Studio monitors play a crucial role in audio production, delivering accurate sound reproduction for mixing, mastering, and recording. Their flat frequency response ensures an uncoloured representation of audio, enabling you to make precise, well-informed adjustments to your mix to get the best sound possible.

Furthermore, their flat-response design will ensure that your mixes and masters translate through other consumer-grade speakers, from earbuds to car speakers. Ultimately, studio monitors are indispensable in the studio – so, we’ve delved into 16 of the best studio monitors to help you pick the right one for you.

2. Genelec 8020D Studio Monitor

Best premium compact monitors

Specifications

• LF Driver: 4”
• HF Driver:75” metal dome
• Frequency response: 62Hz – 20kHz
• Maximum SPL: 100dB
• Amplifier: 50W Class-D woofer, 50W Class-D tweeter
• Cabinet: Die-cast aluminium
• Inputs: 1 x XLR
• Outputs: N/A
• Tuning: Five Tone Control dip switches; Desktop -4dB Trim, Treble Tilt -2dB Trim, Bass Tilt -2dB and -4dB (-6dB when combined) and Bass Roll Off Trim -4dB

Pros

• Iso-Pod stand provides incredible stability to reduce vibrations while letting you tilt the speaker up to +/- 15 degrees
• Renowned Genelec sound with extremely balanced frequencies across the entire response of the monitor
• Each cone is powered by an independent amplifier in a Bi-amplified design for enhanced precision

Cons

• Quite expensive for a smaller monitor design

Some things in life are simple. Want good sound? Get Genelecs. See? Simple! A mainstay in virtually every studio that’s worth paying the fees, Genelec have probably been used in some way or another on every one of your favourite-sounding albums.

Though the 8020Ds are one of the smaller Genelec offerings at 4”, they pack a huge punch and don’t compromise on sound quality, build quality, or features. They lack a diverse range of inputs, but that’s not the point of these speakers. Everything has been designed to culminate in an extremely flat frequency response across the entire spectrum from 62Hz to 20kHz.

Employing all the typical Genelec addendums, you’ll find the Room Response controls to shape the audio output for your space, pre-mounted Iso-Pod stands, circuit protection technology, and the Direct Control Waveguides.

I’d say these are a sound investment for any intermediate-level producers and mixing engineers looking to upgrade their current setup, though be wary of the reduced low-end and utilise the Room Response controls where possible.

3. Focal Alpha 50 Evo Active Studio Monitor

Best all-around budget monitors

Specifications

• LF Driver: 5” Slatefibre cone
• HF Driver: 1” aluminium-inverted dome
• Frequency response: 45Hz – 22kHz
• Amplifier: Woofer – 30W Class-D, Tweeter – 20W Class-D
• Sensitivity: Adjustable 0 – +6dB
• Power: 120W Peak, 50W RMS
• Cabinet: 6” thick MDF
• Inputs: 1 x balanced XLR, 1 x unbalanced RCA, 1 x balanced TRS
• Outputs: N/A
• Tuning: LF Shelving +/-6dB, HF Shelving +/-3dB

Pros

• Custom-designed Slatefibre is fantastic at reproducing mid and low-range frequencies
• A good amount of connectivity for different sources
• Balanced tonal performance across the entire spectrum with dedicated amplifiers per cone

Cons

• High-frequency shelving is centred around 4.5kHz, which can often be too low to create the necessary air and lift to brighten your sound

Focal monitors are serious business and the Alpha 50 Evo is no exception. It seems as though they’ve thought of literally everything with these monitors. You get custom-designed Slatefibre cones and aluminium dome tweeters with scientifically-engineered waveguides for maximum directivity.

With dedicated amplifiers per speaker, the 45Hz – 22kHz frequency range is very smooth and sounds excellent with plenty of punch and detail, though there’s not as much low-end extension as some bigger monitors.

Away from the sound, the design is very clever and has everything you need in a monitor. Multiple inputs let you connect XLRs, RCA, and 1/4” devices, so you don’t just need to connect an audio interface – you can plug in your favourite DJ decks and vinyl players.

There’s even Auto Stand-by to shut down the monitors after long periods of inactivity, ideal for saving power when you take a break during long sessions. If you’re after a unique look for your studio, you can even mount the Alpha 50 Evo to wall mounts with insert points. Nifty, right?

