris E3.5 #9 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
  • Out of those, 1 expert ranked PreSonus Eris E3.5 as #1.
Expert Consensus
(as of 21 Jun 2023)
The PreSonus Eris E3.5 Studio Monitor is a compact and powerful speaker that delivers clear and accurate sound, making it an ideal solution for a variety of audio uses.
Critic endorsements:
Music Critic

Compact yet powerful for a small listening environment
High and low tuning options for room adjustment
Versatile input options, including RCA and 1/4" TRS

Go to ranking

Pocket-lint

Best budget studio monitors

Excellent value for money
Mid-range and treble clarity
Ideal for those looking to get started

Bass response is a little weak

Go to ranking

We ranked Yamaha HS8 #10 in December 2024 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 18 Jun 2023)
The Yamaha HS8 Studio Monitor is a powerful and reliable speaker with accurate sound reproduction and complete response control, making it ideal for professional use in larger studio spaces or for live performances.
Critic endorsements:
woodandfirestudio.com

Best studio monitors for semi-professional use

Very honest & trustworthy sound
Good low end
Perfect for mixing and mastering

If you prefer bass-heavy studio monitors, there are better alternatives.

Go to ranking

Hyperbits

Best Advanced Monitors ($400-$1000/pair)

Go to ranking

Gearank

The Best Studio Monitor under $500

Neutral response for critical listening
Excellent build quality
Versatile controls for different rooms
Still relatively affordable

May be too large for small studios
Not for those that want the biggest bass

Go to ranking

We ranked Mackie CR3-XBT #11 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
  • Out of those, 1 expert ranked Mackie CR3-XBT as #1.
Critic endorsements:
Popular Science

Best budget

Loud for its size
Flexible inputs
Includes workstation software and plug-ins

Bass distorts at moderate volume levels
No DSP/tuning
Distinctive visual design (though may be a pro, depending on user)

Go to ranking

Gearank

The Best Cheap Studio Monitors Under $100

Balanced sound profile for the price
Durable build and quality materials
Smooth, clear high frequencies
Compact and easy to place in small setups

Limited bass depth

Go to ranking

We ranked Focal Shape 65 #12 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
  • Out of those, 1 expert ranked Focal Shape 65 as #1.
Expert Consensus
(as of 18 Jun 2023)
The Focal Shape 65 Studio Monitor is a powerful and precise nearfield monitor suitable for professional use, praised for its accurate and detailed sound reproduction and well-balanced low-frequency performance.
Critic endorsements:
Hyperbits

Best Professional Monitors ($1,000-$5,000/pair)

Go to ranking

Music Radar

The best value for money high-end studio monitors

Passive radiators give you flexibility
Rear EQ controls
Easily tweaked to your room

Automatic bypass function

Go to ranking

We ranked Kali Audio LP-6 #13 in December 2024 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 19 Jun 2023)
The Kali Audio LP-6 is a powerful and reliable studio monitor that delivers high-quality sound for a range of applications, making it an ideal choice for music producers, sound engineers, and home studio owners who prioritize accuracy and clarity in their audio production.
Critic endorsements:
Music Critic

Flat frequency response with minimal distortion
Wide soundstage with cutting-edge waveguide design
Boundary EQ for room-specific tuning

Go to ranking

Hyperbits

Best Entry Level Monitors (less than $400/pair)

Go to ranking

Music Radar

The best studio monitors for use with guitars and amp modelling

Fantastic value for money
Easy to set up
Useful dip switches

Limited bass response

Go to ranking

We ranked Genelec 8030C #14 in December 2024 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 18 Jun 2023)
The Genelec 8030C Studio Monitor is a compact and lightweight device that delivers exceptional sound quality with its bi-amped design, power response, and maximum SPL, making it ideal for critical listening and mixing applications in small to medium-sized studio spaces.
Critic endorsements:
Music Critic

Compact size without sacrificing sound quality
High-powered bi-amplification for low distortion
Innovative waveguide for accurate imaging

Go to ranking

Gearank

The Best Studio Monitors under $1000

Extremely clear transient response
Neutral sound signature helps mix translation
Topnotch build quality
Waveguide provides a wide sweet spot

None aside from price

Go to ranking

PianoDreamers

Best Studio Monitors Under $1500 (For The Serious Home Studios)

Clean sounding and incredibly accurate
Durable and reliable
Solid

Only XLR inputs

Go to ranking

We ranked Adam Audio T5V #15 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 18 Jun 2023)
The Adam Audio T5V studio monitor is a compact and powerful device that delivers exceptional sound quality and performance, making it an ideal choice for recording studios, home DJ setups, and other professional audio environments.
Critic endorsements:
Music Radar

The best affordable nearfield monitors for small rooms

Clear precise top end with EQ adjustment if required
Sensible choice of inputs for either balanced or unbalanced connection
Compact footprint for 5” monitor

Rear mounted power LED a bit pointless

Go to ranking

higherhz.com

Best budget

Clear and precise.
Perfect for home studios.
Great value for money.

