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Studio monitors for guitarists and bassists

Having a great pair of studio monitors will enhance your music-making experience and enable you to accurately hear the tones of your guitar or bass when using guitar and bass plugins.

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Overview

As a guitarist or bassist nowadays, all you need for playing with world-class tones are Neural DSP guitar and bass plugins and an audio interface for your computer. However, to hear the tones of these plugins accurately and with high sound quality, it's essential to have a good pair of studio monitors. Studio monitors provide a reliable means of hearing an uncolored and precise representation of your music, whether you're recording, producing, or just jamming.

This guide will highlight essential features to consider, enabling you to make an informed decision when selecting studio monitors for guitar and bass playing. We will also present our top picks arranged according to price range. By the end of this article, you'll be well-equipped to find the best studio monitors for your setup.

    What are studio monitors?

    Studio monitors are speakers designed to reproduce audio with a high degree of accuracy and clarity. They are specifically engineered for use in recording studios and music production. Unlike traditional consumer speakers, studio monitors are designed to deliver a flat frequency response, meaning that they reproduce sound as accurately as possible without any added coloration or enhancement. This makes them an important tool for anyone involved in music production, as they allow musicians, sound engineers, and producers to hear every detail of a recording with incredible accuracy.

    In recent years, the popularity of home recording and music production has surged, and studio monitors have become more accessible to musicians at all levels. Thanks to advancements in technology, high-quality studio monitors are now more affordable than ever, allowing more musicians to invest in them for use in their home studios.

    While studio monitors are often associated with professional music production and recording, they can also be used for more casual purposes, such as listening to music, watching movies, or gaming.

    Different types of studio monitors

    Studio monitors come in different types and sizes, each designed for specific listening environments and applications. Here are the three main types of studio monitors:

    Near-field monitors

    Near-field monitors are small-sized monitors that are designed for use in small spaces or home studios. They are called "near-field" monitors because they are meant to be placed close to the listener, usually on a desktop or a shelf, and positioned at ear level. Near-field monitors are usually 5-8 inches in size and are best for producing accurate sound in a small listening environment.

    Mid-field monitors

    Mid-field monitors are larger monitors that are designed for medium-sized spaces, such as recording studios or home theaters. They are placed further away from the listener than near-field monitors, typically at a distance of 4-6 feet, and provide a wider soundstage. Mid-field monitors are usually between 8-10 inches in size, and provide greater volume and depth than near-field monitors.

    Far-field monitors

    Far-field monitors are the largest monitors designed for use in large spaces, such as concert venues or large recording studios. They are placed far away from the listener, usually at a distance of 8-10 feet, and provide a broader and more powerful sound. Far-field monitors are often used for mixing and mastering music, where the engineer needs to hear a wide range of frequencies with high precision.

    Active and passive monitors

    The main difference between active and passive monitors is that active monitors have built-in amplifiers, while passive monitors require an external amplifier to function.

    Active monitors

    Active monitors are a type of studio monitor that contain a built-in amplifier that powers the speaker drivers, meaning that they don't require an external amplifier to function. This makes them more convenient to use, as they can be connected directly to an audio interface, mixing-console, or any other device that provides a line-level output.

    Since active monitors have built-in amplifiers, they are designed to provide a specific level of power and frequency response that is matched to the speaker drivers. This ensures that the sound is reproduced as accurately as possible, without any distortion or coloration.

    Active monitors also offer a range of features that can help to fine-tune the sound output. They often come with volume controls, tone controls, and EQ settings, which allow you to adjust the sound to your liking. Some models also offer built-in digital signal processing (DSP) that can enhance the sound quality or correct for room acoustics.

    Active monitors have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their convenience, ease-of-use, and affordability. They are the most common type of studio monitor used in music production, recording studios, and other audio-related fields. 

    Passive monitors

    Passive monitors are a type of studio monitor that require an external amplifier to function. Unlike active monitors, they don't have a built-in amplifier and must be connected to an external amplifier to produce sound.

    One advantage of passive monitors is that they offer more flexibility in choosing the amplifier. Since the amplifier is separate from the monitor, the user can choose an amplifier that meets their specific needs.

