I have only ever had JBL lsr 5's or whatever it is. Had them for 3 or 4 years. Not sure when the right time to upgrade them is honestly. How do you decide when the right time is? Id classify as more of a hobbyist than a pro studio.
I still love my Yamaha HS50's! But, honestly, when you get to know your monitors (learn how your mixes translate to different systems), you can pretty much work with any monitor, since you know what to look for.
I built my own with Seas and Scan Speak drivers. It is flat within 2 dB in my room down to 30 hz. - 6dB at 22 hz. Best speakers I have heard in 35 years. Btw, great advice!
At first I thought I needed a good monitor, then good headphones, finally acoustic threatment and nowadays I know I need a new pair of ears! Where can I buy that? Watching the video now! Already gave a like!
I'm a little bit like you, i've listened to Warren Huart, and decided to order the Kali LP 6 2nde Wave. Put them on my desk, played my favourites tracks through and immediately loved them. Then take a mix i did on headphones, made some adjustement on the Kali LP6 and it translated wayyyy better on any system. 1st try was the good one for me haha
Everything you said is absolutely true. I used to have a pair of Adam A7X’s because everybody loved them, but they just did not sound right in my room, and my mixes just would not translate. For whatever reason they did not work for me. I sold them and tested a pair of Yamaha HS-5‘s, and even though they were half the price, I absolutely love them. People think I’m crazy, but it really does come down to the speaker’s response in your room. Later on I got sonarworks, and that improved them even more. I absolutely love these monitors. As you said, mixing/listening, should be fun! 🤘🏻🤘🏻
Very helpful Kristian. I didn't put too much effort in selecting my speakers, but it was depending on my financial situation...as always. Listen to music instead of speakers is the key, you nailed it...again. Thanks for this one.
I have a seriously small room, with a set of KRK Rokit 8's and a KRK S10.4 Sub, Talk about Fun :-) Ive been using them for a few years now and love them
I've been working with the Focal Alpha 65 monitors for a few years now, and I think I have finally learned their sound to make decent mixes. Working on acoustic treatment now for a new room! Thanks for the video Kohle!
I've been using a set of EVENT Tuned Reference 8s for the last 15+ years. I am accustomed to them, and they still sound great to my ears. I set them up with a affordable 10 inch subwoofer I picked up. I now use Sonarworks Sound Reference to compensate for my room, and my mixes have never translated better.
Thanks Kristian, great advise, the worst thing to do is to read reviews, those are kind of point less, we all have different rooms and all work in different ways, different genre of music, so many different variables. Trying speakers in your studio is the best way to go! Thanks for sharing.
Take the reviews to narrow it down to a few speakers. But you can be terribly wrong still. I remember checking out the sE Electronics Egg speaker and I was sure I would love it because it was designed by the guy who designed the legendary BM6a which I love. Turned out to be the most terrible speaker ever. 🤮
@@KohleAudioKult Agree, but don't spend too much time reading reviews, at some point, this is just confusing. I'd add, pick a budget, that would help narrowing the models.
Had a pair of old powered Tannoy Ellipse but they broke during my most recent move. Shopping for new monitors now and shockingly, I seem to like the budget stuff as much as the mid range stuff. Having tested Kali IN-5, LP-6, Neumann KH120 and Focal Shape 50 in my space, I found there was definitely a difference in sound but the end result of my mixes was similar. I'm keeping the Kali IN-5 for the studio monitors and the LP-6 as my home theatre speakers. Cheap enough that I can justify keeping both pairs :D
Remember that the frequency response in speakers is ±3dB, while in room acoustics it can be ±15dB. So absolutely invest in your room acoustics first! Especially in low end treatment, since low frequency buildup causes problems in higher frequencies too.
@@cornoca buildup of lower frequencies will "mask" frequencies above, so you can’t hear them. For example you have a buildup at 80Hz, chances are it’s not possible to hear what’s going on at 100 or 120Hz, maybe even higher depending on how big the buildup is. (I can’t remember the exact math, but it’s easily googlable)
First video I’ve seen of yours and I subscribed before the video even ended. No bullshit just straight into the video. Great content dude really enjoyed the video and thanks for the help!
Hi! When I started mixing at home - after 25 years of live sound - my monitors had to fit on my desk. I had to choose between ik ilouds and the eve sc203. I bought the eve and I never regret. Now, two years later, the same speakers play in a nottoobad treated room and I added a sub, which actually was extraordinary hard to tune, but: as long as I don't crank them, they are amazing.
i'm old school: for long-term use , i use PASSIVE mid-field Monitors = less fatigue ... long-term (also having a consistant reference amp allows diff. "guests") i have Far-Fields (yeah, impress the clients with LOUD detail) multiple mid-fields (yes, actives too) -> decide which ! one pair of near-fields (shitbox Auratones) for low level consistancy. ->operate at diff. LEVELS to prevent confusion. and yes, do keep it to a minimum (3 pairs is pushing it)
My local guitar center has a station set up to try different speakers which I've always thought was absurd, especially at a place at loud as guitar center. The speakers I have are the yamaha hs5s. I don't have a lot of experience with other speakers, but I've been happy with these. When I was working with headphones only I would have a mix I thought was great but then had totally inaudible drums on everything else. I have gone back and redone some of those and now I think they sound good on most things.
Thanks for the video Kristian. I'm waiting the video for the monitor set up!! Can I do you a question? The desk you use is a "special" desk for studios or is a "normal" desk? I have an too big, old and crappy Thomann desk and I want change it for new one but have low budget.... Thanks!!!!!
Great video ! Thanks again for your insight and loads of information ! Little anecdote (that no one will care about maybe !) : Last year, I went to a friend's who's also a sound engineer to mix a song we both recorded for a live music video. As soon as he pressed Play I fell in love with the response of the speakers he had. They were Adam A7Xs, quite common actually ! Well 12 months later, after working a lot to get the money, they're finally sitting in front of me (since monday eheh). Real game changer, coming from Yamaha HS5s ! Actually really pleasing to listen to, and really accurate ! I kept the HS5s I'm used to, just to refresh my ears from time to time, but I can already tell I feel waaaay better and more confident on the Adams !
I use Kali Audio IN-8 monitors. They are definitely a marked improvement to the shitty basic m-audio speakers I had before. Definitely more fun and translates far better! One thing I really should sort out though is some room treatment, seems like there are arguments over which things work, which are a waste of money etc- kinda want to keep as much of the metal man-cave decor as I can and not end up turning my room into a padded cell (even if I probably belong in one). 😜
I am using my Tannoy Reveal 402 for many years and I was thinking to replace them. But turns out that after several years of listening and mixing on pair of these, my mixes started to translate good. The only thing that I need to additionally control is low end, and I do it in my headphones. Tonal Balance Control from iZotope also helps a lot to visually control the overall balance so in the end I am kinda satisfied with what I get. Maybe later when I will have my own place, I will build a treated room for proper work, but my hobby level I am more than happy :D
I used Mackie MR5 from 2007 to 2020. I really enjoyed using them. In 2020 I switched to Kali LP-6. They sound good and I enjoy listening to them and working with them, but I don't enjoy them like the Mackie MR5.
Love this video! Thank you so much for this one! Especially that part about switching monitors during one mixing session. I've tried to switch between few monitor models and had similar issues as you've mentioned. Since then I have no idea how people choose different sets of monitors to really boost their productivity rather than confusing themselves. Now I at least know that I'm not the only one 😅 Maybe in next video you could give us some hint on how to find a second pair of monitors that will really complement main ones but being for example different construction and size. It would be suuuper nice!
