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Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.

What reviewers think

Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.

Product Strengths

  • Immaculate imaging, impressive off-axis response, and broad dynamic range
  • Extended low frequency response (40 Hz – 20 kHz) and increased SPL capacity (114 dB) compared to predecessors
  • SAM technology incorporates tailoring to specific work environments via GLM software
  • Extremely flat and natural sounding, with stunning imaging
  • Remarkably transparent and extremely low distortion keeps them from being fatiguing

Product Considerations

  • Full potential can only be met when set up and calibrated with the GLM software
  • Only one GLM configuration can be stored in the monitors
  • Might be slightly lacking in clarity without GLM setup

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • 1032C has extended low frequency response, increased SPL capacity, and GLM compatibility compared to the 1032B, with more powerful amplifiers for both the tweeter and woofer—and weighs less

Takeaway: The 1032C monitors are accurate and transparent, making it easy to tell when a mix is finished, and are suited for various studio environments because of their SAM technology. They provide a great listening experience that is not fatiguing, even at loud volumes.

What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.

All

1032C

reviews

[{"title":"Review: Genelec 1032C Studio Monitors","link":"https://www.mixonline.com/technology/review-genelec-1032c-studio-monitors","source":"Mixonline","datePublished":"2018"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Frequency Response: 40 Hz - 20 kHz (± 2.5 dB)
  • Low cutoff -6dB: 33 Hz
  • High cutoff -6dB: 23 kHz
  • Peak SPL: ≥124 dB
  • Short term max SPL: ≥114 dB
  • Long term max SPL: ≥104 dB
  • Self-generated noise: ≤5 dB SPL
  • Weight: 17 kg (37.5 lb)
  • Dimensions: H 495 x W 320 x D 290 mm (19 1/2 x 12 5/8 x 11 3/8 in)
  • Bass Driver: 250 mm (9 7/8 in)
  • Treble Driver: 25 mm (1 in)
  • Bass amplifier: 250 W Class D
  • Treble amplifier: 150 W Class D
  • Mains voltage: 100-240 VAC 50/60Hz
  • Power consumption ISS Active: ≤1 W
  • Power consumption Idle: ≤11 W
  • Power consumption Full output: 200 W
The 1032C is a high-SPL nearfield monitor that fuses the much-loved soffit-mountable styling of the iconic 1000 series with our latest Smart Active Monitoring technology.
Manufacturer Site

Brand highlights

Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:

  • 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.

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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Avg. Product Price
$1,001-$2,500
Used For Sale
18
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
100
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
40
Founding Year
1978

Our take on 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.

Look inside the brand

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Our interview with the brand

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

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

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From our interview with
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What if you spend more?

Product image
Buchardt
Anniversary 10
3988
3988
/
14
Reviews

The Anniversary 10 (A10) is a culmination of all the experience that we have gathered over the last 10 years of designing and building HiFi speakers. Over the last decade, we have produced and sold thousands of speakers to happy HiFi enthusiasts from all around the world. Listening to feedback from our customers, learning from the best and adding our own flavor to the mix, has created extremely popular and critically acclaimed speakers, and now, this has evolved into our best sounding speaker yet. The A10 is something we are truly proud of, both in terms of sound, look and production values. It is a true celebration of our passion for amazing high-end sound, great engineering and high value products.

Buchardt Audio is a direct-to-consumer speaker brand that uses an "upside down" design with a back-mounted passive radiator, which helps create high-end sound at more affordable prices. Their speakers are engineered with advanced measurement technology and a proprietary waveguide design that enhances off-axis listening, while delivering deep bass from compact cabinets that rival larger floor-standing speakers.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Exceptional bass performance for its compact size, with bass that is fast, clear, and tight
  • Multiple 'Master Tunings' offer customizable sound profiles, adapting to different room acoustics and user preferences
  • A high-quality Purifi woofer and SB Acoustics tweeter contribute to clarity, detail, and low distortion
  • A solid wood cabinet made in Denmark provides a luxurious look and feel

Product Considerations

  • Bass output may diminish or be limited at high volumes to protect the drivers from damage
  • A separate purchase of the Platin Stereo Hub may be required for full wireless functionality and room correction
  • The 'Made in China' label applies to the electronics inside the cabinet
  • While the A10 offers impressive bass, some may still prefer to add a subwoofer for a true full-range experience

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Buchardt S400 Mark II, the A10 is more transparent with greater inner detail, clarity, and top-end extension—and deeper, tighter bass—while the S400 Mark II is more relaxed and forgiving with harsh recordings
  • Vs Buchardt A500, the A10 has comparable performance, with possibly a crisper sound in some instances

