When it comes to studio monitors, the Genelec 8010A has been making waves in the music production community. We’ve seen countless debates about whether these compact powerhouses are worth the investment. As producers ourselves, we understand the importance of accurate sound reproduction, and that’s why we’re excited to dive deep into what makes the Genelec 8010A tick.
In this review, we’ll explore the key features that set the Genelec 8010A apart, including its impressive frequency response. We’ll also examine its sound performance, versatility, and how it stacks up against competitors. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of the pros and cons, helping you decide if these monitors are the right fit for your studio setup. Let’s get started and see what the Genelec 8010A has to offer!
Genelec 8010A: Overview and Key Features
When we first laid eyes on the Genelec 8010A, we couldn’t help but be impressed by its compact size. These little powerhouses are even smaller than we anticipated, yet they pack a serious punch. As part of the renowned 8000 series, the 8010A carries on Genelec’s legacy of innovation in studio monitoring.
Design and Build Quality
The 8010A’s design is a testament to Genelec’s commitment to quality and durability. We’re particularly fond of the die-cast aluminum enclosure, which not only looks sleek but also serves a practical purpose. This material choice contributes to the monitor’s sturdiness while keeping it lightweight – a perfect combination for portable setups.
One of the standout features is Genelec’s Minimum Diffraction Enclosure (MDE) technology. The rounded edges aren’t just for show; they’re designed to minimize edge diffraction, resulting in cleaner sound reproduction. We’ve found this to be especially beneficial in smaller spaces where acoustic challenges are more pronounced.
The Directivity Control Waveguide (DCW) technology is another feather in the 8010A’s cap. This curved surface in front of the drivers helps shape the sound dispersion, contributing to a wider sweet spot and a more consistent listening experience across different positions.
For those of us who are always on the move, the metal grilles protecting the drivers are a godsend. They add an extra layer of durability, making these monitors ideal for mobile production setups.
Technical Specifications
Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of what makes the 8010A tick:
- Driver Configuration: The 8010A sports a 3-inch woofer paired with a 0.75-inch metal dome tweeter. This combination might seem modest, but it’s carefully engineered to deliver impressive performance.
- Frequency Response: These little monitors boast a frequency response of 74 Hz to 20 kHz (±2.5dB), with -6dB points at 67 Hz and 25 kHz. We’ve found this range to be more than adequate for most mixing and mastering tasks.
- Amplification: Each driver is powered by its own 25W Class-D amplifier, resulting in a total of 50W per monitor. This bi-amplified design ensures optimal performance from both the woofer and tweeter.
- Maximum SPL: Despite their size, these monitors can reach a maximum sound pressure level of 96 dB at 1 meter. That’s plenty of volume for near-field monitoring applications.
- Crossover Frequency: The crossover point is set at 3 kHz, which we’ve found to provide a smooth transition between the woofer and tweeter.
- Size and Weight: Each 8010A stands at 195mm (7.7″) tall, 121mm (4.8″) wide, and 115mm (4.5″) deep, weighing in at a mere 1.5 kg (3.3 lb).
Connectivity Options
The 8010A offers flexibility in terms of connectivity, catering to various studio setups:
- Balanced XLR Input: The primary input is a balanced XLR connector with a 7 kOhm impedance. This professional-grade connection ensures minimal signal loss and interference.
- Unbalanced Sources: For those times when we need to connect to consumer-grade equipment, the 8010A can handle unbalanced sources too. With the right adapter cable, we can easily connect devices with 1/8″ (3.5mm) outputs.
- Power Input: Due to its compact size, the 8010A uses a small two-pin mains socket instead of the standard IEC connector.
- Mounting Options: On the rear panel, we’ve got three pairs of threaded holes compatible with Omnimount, VESA, and Sanus brackets. This versatility in mounting options is a real boon for customizing our studio setup.
- Isopod Stand: The included Isopod (Isolation Positioner/Decoupler) stand is a clever addition. It not only provides acoustic isolation but also allows us to tilt the monitor towards our listening position.
In our experience, these connectivity options cover most studio scenarios, from professional setups to more casual home studio arrangements.
Sound Performance and Audio Quality
We’ve put the Genelec 8010A through its paces, and we’re genuinely impressed with its performance. These compact monitors have surprised us with their ability to deliver a sound that belies their size. Let’s dive into the specifics of what makes these little powerhouses stand out.