Thanks man! I’m totally for just having one kick ass setup in one room! Then better check on headphones or on your car. Setting up a second pair properly is also difficult. Both pairs will probably have a pretty different bass response depending on were they are in the room.
I have mixed on krk rockits for many years, than two years a go I switched to Amphion 118 , no more ear fatigue and headaches, breaks rarely, which is more productive.
I like my kali lp6 monitors. Havent had any other speaker to compare to beyond some cheap audiosource junk that i had before getting monitors. Not tiring at all to my ears.
For anyone interested in monitors Audio Science Review and Amir's YT channel is a must! Detailed measurements and free correction curves for readily available speakers.
@@KohleAudioKult there is also the whole Audio Science Review forum with all the measurements at one place. He is 100% legit, awesome guy, state of the art measurement gear, purely empirical approach.
Oh man! I FELT it when you mentioned the issue of certain monitors giving you slightly TOO much detail and being distracting! I have a pair of Zenpro HS8's (which I enjoy very much) BUT l've always noticed that the sheer amount of detail makes it kinda tedious when making mixing decisions and moves... Wonderful speaker though, offers great results and translation- it just takes longer to dial things in. Thanks for the knowledge, Kristian! 🤘
KRK RP10-3 G4 10 inch woofer, separate mid and tweeter with great separation, not boomy and costs under €400 per speaker. No need for a sub with this setup. I will now watch the video after plugging my monitors to justify my purchase :D Prost!
I still do a lot of mixing on headphones. I use Sennheiser HD 650s for mixing that I bought from Sonorworks with a custom profile. I landed on iLoud MTMs for speakers though. I have treated my room, but it's not perfect, so the built in ARC appealed to me (also being something different from using SoundID w/ the HD 650s). It's a good combo that lets me move back and forth, and balance the strengths and weaknesses, between headphones and speakers in a space.
@@KohleAudioKult All good man. I've only really owned one other pair of real monitors, a pair of Phonics I had for 15 years, so for me this is a nice upgrade.
I'd like to mention that no speaker choice will translate well unless the room has been treated. I'd also recommend paring room treatment with room correction software such as Sonarworks ID Reference.
Haha, would have needed this prior to buying mine. But I basically just looked for the price range I was willing to pay, and got something there that was generally well regarded. Which ended up being a pair of matched Yamaha HS8s :). I',m generally quite happy with these, but I have noticed I need to leave a bit more high-end than I'd like on them, or it will disappear on other stuff, like my headphones and HiFi system. Reverb is also a thing that sticks out as much more audible on them than on any of my non-studio gear.
@@KohleAudioKult TH-cam had apparently turned off my notifications for replies for whatever reason. Uncertain. I didn't have the luxury of comparing nor the experience to know I should have when I bought em (now gained through this video :p). The high end being a tad harsher than the HiFi-stuff I expected and assumed to be part of not embellishing what the source is, but perhaps that assumption is off the mark. The reverb-thing is a tad odd though, as I have to overdo it a little to get the amount I want on other systems. I do however think that more than anything else, my environment is the bigger culprit. Once I get out of here I'll try and build something better. And when I do, this may perhaps be looked into again :).
Hi Kristian!!! Thanks for this video! I’m really glad you mentioned the Adam tweeters. I’ve had some A7X‘s since 2010, and it’s almost like there’s so much sparkle… it’s like that saying “ if they make everything sound good you can’t mix on them”. I’ve gone back-and-forth over the years wondering if I’m holding myself back as a mixer. Is it the speakers, or me? I swear I did better mixes in my early days when I used stereo speakers… when I bought the Adams, Yamaha’s were the other speakers I was looking at, and it’s like I could hear the music coming out of the speaker in front of me in a very plain take it or leave it form, and the Adams made it feel like it was everywhere in the room and almost overly transparent and clinical but massive). I mixed through my PA system recently , and the choices I needed to make seemed more obvious as well… I don’t particularly enjoy sitting and listening to music on my A7X’s (The music seems like it sounds thin and clinical, Almost like a grace preamp, records). Could they be holding me back that much and confusing the process? Any advice would be greatly appreciated… Thanks, and I love this channel!!!
That's exactly the point. Adam make things sound too precise, too sparkling if you ask me. Distorted guitars also sound a bit weird on them to my ears. But hey, there are many people out there getting great results with them, so I'm not saying they're bad speakers. Just not my cup of beer!
To add on, I consider it good practice to use objective anechoic (or equivalent) data to narrow down the speakers you're auditioning. There are a ton of good resources for this - among others, Audio Science Review, Erin's Audio Corner, and the German magazine Sound & Recording. I should note, though, there are a _ton_ of things that matter just as much as if not more than flat on-axis response (because you can EQ that either with software or with a hardware box like a MiniDSP Flex) - take into account (in order of importance) off-axis behavior (you want it to be even, it makes the speakers less sensitive to the room above the Schroeder frequency of the space), group delay (this affects how "tight" the bass sounds, higher group delay = looser), and nonlinear distortion (ideally below 0.5% above about 100hz at 86dB SPL for one speaker).
@@KohleAudioKult the problem is largely that the vast majority of measurements aren't giving you the full story (flat on axis? Cool, doesn't tell you anything about anything else), or are over-smoothed to hide resonances. So, I generally think of it like this: speakers that measure well are generally going to be worth checking out. The point is to not waste time with speakers that suck, y'know?
Just this week I went through exactly this... after 20yrs listening to Tannoy Reveals I was noticing that the low end was often wrong...so I picked up a set of Kali LP8's, & I have both sets of monitors set up now (huge difference)... but for sure switching back and forth between them is a recipe for disaster, you're so right that the mids are entirely different. But the first few mixes I've done on the Kalis have much better low end when I listen in the car etc... but I think I'll put the Tannoy pair up for sake & not have both sets up there...
@@KohleAudioKult BTW - did you ever try out the Katastrophe pedal at your own place? I saw the GS42 vid, but would be great to see you running it in your own place. I just bought one - i reckon it will be a great blend pedal (like what youve been doing with the fuzz pedals etc into the Brunetti....)
When I was on university I first tried mixing on very shitty PC speakers, than I saved up some money and got my first "real" studio monitors. I got a pair of very cheap Presonus Eris 4.5 and I was flashed how much better my mixing got. Several years later I still use them altough I could afford a much more expensive set. I just love to mix with them and I never felt that they held me back.
just a note. There is currently not a single monitor on the market that has ribbon tweeters. Don't confuse ribbon tweeters with AMT (air motion Transformer) like the ones Adam or Eve audio. They both sound very different and their operation is very different. If you want to know what a ribbon tweeter looks like, look for tweeters from brands like Raal or Fountek.
I‘ve got KRK VXT8s. Bought them 15 years ago or so as my second choice, because the Genelecs I liked were too expensive for me. Now I’m thinking about getting some new speakers and I would like to try the Genelec with the coaxial design, but I‘m afraid I could like them and those are too expensive. So I probably stay a bit longer with my KRKs. Anyway, I noticed when I wasn’t listening on them for quite a time and then listening again (e.g. after vacations) they surprised me how detailed and good they sound.
Awesome video Kohle! I've been using Adam A7X's but I'd like to upgrade in the next couple years. I can totally relate to what you said about the harshness of Adam speakers, if they're all similar to the A7X. When I first got them I thought of the harshness as a good thing (probably to help justify the purchase), but yeah, I definitely wouldn't consider them "fun."
