Studio monitors are one of the most important pieces of equipment for any music producer. The quality of your monitors directly impacts how well you can hear and analyze your mixes. Choosing the right pair that fits your studio space and budget can be the difference between mixes that translate beautifully across systems, and mixes that disappoint.
That's why KRK Systems has become one of the most trusted brands by top music producers over the last few decades. Their studio monitors deliver the accuracy, reliability, and power that music creators need to produce their best work.
In this article, we'll explore what makes KRK studio monitors such a popular choice and why they can be a music producer's dream come true.
A Trusted Brand in Studios Worldwide
Since their beginnings in the late 1980s, KRK has become a leader in studio reference monitors. Their distinctive yellow cones can be found in some of the biggest studios across the globe.
Legendary producers like Scott Storch, Swizz Beatz, Pete Rock, and Just Blaze have relied on KRK monitors to create chart-topping hits for the past 20+ years. Their monitors have been involved in the creation of iconic albums across hip hop, pop, rock, and more.
But beyond their adoption by star producers, KRK monitors can be found in home and project studios around the world. Anywhere audio accuracy and reliability matters, you'll find producers who swear by their KRKs.
Key Features of KRK Studio Monitors
So what makes KRK monitors so widely used? Here are some of the key features and benefits they offer:
Accurate, Uncolored Sound
KRK monitors are designed to deliver audio as flat and faithful to the source as possible. Their aim is to minimize coloration and distortion so you hear exactly what's in your mixes.
The flatter frequency response allows you to make mixing decisions that will translate to different systems. You can trust that what you hear on the KRKs matches your actual mix.
Reliable Performance
Reliability is critical for studio monitors. You don't want them unexpectedly dying during a session.
KRK monitors are built to last using quality components. Many producers keep their sets running strong for 5+ years or more of daily studio use.
The amplifiers in KRKs are optimized to avoid clipping even at high volumes. You get clear audio that you can crank up loud when needed.
Variety of Sizes
KRK makes monitors ranging from compact 4" models to large 8" and 12" designs.
Their range allows you to find the perfect fit for your studio space and mixing needs, from bedroom producers to commercial studios.
Larger monitors generally provide deeper low frequency extension. Smaller designs allow for more portability and tighter spaces.
Useful Features
KRKs contain handy features to provide more versatility and control.
Most models include Acoustic Tuning to optimize bass response for your room. You also get user EQs to tweak the sound. Volume limiters prevent accidental damage from spikes.
Some powered KRK monitors have handy audio interfaces built right in. This allows you to plug mics, instruments, and headphones straight into the monitors themselves.
KRK Studio Monitor Lineup
Now that we've covered the KRK brand and their common capabilities, let's take a look at some of their most popular studio monitor models over the years:
KRK Rokit Series
The Rokit line has been a longtime bestseller and introduction to KRK for many producers.
Rokit monitors come in 5", 6", 7" and 8” sizes, letting you choose the right volume of audio for your space.
They provide accurate response across the frequency spectrum along with KRK’s signature reliability. The included stands let you position the speakers at the ideal listening angle.
Rokits have become a modern standard used by producers across all genres of music.
KRK Classic Series
In 2022, KRK released their Classics series as an homage to their early studio monitors. They brought back the iconic designs that made KRK a studio staple in the 90s and 2000s.
The Classics include the model 5 and 8 monitors, featuring KRK's famous yellow cones and black bodies.
They incorporate KRK's latest acoustic innovations like DHDTM waveguides for pristine highs. However, the retro look and vibes take producers back to an iconic era in music history.
For those nostalgic for the early days of KRK while desiring modern performance, the Classics series delivers.
KRK V Series
At the high end, KRK's V Series represents the pinnacle of their studio monitor engineering.
These flagship models set a new standard for accuracy, headroom, and resolution in a nearfield design.
Available in 6, 8 and 10 inch sizes, the V Series sports a stylish glossy black finish. The "vector" waveguide design ensures ideal imaging.
For elite commercial studios that demand the utmost in clarity and translation, the V Series delivers KRK's best. Expect to hear these on major label records and Hollywood movie scores.
KRK Subwoofers
While not technically monitors themselves, KRK's subwoofers perfectly complement their speakers.
Adding a sub like the 10s or 12s can really expand the low frequency response of monitors that may not reach the deepest lows on their own.
This helps you make mixes with powerful, high quality bass that won't disappear on smaller systems. Quality subs prevent the need for overly boosting lows.
Benefits of Mixing on KRK Studio Monitors
After learning about KRK's legacy and their various product lines, what benefits can you expect from using their monitors for mixing?
Here are some of the biggest advantages producers will experience:
Hear the True Mix
The number one goal of studio monitors is providing an honest, uncolored representation of your mix.