    However, choosing the right amplifier for passive monitors can be a challenge, particularly if you are new to the field. The amplifier must be matched to the speaker driver in terms of power and frequency response, which can be a technical task. Using the wrong amplifier can result in poor sound quality or even damage to the monitors.

    Passive monitors also require additional cables and connections to function properly, which can add to the cost and complexity of the setup. Additionally, the amplifier may introduce additional noise or distortion into the sound, which can affect the accuracy of the sound reproduction.

    Although passive monitors are still commonly used in music production and audio-related fields, they are becoming less common due to the convenience and simplicity of active monitors. While some audio professionals prefer the flexibility and control that passive monitors offer, many others find that the ease-of-use and built-in features of active monitors are more practical for their needs. However, there is still a demand for high-quality passive monitors, particularly in professional studios and among experienced audio engineers who value the ability to fine-tune their sound.

    Two-way and three-way speakers

    Two-way speakers consist of two speaker drivers - a tweeter and a woofer - which are responsible for producing the high and low frequencies respectively. The tweeter is designed to handle the higher frequencies, while the woofer is responsible for the lower frequencies. 

    Three-way speakers have three speaker drivers - a tweeter, a mid-range driver, and a woofer - which are responsible for producing the high, mid, and low frequencies respectively. Having a mid-range driver handling the mid frequencies can improve the clarity and detail of the sound. Three-way monitors are generally more expensive than two-way monitors, but they offer greater accuracy and detail in sound reproduction, making them a popular choice for professional music production and recording studios.

    When choosing between two-way and three-way monitors, it's important to consider the specific needs and requirements of your listening environment and intended use. Two-way monitors are often more affordable and simpler to use, making them a good choice for home studios and small listening environments. Three-way monitors, on the other hand, offer greater accuracy and detail in sound reproduction, making them a better choice for professional music production and recording studios where accuracy is essential.

    How many studio monitors do you need?

    To get an accurate sound reproduction when producing music, you need stereo sound. This means having two studio monitors, since stereo sound is created by having two separate audio channels, with each channel sent to a separate monitor. It is highly recommended to buy two identical studio monitors to ensure that they sound the same and provide a consistent listening experience. Having two identical monitors also allows for a balanced sound image and accurate stereo positioning. Most studio monitors are sold individually, but some come in sets of two. Having two studio monitors provides a more accurate and balanced representation of your music.

    Studio monitors vs. speakers

    While commercial speakers are designed to produce a pleasing sound for casual listening, studio monitors are designed to provide a neutral and accurate sound that allows musicians, producers, and sound engineers to make precise judgments about their music.

    Studio monitors are engineered to deliver a flat frequency response, meaning that they reproduce sound as accurately as possible without any added coloration or enhancement. This allows producers and engineers to hear every detail of the music, including any imperfections or flaws that need to be corrected.

    Commercial speakers, on the other hand, are designed to enhance certain frequencies and make the music sound more pleasing to the ear. While this may be desirable for casual listening, it can be problematic for music production, as it can obscure the true sound of the music and make it difficult to make accurate judgments about the tones and mix.

    In addition, studio monitors are also designed to be more durable and reliable than commercial speakers. They are often built with higher quality materials and components, and are rigorously tested to ensure that they can handle the demands of a professional studio environment.

    Commercial speakers may be more affordable and convenient for casual listening, however studio monitors are the preferred choice for music production, due to their neutral and accurate sound, durability, and reliability.

    How do room acoustics affect studio monitor sound quality?

    It is very important to note that the acoustics of the room where you use your studio monitors can have a significant impact on the sound quality that you hear. Acoustics refer to how sound behaves in a given space, including how sound waves bounce off walls, floors, and ceilings, and how they interact with other objects in the room.

    The size, shape, and materials used in the construction of the room can all affect its acoustics. If a room has too many hard surfaces, such as bare walls, windows, and hardwood floors, the sound waves can bounce around and create unwanted echoes or reverberations. Conversely, if a room has too many soft surfaces, such as carpeting, curtains, or furniture, the sound waves can be absorbed, resulting in a dead or muffled sound.

    To achieve accurate sound reproduction with studio monitors, it's important to ensure that the acoustics of the room are well balanced. This can be done by adding acoustic treatment, such as absorptive panels, bass traps, or diffusers to help control the reflections and standing waves in the room.