4. Subzero 8” Active Studio Monitor

Best budget large-sized monitors

Specifications

• LF Driver: 8”
• HF Driver: 1”
• SPL: 93dB
• Frequency response: 40Hz – 22kHz at -3dB
• Power: 60W RMS
• Signal to Noise: 95dB
• Cabinet: High-density MDF enclosure
• Inputs: Balanced XLR, unbalanced RCA
• Outputs: N/A
• Tuning: +/- 2.5dB High and Low-frequency shelving trim

Pros

• Ported and tuned enclosure guarantees accuracy when recording, mixing, and mastering
• Fantastic low-end response via Kevlar drive cones and rubber surround
• No distortion at high volumes thanks to the Neodymium Iron Boron tweeter

Cons

• Rear-mounted volume control makes it difficult to reach behind big desks

The design might not be to everyone’s taste, but this can be forgiven when you fire up the SubZero 8″ Active Studio Monitors. This is a great near-field monitor option for home mixing and mastering, especially given the price.

Though connectivity is an issue, this isn’t what these speakers are designed for. The combination XLR/jack input and RCA input give you plenty of scope to connect audio interfaces or mixing desks to integrate into professional setups.

The 8” Kevlar drive cones pair perfectly with the Neodymium Iron Boron tweeter and amplifier to deliver high SPL levels and an extended frequency response down to a low 40Hz and 22kHz which is above human hearing levels, smoothing the top-end we can hear up to.

They sound full and sturdy and are more than capable of rivaling monitors in the next price bracket. And if you feel like they lack low-end “oomph” or top-end “sizzle” or have too much of either for your taste, tailor the speakers with the +/- 2.5dB trim switches.

5.  ADAM Audio A4V Active Studio Monitors

Best customisable midrange studio monitors

Specifications

• LF Driver: 4” MLM Woofer
• HF Driver: 1” rotatable X-ART Tweeter with HPS Waveguide
• Frequency response: 53Hz – 42kHZ
• Maximum SPL: 100dB
• Amplifier: 110W Class-D woofer, 20W Class-A/B tweeter
• Cabinet: High-quality wooden baffle with custom-designed front-firing bass ports
• Inputs: 1 x XLR, 1 x RCA
• Outputs: N/A
• Connectivity: Ethernet
• Tuning: Bass, Desk, Treble and Presence frequency bands, each with multiple levels

Pros

• Massive frequency range which extends far beyond the human hearing range to make the top-end extra smooth
• Custom-designed ribbon tweeter with HPS waveguide ensures you don’t suffer ear fatigue during long sessions
• Hybrid amplification delivers the perfect performance for the woofers and tweeters independently

Cons

• For some users, there could be too many options

The A4Vs highlight what Adam is all about. Built with an incredible amount of technology that rivals monitors that are double the price, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a speaker that’s more customisable, in any price range.

I’ll start with the most obvious, the Ethernet connection. Who puts that on a studio monitor? Once you know why, you’ll wonder why others aren’t following suit. You can download the latest firmware for the DSP-driven Voicings, letting you constantly update your monitor and future-proof it.

It also lets you connect with the 60-day trial of SoundID by Sonarworks. Here, you can load calibration profiles from the software direct to your monitors to create a customised frequency response that works for your room!

So how does it sound even without all the gadgets and gizmos? Incredible. I could leave it there but I’ll tell you why: it’s ADAM, that’s why. Custom-voiced amplifiers for each cone, rotatable HPS waveguide for sideways mounting, ribbon tweeter, custom-made woofer cone – the list goes on.

Also, the box has been redesigned to further reduce resonances, even at the incredibly loud 100dB max SPL it can pump out. If you’re a producer, musician, or mixing/mastering engineer looking for the most versatile, incredible-sounding speaker where you don’t need lots of inputs, these will deliver all the sound quality you could need.

