Speakers known as midfield studio monitors must be placed at least six feet away from the listener. They provide a bigger monitoring sweet spot, louder sound, and superior bass extension. They are, however, also vulnerable to resonance and acoustical cancellations. So, while employing middle studio monitors, appropriate room design and acoustic treatment become essential.
You should think about your monitoring system if you want to improve your studio by adding more room. Midfield studio monitors play a role in this. With the aid of driver arrangements, they are made for larger rooms, spanning a wider spectrum of frequencies while preventing negative space reflection.
Table of Contents
Neumann KH 420 Studio Monitor
The most well-known microphone manufacturer is arguably Neumann, and their middle studio monitors live up to their reputation. With a clean midrange, silky smooth high end, deep, controlled bass frequencies, and an attractive gray paint finish, the Neumann KH420 is an incredibly accurate and open midfield monitor speaker. The speaker cabinet has two triangular bass ports and each speaker weights a hefty 35 kilos. An essential quality for main monitors, the speaker’s incredibly low distortion makes it pleasant-sounding even at high listening volumes.
The substantial 10″ bass woofer, 3″ midrange, and 1″ tweeter combine to give a bandwidth that is down to 26 Hz. The other two drivers are each supplied by a 140W amplifier, while the bass woofer is powered by a 330W Class AB amplifier. From 5 to 9 feet away from you, you may readily anticipate them to perform flawlessly.
Consider bringing Neumann’s KH 420 powered monitor into the studio when sound accuracy and immaculate purity are crucial. The KH 420 midfield monitor delivers a natural, clean sound over a 5 to 9 foot range, making it ideal for a variety of applications including music production, mixing and mastering, broadcast, and more. The KH 420, like all of Neumann’s products, provides professional, optimum performance in part because of its Mathematically Modeled Dispersion waveguide and decreased vertical dispersion, which reduces unwanted reflections in the workspace.
Tri-channel amplifiers on the KH 420 provide sound pressure level of up to 122.4 dB for a natural tone throughout the whole frequency range and unrivaled bass reproduction down to 26 Hz listening environments. Unwanted resonances and bothersome intermodulation distortion issues are also a thing of the past thanks to the KH 420’s cabinet’s use of Low Resonance Integral Molding materials for tweeter frequency range, which is all the more advantageous given that Neumann’s distinctive fabric dome reproduces the midrange like never before. Neumann’s KH 420 is the middle studio monitor that discriminating professionals need. It is strong, precise, and high-end without a budget price tag.
This monitor speaker is just as stunningly open and accurate as the 2010 model KH410. In fact, by extending the low end even further and enhancing the internal components, it improves upon the prior design. The speaker plays any kind of sound at any reasonable volume with a clear, distortion-free performance that sounds effortless. And it can tolerate quite a bit with a maximum sound pressure of up to 122.4 dB. Its incredibly smooth and clean performance and unbelievable bandwidth deserve nothing but praise. Additionally, the design of the device guarantees a larger sweet spot and reduced vertical dispersion. The KH420 offers acoustic settings and a single band EQ on the rear panel if you need extra options.
This is the Best Midfield Studio Monitors in 2023.
Focal Shape 65 Studio Monitors
- Low tweeter directivity for a flexible listening position
- Designed without a port allowing it to be placed near a wall
- Numerous settings for optimal integration & accurate control, even in the...
From their entry-level Alpha speakers to their more expensive SM and Trio speakers, Focal produces great studio monitors for every budget. The Shape 65s may be the most affordable monitors in this review, but they still embody the Focal ethos and are jam-packed with innovation. Neutral Induction Circuit technology, TMD Surround, which delivers a linear mid-range response (helping to make up any shortfall you might be expecting from 2-way speakers), and finally “double passive radiator” side domes, which take the place of more conventional bass ports for greater placement flexibility, are all features of these speakers.
When you combine them, you get a sound that is rather outstanding, with controlled basses, superb highs, and natural mids that are all delivered over an exceptional sound field that is both broad and deep. If you want a lot of the high-end appeal but your budget doesn’t quite allow for others in this roundup, consider the 65s.
DYNAUDIO Core 59
This new 3-way monitor speaker from Dynaudio accurately reproduces the sound of your mixes thanks to the company’s decision to adopt contemporary loudspeaker testing based on impulse responses.
A 9″ bass woofer, a 5″ midrange driver, and a 1″ tweeter are all housed inside the Core 59. The frequency range of this device is 36 Hz to 31 kHz (6 dB). The speaker’s 1,150W of total amplification power, which includes separate Class D 500W amplifiers for each of the two primary drivers and a 150W amplifier for the tweeter, is its most striking feature. You can tell that it will function flawlessly no matter how far away from the user it is.
The amplifier and its sizable heatsink are located on the back of the cabinet. The XLR connector, AES3 digital input and output, and a few controls are also present. The Core 59 is extremely accurate and offers a good monitoring experience because of the contemporary testing and development procedure. Even at low listening levels, you can pick up on little elements in your mixes. Furthermore, there are no artifacts even when you pump up the level because there is insufficient amplification power. A further benefit of the comparatively big 5″ midrange driver is the excellent voice tone. It should be used mostly for musical genres like jazz, rock, and classical, in my opinion.
