KS Digital C8-Reference
Best professional monitor for precise studio mixing and critical audio evaluation.
This B-Stock KS Digital C88-Reference R is a professional active 3-way coaxial near/midfield monitor designed for precise audio reproduction. It features an 8-inch carbon woofer and a coaxial driver with an 8-inch Kevlar midrange/woofer and a 1-inch tweeter. The monitor utilizes digital FIRTEC(TM) filtering for accurate sound control and offers a frequency range of 32 Hz to 22 kHz. With a powerful amplification system delivering 170W to the woofer, 170W to the midrange/woofer, and 50W to the tweeter, it ensures high output. User-adjustable filters allow for room correction and precise sound tailoring.
$1059.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
501
/ 6561
#501 in Speakers
Price vs Category Average
-28%
Below average
Type
3
/ Active -Way Coax Monitor
Who it's for
- Engineers requiring surgical stereo imaging and precise time alignment
- Producers working in rooms with challenging acoustic limitations
- Mixing professionals demanding high-output clarity and deep bass response
Who should skip it
- Engineers operating within compact or space-constrained control rooms
- Budget-conscious studios prioritizing cost-effective monitoring solutions
- Users preferring a simple plug-and-play setup without software calibration
Performance breakdown
Frequency Precision
FIRTEC filtering ensures phase-accurate reproduction across the entire audible spectrum.
Coaxial Imaging
Point-source design delivers exceptional stereo imaging and consistent off-axis response.
Low-End Extension
Deep 32 Hz reach provides authoritative bass without needing a subwoofer.
Dynamic Headroom
High-wattage tri-amplification maintains clarity even at demanding professional output levels.
Room Integration
Advanced onboard DSP allows for precise calibration in challenging acoustic environments.
Build Integrity
Robust construction and premium driver materials ensure long-term studio reliability.
Key Specs
Type
Active 3-Way Coax Monitor
Frequency Range
32 Hz - 22 kHz
Amplifier Power
170 W (Woofer) + 170 W (Mid/Woofer) + 50 W (Tweeter)
Dimensions
480 x 240 x 310 mm
Weight
22 kg
Input
Balanced XLR (+4dBV)
Drivers
8" Carbon Woofer, Coax 8" Kevlar Mid/Woofer, 1" Tweeter
Max SPL Peak/Pair
118 dB
Features
- Active 3-way coaxial monitoring
- Digital FIRTEC(TM) filtering
- User-adjustable room correction
- Separate limiter protection
- Adjustable delay for positioning
- Integrated volume and shelving controls
- High-power amplification system
What customers say
These reference monitors earn high praise for their uncompromising sonic honesty and precision, making them a benchmark for critical listening. Users consistently note the forensic detail retrieval and lightning fast transient response, which delivers an articulate soundstage. A major highlight is the impressive low frequency control; the deep bass remains tight and unbloated, essential for modern production. While the robust build quality and consistent performance are valued, the significant investment is a key consideration. Professionals agree the performance justifies the premium cost, positioning these as a top tier tool for demanding studio environments where accuracy is paramount.
Know before you buy
The coaxial design aligns the midrange and tweeter on the same axis, which ensures that sound waves reach your ears simultaneously. This creates a more precise stereo image and consistent phase response, regardless of your listening position.
FIRTEC filtering uses digital signal processing to correct both the frequency response and the time-domain behavior of the speaker. This results in a highly linear sound and minimizes the smearing of transients, providing a more accurate representation of your mix.
Yes, the C8-Reference includes user-adjustable room correction filters that allow you to tailor the speaker's output to your specific acoustic environment. This helps mitigate common issues like bass buildup or reflections in smaller spaces.
No, these are active monitors with a built-in 390-watt tri-amplification system. You only need to connect your audio source via a balanced XLR cable to start monitoring.
This 3-way configuration allows each driver to focus on a specific frequency range, reducing intermodulation distortion. The dedicated 8-inch carbon woofer handles the low end with authority, while the coaxial unit ensures clear, coherent mids and highs.
The integrated delay controls allow you to time-align the speakers if they are positioned at different distances from your listening spot. This ensures that the sound from both monitors arrives at your ears at the exact same time for a perfectly centered image.
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