6. ADAM Audio D3V Desktop Studio Monitors

Best monitors for excellent high-frequency reproduction

Specifications

• Frequency Response @ -3 dB: 48 – 22.6k Hz
• Frequency Response @ -6 dB: 45 – 23.2k Hz
• Maximum SPL: 96 dB
• Crossover Frequency: 4.0 kHz
• Woofers: 3.5” aluminium woofers
• Tweeters: 1.5” D-ART hand-folded tweeters

Pros

• Compact size, impressive sound
• Easy USB-C connectivity
• Ideal for long listening sessions

Cons

• Limited deep bass response

The ADAM Audio D3V Desktop Studio Monitors boast 3.5” aluminium woofers and dual passive radiators, meaning they provide surprisingly strong bass for their size. They’re also super easy to set up thanks to the USB-C input, which makes connecting your mobile, tablet, or computer straightforward.

The D-ART tweeter delivers clear, smooth high frequencies that avoid ear fatigue, meaning they’re perfect for long mixing sessions. Plus, thanks to their compact design, the monitors are great for small studios or desktop setups.

7. PreSonus Eris Studio 5

The best bass response in a compact monitor

Specifications

• Woofer: 25-inch, woven-composite, low-frequency transducer
• Tweeter: 1-inch (25 mm), ultra-low-mass, silk-dome, high-frequency transducer
• Dispersion: 100 x 60 degrees EBM waveguide for wide sweet spot
• Amplifier: 80W, Class AB bi-amplification
• Frequency Response: 55 Hz to 20 kHz
• SPL: 102 dB SPL (Peak at 1 metre)

Pros

• Exceptional sound quality for precise monitoring
• EBM waveguide ensures a large sweet spot
• Enhanced bass via the front-facing acoustic port

Cons

• Like other PreSonus monitors, the controls are rear-mounted, meaning they’re difficult to reach when wanting to make quick adjustments

The PreSonus Eris Studio 5 is a compact and versatile studio monitor that delivers exceptional sound quality, courtesy of its EBM waveguide design and front-facing acoustic port. These features contribute to an ultra-wide sweet spot and enhanced bass response, creating a rich and immersive listening experience.

The 80W Class A/B bi-amplification guarantees superior acoustic performance across the entire frequency range. And there’s a 5.25-inch woven composite transducer, which ensures impressive low-frequency performance, while a lightweight 1-inch silk-dome transducer provides high-end accuracy.

Built-in acoustic tuning controls allow you to tailor the high-frequency, midrange, and acoustic space settings to your room’s unique acoustics. You can compensate for any imperfections in your studio’s acoustics and ensure you have the best sound possible in all environments.

Constructed with high-quality components and offering a sturdy build, the Eris Studio 5 promises durability and reliability. It supports a variety of connectivity options, including balanced XLR and 1/4-inch inputs, making it compatible with a wide array of audio devices. Plus, there’s a headphone output for convenient private listening.

8. KRK ROKIT RP5 G5

Best budget mixing monitors

Specifications

• LF Driver: 5-inch, woven Kevlar aramid fibre cone, ferrite magnet
• HF Driver: 1” silk dome, copper cap, ferrite magnet
• Frequency response: 54 Hz – 30kHz
• Input impedance: 5.12k Ohms balanced
• Amplifier: Class-D
• Cabinet: PVC Vinyl Wrapped MDF
• Inputs: Balanced XLR/1/4” TRS Combo

Pros

• Proprietary speakers built from Kevlar Aramid Fibres
• 25 boundary and tuning EQ combinations for fine-tuning your sound
• The monitors come with isolation pads for desktop use

Cons

• Accessing all functionality of the DSP EQ can be tricky to navigate

The KRK ROKIT RP5 G5 Studio Monitors have a lot going for them if that wasn’t apparent already! A name you can trust, over 30 years of experience has gone into the manufacturing of the ROKIT G5 series.

The main draw points are unquestionably the EQ settings and Voicing Modes. There are 25 boundary and tuning EQ combinations to suit your acoustic environment. And to further tailor the sound to your needs, you have Mix Mode, providing a flat frequency and phase response for mixing and mastering; Create Mode for writing, producing, and listening; and Focus Mode, which emphasises the midrange.

There’s a custom KRK transducer for an improved and more accurate response than other monitors at this price range, giving you optimal sound. A front-facing bass reflex port provides great low

There’s an excellent bass response courtesy of a front-facing bass port paired with the 5” Kevlar Aramid driver and smooth high recreation with an optimised high-frequency one-inch driver.

The built-in Class-D power amp pumps out a lot of volume with minimal distortion. Excellent for mixing, mastering or other professional audio applications, this is a serious contender for anyone looking for a professional mixer at a reasonable price.

