Studio monitors can be cheap too

Buying your first pair of studio monitors can be an exciting but tiring experience. There are just so many options out there! Especially if you haven't really had any good monitors before you probably have no idea what you are looking for. Which brand? How much money should I spend? Are there any special things I should worry about?

studio monitors

If you are in the market for your first studio monitors or are just looking for a cheap second pair, there are a fair amount of great budget options out there for you.

Here below you can see a few popular and recommended options for budget monitors in the price range of under $500. I would say a budget of $500 is a maximum starting budget and you can probably get a pretty decent pair for under $300.

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Studio monitors

Fostex PM0.5 MKII

I've seen the Fostex PM0.4 advertised in many buyer's guides but I am partial to getting a 5” driver instead of the 4” just for that added bass.

M-Audio Studio Pro 3 / MXL 990/991 Microphone Package

Then again, if you are just looking for something small and compact this monitor and mic bundle seems like a good deal for anyone who is just starting out. Although the MXL microphones aren't the best you will ever try, they are a great addition for the price and you can always upgrade later.

Alesis Monitor 1 Active MKII

A friend of mine can't get enough of these. He thinks they sound awesome and him being an audio engineer and music recording teacher I'm keen to believe him.

What are your favorite monitors that you've bought for under $500? Share it with us!

Behringer TRUTH B2031A

Say what you will about Behringer. They haven't exactly got the best reputation for quality, but I've used these monitors and they deliver what they're selling. A great budget solution.

Behringer Ribbon

I stumbled upon these when researching and I'm intrigued. I haven't tried these but I'm interested in hearing what the ribbon tweeters sound like.

KRK Rokit 5 G2 Monitors, Mics and More Package

One of KRK staple budget monitors. Great quality and great price. Everyone I know who has these loves them. And with some included microphones will get you started even sooner.

M-Audio BX8a Deluxe

I want these. I've used the BX5a for some time and I absolutely loved them. They were a bit high in the brilliance department and I think that with a better low end reach like these have they would sound wonderful.

Mind your acoustics

Whether you are looking for your first pair of studio monitors or are shopping around for a replacement, be sure that there are some great deals you can get for under $500 and many of these deals are much cheaper than that.

Lastly, keep in mind that great studio monitors are never going to sound great in an untreated room. You might have fun listening to your favorite music through them but if you are going to do any serious recording you need your monitors to accurately reflect what's coming out of them without the acoustics of the room interfering with your music mixing and productions.

Do you have suggestions for cheap budget monitors? Share your thoughts here below.