My very first speakers were the „JBL 305P MK II“ and I still use them today, but in the meantime I bought a pair of „Presonus Eris 5“ (which I also like. We use them in our second smaller control room) and I also tested the „Yamaha Hs8“, Genelecs ….. At the end the JBLs works best for me but I needed a larger system for all the orchestra and Jazz recordings. So I decided to buy a pair of „Bare Foot Micro Main 27“. A really great speaker with an awesome technology and perfekt for all the orchestra stuff BUT I can’t mix with them. It doesn’t feel comfortable and after an hour of mixing (low volume) my ears feel „tired“. A problem I’ve never had with my JBL. I decided last week to sell the Bare Foots and now i´am looking for a new pair of speaker. It’s very difficult to find the right speaker for yourself AND the price doesn´t tell you „it’s the right speaker for you“ . „You don't wanna listen to speakers you wanna listen to you music“ Simply a perfect sentence Thanks Kohle
Damn, u went from great budget speakers straight into the Porche category, lol! 🙈 Never heard of those Bare Foot speakers, but I googled them and the price made me dizzy... I got those JBL's too, except the MK 1 version. But since u like the JBL's, why not try the 308P model? Or the much praised Kali's and their LP-8 model? But dunno if those are enough for ur orchestra stuff... sounds like u'd need a pair of Genelecs with a subwoofer, but u said u already tested Genelecs, so... 🤷♂
maybe I'm weird, but I prefer monotors with large range, for mix, but master, I want to use regular hifi speakers (the one that most resembles what people have at home) but still good quality, but speakers that cut anything under 20 and over 20,000, feel it gives the best result .... but agree one should not be in an environment that is uncomfortable, so speakers are chosen after test and care
Great video! 👍 I am still using my 10 year old Yamaha HS50m, but use headphones 90% of the time anyway. I am considering building a space and getting new speakers mainly for mastering purposes. I feel that your video is most about mixning, do you have any additional advice for choosing speakers for mastering? (I am seriously considering the LYD48’s btw)
I had the last gen version presonus eris 5s at first which I thought were a good deal. They’re not *bad*, but I think had I done my research (and known what to research) I would have gone with something else. Sold them and got the Kali LP6s and my mixes have objectively improved - and that’s not just me saying that, that’s family and friends and any online community I share mixes with. Of course, about a month after I bought the LP6s, Kali releases the LP6 v2 which is just my luck
Started with Yamaha hs80 and ns10s. The ns10s serve a purpose, but it took me years to discover that hs80s were not working well for me. Drastic, DRASTIC midrange difference with ns10s. So I got really used to ns10s + sub, and found something with a more forward midrange. Enter the KRK6000. Love these, midrange translates, used with sub, not too much high end, but lacking detail. Now I’m trying some Neumann kh120s, specifically on how many people didn’t barf a bunch of data at me, they just kept saying “they translate” over and over again. Every thread. Still using ns10s as well.
I haven't used My monitor speakers for a while because they have been packed away. I have a 1986 Technics amplifier and it's part of My non production system however I do find My self Making new music and testing almost mastered tracks on there because its quality sounds simple device no fancy digital technology going on and sounds great to Me. I know that if My music sounds great on that then Its mastered.
I've been behind so many different monitors going back to when I first went to Columbia Academy back in 83' as a kid. So many and honestly with all the monitors, I've worked with so many engineers, with many using different monitors and they all do great work of = excellence. So, is the obsession with the speaker instead of treating the room the ticket given the great work all these guys did/do on different monitors? I worked on my buddies MM27's when they first dropped. A real flavour of the month (year) monitor as many will remember and while incredibly accurate - like lazer focus, where you hear a -.5db move easily - those fookin side firing woofers made setting them up such a hassle and I had to help him chase down room modes...In the end, he sold them and bought the next flavour of the month (year) Amphion's like you ;) NS10's are great for guitar centric stuff but in small doses. Me? I've been rocking original Dynaudio BM5A MK1's for 10 years and for me at home? Meh...I have no desire or justification for the cost to upgrade. I'm good with these and my OLLO SX4's to drill down further :)
I agree with everything! I remember taking my BM6a over a pair of ATC25s because they sounded right to my ears. But I eventually made the step to the Amphions, basically because I felt I could work faster. Gotta check out the Ollos. Mainly because they look like my Audezes and are way cheaper.
@@KohleAudioKult Interesting, I'd never heard of anyone that didn't just love their ATCs (I've nevr heard them). But ya, these little Dyns are pretty solid IMHO. As to the OLLOs, well I've tried very expensive HEDD and have to say this little company in Slovania is making by hand very very good headphones and I always so please with what I'm hearing A/B between my monitors. I can't recommend at least giving them a try enough.
The truth is nearly any decent studio monitor can work. You choose a pair, put them in your room, obsessively listen to music on them until you become familiar with what your favorite songs (or mixes you would hope to emulate) sound like on the speakers in your room, and viola; you are ready to mix. It can take some time to adjust to new speakers though.
I agree. Especially with your first two points, your speakers should be fun and easy to work on. I do feel like translation comes mostly from knowing your speakers and room though. This is all great advice regardless. Choosing a new pair of monitors can indeed be a nightmare, but it really doesn't have to be.
in my exp dont blast em in a bad room overexciting a bad cube causes all sorts of vibrational sums, great systems can be mixed at talking level in a lot of places, critical listening and ref mixes can help, i never use refs and sometimes mixes can sound wildly good plus shyte, i guess its hard today as most people listen back on small speakers the size of your little finger nail, so the treble content is the mutha to get right, watch the 3k cymbals guits n vocals, what to cut where :) esp in top down mixing, im going back to yammies
You just destroyed a perception of mine. I thought all studio monitors have to present the audio spectrum in the same way (with evened out ranges). So what I take away is, that I'm good with the 20 year old Philips Sterero & the SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless full spectrum headset that I have.
Hi, könntest du im zweiten Teil auch noch einmal auf die sehr alte aber immer noch nicht geklärte Frage eingehen: Tweeter inside or outside? Grüße und Danke
i love your advice, sir and i would do same if my place had 2 weeks return issue :( in here once you bought, you return to store "IF" it's broken so i'm still stuck with my 15years computer Hi-Fi speaker to mixing because i feared if a speaker that i would bought can't translate enough "what i want" :(
I don't disagree that finding the right monitors is important, but I think the biggest takeaway should be whatever you have, you need to really spend a lot of time listening to commercial music on them, in your room how they're set up and really learning your room and how they sound. I think it was an Asking Alexandria record that went gold or something, I remember seeing the production of those and Joey Sturgis mixed that record in a shitty room, with 70's fake wood wall panels and like little to zero room treatment. He had just used those speakers and listened to so much music in that room, he knew how the mixes needed to sound, and I'm pretty sure his monitors weren't anything high end, he was just starting out. So maybe that is something to consider too. :)
Are you using subwoofers to mix (also in your main control room)? Or just the monitors? I always have problems judging the low end of a track without having a decent subwoofer... Any tips?
No subwoofer in my main room. We do have one with the Dynaudios in the second room. In general I'm not a subwoofer guy. Those EVEs you see in this video do have enough low end for me.
I need speakers that come with a room analysis microphones and designed to tune to the room like the IK Multimedia MTM's I have now. But even bigger and more accurate when I want to upgrade. I'm just a songwriter with own studio. If I had an actual working studio, recording others it would different I'm sure like it is at Kohlekeller. Which is where I really appreciate the advice and reviews you and others do on gear.
