AudioFu
Warwick Alien Deluxe Hybrid 4 LH… ↓ 33.4% $670Allen & Heath SQ5 ↓ 28.8% $2,908Warwick Alien Deluxe 5 NT LH ↓ 27.8% $726Allen & Heath SQ5 Case Bundle I ↓ 26.7% $3,165Casio AP-S200 BN ↓ 23.9% $961Allen & Heath SQ5, Case, DX168/X… ↓ 21.7% $5,179Dangerous Music 2 Bus+ ↓ 21.0% $4,027Orange PPC212-COB ↓ 20.6% $585Orange Micro Dark ↓ 20.2% $195Seymour Duncan SHR-1B Hot Rails… ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SHR1N BLK ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1N BLK ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1B Bridge… ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1B Creme ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1N Creme ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1B Parchment ↓ 19.3% $122

AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best Active Nearfield Monitors for Professional 2026

The top pick is PMC 6 ($7,047). Neumann KH310A Active 3-Way Studio Monitor - Right Side gives you the most for the money at $3,333. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 224 models across 36 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 14, 2026

224models in this chart
36brands
$621median price
156price drops since Aug

Narrow the chart

All Active Nearfield Monitors Showing: For Professional · clear
Price
Skill level
Brand

Top 10

Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.

  1. PMC 6

    PMC

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • Size6"

    The PMC 6s are serious tools for critical listening and mixing. Their accuracy and detail reveal subtle nuances in your tracks, and the built-in processing is incredibly useful for tailoring the sound to your room. These are ideal for professional mixing engineers and producers who demand uncompromising performance.

    Pros

    • Exceptional transient response thanks to Class-D amplification.
    • Advanced Transmission Line (ATL) delivers remarkably tight, controlled bass.
    • The soft dome tweeter offers a smooth, detailed high-end without harshness.

    Cons

    • The substantial weight makes placement and transport a two-person job.
    • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for most home studios.
    36AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup27
    • Price55
    • Specs50
    • Maker27
    ↓ 1.6%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $7,159 · Aug 14$7,047 now
    $7,047€6,299 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  2. Genelec 8361A SAM 3-Way Powered Coaxial Studio Monitor (Pair)

    8361 AP · Genelec

    2 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size5"
    • Weight31.9 kg

    These 8361 APs are serious tools for critical listening and mixing. The coaxial design and oval woofers really deliver a spacious, detailed soundstage, and the GLM integration is a game-changer for accuracy. They’re built for professional studios and engineers who demand the absolute best and are willing to invest in it.

    Pros

    • Coaxial tweeter delivers remarkably precise stereo imaging and detail.
    • Oval woofers provide extended low-frequency response with minimal distortion.
    • The GLM integration offers unparalleled room correction capabilities for accurate monitoring.

    Cons

    • The substantial weight makes placement and transportation a significant consideration.
    • Premium-priced, requiring a serious investment for most home studios.
    50AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand24
    • Lineup27
    • Price63
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    ↓ 4.2%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $5,368 · Aug 14$5,144 now
    $5,144€4,598 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  3. Genelec 8361A SAM 3-Way Powered Coaxial Studio Monitor (Pair)

    8361 AW · Genelec

    2 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size5"
    • Weight31.9 kg

    These 8361AWs are seriously impressive monitors – the coaxial design is a game-changer for imaging. They’re built for critical listening in professional studios, mastering engineers, and anyone needing incredibly accurate translation. Just be prepared to commit to the GLM system for the full experience; it’s not plug-and-play without it.

    Pros

    • Exceptional detail retrieval thanks to the coaxial tweeter design.
    • The Class-D amplification delivers immense headroom and dynamic range.
    • Oval woofers offer extended bass response and improved transient accuracy.

    Cons

    • The size and weight make placement and transport a significant consideration.
    • The premium-priced nature limits accessibility for many home studios.
    49AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand24
    • Lineup27
    • Price56
    • Specs100
    • Maker100
    ↓ 2.1%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $5,256 · Aug 14$5,144 now
    $5,144€4,598 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  4. Barefoot Sound Footprint 02 Gen2 Active Studio Monitor - Single

    Footprint02 Gen2 · Barefoot Sound

    2 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    • Size6.5"
    • Weight15.8 kg

    This monitor uses three separate amplifiers to keep each driver sounding pure. The sealed box design helps bass stay tight while the tweeter uses a special dual-ring radiator. It also emulates the famous white cone speaker sound for that classic studio feel. Great for anyone who wants high-resolution audio without guessing at the settings.

