If you’re on the hunt for budget studio monitors that are budget-friendly without sacrificing quality, search no more! Our team has meticulously researched and identified the five best options available in the market. These affordable studio monitors will exceed your expectations by delivering accurate and precise audio output. Whether you’re producing or recording, these speakers will dramatically improve the sound and create a professional result.
are you thinking of becoming a music producer, or DJ? or do you just want some high-quality speakers to listen to? This article goes over some of our top picks as far as budget speakers go.
Lets take a look at some cheap studio monitors…
Best Budget Studio Monitors
KRK Classic 5 – Price: $149 per monitor

KRK is defiantly considered one of the best industry standard monitor manufacturers. These speakers are fantastic value for money, if you bought yourself a pair of these you would not be disappointed. The KRK Classic 5 is a budget-friendly option for anyone looking for a reliable set of studio monitors. Here are two unique features of the KRK Classic 5:
- Bi-amped Class A/B Amplifier: The Class A/B amplifier ensures that the sound is crisp and clear while minimizing distortion.
- Proprietary Waveguide Technology: The waveguide technology provides a wide sweet spot and accurate sound reproduction, making it perfect for small to medium rooms.
Whether you’re an aspiring musician or just someone who enjoys listening to good music, the KRK Classic is a speaker worth considering. It provides excellent audio quality with a frequency range spanning from as low as 49Hz to an impressive high of 40kHz! Moreover, its robust construction adds durability while maintaining the minimalistic design that makes setup simple and manageable. Not to mention the maximum SPL capability of up to 110 dB ensuring precise sound reproduction with zero strain! KRK is not really considered a budget studio monitor brand. That being said, you can pick these monitors up for as little as $129 if you shop around.
Behringer MS16 – Price: $89 per pair

With so many monitor options out there, finding an affordable option that produces quality sound can be challenging. The Behringer MS16 caters to those who want both attributes without sacrificing either factor. Check out these two exceptional qualities that make the Behringer MS16 stand out:
- Dual Inputs: The MS16 has two stereo inputs that allow you to connect two devices at once, such as your computer and phone or tablet.
- Built-in Amplifier: The MS16 has a built-in 2 x 8-watt amplifier that provides ample power for its size.
Ideal for small rooms or as a backup pair of monitors, the Behringer MS16 offers a frequency range from 80Hz to 20kHz with maximum SPL up to 98 dB. An easy setup means you can get started with your new speakers quickly. The included compact remote makes adjusting your sound easy. These budget studio monitors are amazing value and should not be overlooked.
Presonus Eris E3.5 – Price: $99 per monitor

Are you tired of settling for mediocre-sounding speakers because of their sky-high price tags? Meet your new best friend – the Presonus Eris E3.5! Unlike other models in the same price range, these little monsters deliver exceptional clarity. That is mainly due to – cutting-edge acoustic technology built inside it. What sets this speaker apart from others is how lightweight and streamlined it is. These cheap studio monitors are perfect for those looking for maximum bang for your buck.
- Silk-dome Tweeters: The silk-dome tweeters provide a smooth and accurate high-frequency response, which is crucial for producing clear and detailed sound.
- Acoustic Tuning: The Eris E3.5 has acoustic tuning controls that allow you to adjust the sound to your room’s acoustic environment.
There are few things more frustrating than trying to record music or podcasts without decent speakers. Luckily for you, the Presonus Eris E3.5 is here to save the day! Boasting a frequency range of between 80Hz and 20kHz. This compact and easy-to-use monitor system is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to create high-quality recordings.
JBL Professional 305P MkII – Price: $129 per monitor

In search of cheap studio monitors offering exceptional sound output but within a modest budget? Look no further than the JBL Professional 305P MkII! Known for being affordable yet powerful, this piece is from JBL. JBL is a popular name in the pro-audio industry and presents an ideal option for budding musicians. Two distinguishing factors of these speakers are economic pricing with unmatchable delivery of high-quality sounds.
- Image Control Waveguide: The JBL Professional 305P MkII features an Image Control Waveguide that provides a wider sweet spot and improved imaging. This means that you’ll be able to hear your music more accurately and clearly, even if you’re not sitting in the perfect position.
- Dual Integrated Class-D Amplifiers: The JBL Professional 305P MkII features dual integrated Class-D amplifiers, providing plenty of power and ensuring that your music sounds great at any volume.
Overall, the JBL Professional 305P MkII is a great option for those looking for affordable studio monitors that offer great sound quality. The Image Control Waveguide and dual integrated Class-D amplifiers make them a great choice for home recording, and the affordable price point makes them accessible to a wide range of people.
Mackie CR-X Series CR3-X- Price: $109 per pair

The Mackie CR-X Series CR3-X is a budget-friendly option that delivers great sound quality for home recording. Here are two unique features of the Mackie CR-X Series CR3-X:
- Mackie Creative Reference™ Multimedia Monitors: The Mackie CR-X Series CR3-X features Mackie Creative Reference™ Multimedia Monitors that provide studio-quality sound in a compact and affordable package. These monitors deliver clear, detailed sound that’s perfect for home recording.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: The Mackie CR-X Series CR3-X features Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to easily stream music from your phone or other devices. This feature makes it easy to listen to music while you work or to switch between different sources without having to unplug and replug cables.
Those looking for a budget-friendly option for home recording need look no further than the Mackie CR-X Series CR3-X. The affordable price point and versatile features, including Bluetooth connectivity and Creative Reference™ Multimedia Monitors, make them accessible to a wide range of people.
Choosing the budget studio monitors for you
When it comes to finding affordable studio monitors for at-home recordings, the market is saturated with great options. All of the monitors above offer exceptional value in terms of their unique features and low price points. Obviously, they are not the absolute best on the market, but if you are building that new bedroom studio or recording studio and looking to save some hard-earned cash, these speakers could be for you.
Comments 4