@@KohleAudioKult I've seen people use that. I wonder whether it would be more or less accurate, and put extra load on the computer and cause latency. It certainly is an option. I appreciate the recommendation. I think I do prefer that the monitors themselves calibrate, but that does limit options. Maybe there will be down the road.
@@KohleAudioKult Oh I fully agree. How it sounds and the accuracy matters most. I would like both if possible though. I have a small personal studio and the IK MTM's sounded good and seem accurate for the most part. My budget wasn't thousands for monitors since I have spent thousands over all for everything from monitors, mics, software, cables, interfaces, processors, etc... When I am ready to upgrade again on monitors, it will really come down to what is out there. I would like it if the best choice is adapting monitors. But if not, than so be it. I appreciate your input. And when I'm ready to upgrade again, I'm betting I'll be watching your videos in deciding.
Did you try reversing your eve speakers with the tweeters on the outside instead of the way you have them now with tweeters on the inside?just curious wich way sounds better?
@@KohleAudioKult I have watched a shit ton of videos on these, the REDD model, dynaudio, etc. For the money, they are hard to beat and I really don't care much for the Kali Audio IN8 V2. I want a speaker to have its own spot. Currently I am using JBL 305P MK2 which are really nice but I just been thinking about upgrading to get a more true translation on mixes.
I recently got a pair of Yamaha's HS5, just because those were kind of the best in class I could afford. Unfortunately I did not have the option to check them in my space before the purchase so I had to check 3 different pairs of monitors at the store. I hope these monitors are the right ones, I've already done some mixing on them and they sound very clear. Anyways, great vid, see ya'll in hell
How do you find them regarding bass? I see so many comments about them lacking in lower frequencies yet I see a lot of people use them. I am considering HS5s as my setup is in a very small room.
@@portraitsofpain HS5 obviously don’t have any sub bass, but they also lack in the sub-250Hz range which is surprising. It actually works okay in small untreated rooms because the low mid build up balances them out (and it might actually be intentional for that reason), but in a somewhat treated space they can sound very small and boxy. The JBL LSR305s are in the same price range and are much wider range, fuller frequency speakers. In my experience they’re still the best monitors in that price bracket if you can only afford small 5” budget monitors.
@@kebbinator thanks for the response. I was just under the impression that if I'm in a tiny room (and I'm literally talking box sized) then there was no need for bigger speakers. Plus space is an issue too. I've seen the JBL's mentioned a lot too. I'll look in to those 👍 thanks again.
It's a love hate thing! I love mine, but I used to hate them. 😂 I hated them because I was using a crappy power amp in a poorly treated room. The mids are just horrible with the wrong power amp! I'm sure that's what puts most people off. My room is now fully treated and I've paired the NS10s with a very nice Sub and more importantly, a decent Yamaha power amp. It's completely changed the sound for the better. The mids are perfect now and combined with the REL (not ported) sub I use I don't have to reach for headphones to reference low end anymore. As Kristian said though, you've got to try different speakers until you find something that ticks all the right boxes for you. 🤟🤟
i'm using a pair or krk rokit g4 rp5 and I don't even know why, but I guess because they are cheap, krk has a decent reputation and they were the newest ones when I bought them. but my room sounds like shit, so the speakers are not the issue :D time to get more bass traps and diffusors, those currently in place are not enough.
Well, I do have to listen to internet people like you 🤣🤣🤣, unfortunately I don’t have the option of bringing the speakers to my room due to import and customs fees 😔😔
I’m having a problem to buy my new monitors because I live in a place where there are no studio gear stores and to try you have to buy… I came from Adam A7X but they didn’t like me too much I feel tiring highs and no clear bass, also I tested Yamaha HS5 and sound terrible to me, after thinking a lot I came to the conclusion that they sound not honest when I translate to other devices, what could be a more real world setup? I found they sound too good in my mixing space that’s acoustic treated, I have around $400/600 usd budget, also I tried to mix in my car and that work sounded better that I do in the monitors.
@@KohleAudioKult Yes! I already use Sonarworks and it helps but what I noticed after the measurement is a big boominess of 12db around 60hz also a big dip of 9db around 100hz it’s “corrected” but feels kind of weird, my room is small also like 10ft x 10ft yes is small and square the perfect recipe for bad sounding, if I move to other place could be change?
Which are your favorite studio monitors and why? 🧐
I'm more used to the Yamaha HS10, Krk Rokit works nice too. I don't have a lot of experience with monitors.
Started with Behringer, then KRK, now a 2.1 set of Sky Audio's Verdade II powered via SPL S800. Made working so much easier and faster.
Focal Shape 65. They inspire me by just looking at them.
Anything genelec.
I have only ever had JBL lsr 5's or whatever it is. Had them for 3 or 4 years. Not sure when the right time to upgrade them is honestly. How do you decide when the right time is? Id classify as more of a hobbyist than a pro studio.
I still love my Yamaha HS50's! But, honestly, when you get to know your monitors (learn how your mixes translate to different systems), you can pretty much work with any monitor, since you know what to look for.
I built my own with Seas and Scan Speak drivers. It is flat within 2 dB in my room down to 30 hz. - 6dB at 22 hz. Best speakers I have heard in 35 years.
Btw, great advice!
Impeccable timing! Literally what I’m researching for my next big studio purchase 🤘
At first I thought I needed a good monitor, then good headphones, finally acoustic threatment and nowadays I know I need a new pair of ears! Where can I buy that? Watching the video now! Already gave a like!
Haha!
I'm a little bit like you, i've listened to Warren Huart, and decided to order the Kali LP 6 2nde Wave. Put them on my desk, played my favourites tracks through and immediately loved them. Then take a mix i did on headphones, made some adjustement on the Kali LP6 and it translated wayyyy better on any system. 1st try was the good one for me haha
Everything you said is absolutely true. I used to have a pair of Adam A7X’s because everybody loved them, but they just did not sound right in my room, and my mixes just would not translate. For whatever reason they did not work for me. I sold them and tested a pair of Yamaha HS-5‘s, and even though they were half the price, I absolutely love them. People think I’m crazy, but it really does come down to the speaker’s response in your room. Later on I got sonarworks, and that improved them even more.
I absolutely love these monitors. As you said, mixing/listening, should be fun! 🤘🏻🤘🏻
your new room looks F.A.B. Fab
Very helpful Kristian. I didn't put too much effort in selecting my speakers, but it was depending on my financial situation...as always. Listen to music instead of speakers is the key, you nailed it...again. Thanks for this one.
I have a seriously small room, with a set of KRK Rokit 8's and a KRK S10.4 Sub, Talk about Fun :-) Ive been using them for a few years now and love them
I've been working with the Focal Alpha 65 monitors for a few years now, and I think I have finally learned their sound to make decent mixes. Working on acoustic treatment now for a new room! Thanks for the video Kohle!
I've been using a set of EVENT Tuned Reference 8s for the last 15+ years.
I am accustomed to them, and they still sound great to my ears.
I set them up with a affordable 10 inch subwoofer I picked up.
I now use Sonarworks Sound Reference to compensate for my room, and my mixes have never translated better.
Translation is exactly why I bring my mixes on my laptop to my car, the bar and cross reference on multiple systems
Thanks Kristian, great advise, the worst thing to do is to read reviews, those are kind of point less, we all have different rooms and all work in different ways, different genre of music, so many different variables. Trying speakers in your studio is the best way to go!
Thanks for sharing.
Take the reviews to narrow it down to a few speakers.