    Pros

    • Tri-amplifier design separates drivers for cleaner sound
    • Sealed enclosure keeps bass tight and controlled
    • 28-bit 96 kHz AD conversion ensures high resolution

    Cons

    • No input or output connection types listed in text
    • Speaker weight is not stated in the provided description
    39AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand24
    • Lineup27
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker17
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$4,362 now
    $4,362€3,899 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  5. Genelec 8351BM

    Genelec

    Not on Reverb yet3 finishes at Thomann

    • Weight14.3 kg

    The 8351BMs are seriously impressive nearfields – incredibly detailed and accurate. The coaxial design is the star, providing a remarkably focused soundstage. These are ideal for critical mixing and mastering work where precise imaging and transient response are paramount, especially in treated acoustic spaces.

    Pros

    • Exceptional coaxial design delivers pinpoint stereo imaging and clarity.
    • Robust Class D amplification ensures clean, powerful headroom across the spectrum.
    • The GLM integration offers genuinely useful room correction capabilities.

    Cons

    • High-end price point puts it out of reach for many home studios.
    • Requires GLM calibration for optimal performance; adds to overall investment.
    52AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup54
    • Price75
    • Specs50
    • Maker100
    ↓ 8.3%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $4,474 · Aug 14$4,105 now
    $4,105€3,669 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  6. IK Multimedia iLoud MTM MKII Immersive BDL

    IK Multimedia

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    The iLoud MTM MKII Immersive BDL is a game-changer for serious immersive audio creators. It delivers incredibly detailed and precise sound across a massive soundstage, perfect for film composers, game audio designers, or anyone needing a truly accurate and enveloping monitoring environment. It’s a significant investment, but the results are genuinely transformative.

    Pros

    • Exceptional immersive soundstage thanks to the 11-speaker array.
    • DSP calibration ensures remarkably accurate frequency response in diverse rooms.
    • The included table stands offer convenient and adjustable monitor placement.

    Cons

    • The sheer number of speakers makes setup and space requirements considerable.
    • DSP processing, while beneficial, introduces a layer of digital coloration.
    34AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup27
    • Price68
    • Specs0
    • Maker60
    ↓ 6.1%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $4,575 · Aug 14$4,295 now
    $4,295€3,839 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  7. Neumann KH310A Active 3-Way Studio Monitor - Right Side

    KH 310 II Right · Neumann

    14 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann

    • Size25"
    • Weight13 kg

    This monitor gives you a big, punchy low end without losing clarity in the mids and highs. The neutral sound lets you hear exactly what is being recorded, which is great for mixing. It works well in professional studios or serious home setups, but you might need to add extra cables or software to get the best out of it.

    Pros

    • Three-way design handles bass, mids, and highs perfectly
    • Highly neutral sound with excellent impulse fidelity
    • Powerful 300-watt woofer drives to low distortion

    Cons

    • Calibration software MA 1 is not included
    • Lack of built-in inputs for direct connection
    63AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand60
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs100
    • Maker75
    Stableno change since Sep 12
    Sep 12$3,333 now
    $3,333€2,979 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  8. PSI Audio A21-M Metal Black

    PSI Audio

    Not on Reverb yet2 finishes at Thomann

    • Weight12.8 kg

    These A21-Ms are a serious step up for engineers demanding transparency and accuracy. The analog design really shines, providing a natural, uncolored sound that’s ideal for critical mixing and mastering. If you’re working at a professional level and need a monitor that reveals every nuance, these are worth a close look.

    Pros

    • Exceptional transient response due to analog circuitry, no DSP coloration
    • Impressive bass extension for a nearfield monitor – genuinely usable low end
    • Robust metal black cabinet provides excellent damping and aesthetics

    Cons

    • Premium-priced, representing a significant investment for many studios
    • Size and weight make placement and relocation somewhat cumbersome
    41AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup43
    • Price52
    • Specs50
    • Maker50
    ↓ 0.6%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $3,545 · Aug 14$3,523 now
    $3,523€3,149 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  9. Quested V2108

    Quested

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    • Size8"
    • Weight23 kg

    The V2108s are seriously impressive nearfields – incredibly revealing and accurate. They’re built like a tank and deliver a really clean, focused sound that’s ideal for critical mixing and mastering, especially in genres where detail and nuance are paramount. These are for engineers who demand accuracy and aren't afraid of a hefty investment.

    Pros

    • Exceptional transient response for detailed, accurate mixes.
    • The coaxial driver design yields a remarkably focused sweet spot.
    • Robust, high-density MDF cabinet minimizes unwanted resonances.