Takeaway: The Buchardt Anniversary 10 is a compact yet powerful speaker that offers a customizable listening experience. Its impressive bass and versatile tuning options make it a great choice for those seeking a high-quality audio solution in a small to medium-sized room.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Buchardt Audio is a direct-to-consumer speaker brand that uses an "upside down" design with a back-mounted passive radiator, which helps create high-end sound at more affordable prices. Their speakers are engineered with advanced measurement technology and a proprietary waveguide design that enhances off-axis listening, while delivering deep bass from compact cabinets that rival larger floor-standing speakers.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Dynaudio
BM 15A
3158
3158
/
4
Reviews
Dynaudio is a hifi speaker brand known for its unique external voice-coil construction, which allows for larger voice coils that improve thermal power handling and reduce thermal compression. The brand has a heritage in professional sound production and uses advanced materials like the Esotar 40 tweeter and rare 240mm drivers to deliver superior dynamic realism and headroom.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Delivers greater tightness and precision from the crossover point on down
  • Delivers an extended high-frequency range, with greater detail and more openness without harshness
  • Stereo imaging is amongst the best
  • Has no sweet 'spot', which allows the engineer, producer, and client a fairly similar listening experience
  • Has a smoothly extended bass response that reveals what is really going on in that elusive bottom octave

Product Considerations

  • The BM-15As may be overkill for a smaller mixing environment and better suited for larger rooms
  • High end is as clean and accurate as the BM-12s, but the mids were a little lacking
  • While they have a slightly forward characteristic, it doesn't get in the way of accurate monitoring

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Dynaudio BM-12 MK3s—BM-15A has more bass extension and pure raw SPL power
  • Vs Dynaudio BM-12 MK3s—BM-12 MK3s have more detail in the mid-range
  • Vs Dynaudio BM-12 MK3s—BM-15A are far louder and put out substantially larger amount of energy in the bass and subs
  • Vs Genelec, Focal, Neumann, and Event—the Dynaudio BM series are in the same class as these monitors

Takeaway: The BM15A is a speaker that gives great stereo imaging with a wide frequency range, and produces an accurate sound which is nice to listen to for long periods. Full-range monitoring in a smaller studio is possible with these speakers.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Dynaudio is a hifi speaker brand known for its unique external voice-coil construction, which allows for larger voice coils that improve thermal power handling and reduce thermal compression. The brand has a heritage in professional sound production and uses advanced materials like the Esotar 40 tweeter and rare 240mm drivers to deliver superior dynamic realism and headroom.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
PSI Audio
A215-M
4689
4689
/
2
Reviews

The innovative architecture of the A215-M enables its outstanding performance for professional mastering and audiophile listening. Optimised for both seated or standing listening, it reproduces sonic spaces with breathtaking accuracy. The A215-M uses a D’Appolito configuration of 2 woofers, one above and one underneath the tweeter which creates a point source system with reduced dispersion on the vertical plane. This is typically well suited for mastering rooms or living rooms where reflection on floor and ceiling are best when minimised. The A215-M is unique in the PSI Audio range as it is the only floor-standing speaker. Employing all the proprietary PSI Audio technologies and boasting a finely tuned D’Appolito driver setup, the A215-M grants outstanding fidelity for both standing and seated listeners.

PSI Audio is a Swiss hifi brand that builds all their speakers and acoustic devices without using DSP, focusing instead on pure analog technology to deliver accurate sound reproduction. Their standout product is the AVAA C20, a revolutionary active bass trap that eliminates low-frequency noise by creating a "black hole" effect for resonant frequencies, requiring much less space than traditional acoustic treatments while being effective across diverse environments from recording studios to subway stations.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Good correlation in the mids and tops with the smaller PSI Audio speakers, so if you know PSI Audio speakers, you kind of get the sound of it
  • Exceptional and crystal clear stereo image
  • Amazing dynamic levels, wide frequency response, easy positioning, and stunning dispersion from a compact enclosure

Product Considerations

  • The white finish gets grubby easily
  • Not the loudest—they are certainly loud enough to work on, but will overload if pushed too hard
  • Bass can be inaccurate
  • At medium levels the overall sound lacks detail and energy, if pushed to high levels, frankly it falls apart
  • The review unit did not seem to have the auto standby control operational

Takeaway: The A215-M is worth considering because it has a good sound from a compact enclosure with crystal clear stereo imaging. It would be a solid addition to your studio if you buy one.

