October 2024

Studio Monitors: MetaRanking

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

Summary

On 15 Oct 2024, ReviewFinder team examined a total of 100 studio monitor endorsements from 10 reputable publishers.

54 studio monitors were endorsed in total, only 24 made it into this month's ranking. (ReviewFinder requires a minimum of 2 endorsements to be included)

As of 15 Oct 2024, Yamaha HS8 takes the cake as the most critically-acclaimed studio monitor with 5 expert endorsements. 1 expert out of 5 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 $99 (Mackie CR3-XBT) and go up to $2493.45 (Neumann KH 310). Median studio monitor costs $279.99 (Mackie MR824).
$99
$2493.45

At a glance - October 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
E-Home Recording Studio
Pocket-lint
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.
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1
2
6
8
-
-
-
3
-
2
- 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.
-
2
1
-
12
4
-
-
6
-
3
- $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
-
-
4
9
-
4
4
-
-
4
- 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
-
-
1
5
-
6
5
-
-
5
- $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.
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-
-
-
-
1
-
8
7
5
6
- $509
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
7
-
-
-
8
2
7
- 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.
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-
-
7
-
2
3
-
-
3
8
- $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.
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-
-
2
-
-
-
6
1
-
9
- $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
-
-
10
+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.
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-
-
-
1
-
-
-
-
6
11
-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.
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-
-
-
6
-
-
-
-
1
12
- $159
M-Audio BX4
The M-Audio BX4 Studio Monitors deliver powerful and immersive sound for a variety of tasks, making them a versatile and reliable choice for gaming, recording, and more.
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-
-
-
-
6
1
-
-
-
13
- $799
Mackie HR824 mkII
The Mackie HR824 mkII Studio Monitor is a powerful and reliable studio monitor that delivers high-quality sound for a range of professional and personal applications, with impressive low-end performance and individual calibration plots that ensure better matching between pairs of speakers.
-
6
-
-
-
-
-
9
5
-
14
- 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.
-
5
-
14
-
7
-
-
-
-
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.
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-
-
-
3
-
2
-
-
-
16
- $179
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
- $150
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
-
-
-
-
-
-
18
- $250
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.
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-
5
-
4
-
-
-
-
-
19
- 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
5
-
-
-
20
- 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.
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-
-
5
-
-
9
-
-
-
21
- Check price
Focal Twin6 Be
-
-
-
-
-
-
8
-
9
-
22
- $2493
Neumann KH 310
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-
-
15
-
-
-
-
-
4
23
- $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.
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-
-
12
-
-
7
-
-
-
24
- 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.
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-
-
-
11
-
-
10
-
-

Studio Monitor
#10 $99.99 PreSonus Eris E3.5
#17 $149.99 Presonus Eris E5
#8 $159 KRK Rokit 5 G4
#12 $159 M-Audio BX4
#16 $179 KRK Rokit 8 G4
#9 $199.95 PreSonus Eris E.45
#3 $199.99 Yamaha HS5
#18 $249.99 Adam Audio T7V
#11 $349.99 Yamaha HS7
#1 $398.99 Yamaha HS8
#6 $509.20 Genelec 8010A
#2 $640 Neumann KH 120 A
#13 $798.99 Mackie HR824 mkII
#5 $799.99 Adam Audio A7V
#23 $899 Focal Shape 65
#22 $2493.45 Neumann KH 310

We ranked Yamaha HS8 #1 in October 2024 because:

  • 5 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
  • Out of those, 1 expert ranked Yamaha HS8 as #1.
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:
Music Critic

Best Overall

Has an 8” cone woofer and a 1” dome tweeter to provide you with the best quality sound.
Has a frequency response of 38Hz to 30kHz, so you get the ideal flat frequency response.
Equipped with a built-in amp and a bi-amp so you get the best sound resolution every time.

Go to ranking

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)

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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

E-Home Recording Studio

The Modern Remake of a Classic Industry Standard

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We ranked Neumann KH 120 A #2 in October 2024 because:

  • 5 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

Premium Quality

Class-AB analog amplifiers.
52 Hertz -21 kiloHertz.
Easy interface.