    Cons

    • The limited EQ range might necessitate external processing for some users.
    • Their large size and weight (23 kg) make placement challenging.
    44AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup27
    • Price52
    • Specs100
    • Maker33
    ↓ 0.7%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $3,434 · Aug 14$3,411 now
    $3,411€3,049 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  10. Neumann KH 150 MA-1 Bundle

    Neumann

    Not on Reverb yet7 finishes at Thomann

    • Size6.5"
    • Weight8 kg

    These KH 150s, paired with the MA 1, are seriously impressive. The detail and imaging are superb, and the room correction really helps. They're ideal for mixing engineers and producers who need accurate reference monitors in a smaller space – think home studios or broadcast environments.

    Pros

    • Exceptional transient response delivers incredible detail and clarity.
    • MA 1 calibration drastically improves accuracy in less-than-ideal rooms.
    • Robust bass reflex cabinet provides surprising low-end extension for its size.

    Cons

    • Price point positions it firmly in the premium-priced studio monitor category.
    • Limited connectivity compared to some competitors offering more analog inputs.
    33AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup81
    • Price34
    • Specs100
    • Maker75
    ↑ 5.3%since Aug 14
    $3,355 · Aug 14$3,534 now
    $3,534€3,159 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

All 224 active nearfield monitors

Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.