KRK engineers their monitors to deliver this accuracy consistently. You can trust that what you hear matches your real mix.
No more getting surprised when the mix translates differently than your speakers portrayed. KRK minimizes this by staying neutral.
Optimize Low End
Mixing the low frequencies right is crucial, yet difficult on most systems.
With their extended bass response, KRK monitors help you balance and sculpt kick, bass, and other low elements properly so they translate.
No more having to blindly boost subs only to overdo it. You can make informed low end decisions.
Avoid Ear Fatigue
Many monitors can become tiring or painful during long sessions.
KRK designs their speakers to reproduce audio cleanly even at high volumes. This reduces ear strain so you can mix longer.
The amps and high frequency drivers maintain clarity without harsh artifacts that can fatigue your ears. KRKs sound smooth even when loud.
Reliable Workhorse
Like any studio gear, you want monitors built to handle heavy use day after day.
KRK's durable build quality withstands the rigors of daily mixing and studio transport when needed. Most keep running strong for years well past the warranty.
You can trust them to be a consistent studio workhorse so you can focus on the music. KRKs are built to last.
Optimized Design
From the tuned rear ports to their waveguide engineering, KRK meticulously designs their monitors for optimal sonic performance.
This results in accurate translation, detailed imaging, and a wide sweet spot so you hear the mix correctly almost anywhere between the speakers.
KRK's acoustic innovations developed over 30+ years also minimize unwanted resonance and distortion.
Are KRK Studio Monitors Right for You?
KRK studio monitors have proven their mettle in professional and home studios across the globe. Their reputation for accuracy, translation, and reliability is well earned.
However, KRK may not be the ideal choice for all music producers and applications. Here are a few things to consider when deciding if KRK monitors are right for your studio:
- Room Size - KRKs excel in nearfield applications, typically rooms 250 sq ft or less. For larger control rooms, other systems may perform better.
- Price Range - While KRK offers budget-friendly options like the Rokits, their pro models get up into the thousands. Make sure they fit your budget.
- Music Genres - KRKs are popular across all genres. However, some may desire more "character" for things like rock or EDM versus a flat response.
- Your Preferences - Personal taste matters. Listen to KRKs firsthand if possible to ensure you like their sound signature over other speaker brands before investing.
So weigh these factors with your own needs. For many studios producing all styles of music, KRK monitors can provide the transparency, reliability, and performance they need to take mixes to the next level.
FAQ About KRK Studio Monitors
Here are answers to some of the most common questions about KRK studio monitors:
Q: Are KRK monitors good for mixing?
A: Yes, KRK monitors are excellent for mixing. Their accurate, uncolored sound allows engineers to make precise mix decisions that translate across systems. Many top mix engineers use KRKs for this reason.
Q: Should I get 5" or 8" KRK monitors?
A: It depends on your room size and mixing needs. 5" monitors work well for smaller home studios. 8" (or larger) provide more low frequency extension which is great for commercial studios. Also consider your preferred monitoring volume level.
Q: What is a good amp for KRK monitors?
A: KRK's powered monitors have quality built-in amps. For separate amps, quality choices include models from PreSonus, ART, Mackie, or Crown amps matched to the speaker's power handling.
Q: Where should I place KRK monitors in my studio?
A: Place KRKs 3-6 feet apart facing you at ear level, angled in toward your mix position. Keep away from walls to avoid bass buildup. Acoustic treatment can also help optimize the sound in your room.
Q: Should I buy used KRK monitors?
A: Buying used can save money. Closely inspect the woofers, tweeters, cabinets, and amps on powered models. Test that all frequencies come through clearly at both low and high volumes to ensure there are no issues.
Q: Are KRK monitors better than Yamaha?
A: It's largely subjective. Both are respected brands. Yamaha HS series offers a comparable neutral response for a bit less cost. Listen to each brand yourself to decide which sound you prefer.
Get the Studio Experience You've Dreamed Of
As you can see, KRK studio monitors deliver the accuracy, translation, and reliability that music creators need. While not the only choice available, their reputation and adoption by top studios speaks for itself.
If you want to hear your mixes as they truly are and make better mixing decisions, upgrading to quality studio monitors should be one of your first investments.
The right monitors ultimately provide you with a more ideal listening environment. This allows you to unlock greater creativity and produce your very best music.
For many music producers across genres, KRK monitors provide that trustworthy reference experience. They can reveal nuances in your mixes that you may not have noticed on lackluster speakers.
By hearing your mixes more accurately during production, you can confidently deliver high quality, professional-sounding music that connects with listeners everywhere.
So if you're ready to realize your studio dreams, consider following the leaders. Bring home that iconic KRK sound and watch your mixes progress further than ever before.