9. M-Audio BX3 Studio Monitor

Best compact mixing monitors

Specifications

• LF Driver: 5” black Kevlar
• HF Driver: 1” silk dome
• Frequency response: 80Hz – 22kHz
• Power: 120W Peak, 50W RMS
• Amplifier: Class-D
• Cabinet: Acoustically-treated MDF
• Inputs: 1 x RCA, 2 x 1/4” TRS, 1 x 1/8” stereo AUX
• Outputs: 1/8” stereo headphone output
• Tuning: +/- 6dB High and Low-frequency shelving trim

Pros

• Ideal for a wide range of applications
• Includes trim pots to increase the low end and compensate for the small woofer size
• A good amount of connectivity, including front-mounted AUX and headphone slots

Cons

• Won’t be suitable for larger rooms

An inexpensive, easy-to-use, and compact solution for beginner mixers or producers. Don’t let the size fool you, M-Audio’s BX3 Studio Monitors generate 120W of power, offering premium audio quality and impressive volume levels.

Suitable for music production, multimedia work, and gaming, the BX3 can enhance any sound source while fitting easily on any surface. The front-panel volume control then allows for quick and convenient level adjustments.

They don’t feature anything particularly flashy or fancy but instead focus on delivering excellent sound quality in a robust package for a very attractive price point, and I think M-Audio have succeeded. A nice touch is the addition of step-less trim pots for high and low-frequency tuning, letting you fine-tune the response of the speakers to your environment.

Equipped with versatile connectivity options, the BX3 includes 1/4-inch, 1/8-inch, and RCA inputs, as well as an AUX input on the front panel for smartphones or tablets. A headphone output is also available for private monitoring.

10. M-Audio BX4 Studio Monitor

Best beginner monitors

Specifications

• LF Driver: 5” black Kevlar
• HF Driver: 1” silk dome
• Frequency response: 80Hz – 22kHz
• Power: 120W Peak, 50W RMS
• Amplifier: Class-D
• Cabinet: Acoustically-treated MDF
• Inputs: 1 x RCA, 2 x 1/4” TRS, 1 x 1/8” stereo AUX
• Outputs: 1/8” stereo headphone output
• Tuning: +/- 6dB High and Low-frequency shelving trim

Pros

• Ideal for a wide range of applications
• Includes trim pots to increase the low end to compensate for the small woofer size
• A good amount of connectivity, including front-mounted AUX and headphone slots

Cons

• Uses only one amplifier to drive both speakers

The (ever-so-slightly) big brother to the BX3, the BX4 shares much of the same design, build quality, and functionality – just in a slightly larger package. Connectivity-wise, the speakers are identical, housing RCA and 1/4” balanced inputs for connecting things such as DJ decks, vinyl players, Hi-Fi equipment, and the more typical audio interfaces and mixing desks.

Functionally, the specification may remain the same but there’s a small noticeable difference in the sound. Defined as 80Hz to 22kHz, the additional 1” in the woofer helps to add a little bit more thickness and punch in the low end.

This is still an excellent monitor to consider if you’re looking to start your music production journey, and the small price difference between the BX3 and BX4 is worth it for those into more electronic music with heavy use of drums and bass. Drum and bass music would be an example…

11. ADAM Audio T7V

The best professional-level monitors at a reasonable price

Specifications

• Tweeter: New U-ART 1.9” accelerated ribbon tweeter
• Woofer: New polypropylene 7” woofer and rear-firing bass-reflex port
• Frequency Response: 39Hz – 25kHz
• Analog Inputs: XLR, RCA

Pros

• Crisp, detailed high frequencies
• Versatile connectivity options
• Compact, affordable design

Cons

• Rear bass port needs space

The ADAM Audio T7V studio monitors deliver impressive sound accuracy, ideal for smaller studio setups. Equipped with a seven-inch polypropylene woofer and the advanced U-ART ribbon tweeter, these monitors offer a balanced sound with a broad frequency range. The U-ART tweeter’s wide sweet spot ensures that even if you move around your desk, you can still hear consistent, detailed high-end frequencies, which is especially useful for mixing.

