hi R_Spaulding,

this topic is probably one of the most discussed here on the RO forum, however go here (http://recording.org/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&t=33321
and also just take a little time cruising through RO and a little bit older posts, and you will find more then dozens of threads about this topic.

but i will answer your second question as this has not been as often explained here, as your first question.

passive speakers require an external amplifier, active speakers have an amplifier build in.

the advantage of active systems is that the amplifier is optimised for the speaker and works kinda "hand in hand" so you get especially in the lower range a powerfull "all in one optimised" good package.

the behavior and soundquality of an amp speaker combination can vary massively (not every amp works with every speaker "optimal" and wise versa), on the other hand a passive system allows you to "tailor" more precise what you are looking for... but it takes a lot of audtioning and experience to find the perfect match between a certain amp and a speaker.

especially in the lower range i would recommend to look rather into active systems, such as genelecs 8020, yamaha msp5, krk rokit rp6 and the like...

try to audition as many systems with your fave music as you can, your own ears will be in the end of the day the best judge...

happy auditioning...
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and also just take a little time cruising through RO and a little bit older posts, and you will find more then dozens of threads about this topic.

but i will answer your second question as this has not been as often explained here, as your first question.

passive speakers require an external amplifier, active speakers have an amplifier build in.

the advantage of active systems is that the amplifier is optimised for the speaker and works kinda "hand in hand" so you get especially in the lower range a powerfull "all in one optimised" good package.

the behavior and soundquality of an amp speaker combination can vary massively (not every amp works with every speaker "optimal" and wise versa), on the other hand a passive system allows you to "tailor" more precise what you are looking for... but it takes a lot of audtioning and experience to find the perfect match between a certain amp and a speaker.

especially in the lower range i would recommend to look rather into active systems, such as genelecs 8020, yamaha msp5, krk rokit rp6 and the like...

try to audition as many systems with your fave music as you can, your own ears will be in the end of the day the best judge...

happy auditioning...

Sorry for posting a repetitive topic :oops: im still new to these forums. I will try and redirect this topic then to a more specific one.

How would you guys compare the KRK Rokit RP5's to the M-Audio BX5A's

and maybe, how would you compare them to any other active monitors that you think are better than the RP5's and BX5A's that are also in the same price range.

Thanks!

hm, ok...

i don't know where are you located! but i assume in the states as most of ROers. all advice about monitors, especially in the range you asking for will always remain subjective, please don't get me wrong i can certainly tell you which one i would choose... but that will not guarantee that you will be happy with it, too.

all monitors in this range will not be the ultimate choice anyway, all of the monitors in this pricefield will have "issues" you have to learn and work around... however really the best is you listen to them yourself...
i don't know where are you located! but i assume in the states as most of ROers. so you can easy take a day go to several pro supplies take your fave CD with you and listen... listen.

i personally like the genies by far most, clear, flat, loud, incredible amount of natural bass for their size, very good build quality... lots of people say the yamahas rule, because they are more accurate, i think it's a matter of taste.

a.

it's really more important that you choose what your ears like most! first point, set them up propperly and treat your room accustically! second point, that makes also a massive difference!! and then "learn" your speakers and there sonic behavior! third point and you will come up with good mixes.... no. 4

i am afraid that's the best advice I can give you.