Gear article

Genelec 8341APM Professional Studio Monitor

The Genelec 8341APM is a compact, three-way coaxial studio monitor designed for professional audio environments requiring high-resolution imaging and accurate frequency response. Part of the The Ones series, it features integrated Smart Active Monitoring (SAM) technology to provide phase-coherent sound and automated room calibration.

Genelec 8341APM Professional Studio Monitor Grey
Genelec 8341APM Professional Studio Monitor Grey
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Overview and Design

The Genelec 8341APM is a high-performance active studio monitor engineered for short to medium-distance listening. It utilizes a unique coaxial design where the tweeter and midrange drivers are aligned on the same acoustic axis, a configuration intended to eliminate the off-axis coloration typically found in traditional multi-driver systems. The monitor is finished in Genelec's signature grey and is housed in a compact enclosure that facilitates placement in space-constrained professional studios without sacrificing acoustic output.

Acoustic Features and Calibration

A primary feature of the 8341A is the Smart Active Monitoring (SAM) system. This technology allows the monitor to interface with the Genelec Loudspeaker Manager (GLM) software for automatic room calibration. The system adjusts the frequency response to compensate for detrimental room anomalies, ensuring a flat and reliable monitoring environment regardless of the acoustic characteristics of the workspace. The design also incorporates Acoustically Concealed Woofers (ACW) to maintain a unified wavefront.

Genelec 8050B Bi-Amped Studio Monitor Dark Grey (Single)
Genelec 8050B Bi-Amped Studio Monitor Dark Grey (Single)

Sound Character

The 8341APM is characterised by its phase-coherent output and precise spatial accuracy. By aligning the drivers coaxially, Genelec ensures that the sound reaches the listener at the same time across all frequencies, reducing listening fatigue and improving the precision of the stereo image. This accuracy is intended to ensure that mixes translate reliably across various external playback systems, from consumer electronics to large-scale sound reinforcement.

Comparison and Market Context

Within the professional market, the 8341APM competes with other high-end three-way systems such as the Neumann KH310A. While the Neumann KH310A offers a traditional horizontal three-way design, the 8341A focuses on coaxial technology and DSP-driven room correction. For smaller budgets or less critical applications, alternatives like the Focal Shape 65 or the Neumann KH 120-II provide high-quality monitoring in a two-way format. The 8341APM sits above entry-level solutions like the Yamaha HS5 or Behringer 1C-BK, offering significantly more advanced acoustic engineering and calibration capabilities.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary benefit of the 8341APM's coaxial design?
The coaxial design ensures that all frequencies originate from the same acoustic point, resulting in phase coherence and a very wide, stable sweet spot. This reduces off-axis coloration and improves stereo imaging accuracy.
How does the GLM software work with this monitor?
The Genelec Loudspeaker Manager (GLM) software connects to the monitor to perform automatic calibration. It measures the room's acoustics and applies DSP filters to correct for frequency imbalances caused by the environment.
Is the Genelec 8341APM a two-way or three-way monitor?
It is a three-way monitor. It uses a coaxial midrange and tweeter driver combined with dual concealed woofers to cover the full frequency spectrum.
What does the 'SAM' acronym stand for in Genelec products?
SAM stands for Smart Active Monitoring. It refers to Genelec's ecosystem of monitors and subwoofers that feature internal DSP for networking and room response compensation.
What is the typical price for a single 8341APM unit?
The typical price for a single unit is approximately £2,531. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer and current market conditions.
How does the 8341APM differ from the 8341AMM?
The primary difference is the aesthetic finish. The 8341APM is finished in Genelec's producer grey, whereas the 8341AMM is the black version of the same monitor.
Can the 8341APM be used in small rooms?
Yes, its compact design and GLM room correction make it ideal for small rooms. The room calibration helps manage bass build-up and reflections common in tighter spaces.
How does the 8341APM compare to the Neumann KH310A?
The 8341APM is a coaxial monitor with built-in DSP calibration, whereas the Neumann KH310A is a non-coaxial, three-way analogue monitor. The 8341APM generally offers a smaller footprint.
What are Acoustically Concealed Woofers (ACW)?
ACW is a Genelec technology where the bass woofers are hidden behind the front baffle. This allows the entire front of the monitor to act as a large waveguide for the coaxial drivers.
Does this monitor require a separate amplifier?
No, the 8341APM is an active monitor with a powerful built-in tri-amplified system. Each driver is powered by its own dedicated internal amplifier stage.
Who is the target audience for the 8341APM?
It is designed for professional audio engineers, producers, and broadcast specialists. It is particularly suited for those working in high-resolution mixing, mastering, and post-production.
Is the 8341APM suitable for long mixing sessions?
Yes, the monitor is designed to reduce listening fatigue. The phase-coherent sound and smooth frequency response allow for extended periods of critical listening without the strain associated with distorted or peaky monitors.