PC Speakers: Axiom or Studio Monitors?

[Hi Ho]

I recently redesigned and completely rebuilt my computer desk/area. I made my desk as clean as possible putting the PC tower underneath, mounting the monitor on the wall, and hiding all of the wires. I have been using headphones exclusively since I did this because I don't have room for my old Logitech system. I want to upgrade anyway.

I was browsing and came across the Axiom Audiobyte PC speakers. I had never seen those before and they are quite intriguing. I like the fact that they have a 30 day trial. They appear to have a beefy amp and I could easily add a sub.

The other option is a pair of active studio monitors. I would love a pair of Mackie HRmk2s but they are a little too pricey. I found the Behringer Truth BA3030As and they look interesting and are priced similarly to the Axioms.

My goal is accurate sound reproduction for music (light recording) and gaming that I can either mount on the wall or put on a small shelf. Any suggestions are welcome.

EDIT: Wow, somehow I posted this in the wrong forum. Would a mod mind moving this thread to the Loudspeakers forum?

 

[MinusTheBear]

Do you get any trial period with the other brands beside Axiom?

 

[Rickster71]

How about these?
I have the A5's and really like them.
http://www.audioengineusa.com/
Though, the Behringer's sound interesting.

 

[WmAx]

I have measured/analyzed/inspected the Behringer B2030P(passive) and it was of extraordinary quality in all aspects for it's price - I don't know of anything comparable for even 2x it's price. At 3x price, the Ascend CBM-170 has some comparable(and slightly superior) aspects, but the Behringer still beats in some important areas. But I can't comment on the active version of the Behringer, nor the larger 8" version you are considering. If are willing to go with a small stand along 50w amp, the B2030 is a superb unit for it's price($130/pair). You can(and should) do some basic mods to it to fix small faults(which are present on many mass produced speakers) such as an air leak and a rattling internal part(easily fixed with some superglue).

Here are my measurements of the B2030P: http://www.linaeum.com/productinfo/other/behringer_2030P/

Note the unusually clean waterfall and off axis response(best off axis monopole response I have ever seen on a retail speaker).

-Chris

 

[no. 5]

Note the unusually clean waterfall and off axis response(best off axis monopole response I have ever seen on a retail speaker).

Better than the 802D?

 

[WmAx]

Better than the 802D?

The off axis response is superior to the 802 by a substantial amount. But, do remember, this is but one factor. The B2030 is not resonant free(a huge factor) like the 802D, it does not have the same SPL output ability with the same low distortion, nor the same frequency extension(being a small two way).

-Chris

 

[Hi Ho]

I ordered the Axiom set. I'll see how those work. I'm a bit limited on space so I think those Behringers would be too large. If I decide I like the Axioms I will probably end up buying or building a sub to go with them.

 

[WmAx]

BTW, with the new price drop, I will recommend the KRK ROKIT 5 powered speaker for a compact all in one solution. It is likely equal to, or even superior, in performance compared to the Audio Engine 5, based on my assumption that the A5 is similar in measured response as the A2 on the Stereophile measurements. The ROKIT 5 can be had for $200/pair on reputable online dealer sites.

Here are my measurements of this device:

On Axis, 1 Meter, Spliced with Nearfield LF

Off Axis, 1 Meter, 0-30 degrees, 45-90 degrees

Waterfall/CSD: Scaled to same averaged floor to peak signal range as Stereophile typically uses for useful comparison.

THD vs. SPL @ 1 Meter

If you are wondering how this product performs over 95dB: it does not. Apparently, the amplifier can not drive it more then 96-97dB at maximum with very high distortion/clipping. But please note: 95db in near field is very high SPL. Heck, it's very high for normal seating distances. But if you want to use it moderate or high SPL full range, I highly recommend active crossover at 100Hz at 4th order slope to keep it's clarity in tact at those SPLs. This means a subwoofer is required in that circumstance.

Conclusion: For the same price as the Audio Engine 2, you get superior performance in nearly every aspect of performance(FR on and off axis, distortion, LF extension, waterfall response), with the exception of cabinet resonance. The tiny Audio Engine 2 using a 1" thick braced cabinet would be superior in this aspect.

-Chris

 

[mdntblu]

My friend has the Behringer Truth BA3030As and he really likes them. He is all into sound and does mixing for churches.

 

[Hi Ho]

Thanks for all of the information guys. I'll try out the Axioms and if they don't work out I'll send them back and try something else. (probably the KRK's).

I was hoping to get the Axioms on Saturday because that's what the Fedex tracker said. The packages was "On truck for delivery" at 7:00 AM. I waited all day and nothing came. At 6:00 PM the site updated and said "No attempt made, scheduled for next business day". That's a new one on me. They've been unable to find my house and stalled by weather but never have they simply not attempted delivery. Oh well, tommorrow... hopefully.