Frequency Response
The Genelec 8010A boasts a surprisingly broad frequency range for a speaker of its size. It extends from 74Hz (around D2 on a piano) to 20kHz (±2.5dB). While the bass response is somewhat limited compared to larger monitors in the 8000 range, what we do hear is clear and tight. The overall sound has a natural and balanced quality, with a noticeable emphasis on the midrange.
We’ve noticed a slight bass boost, which adds warmth to the sound without compromising clarity. However, it’s worth mentioning that there’s a bit of a dip around 1 kHz, likely due to the port’s response in this region. Despite this, the variations in the on-axis response are generally small, contributing to a relatively flat overall response.
Clarity and Detail
In our listening tests, we’ve found the sound of the 8010A to be warm and clear, with no detectable coloration issues. What’s truly impressive is the level of detail these monitors reveal. We could easily hear the tails of reverbs and other subtle nuances in our mixes. This clarity extends across the frequency spectrum, with the bass being tight and punchy, and the treble warm and smooth.
The midrange emphasis we mentioned earlier makes these monitors great for checking the details in this crucial frequency range. We’ve noticed a natural tapering off in both the extreme low end and high end, which contributes to a fatigue-free listening experience. In fact, we could see ourselves mixing on these monitors for hours at a stretch without experiencing listening fatigue.
One aspect that really stood out to us was the 8010A’s ability to handle dynamics. Track after track in our playlist sounded superb, with excellent tonality and dynamic range that we wouldn’t typically expect from a monitor of this size.
Stereo Imaging
As you’d expect from small nearfield monitors, the 8010A has a tight sweet spot. However, as long as we positioned ourselves correctly, the sound was exceptional at every volume level. The stereo imaging was spot on, allowing for accurate spatial placement while mixing.
We believe you could confidently use these monitors for precise stereo positioning in your mixes. The clarity and detail they provide make it easy to discern the placement of individual elements within the stereo field.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a taste of what we’d call sonic perfection in a small package, the Genelec 8010A delivers. While it’s important not to push them too hard in terms of volume or low-end response, these monitors present a delightful sound that’s truly remarkable for their size. They offer a warm, detailed, and dynamic listening experience that we found to be incredibly enjoyable and useful for mixing purposes.
Versatility and Applications
We’ve been thoroughly impressed by the Genelec 8010A’s versatility. These compact monitors have proven themselves in various settings, from professional studios to home setups and even on-the-go situations. Let’s explore how these little powerhouses adapt to different environments and applications.
Studio Monitoring
In the studio, the 8010A shines as a reliable monitoring companion. We’ve found its uncolored and accurate sound reproduction to be invaluable for mixing and editing tasks. The neutral characteristics, achieved through a combination of enclosure, driver, and electronic design, allow us to trust what we’re hearing, regardless of the studio space.
One feature we particularly appreciate is the rear panel room compensation switches. These simple adjustments enable the 8010A to adapt to different acoustic environments, whether we’re working in a bedroom studio or a professional setup. This adaptability ensures consistent performance across various studio spaces.
For those of us working on projects that might be played on smaller speakers, the 8010A serves as an excellent reference. We often use them as a second pair of monitors to complement our main setup, allowing us to check how our mixes translate to more consumer-grade systems.
Home Audio
Beyond the studio, we’ve found the 8010A to be a fantastic option for home audio setups. Their small, rounded design gives them a cute appearance that blends seamlessly with home decor. We’ve successfully used them as high-quality desktop multimedia speakers, placing them on either side of our computer screens or laptops.
To get the best sound, we’ve learned to position them slightly inwards, pointing towards our ears. As near-field monitors, they’re designed for close-up listening, making them perfect for intimate home setups.
What’s truly remarkable is the sound quality these compact speakers deliver. We’ve experienced what we can only describe as sonic perfection in a small package. As long as we don’t push them too hard in terms of volume or bass response, the 8010A presents us with a delightful sound that’s surprising for speakers of this size.
Portable Use
The portability of the 8010A has been a game-changer for us. Their small size and robust aluminum enclosure make them incredibly travel-friendly. We’ve found we can easily pack them in a backpack or carry-on luggage, making them ideal for mobile production setups.
