As seen in our review of the Akai RPM500, their studio monitors can pack a powerful punch. I truly feel these can compete with M-Audio, Mackie and JBL in terms of accurate sounding and spec-loaded studio monitor speakers. The only obstacle we’ve really seen is the price (as they don’t come in a pair so multiply that by two for a setup). The Akai RPM800 bring a lot to the table of audio listening. Let’s check out the main features and specs.
Main features of the RPM800 studio monitor
- Retail price: $299
- Dimensions: 17.1″ x 14.2″ x 11.3″
- Weight: 30.1 lbs
- Frequency range: 38 Hz to 30 khz
- 120-Watt Class A/B amp
- 80-Watt (8 inch) woofer
- 1.5″ voice coil
- High-damping rubber surround
- Proximity control for low-end tailoring
- HF Trim, MF Boost, LF cutoff for mix control
- Minotir isolation pad for decreased resonance
- Magnetic shielding for signal purity preservation
- Integrated radio frequency
- Recessed amp mounting
- External heat sink
- 14-gauge wiring to transducers
- On/off transient protection
- External mains fuse
- Output current and over-temperature limiter
- Subsonic filter
- Inputs of XLR, quarter inch TRS and RCA
One of my favorite features of Akai’s RPM models of studio monitors is the proximity control and isolation pads. These help with the overall adaptability to the mixing environment. The sound quality is extremely accurate with these things and the increased wattage of the RPM800 blows a lot of the competitors out of the water in terms of power. However, these things are around $300 each so you’ll end up spending around 6 bills for a pair for your studio. It’s up to you if you want to spend that much. If you end up doing so, you won’t be disappointed and you get what you pay for.
The RPM models by Akai are flat. This means you’re not getting a lot of color with your sound, which is just what I like when it comes to monitor speakers (it’s basically the point of getting a pair — for mixing and accurate sounds). The Akai RPM800 speaker is great in terms being able to mix and listen to what you’re putting exactly into the track.
I know aesthetics typically don’t mean anything, but to some (and myself included at times), the look and build of the monitor can be important. It’s very sleek and looks very cool. The build is very solid — these things are like juggernauts. Not too ideal in terms of portability for travel (as they’re 30 lbs. and I’d be scared to travel with a pair of these as they’re so expensive).
Check out our top 10 best studio monitor speakers article for some more popular, wallet-friendly solutions.
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