Video review

Our take on the brand

PSI Audio is a Swiss hifi brand that builds all their speakers and acoustic devices without using DSP, focusing instead on pure analog technology to deliver accurate sound reproduction. Their standout product is the AVAA C20, a revolutionary active bass trap that eliminates low-frequency noise by creating a "black hole" effect for resonant frequencies, requiring much less space than traditional acoustic treatments while being effective across diverse environments from recording studios to subway stations.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

ADAM Audio
A8H
1499
/
Released
2022
The pinnacle of the A Series, the A8H is a 3-way speaker that delivers the extremely accurate and analytical sound required for critical-listening environments. The A8H incorporates an 8-inch resonant Multi-Layer Mineral (MLM) fiber woofer, innovative midrange driver, and handmade precision X-ART tweeter, which together produce an ultra-wide frequency response. Like the other members of the A Series family, the A8H gives you tremendous flexibility for fine-tuning the sound through rotatable HPS waveguide technology and onboard DSP. At home across a full range of audio applications in mid- to full-sized spaces, the A8H is the right choice when you're looking for the most detailed representation of your audio.
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ADAM Audio is renowned for its innovative ART tweeters, which enhance the Air Motion Transformer concept by moving air four times faster than their folds for high-definition sound. Their monitors, especially the S Series, are favored by sound engineers for their accurate and transparent sound, advanced engineering, and reduced distortion, while the T Series offers affordable, high-performance studio monitors.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Detailed and powerful low-end response
  • Articulate midrange driver
  • Crisp and airy high-end without harshness
  • The built-in EQ and Sonarworks SoundID Reference integration allows users to tailor the sound to their specific room acoustics
  • Wide, deep, highly detailed, and solidly centered soundfield

Product Considerations

  • Self-noise/hiss can be noticeable up close
  • To fully use the Sonarworks feature after the trial, users would need to purchase the software
  • Some users experienced initial connection hiccups with the A Control app

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The A8H offered a better value than the Dynaudio LYD 48 due to sound, build quality, and features like the built-in EQ
  • The A8H offers more DSP capabilities, and is less expensive than the HEDD Audio Type 20 MK2 or Neumann KH310
  • It is halfway between the less expensive but less sophisticated Dynaudio LYD 48 and ADAM Audio's own S2V—which, although a 2 way, offers step up in terms of sophistication

Takeaway: The A8H studio monitors deliver exceptional sound quality with user-friendly features—enhancing the overall audio production experience. These monitors, with versatile connectivity, DSP-driven room adaptation, and impressive audio performance, are a great choice for those serious about audio.

Video review

Our take on the brand

ADAM Audio is renowned for its innovative ART tweeters, which enhance the Air Motion Transformer concept by moving air four times faster than their folds for high-definition sound. Their monitors, especially the S Series, are favored by sound engineers for their accurate and transparent sound, advanced engineering, and reduced distortion, while the T Series offers affordable, high-performance studio monitors.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
HEDD
Type 07 MK2
1199
/
Released
2021
The TYPE 07 is our best performing 2-way monitoring solution. The combination of our hand-built Air Motion Transformer tweeter and Closed or Ported functionality delivers realistic reproduction of the upper mid and high frequencies alongside wonderfully dynamic bass response while the DSP controls let you easily adjust it to your space and needs.
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HEDD Audio, founded by physicist Klaus Heinz, pioneered Air Motion Transformer (AMT) technology. Typically reserved for tweeters only due to difficulty achieving low frequency output, HEDD was the first to achieve full 20hz-20khz in a headphone design with the HEDDphone, later refined and improved with the HEDDphone 2 and 2 GT. The brand hand-builds their products in Berlin, with their headphones particularly noted for exceptional detail retrieval and natural soundstage, making them suitable for both professional and audiophile use.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Offers both ported and closed-box operational modes for flexible bass response
  • Includes a built-in Lineariser DSP for linear frequency and phase response
  • Sound quality is very good, especially with solid and tight bass in closed configuration
  • Provides multiple EQ options to adapt to different room acoustics and personal preferences
  • Has digital (AES) inputs in addition to standard analog inputs

Product Considerations

  • Standby feature is slow to wake, taking up to 40 seconds
  • Noticeable self-noise (tweeter hiss) may be distracting in quiet environments
  • Inserting and removing port plugs is not a swift process
  • One user reported a speaker failure after less than 18 months of use
  • Customer support was unresponsive in one case

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Type 07 Mk2 is preferred for low-end detail, Presonus Scepter S6 is preferred for clearer mid-range and more open high-end
  • The Type 07 Mk2 has better sound quality with the ports closed, compared to Adam T7V
  • The Type 07 Mk2 offers natural mids and smooth highs, clearer separation, and greater low-end extension, compared to Genelec 8020
  • The Type 07 Mk2 is a good alternative for less money, compared to Genelec 83xx series

Takeaway: The HEDD Type 07 Mk2 is a high-performing nearfield monitor with useful extras like EQ and port options, offering adaptable sound for different needs. Its excellent sound quality makes it a great choice for critical listening in mixing and mastering.

