Open Box Yamaha HS8 8" 120W Powered Studio Monitor (Each) Level 2 197881559243

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Aural Bliss in a Black & White Box

Before I dive in to the specifics of this great studio monitor, I must say that prior to owning the HS8, I've had experience using the older HS80 model extensively for 4 years in my brother's home studio. We used the monitors mainly to create hip-hop music, although I also used them to mix an alternative rock album for a band I was in at the time. It proved to be an extremely versatile monitor that could handle everything from the bass heavy nature of hip-hop/electronic music, to the raw and organic sound of rock music. Fast forward 5 years later and here I am reviewing what I believe to be the superior version of that monitor, the HS8. I've owned them for about a year now, using them in a decently sized living room that has proven adequate for an 8 inch woofer (there is of course a room control option for when you have your monitors close to a wall or if your room is a bit on the small side). Before settling down into this decision I did extensive research with all of the other options available at my local Guitar Center, including the JBL LSR series, KRK Rokit, Tannoy Reveal, Mackie MRK series, M Audio BX series, Adam A7X and even the smaller Yamaha HS5/HS7's. With the exception of the Adams, nothing seemed to match the crystal clear high end response of the HS8, or the tight deep bass it provides. However, the A7X's toted a $750 price tag per speaker, which is more than double the price of one HS8 speaker. If I had that much money to spend on monitors you can bet I would have separate studio building to go with it. Not worth the extra cash, in my humble opinion. The HS8 has a super flat frequency response which is exactly what I require to accurately listen and mix. The bass register below 40 hertz or so is not represented here, so if you require anything lower than that you may want to consider the HS8S sub woofer option. I, for one, am happy without it. Unless your room is acoustically treated it may actually prove to hinder the mixing process due to phasing, bass cancellation, room reflections, etc. I have some acoustic treatment to control these issues, and so far I'm pleased with the results. As for the construction quality of the enclosure itself, it is by no means a light monitor. It is rugged and built to last as the previous HS80 proved to be. For those of you looking for something lighter and smaller, I recommend the HS5 or HS7. I currently have them mounted on Pro Line studio monitors with Auralex Mo-Pads and I have no complaints. After all is said and done, you should pick a monitor you're comfortable with , learn your room and don't look back. Studio monitors are after all only a reference and not the end-all be-all to how your songs will sound through other systems. You will still need to listen to your mixes through iPod headphones, car stereos and whatever else home entertainment system you have access to if you want to hear how your audience is most likely perceiving your art. With all of that being said, if you have the money to spend on a pair of these, do not hesitate and buy them now.