Genelec
Speakers
Subwoofers
Best Known For
Speakers
/
Mixing Monitor
Used Products
18
 Available
Average Price
$2,501-$5,000
Brand Popularity
100
 of 900+
Products Listed
40
Review Count
101
Founding Year
1978
Headquarters
Finland
Genelec
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What's unique about the brand

Genelec is a hifi speaker brand known for their unique coaxial driver design where the tweeter is embedded in the mid-woofer, ensuring all frequencies come from the same point in space. The brand pioneered the use of recycled aluminum for speaker cabinets in 1996, and their Smart Active Monitoring systems automatically adapt to room acoustics, making them particularly valuable for professional studio environments.

What reviewers are saying

We read all the reviews. Here's what reviewers feel most strongly about:

  • Genelec stands out for its cast-aluminum enclosures with rounded edges and integrated Directivity Control Waveguide, which embody a distinctive approach to design, aesthetics, and controlled dispersion.
  • The brand's SAM (Smart Active Monitoring) system, coupled with GLM software, enables automated calibration for level, timing, and equalization of room-response anomalies, optimizing performance in diverse acoustic environments.
  • Genelec offers a point-source design across "The Ones" series, where the tweeter is mounted in the center of the woofer, creating a single full-range device regardless of listening distance and expanding the listening sweet spot.
  • The company is known for their comprehensive, multi-faceted approach to the design of each speaker, carefully considering everything from enclosure materials to the integration of amplifiers and DSP.

Our favorite reviewer quotes:

  • "Hearing that record on the 8341 s was like hearing it for the first time – more stunning than ever and with a new-found depth that makes it feel like you can reach into the mix. I know that may read as some kind of "audiophile nonsense," but to me it's true." (https://tapeop.com/reviews/gear/133/8341a-sam-monitors-glm-user-kit)
  • "The resolution and responsiveness the 8341a offers in this area is spectacular. It's the sonic equivalent of handing the surgeon a sharper scalpel for more delicate operations." (https://autolandaudio.com/genelec-8341a-review)
  • "Ear fatigue is a non-issue with these monitors, and they have such a smooth, even response at all volume levels. I can work at extremely quiet levels with the assurance that I won't be missing out on any detail." (https://tapeop.com/reviews/gear/133/8341a-sam-monitors-glm-user-kit)
  • "The mid-range is sublime, with exceptional tonal clarity and delivery. It's rich and full of character without a hint of mush." (https://homedjstudio.com/genelec-8010a-review)
  • "What struck me first was how I heard elements I'd never heard before or at least not with so much clarity, such as the reverb tail on the electric guitar stabs in between the verse vocal lines. It was sublime." (https://www.production-expert.com/production-expert-1/genelec-w371a-sam-woofer-tested)
  • "Now, it is reasonable to expect a pair of $64,000 monitors to sound amazing, and I can confirm that these sound freakin' AWESOME! They have an impressive evenness across the spectrum—incredibly clear highs, a full-dimensional midrange and a deep-reaching low-end." (https://www.recordingmag.com/review-genelec-8381a-sam-adaptive-point-source-main-monitor)
  • "It's hard to put into words how remarkable these small monitors are. 3-inch monitors have no right to be this good, but Genelec has delivered in almost every way." (https://homedjstudio.com/genelec-8010a-review)
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Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

What's your approach to customer support?

What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

What other products pair best with yours?

From Julian's interview with
.

Products

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Lineup comparison

We think it's helpful to understand how their products compare. To learn more about each, scroll to the section above to click through to individual product pages.

Genelec 8361A Stereo Pair

  • Positioning: Positioned as a high-end studio monitor within "The Ones" series, offering advanced audio precision for professional environments.
  • Description: Features Minimum Diffraction Coaxial (MDC) driver technology, ensuring a smooth frequency response and outstanding sound imaging. Compared to other models like the 8351B, offers a wider frequency range and higher sound pressure level, making it ideal for larger studio spaces where detailed sound reproduction is critical. Its Smart Active Monitoring (SAM) system allows for automatic calibration to the room, providing flexibility and precision in various acoustic environments.

Genelec 8351B W371A Stereo System

  • Positioning: Combined with the W371A woofer system, represents a sophisticated stereo setup designed for full-range audio performance, suitable for both professional studios and high-end home listening.
  • Description: Known for its compact size yet powerful performance, using Acoustically Concealed Woofers (ACW) technology to deliver controlled low-frequency directivity. When paired with the W371A, it extends the system's low-frequency response, outperforming standalone monitors like the 8361A in terms of bass depth and room adaptability.

Genelec 1236A Stereo Pair

  • Positioning: Genelec's flagship main monitor, designed for large-scale professional studios requiring the highest level of audio fidelity and power.
  • Description: Stands out with its massive sound pressure level and extended low-frequency response, thanks to its large enclosure and advanced Directivity Control Waveguide (DCW) technology. Unlike the 8361A and 8351B, built for expansive spaces where maximum output and precision are paramount, making it the go-to choice for top-tier recording studios. Its Smart Active Monitoring capabilities ensure it adapts seamlessly to any room, providing unmatched consistency and accuracy in sound reproduction.
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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer

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What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

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