Powered monitors are better, in my opinion, because the amp in them is designed for their purpose. Some amps can color the sound which completely defeats the purpose of buying monitors. I like my Bx5a's but ive only had them a week, and having got to do any recording on them, just mixing. Either way theyre a huge step up from anything ive ever used, and would recomend them. Plus, i got them at on clearence at Guitar Center for $260 for the pair.