ESI nEar i5
Professional music gear - detailed information and where to buy
ESI
nEar i5
Product Info
* Prices may vary. Check retailer for current pricing and availability.
The nEar i5 is a surprisingly capable budget monitor, ideal for bedroom producers, podcasters, or anyone needing a decent reference point on a tight budget. Don't expect audiophile performance, but for the price, the balanced sound and DSP EQ make it a solid starting point for critical listening and mixing.
Product Description
- ESI nEar i5
- Active 2-Way Studio Monitor
- DSP-controlled Class D amplifier
- Frequency range: 44 Hz - 20
- 000 Hz
- Woofer: (5"): 50 W
- Tweeter: (1"): 40 W
- Max. sound pressure level (SPL): 93 dB / peak 97 dB
- High-frequency shelving EQ: +2 dB / 0 dB / -1.5 dB / -3 dB
- Low-frequency shelving EQ: +2 dB / 0 dB / -1.5 dB / -3 dB
- Balanced XLR input
- Unbalanced 6.3 mm jack input
- Dimensions: 263 x 185 x 217 mm
- Weight: 3.9 kg
PROS
- • Surprisingly balanced sound for the price point; decent imaging.
- • DSP EQ offers useful, if limited, tonal shaping options.
- • Compact size makes them suitable for smaller project studios.
- • The Class D amp delivers respectable power without excessive heat.
CONS
- • Bass extension is present but lacks true low-end authority; feels rolled off.
- • Build quality feels a bit plasticky; lacks premium feel.
- • Tweeter can become slightly harsh at higher listening volumes.
Product Video
Key Features
Woofer Size
5"
Power (Watts)
50W (Woofer), 40W (Tweeter)
Frequency Range
44 Hz - 20,000 Hz
Connections
XLR, 6.3mm jack
Weight
3.9 kg
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Frequently Asked Questions
The HS5s offer a flatter, more neutral response; the nEar i5s have a slightly more colored, consumer-friendly sound profile, but still usable.
The EQ is limited to four preset shelving options (+2dB, 0dB, -1.5dB, -3dB) for both highs and lows; it’s not a fully customizable parametric EQ.
They're not really designed for portability; the plastic cabinet makes them relatively fragile, so studio use is highly recommended.
