January 2025
Studio Monitors: MetaRanking
This page highlights the aggregate summary of studio monitors rankings posted by key online experts, as of January 2025.
Summary
On 10 Jan 2025, 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 10 Jan 2025, 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
-
Focal: 6 studio monitors
(#1 is Focal Shape 65)
-
Adam Audio: 5 studio monitors
(#1 is Adam Audio A7V)
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KRK: 5 studio monitors
(#1 is KRK Rokit RP7 G4)
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PreSonus: 5 studio monitors
(#1 is PreSonus Eris E.45)
-
Genelec: 4 studio monitors
(#1 is Genelec 8010A)
Price breakdown
At a glance - January Ranking
| Rank | Change | Price | Studio Monitor |
higherhz.com
|
Pocket-lint
|
woodandfirestudio.com
|
Hyperbits
|
Gearank
|
Careers In Music
|
Music Radar
|
PianoDreamers
|
Music Critic
|
Popular Science
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
1
|
- | $198 |
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.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
4
|
8
|
-
|
4
|
4
|
2
|
1
|
|
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.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
5
|
-
|
7
|
5
|
3
|
6
|
|
3
|
- | $720 |
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.
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
8
|
7
|
-
|
|
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.
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
12
|
4
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
|
5
|
- | 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.
|
-
|
3
|
-
|
7
|
-
|
2
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
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.
|
2
|
2
|
8
|
8
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
7
|
- | $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
|
+1 | $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.
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
|
9
|
-1 | $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.
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
10
|
- | $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
|
- | $99 |
Mackie CR3-XBT
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
1
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
8
|
|
12
|
- | $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.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
-
|
-
|
9
|
-
|
10
|
-
|
|
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.
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
11
|
-
|
-
|
10
|
8
|
-
|
|
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.
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-
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-
|
3
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
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-
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-
|
4
|
|
17
|
- | Check price |
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.
|
-
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-
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-
|
2
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
|
19
|
- | 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
|
- | $248 |
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
|
- | 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.
|
-
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-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
5
|
6
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
22
|
- | $2495 |
Neumann KH 310
|
-
|
4
|
-
|
15
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
|
23
|
- | 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
|
-
|
-
|
-
|
-
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-
|
|
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.
|
-
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-
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-
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14
|
-
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7
|
-
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-
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-
|
-
|
We ranked Yamaha HS5 #1 in January 2025 because:
- 6 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Yamaha HS5 as #1.
Gearank
|
Amazing for critical listening
Compact Size
Great build quality
Good value
|
Not ideal for bass-heavy music
|
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
|
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
|
Music Critic
|
Neutral sound reproduction for critical listening
High-quality build with robust components
Room control features for optimizing in any space
|
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
|
We ranked JBL 305P MkII #2 in January 2025 because:
- 6 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked JBL 305P MkII as #1.
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
|
Music Radar
The best studio monitors for beginners
|
Bargain price point
Clear and detailed sound
Wide sweet spot
|
Lacking low end
|
PianoDreamers
Best Studio Monitor Under $500 (for intermediate studios)
|
Nice low-end response
Hi-tech image control
Durable
|
Potentially difficult to balance
|
Music Critic
|
Wide sweet spot with Image Control Waveguide
Punchy bass with Slip Stream low-frequency port
High power output for larger spaces
|
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
|
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 January 2025 ranking
higherhz.com
Pocket-lint
woodandfirestudio.com
Hyperbits
Gearank
Careers In Music
Music Radar
PianoDreamers
Music Critic
Popular Science
We ranked Adam Audio A7V #3 in January 2025 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Adam Audio A7V as #1.
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
|
Careers In Music
|
Versatile
Sonically clean and precise
|
Expensive
Probably too powerful for smaller rooms
|
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
|
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
|
We ranked Neumann KH 120 A #4 in January 2025 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Neumann KH 120 A as #1.
woodandfirestudio.com
Best Studio Monitors
|
High End Monitors
Neutral frequency response, so you can trust these monitors
Incredible detail and impulse fidelity
|
Not cheap
|
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
|
Careers In Music
|
Designed by mathematical modeling
Comprehensive acoustic controls
Reasonably priced
|
Odd looking
|
Music Critic
|
High SPL capability with extended bass
DSP-based room alignment and automatic calibration
Razor-sharp imaging with minimal distortion
|
We ranked KRK Rokit RP7 G4 #5 in January 2025 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
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
|
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
|
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
|
We ranked Genelec 8010A #6 in January 2025 because:
- 4 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
higherhz.com
Best compact
|
Neutral and detailed.
Perfect for small studios.
Robust design.
|
Quite expensive.
|
Pocket-lint
Best compact studio monitors
|
Ideal for tight spaces
Extremely well balanced
Bi-amping provides great headroom
|
Some may prefer more power
|
woodandfirestudio.com
Best portable studio monitors
|
Exceptional portability
Very good construction quality
Very good sound for the size
|
High price for 3-inch monitors
|
We ranked PreSonus Eris E.45 #7 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked PreSonus Eris E.45 as #1.
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
|
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
|
We ranked PreSonus Eris E3.5 #8 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked PreSonus Eris E3.5 as #1.
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
|
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
|
We ranked Yamaha HS7 #9 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Yamaha HS7 as #1.
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
|
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
|
We ranked Yamaha HS8 #10 in January 2025 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
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.
|
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
|
We ranked Mackie CR3-XBT #11 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Mackie CR3-XBT as #1.
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
|
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)
|
We ranked Focal Shape 65 #12 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
- Out of those, 1 expert ranked Focal Shape 65 as #1.
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
|
We ranked Kali Audio LP-6 #13 in January 2025 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
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
|
Music Critic
|
Flat frequency response with minimal distortion
Wide soundstage with cutting-edge waveguide design
Boundary EQ for room-specific tuning
|
We ranked Genelec 8030C #14 in January 2025 because:
- 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
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
|
PianoDreamers
Best Studio Monitors Under $1500 (For The Serious Home Studios)
|
Clean sounding and incredibly accurate
Durable and reliable
Solid
|
Only XLR inputs
|
Music Critic
|
Compact size without sacrificing sound quality
High-powered bi-amplification for low distortion
Innovative waveguide for accurate imaging
|
We ranked Adam Audio T5V #15 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
higherhz.com
Best budget
|
Clear and precise.
Perfect for home studios.
Great value for money.
|
Not as neutral as higher-end options.
|
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
|
We ranked KRK Rokit 8 G4 #16 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
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
|
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
|
We ranked KRK Rokit 5 G4 #17 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
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
|
We ranked Presonus Eris E5 #18 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
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
|
We ranked Adam Audio T7V #19 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
woodandfirestudio.com
|
Very good monitors for relatively little money
Ears do not get tired with intensive use
|
Not as transparent as the Yamaha's
|
Gearank
The Best Studio Monitors Under $300
|
Amazing stereo imaging
Airy but neutral extended highs
Excellent midrange
Great overall value
|
No power indicator light
|
We ranked IK Multimedia iLoud MTM #20 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
Careers In Music
|
Great for small rooms
Versatile
Self-tuning
Good value
|
Not enough power for larger rooms
Could be lacking in bass
|
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
|
We ranked Neumann KH 310 #21 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
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
|
We ranked Dynaudio BM5 mkIII #22 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
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
|
We ranked Focal Solo6 Be #23 in January 2025 because:
- 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
