What is the primary purpose of the Genelec 8010A?

The 8010A is designed for professional nearfield monitoring in small workspaces or mobile recording setups. It provides an accurate, balanced frequency response for mixing and editing where space is limited.

What material is the 8010A enclosure made from?

The monitor features a die-cast aluminium Minimum Diffraction Enclosure (MDE). This material is chosen for its durability and its ability to reduce edge diffraction for better imaging.

How does the ISS Autostart function work?

Intelligent Signal Sensing (ISS) monitors the input for audio; if a signal is detected, the unit powers on automatically. If no signal is detected for a period, it switches to a standby mode to conserve energy.

Can the 8010A be adjusted for desk placement?

Yes, it includes rear-panel tone controls specifically designed to compensate for acoustic reflections. These allow the user to tailor the frequency response when the monitor is placed near walls or on desks.

Is the Genelec 8010A an active or passive speaker?

The 8010A is an active monitor, meaning it contains internal power amplifiers and active crossovers. No external power amplifier is required to drive the speakers.

What type of input connector does the 8010A use?

It utilizes a professional balanced XLR input. This ensures a secure connection and helps minimize electromagnetic interference in the signal path.

What is the Directivity Control Waveguide (DCW)?

The DCW is a specialized shape integrated into the front baffle that controls the spread of sound. It helps ensure a flat and neutral frequency response both directly in front of the speaker and slightly off-axis.

How does the 8010A compare to the Yamaha HS5?

The 8010A is significantly smaller and more portable than the Yamaha HS5. While both are active monitors, the Genelec uses a die-cast aluminium enclosure compared to the Yamaha's MDF cabinet.

Is this monitor sold as a pair or a single unit?

The Genelec 8010A is typically sold as a single unit. Users requiring a stereo setup would need to purchase two individual monitors.

What is the typical price for a single 8010A monitor?

The typical price for a single Genelec 8010A monitor is approximately GBP 319. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and specific promotions.

Does the 8010A require a separate subwoofer?

While the 8010A is a full-range monitor for its size, its compact nature limits low-frequency extension. Depending on the genre of music and monitoring needs, some users may choose to pair it with a compatible subwoofer.

Is the 8010A suitable for mobile recording setups?

Yes, its compact size and durable aluminium construction make it an ideal choice for mobile recording. It is designed to be easily transported and set up in varied acoustic environments.

Gear article

Genelec 8010A Professional Studio Monitor

The Genelec 8010A is a compact, active two-way studio monitor designed for precise audio reproduction in restricted workspaces and mobile recording environments. Utilising a die-cast aluminium enclosure and bi-amplified drivers, it provides a balanced frequency response tailored for professional monitoring where space is at a premium.

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Overview

The Genelec 8010A represents the most portable entry in Genelec's 8000 series of professional monitors. Specifically engineered for tight workspaces such as mobile production vans, hotel rooms, or small home studios, it maintains the brand's reputation for accuracy despite its diminutive size. The unit features a distinctive curved cabinet and a white finish, housing a high-performance active system that eliminates the need for external power amplifiers.

Design and Construction

The 8010A is built around the Minimum Diffraction Enclosure (MDE), a die-cast aluminium housing designed to reduce edge diffraction and improve imaging. The front baffle incorporates the Directivity Control Waveguide (DCW), which helps maintain a flat frequency response both on and off-axis. This design is particularly effective in challenging acoustic environments where reflections from desks or nearby walls could otherwise colour the sound.

Technical Features and Connectivity

Internal electronics include bi-amplified drivers with active crossovers, ensuring that each driver operates within its optimal frequency range for maximum clarity. For energy efficiency, the monitor includes Intelligent Signal Sensing (ISS) technology. This Autostart function automatically powers the monitor when an audio signal is detected and returns it to a low-power standby mode after a period of inactivity. Connectivity is handled via a standard balanced XLR input located on the rear panel.

Acoustic Compensation

To account for various placement scenarios, the 8010A features rear-panel tone controls. These allow the user to adjust the monitor's response to compensate for the bass build-up that occurs when speakers are placed close to walls or on reflective desk surfaces. This flexibility ensures that the 8010A can deliver a neutral monitoring environment in diverse locations.

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the Genelec ecosystem, the 8010A is a more compact alternative to the larger 8050B or the digitally-controlled 8341AMM. When compared to budget-focused monitors like the Yamaha HS5 or Behringer 1C-BK, the 8010A offers a more rugged aluminium build and a smaller footprint. For users requiring larger frequency ranges or three-way designs, alternatives such as the Neumann KH310A or Focal Shape 65 provide more extended low-end, though at a significantly larger physical size and different price point.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary purpose of the Genelec 8010A?: The 8010A is designed for professional nearfield monitoring in small workspaces or mobile recording setups. It provides an accurate, balanced frequency response for mixing and editing where space is limited.
What material is the 8010A enclosure made from?: The monitor features a die-cast aluminium Minimum Diffraction Enclosure (MDE). This material is chosen for its durability and its ability to reduce edge diffraction for better imaging.
How does the ISS Autostart function work?: Intelligent Signal Sensing (ISS) monitors the input for audio; if a signal is detected, the unit powers on automatically. If no signal is detected for a period, it switches to a standby mode to conserve energy.
Can the 8010A be adjusted for desk placement?: Yes, it includes rear-panel tone controls specifically designed to compensate for acoustic reflections. These allow the user to tailor the frequency response when the monitor is placed near walls or on desks.
Is the Genelec 8010A an active or passive speaker?: The 8010A is an active monitor, meaning it contains internal power amplifiers and active crossovers. No external power amplifier is required to drive the speakers.
What type of input connector does the 8010A use?: It utilizes a professional balanced XLR input. This ensures a secure connection and helps minimize electromagnetic interference in the signal path.
What is the Directivity Control Waveguide (DCW)?: The DCW is a specialized shape integrated into the front baffle that controls the spread of sound. It helps ensure a flat and neutral frequency response both directly in front of the speaker and slightly off-axis.
How does the 8010A compare to the Yamaha HS5?: The 8010A is significantly smaller and more portable than the Yamaha HS5. While both are active monitors, the Genelec uses a die-cast aluminium enclosure compared to the Yamaha's MDF cabinet.
Is this monitor sold as a pair or a single unit?: The Genelec 8010A is typically sold as a single unit. Users requiring a stereo setup would need to purchase two individual monitors.
What is the typical price for a single 8010A monitor?: The typical price for a single Genelec 8010A monitor is approximately GBP 319. Prices may vary slightly depending on the retailer and specific promotions.
Does the 8010A require a separate subwoofer?: While the 8010A is a full-range monitor for its size, its compact nature limits low-frequency extension. Depending on the genre of music and monitoring needs, some users may choose to pair it with a compatible subwoofer.
Is the 8010A suitable for mobile recording setups?: Yes, its compact size and durable aluminium construction make it an ideal choice for mobile recording. It is designed to be easily transported and set up in varied acoustic environments.