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IK Multimedia iLoud Micro vs Yamaha HS5: Overview of expert opinions
The Yamaha HS5 is a great choice for those who prioritize accuracy and precision in their sound. It is ideal for mixing and mastering in a studio setting, as it offers a balanced and uncolored flat sound with a wide soundstage and highly-detailed stereo imaging. It is best suited for medium-sized studios and larger rooms due to its larger size and weight.
The IK Multimedia iLoud Micro, on the other hand, is better suited for those who require a higher maximum SPL and need a portable speaker for live performances or for listening to music at higher volumes. It offers a clean and accurate output with a more controlled bass response compared to the Yamaha HS5, making it a good option for small studios.
However, it doesn't perform well at high volume levels, and the audio quality degrades once you go beyond 90dB. It is also more compact and portable, making it easier to position in smaller spaces and a good option for those who need to transport their monitors frequently.
Overall, the choice between these two monitors will depend on the user's specific needs and preferences. If accuracy and precision are a top priority, the Yamaha HS5 is the better choice. If portability and higher maximum SPL are more important, the IK Multimedia iLoud Micro is the better option.
Table of contents (click on an item)
Power
The Yamaha HS5 is better for those who prioritize a more balanced and accurate sound, as it has a higher power amplification system with a dedicated power output for both the LF and HF. This makes it a good choice for mixing and mastering in a studio setting. On the other hand, the IK Multimedia iLoud Micro is better for those who need a higher maximum SPL, as it can produce louder sound levels without distortion or audio degradation.
This makes it a good choice for musicians who need a portable speaker for live performances or for those who want to listen to music at higher volumes. However, it is important to use caution when using either of these speakers at high volumes to prevent hearing damage.
Power | Table of contents
What is the wattage output of the IK Multimedia iLoud Micro and Yamaha HS5?
In terms of wattage output, the Yamaha HS5 has a higher power amplification system with a total of 70W compared to the IK Multimedia iLoud Micro's 50W RMS output. Additionally, the Yamaha HS5 has a dedicated power output for both the LF and HF, which may result in a more balanced and accurate sound. However, it's important to note that wattage output is not the only factor that determines the quality of a studio monitor, and other factors such as frequency response and overall design should also be considered when making a purchasing decision.
Yamaha HS5
Based on 5 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]
IK Multimedia iLoud Micro
Based on 2 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]
What is the maximum SPL (sound pressure level) of the IK Multimedia iLoud Micro and Yamaha HS5?
The IK Multimedia iLoud Micro has a higher maximum SPL than the Yamaha HS5, with a reported maximum of 104dB to 107dB compared to the HS5's 94dB. This means that the iLoud Micro can produce louder sound levels without distortion or audio degradation. However, it is important to note that prolonged exposure to sound levels above 90dB can cause hearing damage, so it is important to use caution when using either of these speakers at high volumes.
Yamaha HS5
IK Multimedia iLoud Micro
Based on 3 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]
Sound
The Yamaha HS5 is best suited for producers and audio engineers who require an uncolored flat sound with a wide soundstage and highly-detailed stereo imaging. It is an outstanding nearfield studio monitor that would be ideal for use in a recording studio or as a high-quality speaker for audiophiles at home.
On the other hand, the IK Multimedia iLoud Micro is a good mixing monitor that's ideal for small studios. It offers a clean and accurate output with a more controlled bass response compared to the Yamaha HS5. However, it doesn't perform well at high volume levels, and the audio quality degrades once you go beyond 90dB.
If you work a lot with bass instruments, having an additional subwoofer for more low-end is recommended for both monitors. Ultimately, the choice between these two monitors will depend on the user's specific needs and preferences.
Sound | Table of contents
In terms of clarity, which of the two monitors provides a more accurate representation of the audio being played?
Both the Yamaha HS5 and the IK Multimedia iLoud Micro offer a clear and accurate representation of the audio being played. However, the Yamaha HS5 has been specifically designed to offer an uncolored flat sound that is best suited to producers and audio engineers. It has a wide soundstage with highly-detailed stereo imaging, making it an outstanding nearfield studio monitor that would be ideal for use in a recording studio or as a high-quality speaker for audiophiles at home.
