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Why are hi-end active monitors not more popular?

I was just curious why more home systems don't utilize active monitors from hi-end manufacturers. Dynaudio, Focal, PMC and Genelec to name a few seem to have very high value offerings that, on the surface, appear taylor made for a simple system. Just add a cd player with volume and balanced outs or a hi-end dac connected to a music server. Pros and cons are appreciated. A home consumer version seems to have already made it to market in the NHT XDs system. I haven't heard the NHT system and would appreciate your comments.
ghasley
squeegybug
32 posts
 
Hey no problem Ghasley. Yes, you are correct, I was referring to the smaller PMC models. From what I know of the AML1, it is a much more refined system (and *much* more $), so if that is your budget then certainly go with those.

Another potential candidate in that price range could be the new Barefoot monitors. I have not personally used those but have noted several respected recording engineers switching to them, with rave reviews. Might be harder to source for a demo though, and I'm sure you are still in the right ballpark with the two you mentioned.

Hope it works out for you.

Steve
cdc
1,929 posts
 
Ghastley, what are you using for a preamp?
cdc
1,929 posts
 
Ghastley, if you're going to spend $8,000 you should also consider these:
http://mixguides.com/studiomonitors/newproducts/klein-hummel-audio-monitors/

and these;
Klein + Hummel O500C digital active studio monitors
cdc
1,929 posts
 
Ghasley, what did you end up with?
ghasley OP
2,530 posts
 
CDC, I am still evaluating the Genelec 8050A and the PMC AML1. The AML1 is absolutely amazing and the bass produced I am still unable to understand how they do it. Folks, these are small speakers, easy to place, image like crazy (I am seated about 8 feet utilizing the Cardas method for speaker placement) and are just very pleasing overall. The closest comparison I can make is to the Wilson Benesch curve however the AML1's seem to produce a little better bass. I know, you may doubt that these small boxes can achieve that but you just have to listen for yourself. The Genelecs are also quite good however the midrange balance and top end smoothness is not quite up to the AML1. The low bass produced by the Genelecs however is slightly better....very slight but additional kick is there. I have the AML1's hooked up to a Benchmark USB Dac which is connected to a new iMac using iTunes/Apple lossless.

I encourage you to listen the the AML1 if you get the chance. They are fun, very dynamic and very detailed and smooth across the frequencies. I may sell the Genelecs or I may set them up in another room. The actives don't take up much room and have really allowed me some lattitude with the wife re: placement. Good luck.
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