But you can be terribly wrong still.
I remember checking out the sE Electronics Egg speaker and I was sure I would love it because it was designed by the guy who designed the legendary BM6a which I love.
Turned out to be the most terrible speaker ever. 🤮
@@KohleAudioKult Agree, but don't spend too much time reading reviews, at some point, this is just confusing. I'd add, pick a budget, that would help narrowing the models.
Had a pair of old powered Tannoy Ellipse but they broke during my most recent move. Shopping for new monitors now and shockingly, I seem to like the budget stuff as much as the mid range stuff. Having tested Kali IN-5, LP-6, Neumann KH120 and Focal Shape 50 in my space, I found there was definitely a difference in sound but the end result of my mixes was similar. I'm keeping the Kali IN-5 for the studio monitors and the LP-6 as my home theatre speakers. Cheap enough that I can justify keeping both pairs :D
That's exactly how you should decide!
If they all feel good and give you a similar result, go for the cheapest!
Funny thing is at university I got so used to using ns10s that's all I use for mixing. I love Adam speakers but the yamaha's work for me.
People use all kinds of speakers with good results. The key is to find out which ones work for you.
Remember that the frequency response in speakers is ±3dB, while in room acoustics it can be ±15dB. So absolutely invest in your room acoustics first! Especially in low end treatment, since low frequency buildup causes problems in higher frequencies too.
what does low end buildup do to the high freqs?
Absolutely. That's the main topic of the next video.
@@cornoca buildup of lower frequencies will "mask" frequencies above, so you can’t hear them.
For example you have a buildup at 80Hz, chances are it’s not possible to hear what’s going on at 100 or 120Hz, maybe even higher depending on how big the buildup is.
(I can’t remember the exact math, but it’s easily googlable)
First video I’ve seen of yours and I subscribed before the video even ended. No bullshit just straight into the video.
Great content dude really enjoyed the video and thanks for the help!
Heyho! Welcome!
This is a no bullshit channel! You'll enjoy it!
Hi! When I started mixing at home - after 25 years of live sound - my monitors had to fit on my desk. I had to choose between ik ilouds and the eve sc203. I bought the eve and I never regret. Now, two years later, the same speakers play in a nottoobad treated room and I added a sub, which actually was extraordinary hard to tune, but: as long as I don't crank them, they are amazing.
I haven't heard any other EVE speakers, but people say they all share the same character.
i'm old school:
for long-term use , i use PASSIVE mid-field Monitors = less fatigue ... long-term
(also having a consistant reference amp allows diff. "guests")
i have Far-Fields (yeah, impress the clients with LOUD detail)
multiple mid-fields (yes, actives too) -> decide which !
one pair of near-fields (shitbox Auratones) for low level consistancy.
->operate at diff. LEVELS to prevent confusion.
and yes, do keep it to a minimum (3 pairs is pushing it)
I would go crazy with so many speakers!
Great tips that feel gooood, because you are one of the most objective and with great support FOR people! 🙏🖤
My local guitar center has a station set up to try different speakers which I've always thought was absurd, especially at a place at loud as guitar center.
The speakers I have are the yamaha hs5s. I don't have a lot of experience with other speakers, but I've been happy with these. When I was working with headphones only I would have a mix I thought was great but then had totally inaudible drums on everything else. I have gone back and redone some of those and now I think they sound good on most things.
Thanks for the video Kristian. I'm waiting the video for the monitor set up!!
Can I do you a question? The desk you use is a "special" desk for studios or is a "normal" desk? I have an too big, old and crappy Thomann desk and I want change it for new one but have low budget....
Thanks!!!!!
Great video ! Thanks again for your insight and loads of information !
Little anecdote (that no one will care about maybe !) :
Last year, I went to a friend's who's also a sound engineer to mix a song we both recorded for a live music video.
As soon as he pressed Play I fell in love with the response of the speakers he had. They were Adam A7Xs, quite common actually !
Well 12 months later, after working a lot to get the money, they're finally sitting in front of me (since monday eheh).
Real game changer, coming from Yamaha HS5s ! Actually really pleasing to listen to, and really accurate !
I kept the HS5s I'm used to, just to refresh my ears from time to time, but I can already tell I feel waaaay better and more confident on the Adams !
Looks like you found your monitor! 🤘 At least if the mixes translate.
@@KohleAudioKult I guess we'll see soon enough. Fingers crossed. :D
idk why but that blurred out empty slot in the rack has me hyped.
I use Kali Audio IN-8 monitors. They are definitely a marked improvement to the shitty basic m-audio speakers I had before. Definitely more fun and translates far better!
One thing I really should sort out though is some room treatment, seems like there are arguments over which things work, which are a waste of money etc- kinda want to keep as much of the metal man-cave decor as I can and not end up turning my room into a padded cell (even if I probably belong in one). 😜
the video i needed..as i am looking for my first monitor..thank you!
Loved this video dude. That is all
I am using my Tannoy Reveal 402 for many years and I was thinking to replace them. But turns out that after several years of listening and mixing on pair of these, my mixes started to translate good. The only thing that I need to additionally control is low end, and I do it in my headphones. Tonal Balance Control from iZotope also helps a lot to visually control the overall balance so in the end I am kinda satisfied with what I get. Maybe later when I will have my own place, I will build a treated room for proper work, but my hobby level I am more than happy :D
I used Mackie MR5 from 2007 to 2020. I really enjoyed using them.
In 2020 I switched to Kali LP-6. They sound good and I enjoy listening to them and working with them, but I don't enjoy them like the Mackie MR5.
Love this video! Thank you so much for this one! Especially that part about switching monitors during one mixing session. I've tried to switch between few monitor models and had similar issues as you've mentioned. Since then I have no idea how people choose different sets of monitors to really boost their productivity rather than confusing themselves. Now I at least know that I'm not the only one 😅 Maybe in next video you could give us some hint on how to find a second pair of monitors that will really complement main ones but being for example different construction and size. It would be suuuper nice!
Thanks man!
I’m totally for just having one kick ass setup in one room!
Then better check on headphones or on your car.
Setting up a second pair properly is also difficult. Both pairs will probably have a pretty different bass response depending on were they are in the room.
I have mixed on krk rockits for many years, than two years a go I switched to Amphion 118 , no more ear fatigue and headaches, breaks rarely, which is more productive.
Thanks Kohle! Great Video as always!
Monitors are where I’m struggling. I’m always looking for the best audio quality. Thanks for the tips!
I like my kali lp6 monitors. Havent had any other speaker to compare to beyond some cheap audiosource junk that i had before getting monitors. Not tiring at all to my ears.
For anyone interested in monitors Audio Science Review and Amir's YT channel is a must! Detailed measurements and free correction curves for readily available speakers.
Who is Amir? Link?
@@KohleAudioKult th-cam.com/channels/Wp1NY1KXGwcOh1RxKp_-FA.html
@@KohleAudioKult there is also the whole Audio Science Review forum with all the measurements at one place. He is 100% legit, awesome guy, state of the art measurement gear, purely empirical approach.
Great advice!
Oh man! I FELT it when you mentioned the issue of certain monitors giving you slightly TOO much detail and being distracting!
I have a pair of Zenpro HS8's (which I enjoy very much) BUT l've always noticed that the sheer amount of detail makes it kinda tedious when making mixing decisions and moves... Wonderful speaker though, offers great results and translation- it just takes longer to dial things in.
Thanks for the knowledge, Kristian! 🤘
You have to find the right balance between vibe and details.