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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

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E-Home Recording Studio

Studio Monitors from the Top Name in Microphones

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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 October 2024 ranking

We ranked Yamaha HS5 #3 in October 2024 because:

  • 5 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

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

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We ranked JBL 305P MkII #4 in October 2024 because:

  • 5 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

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Hyperbits

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

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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

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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

We ranked Adam Audio A7V #5 in October 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:
Careers In Music

Versatile
Sonically clean and precise

Expensive
Probably too powerful for smaller rooms

Go to ranking

PianoDreamers

Best Studio Monitors Under $1000 (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

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E-Home Recording Studio

High Tech Studio Monitors With a Next-Gen Tweeter

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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

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

  • 5 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

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Hyperbits

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

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Gearank

The Best Studio Monitors under $500

Portable
Surprisingly robust sound
Great Imaging

Awkward XLR jack positioning

Go to ranking

E-Home Recording Studio

An Affordable Option from the Standard in Pro Studios

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Pocket-lint

Best compact studio monitors

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

Some may prefer more power

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We ranked KRK Rokit RP7 G4 #7 in October 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)

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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

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Music Radar

The best studio monitors for home use

Graphic EQ at this price-point is fantastic
Bass sounds are quite phenomenal

There are monitors better suited to non-electronic music production

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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

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We ranked KRK Rokit 5 G4 #8 in October 2024 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
  • Out of those, 1 expert ranked KRK Rokit 5 G4 as #1.
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)

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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

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E-Home Recording Studio

The Most Popular Entry Level Studio Monitors Ever

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We ranked PreSonus Eris E.45 #9 in October 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 PreSonus Eris E3.5 #10 in October 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:
Gearank

The Best Cheap Studio Monitor Under $100

Great audio quality for the price
Pleasing quality
Improved voicing over predecessor
Compact form factor

Limited low end

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 HS7 #11 in October 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

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We ranked M-Audio BX4 #12 in October 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
  • Out of those, 1 expert ranked M-Audio BX4 as #1.
Expert Consensus
(as of 3 Apr 2024)
The M-Audio BX4 Studio Monitors deliver powerful and immersive sound for a variety of tasks, making them a versatile and reliable choice for gaming, recording, and more.
Critic endorsements:
Careers In Music

Affordable
A great first step into proper speakers
Look great
Useful minijack input on front

Single amp driving both speakers

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Music Radar

The best compact, affordable option

Reasonably compact
Great low-frequency response
Well built

Lack the scale of larger nearfield monitors

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We ranked Mackie HR824 mkII #13 in October 2024 because:

  • 3 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
Expert Consensus
(as of 18 Jun 2023)
The Mackie HR824 mkII Studio Monitor is a powerful and reliable studio monitor that delivers high-quality sound for a range of professional and personal applications, with impressive low-end performance and individual calibration plots that ensure better matching between pairs of speakers.
Critic endorsements:
Music Critic

Class A/B amplifiers so that you can hear the highs and the lows simultaneously.
The 8.75" woofer that you get with this studio monitor enables you to get a sound that is high-precision and low-distortion at the same time.

Go to ranking

PianoDreamers

Best Studio Monitor Under $1000 (for the serious home studios)

Highly accurate
Passive radiator for accurate low-end frequencies
Wide-dispersal of high-end frequencies

A little more expensive
Some people experience longevity issues 4-5 years down the line

Go to ranking

E-Home Recording Studio

Studio Monitors That Adjust to Your Room

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We ranked Focal Solo6 Be #14 in October 2024 because:

  • 3 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:
Music Critic

W composite sandwich cone gives you unparalleled frequency response.
Has an inverted-dome tweeter to provide you with the utmost of precision and high efficiency.
It also comes equipped with a potentiometer so that you can easily adjust the tweeter and woofer levels according to your liking.

Go to ranking

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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We ranked Adam Audio T5V #15 in October 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:
Gearank

The Best Studio Monitors Under $300

Ribbon tweeter gives amazing detail
Excellent value
Neutral sound
Easily configurable

Power indicator awkwardly placed
Limited low extension

Go to ranking

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

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We ranked KRK Rokit 8 G4 #16 in October 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

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We ranked Presonus Eris E5 #17 in October 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

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Hyperbits

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

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We ranked Adam Audio T7V #18 in October 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

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Gearank

The Best Studio Monitors Under $300

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

No power indicator light

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We ranked IK Multimedia iLoud MTM #19 in October 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

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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

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We ranked Kali Audio LP-6 #20 in October 2024 because:

  • 2 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:
Hyperbits

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

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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

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We ranked Focal Twin6 Be #21 in October 2024 because:

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

The best for balance and clarity

Peerless construction and finish
Huge sound stage, and gorgeously smooth
Focus mode will appeal to many

Relatively large for small home studios

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E-Home Recording Studio

The Ultimate in Studio Monitors of Today

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We ranked Neumann KH 310 #22 in October 2024 because:

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

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

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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

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We ranked Focal Shape 65 #23 in October 2024 because:

  • 2 independent experts mentioned it in their “best studio monitors” rankings.
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)

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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

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We ranked Genelec 8030C #24 in October 2024 because:

  • 2 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:
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

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PianoDreamers

Best Studio Monitor Under $1000 (for the serious home studios)

Clean sounding and incredibly accurate
Durable and reliable
Solid

Only XLR inputs

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