ADAM Audio S3H Horizontal Monitor Single
No products found.
The ADAM Audio S3H is a midfield-focused active horizontal 3-way primary monitor. Professional engineers can depend on the S3H to give the strength and accuracy they require in a precision reference-grade monitor, reproducing high-resolution, full-bandwidth audio with breathtaking clarity.
New Extended Linear Excursion (ELE) woofer and DCH midrange driver designs, as well as the S-ART tweeter, an updated, even more accurate version of ADAM’s acclaimed accelerated ribbon design, are all part of ADAM’s 3rd-generation S series monitors, which were engineered in Berlin to the strictest tolerances. The ADAM Audio S3H offers world-class monitoring you can rely on, session after session, thanks to its astonishing, ruler-flat 30Hz–50kHz frequency ranges, ultra–wide and stable stereo imaging, strong PWM ICE quad-amplification, and ultra–low distortion for every music producer at a good price point.
With this three-way speaker with custom-built drivers, Adam Audio sets a new bar for creativity based on their renowned S3A studio monitors. The S3H’s crystal-clear high-end is unquestionably among the best among midrange studio monitors if you compose pop and dance music. In addition, it’s wonderful to see current software-operated DSP rather than the conventional constrained onboard controller. Finally, the pleasing sound itself deserves commendation.
Most people probably know Adam Audio for its unique tweeters. They modified the traditional ribbon tweeter and used their “extended accelerating ribbon technology” (X-ART) modification to provide a strong yet fluid and distortion-free high-frequency reproduction. The S3H also use the same technology. They have, however, used their bass drivers in equally inventive ways. The S3H is a midranger short of becoming the D’Appolito design because it has two 7″ low-frequency woofers, a 4″ midrange driver, and a 2″ X-ART tweeter in the middle.
Years of internal research and development have gone into the drivers used in ADAM Audio’s S series monitor speakers, which also take use of the most recent developments in technology and materials science. The Extended Linear Excursion (ELE) bass drivers from ADAM, which were newly created for the S series, use the Symmetrical Magnet Assembly (SMA) to produce enhanced low-frequency reproduction with extended dynamic range and coloration-free sound.
The ELE driver features a vented symmetrical voice coil, a highly efficient, self-cooling linear magnet assembly, a sturdy yet lightweight honeycomb driver cone, linear suspension and damping systems with a low-loss speaker surround, and an improved driver chassis/basket design. The S3H’s two 7″ woofers extend response down to 30Hz, making the speaker appropriate as a main monitor in medium-to-large control rooms, without the necessity of a subwoofer. This is the Best Midfield Studio Monitor in 2023.
Focal Trio11 Be 10 Inches Powered Studio Monitor
- 450W 3-way Studio Reference Monitor with 10" Subwoofer
- 1" Tweeter (each)
- 5" Woofer
When it comes to monitoring speakers, Focal doesn’t require an introduction, and this speaker is their premium model. An interchangeable middle and near-field 3-way speaker with unique optimization characteristics I’ve only seen combined in a few monitors previously is the Trio11 Be. A horizontal bass port is located at the bottom of the design, and there are a few ports for the midrange speaker on the front panel. The design has a stylish red coat on the side. The monitor speaker’s flat frequency response ranges from 30 Hz to 40 kHz. A balanced XLR input, a -10 dBV/+4 dBu sensitivity control, and an automated Standby mode are also located on the speaker’s back panel. The controls for altering the sound are located next.
The Focus Mode effectively disables the monitor’s bass woofer to convert it to a two-way speaker, which reduces its frequency range to 90 Hz to 20 kHz. I thought this was quite ingenious since it lets you hear sound the way you would expect to hear it in a recording studio and on a commercial speaker like one in a car or TV. Additionally, there is a Focus input and output on the back that enables you to connect two monitors as well as a footswitch (not included) for tactile control of the Focus Mode.
Whether you are creating hip-hop, rock, or orchestral soundtracks, this midfield monitors speaker will improve your listening experience with a very accurate and adaptable sound. The beryllium tweeter produces clear high frequencies, while the 10″ woofer ensures deep and controlled bass. The midrange woofer sounds warm and isn’t at all tiring, in a similar vein. If you’re not used to the highs, they could sound excessively bright, but you can always lower them using the high-frequency shelving EQ on the back panel.
Like most Focal speakers, the sound and construction are excellent of this pair of studio monitors. I adored how the midrange driver and tweeter’s pivoting baffle provided options for both vertical and horizontal placement. The tri-amplifiers, which have a monstrous combined 550W per speaker, are also more than sufficient for both near-field and midfield monitoring. The Focus Mode and the 3-Band EQ are also both very helpful.
With just a push of a button, the Focus Mode enables you to hear the striking differences between studio monitors and regular speakers. It gives the impression of having two speaker sets. However, I have to admit that it does feel like paying for the same thing as well!