    Additionally, it's important to consider the location of your studio monitors within the room. Placing the monitors too close to walls or corners can cause unwanted reflections, while placing them too far apart can create an uneven soundstage. Finding the right placement for your studio monitors can help to ensure that you are hearing an accurate and balanced sound.

    By taking steps to balance the acoustics, adding acoustic treatment and optimizing the placement of your studio monitors, you can achieve optimal sound reproduction and create an optimal listening experience.

    What are the best cables for studio monitors

    The best cables for studio monitors depend on several factors, including the type of monitors, the distance between the monitors and the audio source, and the type of audio interface or mixing console being used. However, there are a few general recommendations that can help guide your decision.

    For shorter cable runs, such as those in a small home studio or listening environment, a high-quality TRS cable with a length of 3-6 feet is usually sufficient. TRS cables are balanced and can help reduce interference and noise in the signal. Look for cables that have a thick, durable jacket and high-quality connectors to ensure reliability and longevity.

    For longer cable runs, such as those in a larger studio, XLR cables are usually the better choice. XLR cables are also balanced and can provide better interference reduction over longer distances. Look for cables with a thick, high-quality jacket and connectors that are designed for long-term use.

    Factors to consider when choosing studio monitors

    The quality of your studio monitors will directly impact the accuracy, detail, and clarity of the sound you hear, making it essential to choose the right monitors for your needs. In this section, we'll explore the most important factors to consider when choosing studio monitors, so you can make an informed decision and find the monitors that will best suit your needs.

    Sound quality

    When choosing studio monitors, sound quality is one of the most important factors to consider. Sound quality refers to how accurately the monitors reproduce sound, as well as the overall tone and character of the sound that they produce.

    The accuracy of the sound reproduction is influenced by several factors, such as the frequency range and frequency response. Frequency range refers to the range of frequencies that a monitor can reproduce, from the lowest frequency to the highest frequency. This is often expressed as a range in Hertz (Hz), such as 20 Hz to 20000 Hz, which is the range of frequencies that are audible to the human ear. Frequency response, on the other hand, refers to how accurately a monitor can reproduce each frequency within its frequency range. It is a measure of how much the output of the monitor deviates from a flat response, where all frequencies are reproduced with equal loudness. Frequency response is usually shown on a graph, with frequency on the horizontal axis and level on the vertical axis, showing how loud the monitor reproduces each frequency.

    It's important to choose studio monitors with a flat frequency response, as they will reproduce sound as accurately as possible without any added coloration or enhancement. In other words, if your monitors have a flat frequency response, you can trust that what you hear is an accurate representation of the music you're playing and recording. A monitor that accurately reproduces the sound without adding any coloration or enhancement is often referred to as being "transparent".

    Size and type of studio monitors

    When it comes to studio monitor size, bigger is not always better. Larger monitors can often produce more bass and have a greater frequency response range, but they may not be practical or necessary for smaller spaces or lower volume applications. Smaller monitors, on the other hand, may not have the same bass response or frequency range, but they can be more affordable and easier to place in smaller spaces. The most common sizes for studio monitors are 5-inch, 6-inch, 8-inch, and 10-inch.

    You’ll also have to decide whether to go for active or passive monitors. Active monitors are generally easier to set up and use and offer greater control over sound output making them a popular choice for most users.

    Passive monitors offer more flexibility in terms of amplifier choice and can potentially save you money if you already own a suitable amplifier since passive monitors are generally cheaper than active ones.

    Connectivity

    Connectivity is an important factor to consider when choosing studio monitors, as it can affect the usability and functionality of your setup. Most modern studio monitors offer a variety of input options, such as XLR, TRS, and RCA, allowing you to connect to a wide range of devices like audio interfaces and mixing consoles.

    It's important to consider what devices you will be connecting to your studio monitors, and what input options are available on those devices. If you plan on connecting multiple devices to your studio monitors, it's important to choose a pair that offers a variety of input options, allowing you to switch between devices easily.

    Cost

    Budget is obviously a key factor to consider when choosing studio monitors. When considering your budget, think about your long-term needs. While it may be tempting to go for the cheapest option, it's important to consider whether the monitors you choose will be able to meet your needs for the long-term. Investing in higher-quality monitors may be more expensive upfront, but can save you money in the long run by providing greater durability and a higher level of accuracy.