  1. 11
    Genelec 8341A SAM 3-Way Powered Coaxial Studio Monitor (Single)8341 AW · Genelec
    Index 57Stable
    57
    Stable$3,020€2,699
    $3,020€2,699Check ↗
  2. 12
    Genelec 8341 RAWGenelec
    Index 50Stable
    50
    Stable$3,020€2,699
    $3,020€2,699Check ↗
  3. 13
    Eve Audio SC3070 3-Way 7" Active Studio Monitors (Pair)SC3070 SoundID Bundle · EVE Audio · 3 finishes
    Index 34↓ 8.6%
    34
    ↓ 8.6%$3,209€2,868
    $3,209€2,868Check ↗
  4. 14
    Genelec 8341 AMGenelec
    Index 51↓ 2.2%
    51
    ↓ 2.2%$2,953€2,639
    $2,953€2,639Check ↗
  5. 15
    Genelec 8341A SAM 3-Way Powered Coaxial Studio Monitor (Single)8341 AP · Genelec
    Index 61↓ 7.4%
    61
    ↓ 7.4%$2,796€2,499
    $2,796€2,499Check ↗
  6. 16
    Quested V2104Quested
    Index 36Stable
    36
    Stable$2,964€2,649
    $2,964€2,649Check ↗
  7. 17
    JBL 708P 8" Master Reference Studio Monitor708P · JBL
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$2,684€2,399
    $2,684€2,399Check ↗
  8. 18
    PMC Result 6PMC
    Index 35Stable
    35
    Stable$2,908€2,599
    $2,908€2,599Check ↗
  9. 19
    Focal ST6 Trio6 Active Studio Monitor (Single)Trio6 Black ST6 · Focal
    Index 43↓ 9.1%
    43
    ↓ 9.1%$2,695€2,409
    $2,695€2,409Check ↗
  10. 20
    Focal Twin6 ST6 Active Studio Monitor (Single)Twin6 · Focal
    Index 62Stable
    62
    Stable$2,235€1,998
    $2,235€1,998Check ↗
  11. 21
    Genelec 8331A SAM 3-Way Powered Coaxial Studio Monitor (Single)8331 AP · Genelec
    Index 55Stable
    55
    Stable$2,337€2,089
    $2,337€2,089Check ↗
  12. 22
    Genelec 8331 AMGenelec
    Index 51↓ 1.4%
    51
    ↓ 1.4%$2,393€2,139
    $2,393€2,139Check ↗
  13. 23
    Genelec 8331 RAWGenelec
    Index 50Stable
    50
    Stable$2,348€2,099
    $2,348€2,099Check ↗
  14. 24
    Genelec 8331A SAM 3-Way Powered Coaxial Studio Monitor (Single)8331 WH · Genelec
    Index 48Stable
    48
    Stable$2,348€2,099
    $2,348€2,099Check ↗
  15. 25
    PSI Audio A17-M Metal BlackPSI Audio · 3 finishes
    Index 42↑ 1.2%
    42
    ↑ 1.2%$2,330€2,083
    $2,330€2,083Check ↗
  16. 26
    Genelec 8350 AWMGenelec
    Index 52↓ 3.9%
    52
    ↓ 3.9%$2,181€1,949
    $2,181€1,949Check ↗
  17. 27
    Genelec 8350 AMMGenelec
    Index 51↓ 2.5%
    51
    ↓ 2.5%$2,181€1,949
    $2,181€1,949Check ↗
  18. 28
    Genelec 8350 APMGenelec
    Index 50Stable
    50
    Stable$2,125€1,899
    $2,125€1,899Check ↗
  19. 29
    Kali Audio SM-8Kali Audio
    Index 47Stable
    47
    Stable$2,102€1,879
    $2,102€1,879Check ↗
  20. 30
    Eve Audio SC2070 7" Active Studio Monitor - SingleSC2070 SoundID Bundle · EVE Audio · 2 finishes
    Index 35↓ 1.3%
    35
    ↓ 1.3%$2,181€1,949
    $2,181€1,949Check ↗
  21. 31
    Genelec 8330A SAM 5" Powered Nearfield Studio Monitor (Single)8330 AP Pack · Genelec
    Index 36Stable
    36
    Stable$2,120€1,895
    $2,120€1,895Check ↗
  22. 32
    Dynaudio Core 7 2-Way Powered Studio Monitor (Pair)Core 7 · Dynaudio
    Index 47Stable
    47
    Stable$1,957€1,749
    $1,957€1,749Check ↗
  23. 33
    Fluid Audio Image 2 Active Studio Monitor - SingleImage 2 White · Fluid Audio · 2 finishes
    Index 48Stable
    48
    Stable$1,901€1,699
    $1,901€1,699Check ↗
  24. 34
    Neumann KH 120 II Black Edition BundleNeumann · 8 finishes
    Index 35↑ 3.3%
    35
    ↑ 3.3%$2,080€1,859
    $2,080€1,859Check ↗
  25. 35
    Genelec 8330 RAW PackGenelec
    Index 30Stable
    30
    Stable$2,125€1,899
    $2,125€1,899Check ↗
  26. 36
    Genelec 8330 AM PackGenelec
    Index 30Stable
    30
    Stable$2,125€1,899
    $2,125€1,899Check ↗
  27. 37
    Genelec 8330 AWM PackGenelec
    Index 30Stable
    30
    Stable$2,125€1,899
    $2,125€1,899Check ↗
  28. 38
    Palmer Orbit 11 White - MoniconXL SetPalmer
    Index 27↓ 0.6%
    27
    ↓ 0.6%$2,000€1,788
    $2,000€1,788Check ↗
  29. 39
    Palmer Orbit 11 Black - MoniconXL SetPalmer
    Index 27↓ 0.6%
    27
    ↓ 0.6%$2,000€1,788
    $2,000€1,788Check ↗
  30. 40
    Genelec 8330 APM Stand BundleGenelec
    Index 30↓ 1.2%
    30
    ↓ 1.2%$1,834€1,639
    $1,834€1,639Check ↗
  31. 41
    Yamaha HS8 Powered Studio Monitor (Single)HS 8 MP · Yamaha · 9 finishes
    Index 85↓ 9.3%
    85
    ↓ 9.3%$676€604
    $676€604Check ↗
  32. 42
    Yamaha HS7 6.5" Powered Studio Monitor (Single)HS 7 MP · Yamaha · 8 finishes
    Index 80↓ 5.8%
    80
    ↓ 5.8%$525€469
    $525€469Check ↗
  33. 43
    IK Multimedia iLoud MTM MkII Active Studio Monitor Pair with ARC…iLoud MTM MKII White · IK Multimedia · 2 finishes
    Index 65↓ 18.5%
    65
    ↓ 18.5%$782€699
    $782€699Check ↗
  34. 44
    ADAM Audio A7V 7" Active Studio Monitor (Single)A7V · ADAM Audio · 2 finishes
    Index 64↑ 22.4%
    64
    ↑ 22.4%$820€733
    $820€733Check ↗
  35. 45
    ADAM Audio A8H 8" Active Studio Monitor (Left)A8H right · ADAM Audio · 2 finishes
    Index 64↑ 7.3%
    64
    ↑ 7.3%$1,631€1,458
    $1,631€1,458Check ↗
  36. 46
    Yamaha HS5 5" Powered Studio Monitor (Single)HS 5 MP · Yamaha · 12 finishes
    Index 88↓ 9.0%
    88
    ↓ 9.0%$386€345
    $386€345Check ↗
  37. 47
    Presonus Eris Studio 8 Active Studio Monitors - PairEris Studio 8 ARC Studio BDL · Presonus
    Index 64Stable
    64
    Stable$726€649
    $726€649Check ↗
  38. 48
    Genelec 8040B 6.5" Powered Nearfield Studio Monitor (Single)8040 BMM · Genelec
    Index 63↓ 2.1%
    63
    ↓ 2.1%$1,039€929
    $1,039€929Check ↗
  39. 49
    Genelec 8040B 6.5" Powered Nearfield Studio Monitor (Single)8040 BPM · Genelec
    Index 62↓ 1.1%
    62
    ↓ 1.1%$995€889
    $995€889Check ↗
  40. 50
    Neumann KH-80 DSP Active 4" Studio Monitor (Single)KH 80 DSP white · Neumann · 3 finishes
    Index 69Stable
    69
    Stable$625€559
    $625€559Check ↗

Active Nearfield Monitors by the numbers

Measured across all 365 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

Median $621 — half of all active nearfield monitors here cost less.