HEDD Type 20 MK2 3-Way 900W Active Studio Monitor
Despite having drivers that are very small in size, the HEDD Audio Type 20 has outperformed many larger and ostensibly superior midfield studio monitors. The Type 20 studio monitor has a sleek face design and a satin white or black finish, which give it a fantastic appearance. The monitoring speaker has a ribbon tweeter, a four ′′ midrange driver, and a 7′′ bass woofer. Let’s face it, the most of us are curious to hear the bass response when we test out a studio monitor, and this one succeeds in that listening position. It is not only substantial but also in-depth.
Of course, the midrange and treble also sound well; they are smooth but accurate, and the bass isn’t the only one that does driver size. Other than the sound, this model stands out from the competition due to technological characteristics. A balanced XLR input and an AES digital in and through are also located on the back panel (out). A 300W amplifier powers each driver in the Type 20 system, providing ample headroom for zero distortion at any frequency. Its drivers are a little bit modest, yet their genuine flat bandwidth ranges from 32 Hz to 40 kHz. Additionally, the low end descends to an astonishing 26 Hz when the bass extended option in the low-cut filter is activated. It has a vibrant sound that isn’t exhausting but is still as uncolored as you could hope for.
This studio monitor reproduces low frequencies incredibly well, and it maintains the same level of dependability throughout the spectrum. Just as accurately, you can detect minute adjustments to the panning or a compressor. Additionally, you can select between ported and unported sound using the CoP technology. Personally, I like the more bass of the ported mode better than the closed mode most of the time, although closed mode is great for transient precision.
Eve Audio SC3070 3-Way, 7 Active NearfieldMidfield
- Free-field frequency range (-3dB): 35Hz - 25kHz
- Tweeter: AMT RS3.1
- Midrange: 100mm/4", Woofer: 165mm/6.5"
The front panel of the SC3070 houses a 6.5″ bass woofer, a 4″ midrange driver, and a 1″ “RS3″ ribbon tweeter. A vertical bass port is located on the back as well. It has both a balanced XLR and an unbalanced RCA input, just like the SC307 does. Similar to that, it has audio controls that use an internal DSP chip to adjust for the acoustic surroundings.
The front panel of the SC3070 houses a 6.5″ bass woofer, a 4″ midrange driver, and a 1” “RS3” ribbon tweeter. A vertical bass port is located on the back as well. It has both a balanced XLR and an unbalanced RCA input, just like the SC307 does. Similar to that, it has audio controls that use an internal DSP chip to adjust for the acoustic surroundings.
The SC3070 has a DSP controller knob on the speaker’s front panel, just like the SC307 does. To change between loudness, low shelf, mid shelf, and high shelf EQ, turn the knob. The information and chosen values are shown on an LED ring that surrounds the knob. Additionally, the speaker has a desk filter that allows you to increase 80 Hz by 3 dB and decrease 160 Hz by 5 dB. Filter and level lock switches are also located on the back panel, which makes the front controller useless. And lastly, based on your console or interface, you can choose a maximum input between +7 dBu and +22 dBu. The bass and midrange drivers, which use a copper-cap magnet technology, are the exclusive SilverCone drivers. They are designed to remove distortion at any volume level. The woofers’ honeycomb-structured fiberglass material offers superior lifespan and tonal response.
The value for money is the main benefit this studio monitor has over the competition. It delivers outstanding audio performance, a respectable volume level, and an impressive frequency response. Additionally, there is no strain on your ears and it sounds natural and smooth. Additionally, the strong drivers and enough amplification power guarantee distortion-free audio.
What to Consider When Buying a Midfield Monitor Buying Guide
Frequency Response
One of the most important things to consider when purchasing a midfield monitor is its frequency response. A monitor with a flat frequency response will provide an accurate representation of your audio signal. This means that the bass, midrange, and treble frequencies will all be presented in their natural balance, making it easier to make critical mixing decisions.
Driver Size
The size of the drivers in a midfield monitor will affect the sound they produce. Larger drivers can provide more accurate low-end response, while smaller drivers may provide more detail in the mid and high frequencies. In general, a 6.5-inch driver is a good compromise between low-end response and mid/high frequency detail.
Amplifier Power
The power of the amplifier built into the midfield monitor is also an essential factor to consider. A higher-powered amplifier will provide more headroom, which means you can turn up the volume without distortion. This is particularly important when mixing bass-heavy music genres like EDM, where a weak amplifier may not be able to handle the low-end frequencies.
Room Size
Another factor to consider when purchasing a midfield monitor is the size of your studio. Larger monitors will be better suited to larger rooms, while smaller monitors may be more appropriate for smaller spaces. This is because larger monitors will provide more low-end response, which can be overwhelming in a smaller room.
Budget
Finally, it’s important to consider your budget when purchasing a midfield monitor. While it’s tempting to go for the most expensive model available, there are plenty of great options at lower price points. It’s essential to find a balance between quality and affordability.