Genelec 8010A Studio Monitor Review

Genelec 8010A Studio Monitor Review

The 1.5 kg, small Genelec speakers are great portable and compact monitors for studios. The exterior design is very similar to the Genelec 6010, and the 8010A has also been given the standard Genelec style. At first glance, the design and size of the aluminium housing are most closely reminiscent of computer speakers.

Unboxing

The small size should not deceive anyone at all. The speaker has Class D amplifiers. The metal-shielded subwoofer is capable of 80 watts, and the also metal-shielded tweeter is capable of 50 watts. Green LED illuminates when the speaker is on. The Genelec brand IsoPod rubber sole prevents the speakers from slipping, and angle can be adjusted using a useful small metal clip.

On the back you will find DIP switches with which you can control the frequency response and the bass. A manual is also included to help you with the settings. There is also a balanced XLR input on the rear panel. Due to its small size, power is supplied through a small two-pin power outlet, as there is not enough space for an IEC outlet. The crossing frequency is 3 kHz. The maximum sound pressure is 96 dB, the frequency response is 67 Hz-25 KHz. The speakers are compatible with Genelec 7050 B subwoofer. The long deep reflex tube with optimised drives and filters deserves respect.

Smart signal sensor

The Intelligent Signal Sensor Circuit (ISS) enters standby mode when no audio input is detected. It takes about half a second to turn it on, but if you find this inconvenient just disable the ISS feature.

Sound test

We placed the Genelec 8010A speakers on both sides of a laptop in a smaller studio room, where diffuser front panels and sound-absorbing printed acoustic panels on the walls and ceiling ensured sound optimisation. Bass traps have been placed in the corners in order to prevent acoustic issues deriving from close walls and corners of small studios. As a matter of fact, in the case of studios, it is extremely important to properly “cushion” the room with acoustic elements in order for the sound records or mixes to sound properly in another room as well. Optimal acoustic treatment not only improves the quality of sound recordings, but also attenuates unwanted inward and outward sounds.

A dwarf with the voice of a giant

We downloaded Clean Bandit’s latest hit Tick Tock to my laptop. We had a very positive experience: the tiny Genelec produced balanced, accurately linear sounds, both in the mid and high ranges. We found the bass intensity a bit low, but for a monitor of that size, our disappointment is hard to explain. We then listened to Alex Adair’s latest piece Make Me Feel Better. The 8010A has once again proven not to be underestimated. We got sharp and crystal clear treble and an ideal midrange. The deep ones were weaker than usual again. But through clarity and accuracy, we did not experience ear fatigue even after prolonged listening to music.

Conclusion

Despite its small size, the Genelec 8010A studio monitor delivers amazing performance. The ideal distance from the listening position is 1 meter. As a close-up monitor, for reference purposes, or for on-site recordings in studios, this small monitor is a great choice. You can expect accurate, balanced, powerful and clear sound when you use this model. Basses could be more intense, but if not used as main monitors, this shouldn’t be a particular reason for non-compliance. The Genelec monitors are not cheap, but the brand stands for good quality. If its design and appearance were to be characterised, we would say it is a “correct,” “cute” piece.

G.H.