4
35
86
91
68
61
20
<$100$100–200$200–400$400–750$750–1.5k$1.5k–3k$3k+
Size6.5"

median of 287 models · 4"–25"

Weight7.1 kg

median of 329 models · 2.2 kg–14 kg

How to choose the best active nearfield monitors

Frequency Response & Accuracy

It's not just about 'flat.' We're looking for evenness across the spectrum, particularly in the critical midrange where guitars and vocals live. A slight bump in the low-mids can add warmth, but a peak can bury your kick drum. That 'fat midrange honk' needs to be controllable, not a permanent fixture.

Stereo Imaging & Sweet Spot

A wide, stable stereo image is essential for separation and clarity. The 'sweet spot' shouldn't be a tiny area - you need to be able to move around the room and still hear a balanced mix. Poor imaging can make your mixes sound muddy and phasey in other environments.

Dynamic Range & Headroom

Pro mixes are dynamic. Monitors need to handle those peaks without compression or distortion. Headroom is your safety net - it lets you push the monitors without introducing unwanted artifacts, especially when tracking loud sources like drums or electric guitars.

Transient Response & Articulation

Can you hear the attack of a snare drum or the pluck of a bass string? Sloppy transient response smears details and makes mixes sound dull. Tight, accurate articulation lets you hear every nuance of your performance.

Connectivity & Features

Beyond the basics, consider features like pole switches for acoustic treatment, multiple inputs (XLR, TRS, RCA), and aux sends for external effects. These details can streamline your workflow and provide more flexibility.

Buying guide

Let's be honest, you're not just slapping some speakers on your desk. You're a pro, and you need monitors that translate accurately, give you headroom to breathe, and won't leave you chasing phantom frequencies when you hit the club. Picking the right active nearfields is a big deal - it's the foundation of a good mix and a solid recording. We're cutting through the marketing hype and looking at what actually works for serious players.

Don't fall for the 'bigger is better' trap. Room size is critical. A pair of massive monitors in a small room will just create a mess.

Spend your money on quality drivers and a well-designed waveguide - that's what truly affects the sound. Be wary of monitors that claim 'studio-quality' at a bargain price; those corners are almost always cut in the crossover or driver materials. Finally, don't underestimate the importance of room treatment.

Even the best monitors will sound bad in an untreated room.

How the AudioFu Index works

Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.

This chart covers 365 active nearfield monitors from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.

AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.

  • Demand40%

    How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.

  • Lineup20%

    How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.

  • Price15%

    Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.

  • Specs15%

    How completely the maker documents it.

  • Maker10%

    How deep the brand’s range is in this category.

Questions

What's the difference between nearfield and midfield monitors?

Nearfields are designed for close listening (3-5 feet), while midfield monitors are intended for larger rooms and more listening distance. Nearfields offer more detail at close range, but midfield monitors can provide a wider stereo image.

Do I really need acoustic treatment?

Absolutely. Reflections wreak havoc on your perception of the mix. Even a few strategically placed panels can make a huge difference. It's more important than the monitors themselves, honestly.

What does 'flat response' really mean?

It doesn't mean the frequency response is perfectly straight. It means the monitor aims for a neutral, uncolored response - it's a baseline for accurate monitoring, not necessarily what you'll 'like'.

Can I use these monitors for gigging?

Active nearfields are generally not designed for portable use. They require power and are susceptible to damage from transport. Get PA speakers for gigs.

What's the deal with pole mounting?

Pole mounting helps optimize the tweeter height to ear level, which is crucial for accurate stereo imaging. If you're not using stands, consider monitors with built-in stands or invest in quality stands.

Related charts

Best Broadband Acoustic Absorbers241 modelsBest USB Audio Interfaces238 modelsBest Preamps181 modelsBest DAW Controllers101 modelsBest Digital Converters87 modelsBest Headphone Amps86 models
#1 · AudioFu Index 36PMC 6 · $7,047€6,299
Check price ↗
 Check price ↗