On the other hand, the IK Multimedia iLoud Micro has a very flat frequency response, offering a clean and accurate output that highlights the technical skill and abilities of the IK Multimedia company. It is a good mixing monitor that's ideal for small studios. Therefore, both monitors are suitable for different purposes, and the choice between them would depend on the specific needs of the user.
Yamaha HS5
Based on 17 quotes from 9 sources [show quotes and sources]
IK Multimedia iLoud Micro
Based on 10 quotes from 5 sources [show quotes and sources]
How do the monitors differ in terms of accuracy when it comes to reproducing low frequencies?
In terms of accuracy when it comes to reproducing low frequencies, the IK Multimedia iLoud Micro has a more controlled bass response compared to the Yamaha HS5. While the HS5 has a frequency response of 54 Hz-30 kHz (-10 dB), it can only reach as low as 70Hz, after which point the performance deteriorates at a fast pace.
On the other hand, the iLoud Micro has a lowest frequency point of 55 Hz, which is controlled by the internal DSP. While it doesn't reach the deepest lows, it is still able to hit low frequencies despite its small size.
However, it's worth noting that the iLoud Micro doesn't perform well at high volume levels and the audio quality degrades once you go beyond 90dB, so it's best to keep the volume below this threshold for optimal clarity and delivery.
Overall, if you work a lot with bass instruments, having an additional subwoofer for more low-end is recommended for both monitors.
Yamaha HS5
Based on 13 quotes from 9 sources [show quotes and sources]
IK Multimedia iLoud Micro
Based on 12 quotes from 5 sources [show quotes and sources]
Are there any notable differences in the soundstage or stereo imaging between the two monitors?
Based on the available information, it seems that the Yamaha HS5 has a wider soundstage and more detailed stereo imaging compared to the IK Multimedia iLoud Micro. However, the iLoud Micro is praised for its linear tuning solution, which means that it reproduces sound accurately without adding any coloration or skewing the sound in any specific direction.
Yamaha HS5
Based on 7 quotes from 6 sources [show quotes and sources]
IK Multimedia iLoud Micro
Based on 3 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]
Size
According to expert reviews, the Yamaha HS5 is better suited for medium-sized studios and larger rooms due to its larger size and weight. It may require more space to be positioned correctly for optimal sound quality. On the other hand, the IK Multimedia iLoud Micro is designed for smaller studios and is more compact and portable, making it easier to position in smaller spaces.
It is also lighter in weight, making it a good option for those who need to transport their monitors frequently. Ultimately, the size of the studio monitors chosen should depend on the size of the workspace. If the workspace is smaller, the IK Multimedia iLoud Micro would be more suitable, while the Yamaha HS5 would be a better fit for larger workspaces.
Size | Table of contents
What are the physical dimensions of the IK Multimedia iLoud Micro and Yamaha HS5?
The Yamaha HS5 is taller and wider than the IK Multimedia iLoud Micro, standing at 285mm tall and 170mm wide compared to the iLoud Micro's 180mm height and 135mm width.
However, the iLoud Micro is shallower than the HS5, with a depth of only 90mm compared to the HS5's 222mm depth.
Additionally, the iLoud Micro is lighter as a pair, weighing in at 1.7 kg compared to the HS5's weight of 5.3 kg per monitor.
Overall, the Yamaha HS5 is larger and heavier than the IK Multimedia iLoud Micro.
Yamaha HS5
Based on 9 quotes from 7 sources [show quotes and sources]
IK Multimedia iLoud Micro
Based on 1 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]
Are there any notable differences in weight between the two monitors?
The Yamaha HS5 is significantly heavier than the IK Multimedia iLoud Micro monitors, weighing in at 5.3 kg compared to the iLoud Micro's 1.7 kg for a pair.
This may be a consideration for those who need to transport their monitors frequently or have limited space for setup.
However, it's important to note that weight alone should not be the only factor in choosing a monitor, as sound quality and other features should also be taken into account.
Yamaha HS5
Based on 6 quotes from 5 sources [show quotes and sources]
IK Multimedia iLoud Micro
Based on 1 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]
How do the physical dimensions of each monitor affect their sound quality?
In terms of physical dimensions, the Yamaha HS5 is larger than the IK Multimedia iLoud Micro. This means that the HS5 may require more space to be positioned correctly for optimal sound quality.
