The full review
Monitor Audio Studio Premium Bookshelf Speaker Review
Initial Impressions and Setup
When I first unboxed the Monitor Audio Studio Premium speakers, I was immediately taken by their sleek design and solid build quality. The minimalist aesthetic and robust and elegant finish hinted at the quality beneath. As someone who has previously owned the JBL HDI-1600 and Revel M16 speakers, I was eager to see how these new entries would stack up.
Setting up these speakers was straightforward. I paired them with my Denon PMA-800NE, a decision that proved to be fruitful. From the first note, the clarity of sound was apparent. The instructions were clear, and the entire process, from unboxing to listening, was relatively seamless. These speakers immediately demonstrated their impressiveness, a feature most users will appreciate.
Sound Quality and Performance
The sound quality of the Monitor Audio Studio Premium speakers is simply outstanding. What hit me first was the remarkable clarity and transparency of the sound. Each note seems to float in the air, creating an image surrounding and filling the room. This kind of sound dispersion makes the listening experience both immersive and enjoyable. The precision of these speakers is impeccable; they pick up the minutest details in any track.
One user stated, "The image floats in the air around and between these speakers. It is just uncanny." I agree with this sentiment. The stereo imaging is indeed to die for. When paired with a subwoofer, the experience is elevated to a new level, offering a balanced and deep bass response that complements the already impressive high and mid frequencies.
Design and Build Quality
These speakers are not just about sound; their design is worth noting, too. The Monitor Audio Studio Premium speakers exude elegance. They are sleek and modern and blend easily with various home decor. Despite their modest size, they are sturdy and feel premium to the touch. This feature is particularly significant for those like me, who value both aesthetic appeal and functionality in their audio equipment.
However, given their outstanding performance, it's a pity these speakers didn't receive the press coverage they deserved. As one reviewer noted, "Too bad there aren't a lot of reviews/press on these." This lack of exposure is unfortunate, as these speakers can hold their own against more renowned competitors.
Comparison to Other Speakers
Having previously owned the JBL HDI-1600 and Revel M16 speakers, the Monitor Audio Studio Premium speakers have outclassed them in several aspects. The clarity of sound from these speakers surpasses that of the JBL and Revel models. The dispersion is better, and the imaging is more precise. Additionally, the smaller size keeps performance the same. On the contrary, these compact speakers deliver a bigger sound than expected.
Another reviewer echoed this sentiment: "I could have saved a lot of money." Indeed, I found myself regretting that I hadn't tried these speakers sooner. The cost-value ratio is exceptional, making these speakers a worthwhile investment. While the JBLs and Revels are excellent in their own right, the Monitor Audio Studio Premium speakers offer a more complete and satisfying audio experience.
Downsides
While my experience with the Monitor Audio Studio Premium speakers has been overwhelmingly positive, several downsides must be highlighted for a balanced review. Firstly, the speakers have been discontinued, making them harder to find. For anyone looking to purchase these, availability could be an issue. As one reviewer lamented, "I understand these have been d,iscontinued but if you have the opportunity to audition these remarkable speakers, please do so."
Secondly, although they excel dramatically when used with a subwoofer, they might fall short for some users without one. The bass response on its own is good, but pairing these speakers with a subwoofer makes a noticeable difference.
Pros and Cons
Here is a quick rundown of the pros and cons based on my experience and the input from other reviewers:
Pros:
- Outstanding clarity and sound dispersion
- Elegant and robust design
- Excellent value for money
- Outstanding performance when paired with a subwoofer
- Impressive stereo imaging
- Compact yet powerful
Cons:
- Discontinued, which might affect availability
- Might require a subwoofer for optimal bass experience
Uniqueness and Final Thoughts
In a market crowded with numerous speaker options, the Monitor Audio Studio Premium stands out for its combination of clarity, design, and value for money. While some other speakers excel in specific areas, finding a package that delivers across the board like these is rare. The unique stereo imaging and sound dispersion are particularly noteworthy, creating an immersive and enjoyable listening experience.
Nevertheless, these speakers don't enjoy the same level of attention or acclaim as some of their competitors, which is a genuine shame. They have a uniqueness that goes unrecognized by the general market.
Overall, the Monitor Audio Studio Premium speakers are an excellent investment if you can find them. These speakers offer outstanding clarity, an elegant design, and an overall superior audio experience, making them worthwhile despite the minor caveats mentioned earlier. If you have the opportunity to audition these, please do - chances are you won't be disappointed.