Studio monitors or Reference monitors are different than your average computer speakers. Monitors are made to give a flat sound, in order to give an accurate replication of the sound so you can master your tracks to sound good on all systems. There are many different kinds of monitors , 2 of the large groups are power vs unpowered monitors. Powered monitors have amps included and do not need a separate amp or interface, and in our case are a good start for a home studio or hobbyist. Bellow are some of my picks for lower priced monitors, they are not KRK's but they will keep some money in your pocket for a good sound!
1. M-Audio Studiophile AV 40 Powered Speakers: ($150) A entry level, fairly priced set of monitors that is defiantly a step up from computer speakers. They offer a decent range and good bass response for size of them. There are several lower levels of these speakers, each cheaper and slightly less good sounding but for their prices our a good solution for every scenario. They look nice and are good sized and for the price they are a good pair of speakers.
2. Alesis M1Active 520 USB: ($160) These our my monitors till i upgrade later this year and i can say i am very happy with them. These monitors offer a good frequency range and quality specs while maintaining a low price. They sound good on all genres of music and good for producing. The bass is clear and these monitors can handle a fairly high volume level. When listening leisurely or in a non studio set up they have a bass boost and sound great. I really like their ability to record from the stereo 1/4 inputs through the usb or use them as regular monitors. Good build quality and a solid feel to them, i am overall very pleased by my purchase and the price is great too!
3.Behringer MS16 Powered Desktop Monitors: ($75) While on a lower level than the pairs above, thesem monitors will get the job done for those on a serious budget. Better than a overpriced pair of computer speakers, you will get a fairly flat and good response from this budget solution. Small and compact, you get what you pay for. However in my opinion i would much rather save for a more expensive pair.
Monitor placement is important too, refer to the picture bellow for a basic idea of how to place your speakers. Once you pick and purchase your speakers, remember that one sound is not enough and in order to assure a good mix and sound you should test your tracks on several different outputs (monitors, headphones etc.).
Hopefully you found some information in here useful, let me know if you like these kind of post or any request! Thanks for reading, Follow and Comment!
-CosmonautMusic
Not the most extensive review (sorry lots of test this week) but i felt should try it out, please feel free to list any of your favorite pairs or suggestions in the comments! thanks.Edit: Tomorrow is going to be a double update, my first Production tutorial and a new artist! make sure to check it out!
