Question about monitors / pc speakers

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ticker

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Hi, another noob here! Ok I am going to attempt to build a small home studio for hobby use. I think I've picked out what sound card and mic combo I want. My question is what is the difference between monitors and normal pc speakers. If I want to record tracks via Sonar using the mic / preamp to soundcard, then will I be ok picking up something like Klipsch Pro Media desktop speakers? I don't really understand the difference between monitors and desktop speakers and not sure what applications monitors are suited for etc.

Thanks kindly
 
Ticker,

Studio monitor speakers are designed to output the 'true' sound that it receives. Monitors are used to properly edit your tracks because they tell you exactly what the sound is like.

On the other hand, pc speakers (other speakers in general, including headphones) "color" the sound to be more pleasant to the ears. Well, crappy pc speakers suck no matter what, but I hope you get the idea.

Anyway, in general, what i've heard is that if you can get your music sounding good on monitors, they'll sound good on regular speakers (in your sound system, in your car, at work, etc). But it doesn't necessarily apply the other way around.

kt
 
Great thanks! Any suggestions on lower end monitor set ups? Not a lot of cash to spend...
 
ticker said:
Great thanks! Any suggestions on lower end monitor set ups? Not a lot of cash to spend...
Click to expand...

I actually don't own any. Been trying to convince myself to get some, but you could get by without them if you're tight on $$$. (like most people here are)

What I've read to 'get by' is to burn you a CD after you're done mixing, then listen to it on multiple mediums (cd player, car stereo, portable player, etc.) It's messy and time consuming but it's a workaround. Personally, I use headphones as my monitors (eeek!) But I'm still learning how to work my software.

Otherwise, I'm sure there are many recommendations on passive vs. active monitors around these posts. You can get some active (powered) monitors at GC for $200. At least that's what I saw when i was there yesterday.
 
Thom IV said:
Hi Kevin

What're you using for headphones??

Tom.
Click to expand...

I got cheap one, man. They're Sony MDR-CD180. I actually bought it to listen to my computer at work. Everything that comes out is warm, but i'm use to that. They work for me. I picked them up at best buy for $30.

I got a pair of MOREME's from Harvey too. Just recently. Pretty clear headphones.

you asked.

kt
 
Hey and thanks again for pointing me in the right direction. I found some great information on the boards. I think I'll grab some Studiophile BX5's. Take care
 
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