This portability has opened up new possibilities for us. We’ve taken them to important client meetings to demo our music, shared our latest ideas with friends, and even used them in hotel rooms while traveling. All we need is a power outlet and an audio source with balanced outputs, and we’re good to go.
The durability of these monitors is impressive. We’ve packed and unpacked them countless times, and they continue to function flawlessly. This reliability gives us confidence in taking our monitoring setup wherever our work takes us.
One aspect that’s worth mentioning is the connectivity options. While the 8010A is designed for professional use with balanced XLR inputs, we’ve also successfully connected them to unbalanced sources like computers and mobile phones. With the right adapter cable for the 1/8″ (3.5mm) headphone output, we can use these monitors with a wide range of devices.
In conclusion, the Genelec 8010A has proven to be a versatile workhorse in our audio toolkit. From professional studio work to casual listening at home and on-the-go production, these monitors have consistently delivered exceptional performance. Their ability to adapt to different environments and applications makes them a valuable investment for anyone serious about audio quality, regardless of the setting.
Comparison with Competitors
When it comes to compact studio monitors, the Genelec 8010A faces some stiff competition. We’ve had the chance to compare these little powerhouses with a few other options on the market, and we’re excited to share our findings with you.
Size vs Performance
The Genelec 8010A’s 3-inch woofer allows for its compact size, but don’t let that fool you. We’ve found that these monitors pack a punch that belies their diminutive stature. The aluminum construction, similar to their larger siblings in the Genelec lineup, gives them a sturdy and durable feel that we really appreciate.
One close competitor we’ve looked at is the IK Multimedia iLoud Micro Monitor. While both are compact options, we’ve noticed some key differences. The 8010A tends to have a more pronounced midrange, which we find beneficial for detailed mixing work. On the other hand, the iLoud Micro Monitors offer a slightly lower bass extension, thanks to some clever DSP processing.
In terms of sound dispersion, the 8010A’s small woofer gives it an advantage. We’ve noticed it has a wider beamwidth at lower frequencies compared to larger woofers. This translates to more flexibility in placement, especially vertically. We’ve found we have much more leeway in terms of vertical positioning, although we still recommend pointing the tweeter directly at your ears for the best results.
Price Point Analysis
Let’s talk about the elephant in the room – the price. At around $700 for a pair, the Genelec 8010A isn’t the cheapest option out there. However, we believe the old adage “you get what you pay for” really applies here.
For comparison, the IK Multimedia iLoud Micro Monitors come in at a considerably lower price point. They offer some additional features like Bluetooth connectivity and more connection options, which might make them more suitable if you’re looking for versatile desktop speakers.
However, there are some trade-offs to consider. The iLoud monitors have half the output power of the 8010A and use plastic enclosures instead of metal. In our experience, the build quality and sound performance of the 8010A justify its higher price tag.
To put things in perspective, we’ve done some interesting comparisons. For about $1000, you could get a pair of Genelec 8010A monitors ($700) and add two Dayton Audio SUB-800 8″ 80 Watt Powered Subwoofers (around $300 for the pair). This setup, in our opinion, would outperform many hi-fi speakers in the same price range.
In fact, we’ve found that as you move up the price ladder, Genelec’s price-to-performance ratio tends to beat out traditional hi-fi speakers. If we were looking to upgrade our system, Genelec would be our top choice, even over well-known audiophile brands like Totem, B&W, Focal, or Dynaudio.
In conclusion, while the Genelec 8010A might seem pricey for its size, we believe it offers exceptional value. The combination of superior build quality, precise sound reproduction, and versatility makes it a standout choice in the compact monitor market. Whether you’re a professional sound engineer or an enthusiastic home producer, these little monitors offer a taste of what we’d call sonic perfection in a small package.
Pros and Cons
We’ve spent considerable time with the Genelec 8010A, and we’re excited to share our thoughts on its strengths and limitations. Let’s dive into what makes these compact monitors shine and where they might fall short.
Advantages
- Exceptional Sound Quality: We’re genuinely impressed by the 8010A’s sound. These little powerhouses deliver incredible tonality with a warm sound that belies their small size. Track after track in our playlist sounded superb, with excellent detail and dynamics.
- Impressive Bass Response: It’s almost unbelievable how much bass comes out of these speakers. They’ve managed to make our Neumann KH80 DSP sound dull in comparison. The bass guitars and kick drums sound punchier than they have any right to on speakers of this size.