Otherwise you waste mixing time with stuff that nobody will hear anyway!
true words and informative! Thank YOU Kohle!
If I ever could work for this man, I would win at life.
KRK RP10-3 G4 10 inch woofer, separate mid and tweeter with great separation, not boomy and costs under €400 per speaker. No need for a sub with this setup. I will now watch the video after plugging my monitors to justify my purchase :D Prost!
I still do a lot of mixing on headphones. I use Sennheiser HD 650s for mixing that I bought from Sonorworks with a custom profile. I landed on iLoud MTMs for speakers though. I have treated my room, but it's not perfect, so the built in ARC appealed to me (also being something different from using SoundID w/ the HD 650s). It's a good combo that lets me move back and forth, and balance the strengths and weaknesses, between headphones and speakers in a space.
I bought a pair of Adam T7Vs just two days ago and so far I'm liking them a lot, ribbon tweeters or not :) Excellent video as always Kristian!
I'm not saying ADAMs are bad.
They just sound weird to MY ears.
@@KohleAudioKult All good man. I've only really owned one other pair of real monitors, a pair of Phonics I had for 15 years, so for me this is a nice upgrade.
I'd like to mention that no speaker choice will translate well unless the room has been treated. I'd also recommend paring room treatment with room correction software such as Sonarworks ID Reference.
Both correct!
Haha, would have needed this prior to buying mine. But I basically just looked for the price range I was willing to pay, and got something there that was generally well regarded. Which ended up being a pair of matched Yamaha HS8s :).
I',m generally quite happy with these, but I have noticed I need to leave a bit more high-end than I'd like on them, or it will disappear on other stuff, like my headphones and HiFi system. Reverb is also a thing that sticks out as much more audible on them than on any of my non-studio gear.
Hmm, maybe not the right speakers for you?
@@KohleAudioKult TH-cam had apparently turned off my notifications for replies for whatever reason.
Uncertain. I didn't have the luxury of comparing nor the experience to know I should have when I bought em (now gained through this video :p). The high end being a tad harsher than the HiFi-stuff I expected and assumed to be part of not embellishing what the source is, but perhaps that assumption is off the mark. The reverb-thing is a tad odd though, as I have to overdo it a little to get the amount I want on other systems.
I do however think that more than anything else, my environment is the bigger culprit. Once I get out of here I'll try and build something better. And when I do, this may perhaps be looked into again :).
I'm not a pro but still using my Tannoy 600A. I love the detailed and spatial sound.
They're a true classic!
Hi Kristian!!! Thanks for this video! I’m really glad you mentioned the Adam tweeters. I’ve had some A7X‘s since 2010, and it’s almost like there’s so much sparkle… it’s like that saying “ if they make everything sound good you can’t mix on them”. I’ve gone back-and-forth over the years wondering if I’m holding myself back as a mixer. Is it the speakers, or me? I swear I did better mixes in my early days when I used stereo speakers… when I bought the Adams, Yamaha’s were the other speakers I was looking at, and it’s like I could hear the music coming out of the speaker in front of me in a very plain take it or leave it form, and the Adams made it feel like it was everywhere in the room and almost overly transparent and clinical but massive). I mixed through my PA system recently , and the choices I needed to make seemed more obvious as well… I don’t particularly enjoy sitting and listening to music on my A7X’s (The music seems like it sounds thin and clinical, Almost like a grace preamp, records). Could they be holding me back that much and confusing the process? Any advice would be greatly appreciated… Thanks, and I love this channel!!!
That's exactly the point. Adam make things sound too precise, too sparkling if you ask me. Distorted guitars also sound a bit weird on them to my ears.
But hey, there are many people out there getting great results with them, so I'm not saying they're bad speakers. Just not my cup of beer!
Yes, thank you! It’s hard to know what I should make brighter when everything is bright and hyped sounding.
To add on, I consider it good practice to use objective anechoic (or equivalent) data to narrow down the speakers you're auditioning. There are a ton of good resources for this - among others, Audio Science Review, Erin's Audio Corner, and the German magazine Sound & Recording. I should note, though, there are a _ton_ of things that matter just as much as if not more than flat on-axis response (because you can EQ that either with software or with a hardware box like a MiniDSP Flex) - take into account (in order of importance) off-axis behavior (you want it to be even, it makes the speakers less sensitive to the room above the Schroeder frequency of the space), group delay (this affects how "tight" the bass sounds, higher group delay = looser), and nonlinear distortion (ideally below 0.5% above about 100hz at 86dB SPL for one speaker).
I agree with everything except for that those measurements do help to give you an impression of the speaker.
@@KohleAudioKult the problem is largely that the vast majority of measurements aren't giving you the full story (flat on axis? Cool, doesn't tell you anything about anything else), or are over-smoothed to hide resonances. So, I generally think of it like this: speakers that measure well are generally going to be worth checking out. The point is to not waste time with speakers that suck, y'know?
Currently using a set of Yamaha h8. I should've gone the next size down for my space, but I figured I would be eventually getting a larger space.
Just this week I went through exactly this... after 20yrs listening to Tannoy Reveals I was noticing that the low end was often wrong...so I picked up a set of Kali LP8's, & I have both sets of monitors set up now (huge difference)... but for sure switching back and forth between them is a recipe for disaster, you're so right that the mids are entirely different. But the first few mixes I've done on the Kalis have much better low end when I listen in the car etc... but I think I'll put the Tannoy pair up for sake & not have both sets up there...
Yeah. Don't switch. You'll lose focus.
Warren Huart hasn't only recommended the EVEs, he's also a big fan of Kalis.
I haven't checked them out yet.
@@KohleAudioKult BTW - did you ever try out the Katastrophe pedal at your own place? I saw the GS42 vid, but would be great to see you running it in your own place. I just bought one - i reckon it will be a great blend pedal (like what youve been doing with the fuzz pedals etc into the Brunetti....)
This is gold, thanks !
Love your stuff Kohle
When I was on university I first tried mixing on very shitty PC speakers, than I saved up some money and got my first "real" studio monitors. I got a pair of very cheap Presonus Eris 4.5 and I was flashed how much better my mixing got.
Several years later I still use them altough I could afford a much more expensive set. I just love to mix with them and I never felt that they held me back.
Which probably means: You’ve found your speakers. At least for now!
just a note. There is currently not a single monitor on the market that has ribbon tweeters. Don't confuse ribbon tweeters with AMT (air motion Transformer) like the ones Adam or Eve audio. They both sound very different and their operation is very different. If you want to know what a ribbon tweeter looks like, look for tweeters from brands like Raal or Fountek.
Absolutely! I know we're talking about AMTs here.
People just wouldn't understand and it simply isn't that important for this video.
I‘ve got KRK VXT8s. Bought them 15 years ago or so as my second choice, because the Genelecs I liked were too expensive for me. Now I’m thinking about getting some new speakers and I would like to try the Genelec with the coaxial design, but I‘m afraid I could like them and those are too expensive.
So I probably stay a bit longer with my KRKs. Anyway, I noticed when I wasn’t listening on them for quite a time and then listening again (e.g. after vacations) they surprised me how detailed and good they sound.
Awesome video Kohle! I've been using Adam A7X's but I'd like to upgrade in the next couple years. I can totally relate to what you said about the harshness of Adam speakers, if they're all similar to the A7X. When I first got them I thought of the harshness as a good thing (probably to help justify the purchase), but yeah, I definitely wouldn't consider them "fun."
