In recent years, compact studio monitors have become increasingly popular for those who need quality sound in smaller spaces or need a portable solution for their audio setup. In this article, we’ll explore five of the newest and best-selling compact studio monitors, all of which offer portability without sacrificing sound quality. I’ve spent two weeks testing these monitors in my own setup, and based on my experience, I can confidently say they are a great option for reference mixing. Let’s dive into each model and see how they compare.
Table of Contents
1. JBL 1 Series 104
The JBL 1 Series 104 studio monitors come with a 4.5-inch woofer and a combination of RCA and TRS connections that can be selected via a switch on the front. These monitors also feature Bluetooth connectivity, making them feel more like premium desktop speakers than traditional studio monitors. For a price of $159, these speakers deliver solid performance and sound quality for their size. If you’re looking for a compact and affordable studio monitor with decent sound, the JBL 1 Series 104 is a great choice.
2. Yamaha HS3
The Yamaha HS3 are a step up from the JBL monitors, priced at $219. The HS3s feature an iconic 3-inch woofer paired with a 3/4-inch tweeter, offering a more accurate and detailed sound profile. Like the JBLs, they have some multimedia speaker-type connections, but they also offer room control EQ adjustments and combo XLR-TRS inputs, making them more suited for a studio setup. The HS3s are perfect for those who want a professional-grade monitor without breaking the bank.
3. KRK GoAux 4
For those seeking portability, the KRK GoAux 4 are a standout option. Priced under $300, these monitors come with their own carry bag, adjustable ISO pads, and a 4-inch woofer paired with a 1-inch tweeter. The most notable feature of the KRK GoAux 4s is their room-correcting ARC mic setup, which plugs into the front of the speaker and allows for easy calibration. With just a few beeps, you can calibrate the monitors to your room’s acoustics, making them ideal for those who want a portable solution without compromising on sound quality. The KRK GoAux 4 deliver a complete package for $289, offering room calibration and portability in one.
4. Adam D3V
At a higher price point of $350, the Adam D3V offers a more refined sound profile. These speakers feature a 1.5-inch ribbon tweeter, a 3.5-inch woofer, and two 3.5-inch passive radiators that handle the low-end frequencies. The design of the Adam D3V is particularly smart, as the passive radiators help generate extra low-end that you typically wouldn’t get from such a small speaker. The simplicity of the speaker settings on the back, along with DSP optimization, makes these a solid choice for users looking for premium sound in a compact form factor.
5. iLoud Micro Monitor Pro
The iLoud Micro Monitor Pro is the most premium option on this list, priced at nearly double the cost of the Adam D3V at $350. These monitors come with individual power supplies, meaning no passive connections are required. Each speaker can be individually calibrated to your space using the included ARC microphone, allowing for a highly customized audio experience. The sound quality of the iLoud Micro Monitor Pro is excellent, providing clear and punchy sound. If you are willing to invest in a high-quality portable studio monitor, the iLoud Pro monitors are a great option for precise sound calibration and performance.
Sound Test Comparison
The sound test comparison, although subjective, highlights the differences between these monitors.
- JBL 1 Series 104: The JBLs sound a bit muddy and lack mid-range presence, but for $159, they provide solid performance for casual listening and basic reference mixing.
- KRK GoAux 4: The GoAux4, when calibrated, offer a cleaner sound, but without the calibration, they can sound muffled, particularly in the low-to-mid frequencies. The calibration process using the ARC mic helps clean up these issues, but the results are still not as precise as the iLoud monitors.
- Yamaha HS3: These monitors have a raw, harsh sound but remain clear. They are a good choice if you’re looking for a quick and reliable reference, though they might not be ideal for detailed mixing due to their slightly harsh tone.
- Adam D3V: The Adam D3V delivers a punchy and clear sound with a good balance of low-end frequencies, thanks to the passive radiators. The design and sound quality at this price point make them a solid choice for those seeking quality in a compact monitor.
- iLoud Micro Monitor Pro: The iLouds, calibrated using the ARC mic, provided a very clear and precise sound straight out of the box. These are the best sounding in terms of overall clarity and punch, especially when you consider their portability and ability to adapt to different environments.
Article Summary
In terms of value for money and sound quality, Adam D3V offers the best overall performance for the price. They provide a punchy sound with a good balance of low-end frequencies, making them perfect for studio work. For those prioritizing portability, KRK GoAux 4 is an excellent all-in-one solution that includes room calibration for a more precise sound. iLoud Micro Monitor Pro provides the most refined experience for professionals who need the best performance in a portable form. If you’re on a budget and need something compact, the JBL 1 Series 104 and Yamaha HS3 are solid options. They won’t give you the high-end sound that the more expensive models offer, but they provide decent performance for their price.
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