monitor speaker
A speaker designed for accurate, uncoloured audio reproduction used in recording and mixing.
In Depth
Studio monitors differ from consumer speakers in that they aim for flat, neutral frequency response rather than enhanced bass or treble. This neutrality allows engineers to make mixing decisions that translate well across all playback systems. Monitors come in nearfield (close listening at the mix position), midfield, and main (soffit-mounted) configurations. Active monitors include built-in amplification, while passive monitors require external amplifiers. Monitoring accuracy is often cited as the single most important factor in achieving professional mix quality.
The Auratone 5C, nicknamed the Horror-tone for its tiny size and limited range, was used in major studios because engineers knew that if a mix sounded clear on this awful speaker, it would work on anything.