Video review

Our take on the brand

HEDD Audio, founded by physicist Klaus Heinz, pioneered Air Motion Transformer (AMT) technology. Typically reserved for tweeters only due to difficulty achieving low frequency output, HEDD was the first to achieve full 20hz-20khz in a headphone design with the HEDDphone, later refined and improved with the HEDDphone 2 and 2 GT. The brand hand-builds their products in Berlin, with their headphones particularly noted for exceptional detail retrieval and natural soundstage, making them suitable for both professional and audiophile use.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Dynaudio
Core 5
1699
/
Released
2024
Core 5 is the most compact model in our range of high-end professional reference monitors. It's a two-way nearfield design that's been created to work in cramped spaces in a stereo configuration, or to provide width and height support in an immersive set-up. And, crucially, to give you usable SPL for those jobs – so if you're in an OB truck or a smaller mix-stage, you won't strain to hear, and your eardrums won't be blasted.
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Dynaudio is a hifi speaker brand known for its unique external voice-coil construction, which allows for larger voice coils that improve thermal power handling and reduce thermal compression. The brand has a heritage in professional sound production and uses advanced materials like the Esotar 40 tweeter and rare 240mm drivers to deliver superior dynamic realism and headroom.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent balanced delivery with precise midrange
  • Well-specified, easy-to-use EQ and room correction settings
  • Good low-frequency extension given its compact size
  • Produces a beautifully clean and well-defined sound, with no harshness in the highs and a real sense of spatial depth and stereo width
  • As mixing tools, they tell it like it is, so good mixes sound 'right' and flaws are shown up clearly, just as they should

Product Considerations

  • Expensive
  • There's no straightforward way to hook up the Core 5s to the Core Sub Compact if all connections are to remain analogue

Takeaway: The Core 5 is a compact, accurate, and high-quality studio monitor that delivers a balanced and detailed sound perfect for smaller studios or immersive setups. It is comfortable to work with for extended periods, making it a great choice for professional use.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Dynaudio is a hifi speaker brand known for its unique external voice-coil construction, which allows for larger voice coils that improve thermal power handling and reduce thermal compression. The brand has a heritage in professional sound production and uses advanced materials like the Esotar 40 tweeter and rare 240mm drivers to deliver superior dynamic realism and headroom.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
ADAM Audio
A77H
1299
/
Released
2022
The A77H is a true three-way midfield monitor that capitalizes on the latest ADAM Audio technologies to deliver a rich, spacious, and enveloping sound. Incorporating two 7-inch woofers, a midrange driver, and ADAM Audio's X-ART tweeter, the A77H delivers an ultra-wide frequency range. The addition of the midrange driver helps produce clear sound in the most sensitive range of human hearing. Rotatable HPS waveguide technology and onboard DSP allow you to tune the sound for your precise requirements.
Check Amazon
ADAM Audio is renowned for its innovative ART tweeters, which enhance the Air Motion Transformer concept by moving air four times faster than their folds for high-definition sound. Their monitors, especially the S Series, are favored by sound engineers for their accurate and transparent sound, advanced engineering, and reduced distortion, while the T Series offers affordable, high-performance studio monitors.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Exceptional clarity and balance
  • Neutral and transparent frequency response
  • Capable of playing at extreme volumes without harmonic distortion
  • Automated room correction software that runs on the DSP
  • The mid-range model also benefits from the new and significantly more neutral basic tuning of the A series

Product Considerations

  • Being a midfield monitor, it is less ideal for smaller spaces where near-field monitors would be more appropriate
  • Quite voluminous and heavy (17.1kg each), a solid foundation is required for placement

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs A7V: The A77H provides the extra bit of low end that the A7V lacked, and sounds slightly fuller and even more controlled in the midrange
  • Vs A77X: The A77H sounds slightly better balanced in the mid-range, compared to the older A77X
  • Vs A8H: The A8H has slightly bigger woofers, and the frequency response has a bit more low end
  • Vs Dynaudio LYD 48: Has a broader frequency response

Takeaway: The A77H studio monitors provide exceptional sound quality and DSP functionality, making it a great choice for professional engineers and producers. With its ability to adapt to different room environments, it's a versatile and precise tool for creating great music.

Video review

Our take on the brand

ADAM Audio is renowned for its innovative ART tweeters, which enhance the Air Motion Transformer concept by moving air four times faster than their folds for high-definition sound. Their monitors, especially the S Series, are favored by sound engineers for their accurate and transparent sound, advanced engineering, and reduced distortion, while the T Series offers affordable, high-performance studio monitors.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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