Reference monitors for recording and mastering

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Permalink Reply by John Gundrum on March 1, 2009 at 2:26pm

I have a pair of Samson Resolv 65a's that I like. I bought them a few years ago and I'm happy with them. They aren't high priced and they aren't bottom of the barrel either. The current Samson model comparable to the one's I have are the Resolv "A" models. The price range is between $300 and $500 depending on the watts you get. The Rubicons are in the same price range but have ribbon tweeters. There are a StudioDock and MediaOne models as well and they range from $100 to $200.

Of course there are the Mackie HR824mk2's which I'm sure many people would say are the best all around near fields. These aren't quite for the budget minded but could serve as a benchmark.

John G.

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Permalink Reply by Reed Elliott on March 3, 2009 at 2:37pm

I've used an inexpensive pair of M-Audio powered monitors for my little home studio for a few years now. The 5 inch speaker doesn't capture the bass as well as you may like but other frquencies project real well (what can you expect for $200?). I've been very happy with them. The particular model I have is no longer made but here's a link to a very similar model:

http://pro-audio.musiciansfriend.com/product/MAudio-Studiophile-BX5a-Deluxe-Active-Monitors?sku=600739

Reed E.

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Permalink Reply by Scottie on March 7, 2009 at 7:01pm

I have a pair of Yamaha HS50M, cost about $300 - $400 a pair depending where you buy. I've also done some acoustic treatment to my recording space but it's only partially done. All in all they're decent little monitors but as with anything, you get what you pay for. Since I record solo fingerstyle guitar I don't have to worry about the monitors not being able to reproduce the instrument's frequency range, but as I've been gaining experience and my ears are getting more critical I realize that all of us who are just starting out are going to get less than we actually need in our first pair.

Listen to as many as you can and buy what you like in your price range. Don't agonize too much because you'll learn and move on. I would advise not spending less than $300/pair because you really do get what you pay for.

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Permalink Reply by Dano & Trish Franco on March 7, 2009 at 11:34pm

The KRK Rockets (active monitors) are real nice...not too pricey..I have the 8's...paid $500 for the pair...well worth the money. You didn't distinguish between passive or active. Regardless of what brand you get, if you can afford it, go with the actives that have built in pre-amps. Best of luck.

Dano

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Permalink Reply by Jay on March 8, 2009 at 10:34am

Thanks for the replies and experience. I'm leaning towards the KRK RP 5 G2 for around $300 a pair. Gonna go today to GC for a listen to the alternatives. I think I'll bring a CD I know well for a standard of comparison. We'll see...

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Permalink Reply by Don Hightower on March 11, 2009 at 6:28pm

I use M-audio BX8 speakers. I've used others. Trial and error put me to these. Professionals use these also cause I'm myoptic and wanted to know. After the mix down I do use studio reference headphones to master volume levels in my studio.

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