Not as neutral as higher-end options.

Go to ranking

We ranked KRK Rokit 8 G4 #16 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 5 Aug 2023)
The KRK Rokit 8 G4 Studio Monitor is a powerful and versatile audio solution with clear and accurate sound reproduction, making it ideal for studio recording, DJ monitoring, and other professional audio applications.
Critic endorsements:
Popular Science

Best for electronic producers

Powerful, punchy bass
Built-in room-tuning DSP with free app
Acoustic pads on bottom help with decoupling

DSP can be complicated for novices
Bass-forward signature is not ideal for all genres
Heavy

Go to ranking

woodandfirestudio.com

Best Studio Monitors for EDM/Trap Producers

Music is very bass-heavy, which makes it more enjoyable to listen to
Well suited for DJs
Room correction using the built-in EQ

Not transparent
Therefore not optimal for mixing & mastering

Go to ranking

We ranked KRK Rokit 5 G4 #17 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 16 Jun 2023)
The KRK Rokit 5 G4 is a powerful and versatile studio monitor with a bi-amp design, accurate sound reproduction, and impressive bass performance, making it ideal for mixing and mastering music in small to medium-sized studios or home recording setups.
Critic endorsements:
Hyperbits

Best Entry Level Monitors (less than $400/pair)

Go to ranking

PianoDreamers

Best Studio Monitor Under $500 (for intermediate studios)

Great flat frequency response
Great value for money
Comes in two different designs (black and white)

Rear mounted volume and trim controls

Go to ranking

We ranked Presonus Eris E5 #18 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 17 Jun 2023)
The Presonus Eris E5 Studio Monitor is a reliable and powerful speaker that delivers accurate and detailed sound reproduction, making it an ideal choice for musicians, producers, and audio engineers who need to mix and master their music.
Critic endorsements:
woodandfirestudio.com

The best studio monitors for beginners

An enviable price-performance ratio
Relatively well balanced sound

Less faithful reproduction of the original sound than more expensive speakers

Go to ranking

Hyperbits

Best Entry Level Monitors (less than $400/pair)

Go to ranking

We ranked Adam Audio T7V #19 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 20 Jun 2023)
The Adam Audio T7V is a powerful and versatile studio monitor that delivers high-quality sound at an accessible price point, making it an ideal choice for home recording enthusiasts, podcasters, and music producers.
Critic endorsements:
woodandfirestudio.com

Very good monitors for relatively little money
Ears do not get tired with intensive use

Not as transparent as the Yamaha's

Go to ranking

Gearank

The Best Studio Monitors Under $300

Amazing stereo imaging
Airy but neutral extended highs
Excellent midrange
Great overall value

No power indicator light

Go to ranking

We ranked IK Multimedia iLoud MTM #20 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 18 Jun 2023)
The IK Multimedia iLoud MTM Studio Monitor is a compact and powerful speaker system that delivers exceptional sound quality for music production, mixing, and mastering, with advanced DSP processing, a unique design, and excellent stereo imaging and low-end.
Critic endorsements:
Careers In Music

Great for small rooms
Versatile
Self-tuning
Good value

Not enough power for larger rooms
Could be lacking in bass

Go to ranking

Music Radar

Best compact monitors for small rooms and travel

Affordable and compact
In-built calibration system
Perfect for home studios

Possibly lost in a large control room

Go to ranking

We ranked Neumann KH 310 #21 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
Critic endorsements:
Hyperbits

Best Professional Monitors ($1,000-$5,000/pair)

Go to ranking

Pocket-lint

Best premium studio monitors

Tri-amplification system sounds outstanding
Wide dispersion
Performs fantastic at loud volumes

Price point out of reach for most

Go to ranking

We ranked Dynaudio BM5 mkIII #22 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 18 Jun 2023)
The Dynaudio BM5 mkIII Studio Monitor is a powerful and reliable option for small to medium-sized recording studios, home recording, and mixing, delivering clear and accurate sound reproduction with a transparent and natural sound that won't fatigue the listener during long mixing sessions.
Critic endorsements:
Hyperbits

Best Advanced Monitors ($400-$1000/pair)

Go to ranking

Gearank

Highly accurate sound reproduction with detailed clarity
Superior low-end response for a monitor of this size
Versatile EQ settings for room adjustment
Durable build with a sleek, professional look

Higher price point may be a consideration for smaller studios
Slightly heavier than some other compact monitors

Go to ranking

We ranked Focal Solo6 Be #23 in December 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 18 Jun 2023)
The Focal Solo6 Be is a versatile and high-powered studio monitor that delivers remarkable clarity and an expansive soundstage, making it suitable for professional and personal use.
Critic endorsements:
Hyperbits

Best Professional Monitors ($1,000-$5,000/pair)

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Careers In Music

Sounds fantastic
Stylish

Expensive
Relatively small

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