How to connect studio monitors?
Published on Monday 4 June 2018
Some of the most frequently-asked questions we get here at Bax Music are about connecting studio monitors. “Which cables do I use to connect a set of studio monitors to a laptop or PC? Which cables do I need to hook my DJ controller up to my monitors? Why do I need an audio interface, and how do I connect it to my studio monitors?” In this blog, we’ll take you through some examples using a set of active studio monitors, which have a built-in amplifier.
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Studio monitors and laptop without an interface
To connect a pair of studio monitors to your laptop or PC without an audio interface, you will need a 3.5mm jack to 2x XLR male cable. Cables are available in various lengths. If the cable isn’t long enough, you can easily extend it using a regular microphone cable. You will need two, one for each speaker, and you can also use this type of cable to connect your DJ set to your active monitors.
DJ mixer or controller + laptop or computer speakers
It’s also possible to amplify your DJ controller through the built-in speakers in your laptop or computer. To do this, you need to adjust the settings in your DJ software to direct the Master Output to your computer’s on-board sound card. Bear in mind however that these types of speakers are not capable of providing the full, dynamic sound you need to DJ properly. If you’ve been using built-in speakers, then it’s time to think about investing in a set of studio monitors. Most DJ controllers are equipped with a Master Output to connect to a set of monitors via XLR or RCA, and many also have a Booth Out connector for jack cables.
Audio interface + studio monitors
An audio interface is a sound card that is vital for recording. It’s available as a compact external device (or 19-inch rack unit) or an internal sound card that’s built into your computer. Unlike a standard sound card, an audio interface offers higher-quality performance and more possibilities such as professional connection options. An audio interface has one or more input channels for external devices such as a synthesizer, guitar, or microphone. The standard inputs are 6.35mm TRS (¼-inch) jack, XLR or RCA. Your studio monitors can be connected to the 6.35mm jack or RCA outputs. Audio interfaces also have XLR outputs, which are more rugged than the other connector types.
» Balanced and Unbalanced Connections (Finally) Explained
» Audio Cables
» Adapter Plugs & Adapter Cables
In practice
If you’re a singer-songwriter and you want to record your compositions on your PC or laptop and accompany yourself on guitar, then a straightforward audio interface with one microphone input and one instrument input for your guitar is ideal. You can then connect your set of two active studio monitors by means of the line outputs on the interface, which are either RCA (unbalanced) or jack (balanced). If given the choice, we recommend choosing speakers with balanced outputs, as these are less susceptible to noise and interference.
I have an m-audio air 192|14 and im trying to get my technics sl-1200 connected to it for recording. I have the turntable going to my traktor s3 mk4 controller into the interface but for the life of me can’t seem to get it to record (or playback on the studio monitors connected to the interface). this interface is supposed to have preamps of its own not to mention the traktor controller. what am i doing wrong here?
How did you connect the Traktor S3 to your interface and also, how did you connect the SL-1200 to your Traktor. I think herein lies the problem. The preamps on your interface are out of the equation here, as these are only relevant if you connect a microphone or instrument to them. The other connections are all going through te back of the interface. Also, take a look at this video which explains how to set up your Traktor: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lbnGGVQ8EL0
It’s an older version of the Traktor but the same basics apply for the MK4.
I hope this helps!
Hi
I have a number of cables and devices I need to connect. I would like
to check the best option and make sure im buying correct cables.
1.
Speakers: Mackie MR524
https://www.whybuynew.co.uk/sound-pa/speakers/active/mackie-mr524-studio-monitor.htm
Tracktor Z1
https://www.whybuynew.co.uk/dj-equipment/dj-controllers/native-instruments-traktor-kontrol-z1_1.htm
M-Audio 192/6
https://www.whybuynew.co.uk/studio-equipment/audio-interfaces/usb-audio-interfaces/m-audio-air-192-6.htm
Laptop
A.Back of Speaker : Jack BLCD – M-Audio 192/6 Jack BLCD line Out
B.Native Instruments Line Out RCA – M-Audio Jack BLCD input
C. XLR M M – 3.5mm into headphone output on tablet
2. Speakers – M-Audio 192/6 – Android 11 Samsung tablet S6 lite
Same as A then C.
Is this correct?
I have also got
Speakers Mackie HR824 mk 1.
I need IEC 3 Pin Cables.
I have some cables already:
Stagg Mic mmXLR to XLR
Stagg XLR to 3.5mm headphone https://staggmusic.com/en/products/view/SYC1MPSB2XM-y-cable-mini-jackxlr-mm-1-m-3/
RCA to 3.5mm
RCA to RCA x 2
Hi Stefan
I think your idea of changing to the Focusrite is probably the easiest option for us as the Soundcraft Mixer is way too convoluted.
Thank you very much for your help.
Kim
Having done some more reading. Im still confused.
Speakers: Mackie MR524 – Input XLR Jack and Phono
Speakers: Mackie HR824 MK Rear Ported Hi Res.
Im thinking of using the MR524 for Laptop and Audio Editing as they are more flat response.
Would this work – https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/294225540009?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649
Or How could I get this to work which is what ive got:
Stagg Professional Cable 1 Metre Stereo Mini 3.5mm Jack to Twin Male XLR Lead – Into Laptop 3.5mm
Stagg Cable Male XLR to Female XLR Microphone Mic Lead 3M Balanced Mono SMC3
RCA Male to Male – N.I Z1 Control – Set as Midi Device 24 bit Audio Does RCA to Jack not work better?
HR824 –
CDJ 1000 RCA DJ Mixer – Speakers
With Jack Ins Outs or XRL
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/184882780926?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/203452923405?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649
Would this work – https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/294225540009?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649 for 4?