- Fatigue-Free Listening: The highs are smoother sounding than some metal-tweeter designs we’ve used. This allows us to use the 8010As for long periods without experiencing listening fatigue.
- Compact and Portable: Don’t be fooled by their modest dimensions. These monitors are perfect for small studio spaces, hotel rooms, or even OB vans. Their size makes them an ideal companion for recording on the move.
- Professional-Grade Performance: Despite their affordable price tag, the 8010As are every bit a Genelec pro monitor. They offer uncolored, accurate, and powerful sound reproduction.
- Adaptability: Thanks to the rear panel room compensation switches, these monitors can adapt to various spaces. This feature ensures we can trust what we’re hearing, whether we’re in a bedroom studio or a professional setup.
- Build Quality: The aluminum construction gives these monitors a sturdy and durable feel, similar to their larger siblings in the Genelec lineup.
- Value for Money: While not the cheapest option, we believe the 8010As offer exceptional value. Their performance can rival or even surpass some higher-priced hi-fi speakers when paired with a subwoofer.
Limitations
- Bass Distortion at High Volumes: We’ve noticed a major flaw when it comes to deep bass at high volumes. The 8010A can produce an unpleasant crackle, going from amazing to sounding like it’s broken. We couldn’t filter out the lows enough to eliminate this effect while preserving the gorgeous amount of bass.
- Limited Deep Bass: While the bass response is impressive for the size, these monitors naturally lack the really deep bass you’d get from larger speakers. However, this limitation actually contributes to their tight and focused sound.
- Warm Tilt in Sound: For professional work, especially mixing, it’s important to be aware of the 8010A’s warmer tilt. We’ve found we need to compensate for this characteristic to ensure accurate mixes.
- Power Connector Concern: The two-pin power connector might be an issue in some setups. If the rest of your system works from power adapters, you might end up without a mains earth connection, potentially leading to interference or static build-up problems.
- Price Point: While we believe they offer great value, the 8010As aren’t the cheapest option in the compact monitor market. This might be a consideration for those on a tight budget.
- Limited Sweet Spot: As with many small nearfield monitors, the 8010A has a relatively tight sweet spot. Proper positioning is crucial to get the best out of these speakers.
In our experience, the Genelec 8010A offers what we’d call sonic perfection in a small package, as long as you don’t push them too hard in terms of volume or bass response. They present us with a delightful sound that’s truly remarkable for speakers of this size, making them a valuable addition to any audio setup, whether professional or for discerning home use.
Conclusion
The Genelec 8010A has proven to be a powerhouse in a compact package, offering exceptional sound quality and versatility. Its ability to deliver accurate, uncolored sound reproduction has a significant impact on both professional studio work and home audio setups. The impressive build quality, adaptability to different acoustic environments, and portability make it a valuable tool for audio professionals and enthusiasts alike.
To sum up, while the 8010A does have some limitations, particularly in deep bass reproduction at high volumes, its overall performance justifies the investment. The combination of professional-grade sound, durability, and compact size makes it a standout choice in the compact monitor market. For those looking to upgrade their audio setup or seeking a reliable portable monitoring solution, the Genelec 8010A is definitely worth considering.
FAQs
Q: Are Genelec monitors considered the best in the industry?
A: Genelec is proud to announce that our 8381A Adaptive Point Source Main Monitor was awarded the prestigious SOS Best Studio Monitor Award by Sound on Sound Magazine, a publication read by audio professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Q: What makes Genelec speakers so popular among audio enthusiasts?
A: Genelec speakers are renowned for their unparalleled ability to reproduce every detail and nuance of a musical performance exactly as the artist intended. This high level of precision and transparency brings listeners much closer to the music, setting Genelec apart from other high-end speakers.
Q: What is the sensitivity rating of the Genelec 8010A?
A: The Genelec 8010A boasts a sensitivity rating of 96 dB. This high sensitivity ensures that even the most subtle audio details are captured and reproduced accurately, making the 8010A a compact and versatile speaker ideal for various applications.
Q: How do the Genelec 8020 monitors perform?
A: The Genelec 8020D monitors are highly regarded for their ability to deliver focused and precise sound, which is essential for mixing music and producing professional audio. They offer exceptional stereo imaging and directionality, along with remarkably deep bass for their size, making them a top choice in their category.
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