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M-Audio BX5 D3 | Active Monitor | Measurements, Teardown & Subjective Impressions

AnalogSteph

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Should I prefer this speakers over the MR4?
Assuming that (1) you'd be applying EQ either way and (2) you don't mind the slightly larger size, they do look to be somewhat better, yes. The larger 5" driver (with more amplifier power behind it) has substantially better level handling, and resonances and dispersion are somewhat better controlled as well.

I would look out for some extruded Al heatsink stock (with sizable fins) and thermal adhesive though, the back panel gets mighty toasty and I can't imagine that's doing the electronics much good in the long run. I would expect something around 10 W of idle power consumption per speaker. The Edifiers are likely to be more economic in this regard.

And speaking of power, they are IEC Class II with a 2-prong power plug, so can be used with unbalanced outputs no problem. The M-Audios are more traditional monitors and IEC Class I, so avoiding ground loops will be a major concern if you don't have a balanced output (this may require additional purchases like a Behringer HD400 or making a custom cable or modifying one).
 

keizereizer

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i own the bx5 d2 for 7 years now they perfect for daw mixing&production etc.. this monitors are not design to listen to music as they are very flat___________
next buy will bx8 d3. p.s dont let ur monitors on over nigh.
 
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Weeb Labs

Weeb Labs

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this monitors are not design to listen to music as they are very flat
It is a common misconception that a flat response is undesirable for music listening. Research has consistently found that a flat on-axis response in conjunction with even directivity are reliable predictors of listener preference.
 

Gabe33

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This is how the Bx5 D3 measure in my semi treated room with -4db bass switch on , i know
 

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Miota

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I have generated two EQs. The APO config files are attached.
  • The first one, labelled, LW is targeted at making the LW flat
  • The second, labelled Score, starts with the first one and adds the score as an optimization variable.
  • The EQs are designed in the context of regular stereo use i.e. domestic environment, no warranty is provided for a near field use in a studio environment although the LW might be better suited for this purpose.
  • Quite a few sharp boost that may not translate well with other units and would definitively warant listening tests...

Score EQ LW: 5.8
with sub: 8.4

Score EQ Score: 6.2
with sub: 8.8

Code:
M-Audio BX5 D3 by Weeb Labs APO Score LW 96000Hz
December292021-111919

Preamp: -2.5 dB

Filter 1: ON HPQ Fc 53.33,    0.00,    1.29
Filter 2: ON PK Fc 132.74,    -5.27,    0.78
Filter 3: ON PK Fc 459.00,    2.32,    4.36
Filter 4: ON PK Fc 885.43,    -0.75,    3.38
Filter 5: ON PK Fc 1222.33,    2.56,    6.91
Filter 6: ON PK Fc 1771.00,    -1.45,    2.27
Filter 7: ON PK Fc 3164.49,    2.26,    1.70
Filter 8: ON PK Fc 6533.77,    1.51,    2.38
Filter 9: ON PK Fc 12142.26,    -1.31,    3.74
Filter 10: ON PK Fc 17068.65,    2.55,    1.76

M-Audio BX5 D3 by Weeb Labs APO Score EQ 96000Hz
December292021-111829

Preamp: -2.4 dB

Filter 1: ON HPQ Fc 51.33,    0.00,    1.29
Filter 2: ON PK Fc 124.83,    -5.27,    0.66
Filter 3: ON PK Fc 461.00,    2.45,    4.86
Filter 4: ON PK Fc 865.93,    -0.75,    4.88
Filter 5: ON PK Fc 1220.33,    2.56,    6.16
Filter 6: ON PK Fc 1605.33,    -1.16,    1.55
Filter 7: ON PK Fc 2821.90,    2.53,    3.20
Filter 8: ON PK Fc 5874.77,    1.06,    1.63
Filter 9: ON PK Fc 12827.15,    -1.68,    2.10
Filter 10: ON PK Fc 22244.08,    3.05,    1.36
Hello! Thank you for the detaling info!

I tried to add the APO config files, but I can't see the difference on the Analisys panel with EQ.

And what configuration should I need to use at my home studio? Score LW or Score EQ?

Is this how it should be - just lowering the gain level without visualizing the EQ?
Or should I add something else?

It’s just that when I import the configuration file for headphones, I see a change in frequencies in the equalizer and understand that everything works here))
And, unfortunately, after importing the files attached to the post, I do not hear any changes ((

Maybe I'm doing something wrong? Help me, please!
 
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