On the other hand, the iLoud Micro is designed to be compact and portable, making it easier to position in smaller spaces. However, despite its small size, the iLoud Micro is still able to produce a balanced sound due to its flat frequency response.
Ultimately, the physical dimensions of each monitor can affect their sound quality, but it is important to consider the specific needs of your space and usage when choosing between the two.
Yamaha HS5
Based on 4 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]
IK Multimedia iLoud Micro
Based on 2 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]
Which size would be more suitable for a smaller or larger workspace?
In terms of size, the Yamaha HS5 is larger than the IK Multimedia iLoud Micro. The Yamaha HS5 measures 6.7 x 8.7 x 11.2 inches, while the IK Multimedia iLoud Micro measures 6.3 x 5.3 x 2.4 inches. Therefore, if you have a smaller workspace, the IK Multimedia iLoud Micro would be more suitable as it takes up less space and is specifically designed for smaller studios.
On the other hand, if you have a larger workspace, the Yamaha HS5 would be a better fit as it is designed for medium-sized studios and can handle larger rooms. Overall, the size of the studio monitors you choose should depend on the size of your workspace. If you have a smaller workspace, the IK Multimedia iLoud Micro would be more suitable, while the Yamaha HS5 would be a better fit for larger workspaces.
Yamaha HS5
Based on 12 quotes from 8 sources [show quotes and sources]
IK Multimedia iLoud Micro
Based on 11 quotes from 8 sources [show quotes and sources]
Experts recommend Yamaha HS5 more than IK Multimedia iLoud Micro
As of 9 Mar 2024, experts prefer Yamaha HS5 over IK Multimedia iLoud Micro, but both Studio Monitors have solid expert endorsements.
As per this month's meta ranking, Yamaha HS5 received 4 recommendations: from PianoDreamers (22 Jan 2024), Music Radar (2 Nov 2023) Hyperbits and 1 other. By contrast, IK Multimedia iLoud Micro received only 1 recommendation from Popular Science (8 Feb 2024).
Rank | Change | Price | Studio Monitor | Music Critic | PianoDreamers | Music Radar | Careers In Music | Gearank | Hyperbits | Popular Science | woodandfirestudio.com |
E-Home Recording Studio | Pocket-lint |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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. | - | 4 | 5 | - | - | 4 | 1 | - | - | - |
40 | N/A | $250 | IK Multimedia iLoud Micro The IK Multimedia iLoud Micro Studio Monitor is a compact and powerful device suitable for small studio spaces, home recording, and music production, with Bluetooth connectivity for wireless streaming and a flat frequency response that highlights the technical abilities of the company. | - | - | - | - | - | - | 7 | - | - | - |
Curious to see this month's entire Studio Monitors ranking? It's here
Endorsement summary:
- On 8 Feb 2024 Popular Science ranked Yamaha HS5 as #1 and IK Multimedia iLoud Micro as #7
Rank Studio Monitor Comment #1 out of 8 Yamaha HS5 Best overall... ... ... #7 out of 8 IK Multimedia iLoud Micro Best portable... ... ... Source: www.popsci.com - On 22 Jan 2024 PianoDreamers ranked Yamaha HS5 as #4
Rank Studio Monitor Comment ... ... ... #4 out of 10 Yamaha HS5 Best Studio Monitor Under $500 (for intermediate studios)... ... ... Source: www.pianodreamers.com - On 2 Nov 2023 Music Radar ranked Yamaha HS5 as #5
Rank Studio Monitor Comment ... ... ... #5 out of 15 Yamaha HS5 The best for a true representation of your recordings... ... ... Source: www.musicradar.com - Hyperbits ranked Yamaha HS5 as #4
Rank Studio Monitor Comment ... ... ... #4 out of 20 Yamaha HS5 Best Entry Level Monitors (less than $400/pair)... ... ... Source: hyperbitsmusic.com
After counting and adding up the 106 expert endorsements of the March rankings, Yamaha HS5 outranks IK Multimedia iLoud Micro. This is not to say that IK Multimedia iLoud Micro is a bad option. Like Yamaha HS5, it is recommended by experts, but less.
