Teufel has introduced its first active studio monitor, the STUDIO 5X. It is available in two versions (with and without Bluetooth).
Being able to hear exactly what is happening in a recording is essential when making music. With the STUDIO 5X, Teufel is launching an active studio monitor designed to reproduce voices, instruments and effects clearly and evenly. According to the Berlin-based company, this makes subtle differences easier to hear and allows creators to make decisions with greater confidence while recording, producing and mixing.
A studio monitor differs from a conventional loudspeaker. While many speakers are deliberately designed to make the sound warmer, fuller or more powerful, a studio monitor tries to add as little as possible. As a result, users can hear more accurately what a recording actually sounds like and determine, for example, whether a voice is too loud, the bass is too prominent or an instrument is not being given enough space.
All the Facts at a Glance
- For convenience, here are the key specifications:
- Active three-way nearfield studio monitor for recording, producing and mixing
- Neutral, detailed reproduction from 37 Hz to 24 kHz (-10 dB)
- Coaxial midrange/tweeter unit for precise stereo imaging
- Can be used both horizontally and vertically
- Filters for adapting the monitor to its position and room acoustics
- Balanced XLR combo inputs and mounting points for stands or brackets
- STUDIO 5X BT with Bluetooth 5.0, AAC and aptX HD
The STUDIO 5X uses three separate drivers for the low, mid and high frequencies. Consequently, each driver only has to reproduce the part of the frequency range for which it was designed. This helps keep music sounding clear and controlled, even when several instruments are playing simultaneously.
‘The midrange driver and tweeter are positioned on the same axis. As a result, the sound appears to originate from a single point, allowing voices and instruments to be positioned precisely between the left and right speakers. The woofer provides deep, controlled reproduction down to 37 Hz, which means that in many situations an additional subwoofer is not required,’ according to Teufel.
Developed to Reveal Subtle Differences
Teufel developed the STUDIO 5X in its own measurement laboratory in Berlin: ‘There, we investigated how the speaker behaves without the acoustics of the room affecting the measurements. Based on those results, we optimised aspects including the tuning, sound dispersion and interaction between the individual drivers.
‘Digital filters ensure that fast transients – think of a drum hit or a plucked string – are reproduced at precisely the right moment and with clearly defined contours. A specially shaped waveguide around the tweeter distributes the sound evenly. As a result, the stereo image remains stable when the listener moves slightly to the left or right.’
Flexible Placement and Easy Adjustment
The STUDIO 5X can be used either vertically or horizontally. This provides additional flexibility when placing it on a desk, mixing console or stand, as well as when mounting it on a wall or ceiling. The bass reflex port is located at the front, allowing the speaker to be positioned close to a wall. Meanwhile, filters on the rear allow the sound to be adjusted to suit its position in the room, for example when the monitor is placed in free space, against a wall or in a corner.
For connection to professional audio equipment, the STUDIO 5X features balanced XLR combo inputs. The status LED can be dimmed or switched off, while the standby time can also be adjusted. Two M6 threaded mounting points allow the monitor to be fitted to commonly used stands and brackets. Optional desktop stands were developed together with König & Meyer.
STUDIO 5X BT: Play Music Directly via Bluetooth
The STUDIO 5X BT adds Bluetooth 5.0 with AAC and aptX HD. This allows reference tracks, demos or new song ideas to be played directly from a smartphone, tablet or laptop. It is particularly convenient when several people want to quickly play music during a session without first having to connect cables or change the settings of the audio interface.
Pricing and Availability
The STUDIO 5X is available now as a pair for €499.99; the STUDIO 5X BT with Bluetooth costs €549.99 per pair. Desktop stands are available separately. The speakers and accessories are available now through the manufacturer’s website.