    It's also important to consider the overall cost of setting up a monitoring system, including the cost of any necessary accessories such as cables, stands, and acoustic treatment for your room. Make sure you have added the cost of these accessories to your budget since leaving them out can significantly affect the overall quality and accuracy of your monitoring system.

    Best studio monitors for guitar and bass

    Our top picks

    We've put together a list of studio monitors that we recommend based on their overall performance. It is worth noting that there are countless other capable monitors available on the market as well.

    No matter which option you choose from our list, each one offers exceptional sound quality and is a great choice for playing, recording, producing and listening to music. Keep in mind that all of the options in this list have a lot of additional features not mentioned here and that this guide provides just a basic overview of each one.

    Budget-friendly options (under $400 per pair)

    KRK Rokit RP5 G4

    The KRK Rokit RP5 G4 is a great studio monitor that delivers high-quality sound with a budget-friendly price. It comes equipped with a 5-inch woofer and a 1-inch tweeter, delivering a frequency response range of 43 Hz to 40000 Hz. The built-in Class D amplifier delivers up to 55 watts of power. Moreover, it has integrated digital signal processing (DSP) features and a graphic EQ controlled by an LCD screen on the back of the speaker. The EQ has 25 presets that allow you to customize the sound to fit your specific listening environment. In addition, it also includes a built-in brickwall limiter that protects the speakers from any damage when played at high volumes. Overall, the KRK Rokit RP5 G4 is a perfect fit for small home studios and music production setups.


    Monitor type: Active, nearfield, two-way


    Frequency range: 43 Hz - 40000 Hz


    Input: Combo input XLR / jack 1/4”


    Speaker size: 5" woofer & 1" tweeter


    Price per pair: ~$380


    Yamaha HS 5

    The Yamaha HS 5 studio monitor is renowned for its accuracy and flat frequency response, making it a great choice for guitarists and bassists. This monitor features a 5-inch woofer and a 1-inch tweeter, delivering a frequency response range of 54 Hz to 30000 Hz. It comes with a built-in bi-amp that delivers up to 70 watts of power. The HS 5 also has room control and high-trim response controls, which allow you to adjust the monitor's sound to suit your listening environment and monitor placement. Overall, the Yamaha HS 5 is a reliable and affordable option that is well-suited for small home studio setups.


    Monitor type: Active, nearfield, two-way


    Frequency range: 54 Hz - 30000 Hz


    Input: XLR input & jack 1/4”


    Speaker size: 5" woofer & 1" tweeter


    Price per pair: ~$400


    Mid-range options (under $900 per pair)

    Genelec 8010A

    The Genelec 8010A is a compact, bi-amplified studio monitor that packs a punch despite its small size. With a 3-inch woofer and a 3/4-inch tweeter, the 8010A is capable of producing a high level of accuracy and detail, making it an ideal choice for critical listening in smaller spaces. The monitor features Genelec's “Intelligent Signal Sensing” technology, which automatically powers the monitor on when audio is detected and powers it down when audio is not present, conserving energy and prolonging the life of the unit. The 8010A also features versatile mounting options, providing flexibility in positioning the monitor. 


    Monitor type: Active, nearfield, two-way


    Frequency range: 74 Hz - 20000 Hz


    Input: XLR input & jack 1/4”


    Speaker size: 3" woofer & 3/4" tweeter


    Price per pair: ~$700


    Yamaha HS 8

    The Yamaha HS8 is the largest and most powerful monitor in the Yamaha HS series, featuring an 8" bass driver. With a lower sound spectrum than the HS 5, the HS8 has an impressive frequency response of 38 Hz to 30000 Hz. Like in the HS 5, the HS 8 also comes equipped with room control and high trim EQs, allowing for easy bass and treble adjustments to compensate for any acoustic anomalies in the room. These features are particularly useful when the speaker is placed directly against a wall. The Yamaha HS 8 is a great choice for medium to large-sized studios


    Monitor type: Active, nearfield, two-way


    Frequency range: 54 Hz - 30000 Hz


    Input: XLR input & jack 1/4”


    Speaker size: 5" woofer & 1" tweeter


    Price per pair: ~$800


    High-end options

    Genelec 8030C

    The Genelec 8030 CP is a compact and high-performance studio monitor that is designed for use in small to medium-sized rooms. It features a 5” woofer and a 3/4" tweeter that deliver a frequency response of 54 Hz to 20000 Hz. The monitor is equipped with advanced Directivity Control Waveguide (DCW) technology, which ensures a neutral and accurate sound image even in difficult acoustic environments. Additionally, the monitor has several features like room response controls and the “Intelligent Signal Sensing” power-saving mode, making it a great choice for professional studio setups.