Haha! I know what you mean
My very first speakers were the „JBL 305P MK II“ and I still use them today, but in the meantime I bought a pair of „Presonus Eris 5“ (which I also like. We use them in our second smaller control room) and I also tested the „Yamaha Hs8“, Genelecs …..
At the end the JBLs works best for me but I needed a larger system for all the orchestra and Jazz recordings. So I decided to buy a pair of „Bare Foot Micro Main 27“. A really great speaker with an awesome technology and perfekt for all the orchestra stuff BUT I can’t mix with them. It doesn’t feel comfortable and after an hour of mixing (low volume) my ears feel „tired“. A problem I’ve never had with my JBL. I decided last week to sell the Bare Foots and now i´am looking for a new pair of speaker.
It’s very difficult to find the right speaker for yourself AND the price doesn´t tell you „it’s the right speaker for you“ .
„You don't wanna listen to speakers you wanna listen to you music“
Simply a perfect sentence
Thanks Kohle
Damn, u went from great budget speakers straight into the Porche category, lol! 🙈 Never heard of those Bare Foot speakers, but I googled them and the price made me dizzy... I got those JBL's too, except the MK 1 version. But since u like the JBL's, why not try the 308P model? Or the much praised Kali's and their LP-8 model? But dunno if those are enough for ur orchestra stuff... sounds like u'd need a pair of Genelecs with a subwoofer, but u said u already tested Genelecs, so... 🤷♂
maybe I'm weird, but I prefer monotors with large range, for mix, but master, I want to use regular hifi speakers (the one that most resembles what people have at home) but still good quality, but speakers that cut anything under 20 and over 20,000, feel it gives the best result ....
but agree one should not be in an environment that is uncomfortable, so speakers are chosen after test and care
Great video! 👍
I am still using my 10 year old Yamaha HS50m, but use headphones 90% of the time anyway.
I am considering building a space and getting new speakers mainly for mastering purposes. I feel that your video is most about mixning, do you have any additional advice for choosing speakers for mastering? (I am seriously considering the LYD48’s btw)
The old BMs are great. Haven't checked out the LYD yet!
I had the last gen version presonus eris 5s at first which I thought were a good deal. They’re not *bad*, but I think had I done my research (and known what to research) I would have gone with something else.
Sold them and got the Kali LP6s and my mixes have objectively improved - and that’s not just me saying that, that’s family and friends and any online community I share mixes with. Of course, about a month after I bought the LP6s, Kali releases the LP6 v2 which is just my luck
Started with Yamaha hs80 and ns10s. The ns10s serve a purpose, but it took me years to discover that hs80s were not working well for me. Drastic, DRASTIC midrange difference with ns10s. So I got really used to ns10s + sub, and found something with a more forward midrange. Enter the KRK6000. Love these, midrange translates, used with sub, not too much high end, but lacking detail.
Now I’m trying some Neumann kh120s, specifically on how many people didn’t barf a bunch of data at me, they just kept saying “they translate” over and over again. Every thread. Still using ns10s as well.
Hey, did you try the Neumann KH120s?
Hoe do you feel about them?
Do they not only translate as much as people say, but are they also fun to work on?
i have HS8s with a sub in my treated room and it works for me :)
I haven't used My monitor speakers for a while because they have been packed away. I have a 1986 Technics amplifier and it's part of My non production system however I do find My self Making new music and testing almost mastered tracks on there because its quality sounds simple device no fancy digital technology going on and sounds great to Me. I know that if My music sounds great on that then Its mastered.
I remember those old Technics amps to be pretty damn good!
@@KohleAudioKult I'm surprised how loud it gets despite being only 350watt
I've been behind so many different monitors going back to when I first went to Columbia Academy back in 83' as a kid. So many and honestly with all the monitors, I've worked with so many engineers, with many using different monitors and they all do great work of = excellence. So, is the obsession with the speaker instead of treating the room the ticket given the great work all these guys did/do on different monitors?
I worked on my buddies MM27's when they first dropped. A real flavour of the month (year) monitor as many will remember and while incredibly accurate - like lazer focus, where you hear a -.5db move easily - those fookin side firing woofers made setting them up such a hassle and I had to help him chase down room modes...In the end, he sold them and bought the next flavour of the month (year) Amphion's like you ;) NS10's are great for guitar centric stuff but in small doses. Me? I've been rocking original Dynaudio BM5A MK1's for 10 years and for me at home? Meh...I have no desire or justification for the cost to upgrade. I'm good with these and my OLLO SX4's to drill down further :)
I agree with everything!
I remember taking my BM6a over a pair of ATC25s because they sounded right to my ears. But I eventually made the step to the Amphions, basically because I felt I could work faster.
Gotta check out the Ollos. Mainly because they look like my Audezes and are way cheaper.
@@KohleAudioKult Interesting, I'd never heard of anyone that didn't just love their ATCs (I've nevr heard them). But ya, these little Dyns are pretty solid IMHO. As to the OLLOs, well I've tried very expensive HEDD and have to say this little company in Slovania is making by hand very very good headphones and I always so please with what I'm hearing A/B between my monitors. I can't recommend at least giving them a try enough.
AFA ribbon tweeter, they usually are not linear and also have a ton of distortion. Not all of them, but most.
Those Eve ribbons (AMT tweeters to be precise) do sound very clean!
The truth is nearly any decent studio monitor can work. You choose a pair, put them in your room, obsessively listen to music on them until you become familiar with what your favorite songs (or mixes you would hope to emulate) sound like on the speakers in your room, and viola; you are ready to mix. It can take some time to adjust to new speakers though.
Sure! You can wait until anything becomes acceptable because you're used to it.
But you better choose something that works right from the start!
I agree. Especially with your first two points, your speakers should be fun and easy to work on. I do feel like translation comes mostly from knowing your speakers and room though. This is all great advice regardless. Choosing a new pair of monitors can indeed be a nightmare, but it really doesn't have to be.
in my exp dont blast em in a bad room overexciting a bad cube causes all sorts of vibrational sums, great systems can be mixed at talking level in a lot of places, critical listening and ref mixes can help, i never use refs and sometimes mixes can sound wildly good plus shyte, i guess its hard today as most people listen back on small speakers the size of your little finger nail, so the treble content is the mutha to get right, watch the 3k cymbals guits n vocals, what to cut where :) esp in top down mixing, im going back to yammies
You just destroyed a perception of mine. I thought all studio monitors have to present the audio spectrum in the same way (with evened out ranges).
So what I take away is, that I'm good with the 20 year old Philips Sterero & the SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless full spectrum headset that I have.
ADAM S3A and Yamaha HS80M
This video in 1 phrase: "Choose the speakers you like".
Choose the speakers that work...but do it the right way.
Hi, könntest du im zweiten Teil auch noch einmal auf die sehr alte aber immer noch nicht geklärte Frage eingehen: Tweeter inside or outside? Grüße und Danke
i love your advice, sir
and i would do same if my place had 2 weeks return issue :(
in here once you bought, you return to store "IF" it's broken
so i'm still stuck with my 15years computer Hi-Fi speaker to mixing because i feared if a speaker that i would bought can't translate enough "what i want" :(
Great Mindset
Great video! Just one problem, how am i supposed to rent the speakers to check them in my studio? 😅
In Europe you can test / return everything you buy online for two weeks!
Also, check out Presonus Sceptre S6 or S8. I have the S8's and the 12'' Kali Sub, and I love that system.
I don't disagree that finding the right monitors is important, but I think the biggest takeaway should be whatever you have, you need to really spend a lot of time listening to commercial music on them, in your room how they're set up and really learning your room and how they sound.