With a solid and compact build, the monitors are easy to fit on any desktop or studio space. The rear bass port design enhances low-end performance – although it’s worth noting that it requires some distance from walls for the best sound. The T7V also features two three-way switches to fine-tune low and high frequencies, helping you optimise the sound based on your room’s acoustics.

With both XLR and RCA inputs, the T7V is flexible enough to connect to various devices, from audio interfaces to mixers. Its affordability combined with high-end sound quality makes the T7V an excellent choice for music production, video post-production, and more. It provides professional-grade monitoring without breaking the bank.

12. Yamaha HS4

The best portable set of monitors, suitable for any space

Specifications

• Frequency Response (-10 dB): 60 Hz – 22 kHz
• Frequency Response (-3 dB): 83 Hz – 20 kHz
• HF Driver: 1.0″ dome tweeter
• LF Driver: 4.5″ cone woofer
• Power Consumption: 15 W
• Cabinet Material: MDF

Pros

• Detailed, balanced sound quality
• Versatile connectivity options
• Portable and easy to set up

Cons

• Limited bass depth due to small woofer

The Yamaha HS4 studio monitors are compact and portable – perfect for home studios and mobile producers. Featuring a 4.5-inch woofer and one-inch dome tweeter, the HS4 delivers the same balanced, detailed sound as Yamaha’s larger HS-series models. Its compact size doesn’t compromise on sound quality, making it ideal for small workspaces, remote production setups, or even casual listening.

Despite their small size, the HS4 packs plenty of useful features. The room control and high-trim EQ settings let you adjust the sound for different acoustic environments, while the flared rear port helps reduce bass distortion, giving you a more controlled low end. Connectivity is also versatile, with options including RCA, combo XLR/TRS jacks, and a stereo mini-jack for connecting to a wide range of devices, from DJ equipment to laptops and smartphones.

13. Mackie CR8-XBT 8” Multimedia Monitor Speakers With Bluetooth

Best connectivity on a large-size monitor

Specifications

• LF Driver: 8”
• HF Driver:75” aluminium-inverted dome
• Cabinet: Wooden cabinet with brushed metal casing
• Inputs: 1/4” TRS, RCA, 1/8” unbalanced stereo mini-jack
• Outputs: 1/8” stereo headphone output
• Connectivity: Bluetooth
• Tuning: N/A

Pros

• Front-mounted volume control makes it easy to reach
• Ideal for a variety of applications, from music to gaming and more
• Bluetooth connectivity is perfect for streaming your music from a mobile device directly

Cons

• Smaller tweeter size for a large monitor subdues the high-frequencie

Nailing the balance between performance and price, the CR8-XBT offers a good selection of connectivity, including Bluetooth. Ideally, these speakers would be best used as a part of a home entertainment system.

They perform well but aren’t as accurate as other monitors available for mixing and mastering services. That said, their sound is very good and will be perfect for everything from listening to music, gaming or watching TV and film. Bluetooth connectivity is hard to ignore when you’re looking for something flexible enough to fit many needs in a home.

The CR8-XBT features a single powered speaker paired with a passive speaker, both of which come with connection cables included. Users can easily select the powered speaker position (left or right) through a rear panel switch. The monitors boast a high-performance 8” woofer and a 0.75” tweeter, delivering great audio quality.

14. PreSonus Eris Studio 4

Best compact affordable home-studio speaker  

Specifications

• Woofer: 5-inch, woven-composite, low-frequency transducer
• Tweeter: 1-inch (25 mm), ultra-low-mass, silk-dome, high-frequency transducer
• Dispersion: 100 x 60 degrees EBM waveguide for wide sweet spot
• Amplifier: 50W, Class AB bi-amplification
• Frequency Response: 55 Hz to 20 kHz
• SPL: 100 dB SPL (Peak at 1 metre)

Pros

• Outstanding sound quality for precise monitoring
• Broad dispersion enabling a sizable sweet spot
• Bass enhancement via the front-facing acoustic port

Cons

• Acoustic Tuning dials only go to +/- 6dB, which could be a problem for particularly poor-sounding rooms

The PreSonus Eris Studio 4 is an impressive studio monitor that offers premium build quality in a compact form. Its sound quality allows for precise and accurate audio monitoring, and thanks to its broad dispersion and large sweet spot, it allows for a comfortable listening experience from various positions in your workspace.

