How to Choose Studios Monitors – The Ultimate Guide Are you looking to invest in a new studio monitor? Or perhaps, you are looking to buy a monitor for the first time. Either way, if you want to ensure you get the right piece of equipment for your recording needs, then you need to be clued up on the latest studio monitors on the market.
Read on to discover everything you need to know about how to choose a studio monitor. Plus, where to buy the best studio monitors, with options to suit every budget.
How much power do you need?
One of the most important decisions you need to make when choosing a studio monitor is how much power it needs to have. While you may think that the power only affects the volume, it impacts the overall sound as well.
High-wattage Studio Monitors allow you to hear more transient detail. It can also allow you to make better adjustments to compressors and limiters.
That being said, bigger is not always better, and depending on what you want to achieve, you may not need the highest wattage that you can find.
Do you need an active or passive monitor?
If you know a bit about studio monitors, then you may have already heard the terms “active” and “passive” monitors.
Passive monitors are modular, which means that you need to match your speakers with the right amplifier and crossover. Active monitors, on the other hand, have all this already built in. While there is no right or wrong type of studio monitor, active monitors do present several favorable aspects, such as you do not need to accommodate extra rack gear.
Do you want a ported or closed cabinet?
Depending on the size of the studio monitor that you choose, you need to pick between a ported or closed cabinet.
If you have limited space and you need to put your studio monitor in the corner of the room or close to a wall, then a closed cabinet is the superior choice. However, a ported cabinet offers several benefits, such as extended frequency response, which allows for more bass.
Do you need a subwoofer?
If you plan to use your new studio monitor to mix sound for television or motion pictures, then you need to select one with a subwoofer. You also need to consider the size of the room you are planning to record in, as smaller spaces do not allow for sufficient bass frequencies to develop, so a subwoofer will not work.
What makes a good studio monitor?
If you are still not sure what studio monitor to choose, then there are three aspects that you should look out for: minimal distortion, good stereo imaging, and a wide frequency response. You could always ask an expert for some advice on the matter – they know best, after all!
You don’t have to spend a fortune to get a good quality studio monitor, especially if you take the time to research and shop around to find the best deals.