I think it was an Asking Alexandria record that went gold or something, I remember seeing the production of those and Joey Sturgis mixed that record in a shitty room, with 70's fake wood wall panels and like little to zero room treatment. He had just used those speakers and listened to so much music in that room, he knew how the mixes needed to sound, and I'm pretty sure his monitors weren't anything high end, he was just starting out.
So maybe that is something to consider too. :)
Knowing your setup and place is crucial too!
But that only comes with time.
Are you using subwoofers to mix (also in your main control room)? Or just the monitors? I always have problems judging the low end of a track without having a decent subwoofer... Any tips?
No subwoofer in my main room. We do have one with the Dynaudios in the second room. In general I'm not a subwoofer guy.
Those EVEs you see in this video do have enough low end for me.
HS8s in my untreated tiny bedroom? YUP
I hate it when the plug-in was turned off and I thought I heard a difference 😵💫
I need speakers that come with a room analysis microphones and designed to tune to the room like the IK Multimedia MTM's I have now. But even bigger and more accurate when I want to upgrade. I'm just a songwriter with own studio. If I had an actual working studio, recording others it would different I'm sure like it is at Kohlekeller. Which is where I really appreciate the advice and reviews you and others do on gear.
You could just use Sonarworks or Eq manually.
@@KohleAudioKult I've seen people use that. I wonder whether it would be more or less accurate, and put extra load on the computer and cause latency. It certainly is an option. I appreciate the recommendation. I think I do prefer that the monitors themselves calibrate, but that does limit options. Maybe there will be down the road.
@@yanossnicklefritz7064 I agree that an inbuilt system is more practical, but I would not buy a monitor because of that.
@@KohleAudioKult Oh I fully agree. How it sounds and the accuracy matters most. I would like both if possible though. I have a small personal studio and the IK MTM's sounded good and seem accurate for the most part. My budget wasn't thousands for monitors since I have spent thousands over all for everything from monitors, mics, software, cables, interfaces, processors, etc...
When I am ready to upgrade again on monitors, it will really come down to what is out there. I would like it if the best choice is adapting monitors. But if not, than so be it. I appreciate your input. And when I'm ready to upgrade again, I'm betting I'll be watching your videos in deciding.
Kohle, which one would you prefer for a smaller budget between 300-600€ each?
You really gotta try yourself.
In my case I’d start with trying the smaller Eve or Dynaudio monitors, but again: Do what I suggest in the video!
Did you try reversing your eve speakers with the tweeters on the outside instead of the way you have them now with tweeters on the inside?just curious wich way sounds better?
Nope. Just followed the instructions.
I am thinking about getting those eve audio 3 ways like you are using. Pretty decent price as well
They're great if you ask me.
I'll describe them more detailed in an upcoming video about the new room.
@@KohleAudioKult I have watched a shit ton of videos on these, the REDD model, dynaudio, etc. For the money, they are hard to beat and I really don't care much for the Kali Audio IN8 V2. I want a speaker to have its own spot. Currently I am using JBL 305P MK2 which are really nice but I just been thinking about upgrading to get a more true translation on mixes.
I recently got a pair of Yamaha's HS5, just because those were kind of the best in class I could afford. Unfortunately I did not have the option to check them in my space before the purchase so I had to check 3 different pairs of monitors at the store. I hope these monitors are the right ones, I've already done some mixing on them and they sound very clear. Anyways, great vid, see ya'll in hell
How do you find them regarding bass? I see so many comments about them lacking in lower frequencies yet I see a lot of people use them. I am considering HS5s as my setup is in a very small room.
@@portraitsofpain you will use headphones for your bass if you use hs5s
@@portraitsofpain HS5 obviously don’t have any sub bass, but they also lack in the sub-250Hz range which is surprising. It actually works okay in small untreated rooms because the low mid build up balances them out (and it might actually be intentional for that reason), but in a somewhat treated space they can sound very small and boxy.
The JBL LSR305s are in the same price range and are much wider range, fuller frequency speakers. In my experience they’re still the best monitors in that price bracket if you can only afford small 5” budget monitors.
@@kebbinator thanks for the response. I was just under the impression that if I'm in a tiny room (and I'm literally talking box sized) then there was no need for bigger speakers. Plus space is an issue too. I've seen the JBL's mentioned a lot too. I'll look in to those 👍 thanks again.
props for dissing the NS-10s and A/B-ing :D
How is it possible for someone to test out 4 or 5 speakers prior to buying them? That didn't make any sense
In Europe you can test / return anything you order online for two weeks. That's how.
Yamaha NS10 yes or no?
It's a love hate thing! I love mine, but I used to hate them. 😂
I hated them because I was using a crappy power amp in a poorly treated room. The mids are just horrible with the wrong power amp! I'm sure that's what puts most people off.
My room is now fully treated and I've paired the NS10s with a very nice Sub and more importantly, a decent Yamaha power amp. It's completely changed the sound for the better. The mids are perfect now and combined with the REL (not ported) sub I use I don't have to reach for headphones to reference low end anymore.
As Kristian said though, you've got to try different speakers until you find something that ticks all the right boxes for you. 🤟🤟
i'm using a pair or krk rokit g4 rp5 and I don't even know why, but I guess because they are cheap, krk has a decent reputation and they were the newest ones when I bought them.
but my room sounds like shit, so the speakers are not the issue :D time to get more bass traps and diffusors, those currently in place are not enough.
That’s right. Acoustic treatment is still underestimated!
Well, I do have to listen to internet people like you 🤣🤣🤣, unfortunately I don’t have the option of bringing the speakers to my room due to import and customs fees 😔😔
I’m having a problem to buy my new monitors because I live in a place where there are no studio gear stores and to try you have to buy… I came from Adam A7X but they didn’t like me too much I feel tiring highs and no clear bass, also I tested Yamaha HS5 and sound terrible to me, after thinking a lot I came to the conclusion that they sound not honest when I translate to other devices, what could be a more real world setup? I found they sound too good in my mixing space that’s acoustic treated, I have around $400/600 usd budget, also I tried to mix in my car and that work sounded better that I do in the monitors.
Maybe it’s your room? Have you ever measured the bass response?
But then again: I’m neither a fan of Adam nor if Yamaha monitors
@@KohleAudioKult Yes! I already use Sonarworks and it helps but what I noticed after the measurement is a big boominess of 12db around 60hz also a big dip of 9db around 100hz it’s “corrected” but feels kind of weird, my room is small also like 10ft x 10ft yes is small and square the perfect recipe for bad sounding, if I move to other place could be change?
"These speakers looks nice" - *click on the link* - *see the price* - *close tab*
EVE have a whole bunch of speakers from small to huge.
Ah yes, just get them into your room. 4 5 or 6. Just get them in your room haha.
i´m gonna actually build my speakers, and then build the room for the speakers.
Claro! Pero quién te va a prestar monitores para que los pruebes en tu estudio? Eso debe ser más difícil que todos los tips del vídeo
En países del primer mundo eso es muy habitual, en mi querido México nadie confía en hacer eso.
@@GeilerMayMixing en argentina tampoco, por eso pregunto 😥
Focal twin be's baby
Damn those eves are 3k
I'm sorry. But if you are interested: Eve offer a whole range of speakers.
or you could just buy the coolest looking ones that are about 500US more than you can afford and hope for the best
My opinion, too much of the other camera angles. It's distracting. :)
Almost didn’t want to like the video at 666 lol now I’m 668 haha
First hehe.