    Monitor type: Active, nearfield, two-way


    Frequency range: 54 Hz - 20000 Hz


    Input: XLR input


    Speaker size: 5" woofer & 3/4" tweeter


    Price per pair: ~$1400


    ADAM Audio A77H

    The ADAM Audio A77H is a high-end active studio monitor that delivers accurate and detailed sound reproduction for professional audio engineers, music producers, and artists. The 3-way design includes a 2 x 7-inch woofer, a 3.5-inch mid-range driver, and a folded-ribbon tweeter that delivers an ultra-wide frequency range of 34 Hz to 45000 Hz.

    One of the standout features of the A77H is the rotatable HPS (high-frequency propagation system) waveguide and proprietary X-ART (eXtended Accelerating Ribbon Technology) tweeter, which are designed to provide optimal high-frequency dispersion and imaging without any unwanted coloration or distortion. In addition, the A77H studio monitor comes equipped with a powerful onboard DSP engine that provides a range of useful functions for optimizing the monitor's performance in different listening environments. The A77H is an ideal choice for professionals who demand the highest level of audio quality and flexibility from their studio monitors.


    Monitor type: Active, nearfield / midfield, three-way


    Frequency range: 34 Hz - 45000 Hz


    Input: XLR input & RCA input


    Speaker size: 2 x 7" woofer,  3.5” midrange driver, & 2" tweeter


    Price per pair: ~$2600


    Genelec 8341A

    The Genelec 8341 AP is part of Genelec’s flagship range called “The Ones”. This studio monitor boasts exceptional performance and flexibility and is designed for critical listening in professional music production environments. It features two 3 17/32" x 6 11/16” woofers, a 3 17/32” midrange driver, and a 3/4" tweeter that deliver a frequency response of 38 Hz to 37000 Hz, delivering exceptional clarity and detail across the entire sound spectrum.

    The monitor is equipped with advanced Acoustically Concealed Woofer (ACW) and Directivity Control Waveguide (DCW) technology that ensure a flat frequency response and precise sound image. The monitor has several built-in features, including SAM technology, which allows for automatic calibration of the monitor to your room's acoustics, and GLM software, which provides complete control over the monitor's settings. Overall, the Genelec 8341 AP is an exceptional choice for any professional studio looking for a high-end, versatile, and reliable studio monitor.


    Monitor type: Active, nearfield, three-way


    Frequency range: 38 Hz - 37000 Hz


    Input: Analog XLR input & AES/EBU digital input


    Speaker size: 2 x 3 17/32" x 6 11/16” woofer,  3 17/32” midrange driver, & 3/4" tweeter


    Price per pair: ~$6200


    Using studio monitors with guitar and bass plugins

    Using studio monitors with guitar and bass plugins is very straightforward. All you have to do is plug your studio monitors in to your audio interface, download a free trial of any of our plugins, and start playing. Read our guides on choosing an audio interface and connecting your guitar or bass to your computer for more information.

    When it comes to studio monitors for guitar and bass amp sims, our top picks are all excellent choices.

    Next steps

    Having a great pair of studio monitors will enhance your music-making experience and enable you to accurately hear the tones of your guitar or bass when using guitar and bass plugins. Nowadays, it is becoming increasingly common for musicians of all levels to have studio monitors as an essential part of their home studio setup. Fortunately, you don't have to spend a fortune to get a reliable pair of studio monitors, as there are plenty of options available that are both affordable and high-quality.

    If you're looking for more guidance on studio gear for guitar and bass, be sure to check out our guide on headphones for guitarists and bassists. If you're looking to take your tone to the next level, check out our guides on getting started with guitar and bass plugins.

    Guides for getting started with plugins

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