A distinguishing feature of the Eris Studio 4 is the front-facing acoustic port which markedly enhances the bass response. This results in a robust, rich low-end, adding depth to your mix. The 50W Class A/B bi-amplification then ensures to superior acoustic performance, guaranteeing accurate audio reproduction.

Built-in acoustic tuning controls are incorporated into the design of the Eris Studio 4, so you can adapt the audio to the characteristics of your room. Plus, high-quality components and durable construction form the backbone of these monitors, promising longevity and reliable performance.

In terms of connectivity, the Eris Studio 4 offers balanced 1/4″ TRS and unbalanced RCA inputs, facilitating easy integration into your existing setup.

All in all, the PreSonus Eris Studio 4 is a reliable and affordable choice for those who want precise audio monitoring and mixing. With its outstanding sound quality, wide dispersion, and adaptable acoustic controls, it makes for a great addition to any studio setup.

15. Genelec 8331APM Professional Studio Monitor

Best studio monitor for high-end audio reproduction

Specifications

• Two Oval Woofers: 125” x 2.625”
• Coaxial Midrange MDC:5”
• Coaxial Tweeter MDC:75”
• Amplifier: 75W woofer, 36W Midrange, 36W Tweeter
• Frequency response: 45Hz – 37kHz
• Inputs: 1 x XLR, AES3/EBU
• Outputs: GLM Network, AES/EBU
• Tuning: Bass Roll Off -2 and -4dB, Desktop trim -4dB, Bass Tilt -2 and -4dB, Treble tilt +2 and -4dB

Pros

• The three-way coaxial design and Smart Active Monitor (SAM) technology ensure accurate audio reproduction, providing a natural and precise soundstage
• The monitors adapt to any space using the GLM software, optimising performance and minimising room-related anomalies
• Minimum Diffraction Enclosure (MDE) reduces edge diffraction, enhancing imaging accuracy and overall sound quality

Cons

• Comes with a price tag that may be prohibitive for some users, particularly those on a tight budget

One of the most advanced speaker designs in the world, it’s no question that Genelec’s 8331APM Professional Studio Monitor sounds pristine.

Packed full of technology, this SAM (Smart Active Monitor) features a three-way coaxial design, which seamlessly integrates the midrange driver, tweeter, and two woofers into a single unit. This innovative approach ensures minimal phase differences and consistent frequency response, resulting in an incredibly accurate and natural soundstage.

Not only that, the state-of-the-art SAM technology automatically calibrates the monitors to your room’s acoustics. With the help of the GLM software, these monitors can adapt to any space, delivering optimal performance and minimising the impact of room-related issues.

Yes, it’s a hefty investment but one that is 100% worth it. There are very few monitors that outperform premium Genelecs so if you’re looking to jump to the next level, these are the monitors for you.

16. PreSonus Eris Pro 6

Best studio monitor for professionals who don’t want to break the bank

Specifications

• Woofer: 5-inch, woven-composite, low-frequency driver
• Tweeter: 25-inch, silk-dome, high-frequency driver
• Amplifier: 140W, Class AB amplification
• Frequency Response: 35 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response
• SPL: 103 dB SPL (Peak, @ 1 metre)
• Mounting Options: Wall and ceiling mountable

Pros

• Single point-source audio for immersive listening
• Precise transients from silk-dome tweeter
• Clear bass response via woven-composite woofer

Cons

• Bluetooth would be a nice addition as with other PreSonus monitors

The PreSonus Eris Pro 6 offers an exceptional listening experience, tailored to meet the demands of professional audio work. It boasts a single point-source audio coaxial design, delivering a wide sweet spot and superb phase alignment. Sound production is further enhanced by a silk-dome tweeter that accurately reproduces transient details, ensuring every nuance of the audio is captured with precision.

Additionally, a woven-composite woofer is incorporated into the design, guaranteeing a tight and clear bass response. This ensures a robust low-end without any muddiness, adding depth and warmth to your overall sound.

Its rear-panel acoustic tuning controls allow you to customise your sonic output to suit the specific acoustics of the room. And because they’re pro speakers, they can be tailored to any environment and compensate for any acoustic deficiencies in your studio.

The Eris Pro 6 also offers versatile connectivity options with its XLR, 1/4-inch TRS balanced, and RCA unbalanced inputs.