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Whether you’re an audio producer newbie or expert, investing in the relevant equipment that makes your profession easier is crucial. Studio monitor stands and sets are, according to us, the real underdogs of authentic sound production. It is not enough to just produce sound anymore, playing it back to make sure it stays consistent is key. Our list of the 7 best studio monitors under 500$ does all the heavy lifting for you. Just sit back and compare the specifications of these affordable gears, making sure they meet all your specific user needs.
Yamaha HS8
Yamaha has been a close contender in the monitor series since the 1980s. The crisp and precise playback of their HS series is exceptional and remains true to their commitment to quality products.
Key Features
- Frequency range: 38Hz-30kHz.
- 8" cone woofer, 1" dome tweeter.
- 120-watt Amplification system: 75-watt LF and 45-watt HF.
- 2-way bass-reflex system.
- Dimensions: 15.4” H, 9.8” W, 13.1” D.
- Weight: 22.5 lbs.
The impressive span of sound output gives a clearer sense of the subtleties in your production. A highly responsive bi-amplification system that mimics what audio will sound like on a larger scale. Smooth resonance control gives the sound a fairer playback opportunity with little setbacks. The Reflex system effectively limits the need for a subwoofer, making it an overall efficient design tactic.
Easy setup and mounting system that can meet your interior spatial constraints. Room control allows the system to work effectively even when placed near walls. The Yamaha HS8 system is ideal for professionals and amateurs on a budget. Its optimal weight and dimensions make it one of the best studio monitors under $500 that are suitable for producers on the go.
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Edifier S2000 Pro
Edifier combines sound quality with aesthetics within this range of studio monitors for sale. This sleek built looks and feels exceptional within more versatile sound production practices.
Key Features
- Frequency: up to 192 kHz
- 5.5” cone woofer, 1” flat diaphragm tweeter
- 2-way, 3 amplifier design
- Inputs: coaxial, optical, RCA, AUX, and Bluetooth 4.0 (aptX decoder).
- 4 EQ settings: vocal, monitor, classical, and dynamic.
- Dimensions: 13.5”H, 8”W, 10.5”D.
- Weight: 40 lbs.
Are an excellent alternative to mediocre speaker systems, achieving true stereo sound. Bluetooth allows easy connectivity from laptops, phones, and tablet devices. EQ settings fit well with the mood and ambiance of the audio, i.e. music, movies, or live performances. Raised speakers limit audio vibrations and help keep sound quality consistent. Wood paneling exterior looks great with any existing room décor.
In our opinion, the Edifier S2000 Pro remains a monitor for people who truly appreciate the importance of quality sound at home. It can be just the starting point investment to push newer professionals into the game.
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JBL Pro LSR308
JBL continues to produce systems for avid music listeners as well as professional sound producers. The JBL Pro LSR308 does both, which is why it made it in our list of best studio monitors under $500.
Key Features
- Frequency range: 37Hz-24kHz
- 8” woofer, 1” dome tweeter.
- Image control waveguide.
- Peak SPL of 112dB.
- 56-watt pair of D-amplifiers for HF and LF.
- Dimensions: 16.5” H, 10” W, 12.1” D.
- Weight: 18.9 lbs.
Image control waveguide controls vertical and horizontal planes of output that adds a depth like never before. Efficient D-amplifiers provide louder sound with little distortion on high volume levels. The slipstream bass port at the rear-end effectively reduces port-wind sound.
The overall low, mid-range, and high sound outputs were exceptional and true to the audio. The wide stereo landscape and amplifiers make it an affordable find for professional practices.
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Mackie XR624
Another one of the best studio monitors in 2021 has to be the Mackie XR624. Making its mark in the 90s, Mackie continues to create and improve their systems every year. Their latest invention is no different.
The Kevlar woofer maintains its shape in high volume without sound distortion. XR logogrammatic waveguide balances the sound effectively no matter the frequency range. The bass reflex system mimics the deep undertones of sound effectively without letting air in. The filters within the acoustic space settings allow sound to match the configurations of your specific environment.
This model contains extremely extensive and versatile tools to cater to professional users. This effectively makes it a serious competitor on this list of best studio monitors under $500.
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PreSonus Eris E8
The Eris E8 indeed offers nothing but the truth when it comes to audio. This model claims to support home-based and studio-based projects equally and effectively.
Key Features
- Frequency range: 35Hz-22kHz
- 8” Kevlar LF transducer, 1.25” silk dome HF driver.
- 140-watt class-AB amplification.
- Vinyl-laminated MDF built
- Dimensions: 15.1” H, 9.8” W, 11.7” D.
- Weight: 22.2 lbs.
Impressive quality and output sound, great for re-mixes especially. Extensive control options custom-tailor it to user-mixing needs. Pairs well with most accessories and existing setups. An extremely affordable setup for anyone on a budget.
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Yamaha HS5
Another Yamaha device that makes it to this list is a predecessor of the HS8. However, the HS5 is equally impressive, allowing this company to be featured once more.
Key Features
- Frequency range: 54Hz-30kHz
- 5” cone woofer, 1” dome tweeter.
- 70-watt bi-amplification system, 45-watt LF, and 25-watt HF.
- XLR and TSR input systems.
- Dimensions: 11.2” H, 6.7” W, 8.7” D.
Sleek yet unique monochrome design. The smaller size does not compromise on sound output quality. Exceptional mid and high range frequencies. Room controls offer tweaking options catering to the studio environment. For those who cannot purchase the HS8, the HS5 is a strong and equally capable second-choice.
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KRK Rokit 5 G3
The last and final contender on our list is the KRK’s Rokit 5 G3 invention. These monitors may be small, but their equally fierce nature is unmatchable on our list of best studio monitors under $500.
Key Features
- Frequencies up to 35kHz.
- 6” glass-aramid woofer, 1” dome tweeter.
- Amplification: 48W LF, 25W HF.
- XLR, TRS, and RCA inputs.
- Dimensions: 11.4” H, 8.9” W, 13.1” D.
High frequency and extended bass response with adjustable high-frequency to meet your needs. Suitable for recording, mixing, and playing and a low resonance cabinet ensures optimal sound quality. The pop of color that the KRK Rokit 5 G3 provides is all set to liven up your interior and keep you motivated in dropping your next hit. For their price point, these speakers are practically free and are perfect for beginner mixers.
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Our verdict
Of course, when nothing comes without a price, it is important to find the best bang for your buck! Whether it is a studio monitor for home or office use, we hope you’ve found the newest member of your surround sound family! We hope that one of these best studio monitors under $500 made the cut. If not, take it from us and invest in the Yamaha’s, they’ll meet your expert and home-based needs exceptionally.