Customers like Yamaha HS5 and IK Multimedia iLoud Micro about the same
At ReviewFinder we prefer to focus on professional product reviews, because customer reviews can be disproportionately affected by unrelated factors such as delivery, specific seller listing problems, and, of course, fake reviews. With that said, below is the summary of consumer sentiment.
Yamaha HS5
CS of 10 is similar to a 4.8 star review, CS of 0 is similar to a 2 star review.
Both Yamaha HS5 and IK Multimedia iLoud Micro have very similar amazing customer reviews.
As can be seen in the chart above, median best-selling studio monitor receives a consumer score of 8.7 (great). Both IK Multimedia iLoud Micro and Yamaha HS5 receive customer reviews that average out above that median threshold.
IK Multimedia iLoud Micro |
In comparison:
IK Multimedia iLoud Micro ranks #9 out of 82. Very high levels of customer satisfaction. Go to rankings 9.6 Amazing
|
Yamaha HS5 |
In comparison:
9.6 Amazing
|
Median best-selling Studio Monitor |
In comparison:
8.7 Great
|
To consider
Table: Top compared alternatives for IK Multimedia iLoud Micro and Yamaha HS5 | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
PreSonus Eris E.45 | $200 |
In comparison:
9.1 Great
| 2 expert recommendations | Cheaper More Popular | |
JBL Control 1 Pro | $200 |
In comparison:
9.1 Great
| No expert recommendations | ||
Adam Audio T7V | $250 |
In comparison:
10.0 Amazing
| 2 expert recommendations | Better Reviews | |
KRK Rokit 8 G4 | $296 |
We don't yet have enough review information for KRK Rokit 8 G4 N/A
| 2 expert recommendations |
Rank | Change | Price | Studio Monitor | Music Critic | PianoDreamers | Music Radar | Careers In Music | Gearank | Hyperbits | Popular Science | woodandfirestudio.com | E-Home Recording Studio | Pocket-lint |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | +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. | 1 | - | - | - | 9 | 6 | - | 2 | 3 | - |
2 | -1 | $932 | 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 | - | - | 4 | 12 | - | - | 1 | 6 | - |
3 | +3 | $514 | 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. | - | - | 3 | - | 8 | 8 | - | 8 | 8 | 2 |
4 | - | $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. | - | 6 | - | - | 3 | 2 | - | - | 1 | - |
Show all rows |
Expert reviews [26]
- with a score: 9
- without a score: 17
Highest score by Music Radar | 580 |
Average score based on 26 reviews | 142 |
Lowest score by producerhive.com | 80 |
Score distribution:
80-100 | |
60-80 | |
40-60 | |
20-40 | |
0-20 |
Expert reviews [19]
- with a score: 8
- without a score: 11
Highest score by Home DJ Studio | 94 |
Average score based on 19 reviews | 84 |
Lowest score by Digital Stereophony | 70 |
Score distribution:
80-100 | |
60-80 | |
40-60 | |
20-40 | |
0-20 |
- The smallest active studio reference monitoring system in the world, iLoud Micro Monitor provides you with ultra-accurate true linear frequency response with no coloration, and does so in every listening environment, especially in home and project studios. The iLoud Micro Monitors have internal DSP that offers various EQ settings for optimizing bass and treble response as well as position compensation — this lets you switch between a “free field” and “desktop” setup effortlessly.
- Read more
- 2-Way bass-reflex bi-amplified nearfield studio monitor with 5" cone woofer and 1" dome tweeter
- 54Hz-30kHz frequency response
- 45W LF plus 25W HF bi-amp system for high-performance 70W power amplification
- Read more
IK Multimedia iLoud Micro is a very popular option in the middle of the studio monitors price range. It's in the top 3 bestselling studio monitors and has dozens of popular alternatives in the same price range, such as Avantone Pro MixCube or Adam Audio T7V .
IK Multimedia iLoud Micro price is roughly the same as the price of an average studio monitor ($249.99).
Yamaha HS5 is a very popular option in the middle of the studio monitors price range. It's in the top 3 bestselling studio monitors and has dozens of popular alternatives in the same price range, such as JBL Control 1 Pro or PreSonus Eris E.45 .
Yamaha HS5 is $50 cheaper than the average studio monitor ($249.99).