More M-Audio Monitors

US New BX8 to replace SP-8B 30/09/02

Buying Choices

Affilliate Links help support the site

M-Audio have replaced the recently-introduced SP-8B 8" active monitors with a brand new version; the BX8. Out is that swivel-mounted tweeter (good thing too, we say - daft idea in the first place) and in is...ooh, a whole bunch of tweakes and upgrades... here's what they reckon themselves:-

"Integral to the design of the BX8s is the concept that monitors should be able to adapt to any changes in placement or work environment. Since a monitor’s bass response can change depending upon proximity to walls, the BX8s’ Acoustic Space control section allows users to optimize the monitors’ performance—no matter whether they need to go on stands, on a bookshelf or in the corners. Users can also adjust the high-frequency response to compensate for reflective surfaces like glass. The Presence control provides an automatic mid-range boost for added flexibility. The BX8s even include variable low-frequency roll-off to optimize response at crossover points when adding a subwoofer like the Studiophile SP-8S.

The key to the BX8s’ accurate sound is the synergistic active design and integration of all elements, thus providing superior performance and fidelity over systems comprised of separate components. The BX8s’ bi-amped design further enhances fidelity by sending only the optimal frequencies to the high and low drivers. The integral crossover network and power amplifiers deliver flat frequency response, smooth transition in the crossover region, minimal distortion and maximized power handling.

The BX8s’ high-fidelity sound also owes to the use of top-quality components. The 1-inch natural silk high-frequency drivers employ a flush design and electronic time alignment with the low-frequency driver, resulting in controlled dispersion for superior three-dimensional imaging. The high-frequency drivers also employ ferrofluid cooling and internal damping to minimize resonance. The 8-inch low-frequency drivers feature mineral-filled polypropylene cones with high-temperature tolerant voice coils and damped rubber surrounds. All drivers are magnetically shielded for desktop music production. The tooled rear Sub-Frequency Ports reduce low-frequency turbulence and optimize driver excursion for amazing bass despite the BX8s’ small footprint."

BX8 Specs

Type: Two-way near-field studio reference monitors

Low-frequency driver: 8-inch polypropylene curved cone

High-frequency driver: 1-inch natural silk dome

LF Amplifier Power: 65W (EIA RS-490 dynamic power)

HF Amplifier Power: 65W (EIA RS-490 dynamic power)

Crossovers: 4th-order Linkwitz Riley for smooth frequency response

Crossover Frequency: 1.25kHz

Low-frequency rolloff: 6th-order filter optimizes maximum driver excursion

Input Connectors: XLR balanced, TRS balanced/ unbalanced

Input Sensitivity: 85 mV pink noise input produces 90dBA output SPL at one meter with volume control at maximum

Input Impedance: 20k ohms balanced, 10K ohms unbalanced