Monitor Audio Monitor50
Entry-class bookshelf from Monitor Audio. Falls short of transparent-level measurements but compact and easy to place. Compare with models that have clear third‑party measurements before purchase
Overview
The Monitor Audio Monitor50 is positioned as an entry-class 2-way bookshelf speaker. It combines a 25mm C-CAM tweeter with an approximately 130–140mm MMP II mid-bass driver in a compact ~20cm-class enclosure featuring a HiVE II-type bass port [1][2].
Scientific Validity
\[\Large \text{0.3}\]Measurements fall short of transparent levels. With the compact ~20cm cabinet, manufacturer-rated LF extension is around 55Hz (-6dB), which does not satisfy the transparent-level requirement of 20Hz–20kHz within ±0.5dB [1]. The HiVE II-type port helps, but cabinet volume remains the dominant limitation [2]. Third-party detailed datasets (THD/IMD, S/N, crosstalk) are limited, preventing confirmation of transparent-level attainment.
Technology Level
\[\Large \text{0.4}\]The design applies established in-house technologies (C-CAM tweeter, MMP II driver) with a HiVE II-type port, which is appropriate for the entry segment [1][2]. Innovation is limited and absolute performance is constrained by cabinet volume and driver size.
Cost-Performance
\[\Large \text{0.6}\]The cheapest equivalent‑or‑better comparator is Edifier MR4 (active). Third‑party measurements confirm flat response and low distortion [5]. US price is 129.99 USD [6]. Using a representative Monitor50 street price reference of about 220 USD in Japan, CP = 129.99 USD ÷ 220 USD = 0.59 → rounded to 0.6. Equivalence basis: stereo 2‑way nearfield use with adequate LF extension; MR4’s measured FR/THD is solid while Monitor50’s rated 55Hz (‑6dB) and compact volume limit its absolute extension.
Reliability & Support
\[\Large \text{0.5}\]Monitor Audio, founded in 1972, maintains established support infrastructure. Build quality for the entry class appears appropriate. Public information on long-term service is limited; overall assessed as industry-average.
Rationality of Design Philosophy
\[\Large \text{0.5}\]Leveraging in-house technologies under strict size/cost constraints is rational for the target segment. However, transparent-level pursuit via comprehensive disclosure and aggressive investment appears limited; assessed as standard-level.
Advice
If you prioritize compact placement with better measured performance and price, consider Edifier MR4 where third‑party data and US pricing are clear [5][6]. If you prefer Monitor Audio, consider current Bronze‑series models. For stronger LF output, note the nominal 55Hz (-6dB) extension and consider placement and potential subwoofer integration.
References
- Monitor Audio (Manufacturer): Monitor 50 product information (2-way, C-CAM, MMP II, 55Hz–30kHz).
https://www.monitoraudio.com/(site structure; legacy page may be archived; specs also reflected by US/UK dealers) (accessed 2025-08-09) - US/UK Dealer (spec reflection of manufacturer data): Typical spec listings for Monitor 50 (25mm C-CAM, 140mm MMP II, 55Hz–30kHz, 87dB, 8Ω). Example:
https://www.safeandsoundhq.com/(accessed 2025-08-09) - Q Acoustics: 3030i product page (specs; US pricing reference).
https://www.qacoustics.com/products/3030i-bookshelf-speaker-pair(accessed 2025-08-09) - Wharfedale: Diamond 12.1 product page (specs; awards reference).
https://www.wharfedale.co.uk/collections/diamond-12/products/diamond-12-1(accessed 2025-08-09) - Audio Science Review: “Edifier MR4 Review (Powered Monitor)” (third‑party measurements).
https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/edifier-mr4-review-budget-monitor.29068/(accessed 2025-08-09) - Edifier US: MR4 Product Page / Price.
https://www.edifier.com/global/p/studio-monitors/mr4(accessed 2025-08-09)
(2025.8.9)