Im not looking for the software side of mixing. Ive not mixed for over 8 years but Im old school set up and not into all this DAC Laptop Stuff.
Hi Sue,
I recommend using a balanced connection. This means the device you’re connecting the speakers to needs either a pair of XLR or TRS outputs. Since you don’t want to involve a computer in your setup, the Allen & Heath Xone 22 mixer is a good option because it has XLR outputs. The AKAI and M-Audio audio interfaces have balanced outputs too but they won’t work without a computer. As for the NI ZI Control, this device doesn’t have balanced outputs. Using an RCA to jack adapter cable won’t make a differnce, the connection will be unbalanced either way.
Hi Stefan
I forgot to give you a piece of important information. From the Apple website (last sentence) detailed below, says that the Macs don’t require the Soundcraft drivers because the interface uses Applecore drivers.
https://www.soundcraft.com/en/product_documents/soundcraft_signaturemtk_recordingguide-pdf
Also, I wonder as detailed in my reply sent today that the Input and Output one is set to number 14 and 12, well I noticed below in the wording taken from the apple site it is the same below – here:
The Signature 12 MTK features a 14-in/12-out audio interface whilst the larger
22MTK features a 24-in/22-out audio interface.
USB Overview (copied from Apple website above)
The Soundcraft Signature MTK consoles feature a USB class compliant ASIO audio interface that records
multiple channels up to 48khz, 24-bit audio resolution to any DAW.
The USB port is a standard USB 2.0 connection that is compatible with any MAC® or PC as well as an iPad®
(using a Camera Connectivity Kit). The Signature 12 MTK features a 14-in/12-out audio interface whilst the larger
22MTK features a 24-in/22-out audio interface.
For PCs, Soundcraft multichannel USB ASIO/WDM drivers are required (available for download on the Soundcraft
website) and are used to adjust settings such as buffer depth and streaming mode. MAC® computers do not
require these drivers as the Signature MTK USB audio interface uses Apple® Core Audio drivers.
Hope this helps – I’m praying you can help with all this information.
Kim
Hi Stefan
Thank you a million times for replying as I didn’t think anyone would.
Connect the 14 track USB I/O connector (cable) on the mixer to a USB port on the Macbook pro.
● we did this OK
Select the Signature 12 MTK as your main audio device in Garageband
● so this is how we did it – we went into the very top “blue” toolbar of AppleMac Pro, where it says “Audio MIDI Setup; Edit; View; Windows; Help” and chose (went into) “Audio MIDI setup”. Then choose from the drop-down menu “preferences” – What then comes up is a toolbar detailing “General; AudioMIDI; Metronome; Loops; My Info; Advanced”. We clicked on “AudioMIDI” and in the body is “Devices” which details “Output Device” and “Input Device”. It also has “Effect”s which “Enable Audio Units” is ticked. It also has “MIDI” – midi Status: 0 MIDI Inputs detected and underneath it says “Reset MIDI Drivers.
BACK TO DEVICES, where Output and Input resides. Output” is Aggregate Device and “Input” is SoundcraftSignature 12 MTK. We then come out of that and go into “Audio MIDI Setup”. This looks like “Audio Devices at the very top (Title of the box). Then we see:
ON THE LEFT-HAND SIDE
listed going down, MacBook Pro Microphone; MacBook Pro Speakers, Aggregate Device (which created itself) and this also say “14ins/12 outs”; then underneath this is listed Soundcraft Signature 12 and also says “14 ins/12outs” with a USB symbol.
QUESTION: Is it here where we need to change the channel “14ins/12outs” to “11ins/12outs” cos I’m guessing the Ins stand for Input and Outs stand for Output. However, it won’t allow us to change it!
ON THE RIGHT-HAND SIDE
we see “Aggregate Device” and underneath we see “Clock Source: Soundcraft Signature 12MTK (greyed out); then underneath this, we see Sample Rate: 44.1KhZ; then underneath this we see a boxed of area titled “Subdevices”; then under that, we see “Soundcraft Signature 12 MTK”; then under that, we see “Input Channels”, which gives “analogue 1 to analogue 14 – tried changing the analogue to “analogue 11” here; then under that is “Output Channels” and again it gives analogues from 1-14 again have tried changing the analogue here to 12 but it won’t execute any change. Under here is: Use; Audio Device; In; Out; Drift Connection. In the Use column, the box is ticked; in the Audio Device column it shows Soundcraft; in the In (Input) column it has the number “14” and in the Out (Output) column it has the number “12” and in Drift Conneccection there is a box but just left as is (not ticked). MacBook Pro Microphone underneath is not ticked in the Use Column, it’s on In = 1 and Out = 0, and under this is MacBook Pro Speakers and again is not ticked in the Use Column; In = 0 and Out = 2. Under this is “Configure Speakers, which we’ve gone in to test.
I told you we are novices and my son with raw talent that his London teacher back before COVID said he’s talented and don’t even know it. I just got the equipment and haven’t a clue about all the different menu parts. I hope what I’ve provided above can give you an indication of helping to convey by words on how to change it. This does take the skill of knowing how to detail each process and what one should see and go into. As I find explaining things like this easy only cos I’ve had to. But I appreciate you are clearly a skilled and invaluable man Stefan and if we ever get this show off the road as I know his music will be liked as everyone has got excited about it so far, I will be sure to mention the few that took the time to help as you are one of them. I do look forward and pray you have the time and patience to be able to help my son and I and can only at this moment thank you ever so kindly. As I do believe not everyone would reply to the extent and detail that you have which speaks volumes about you as a person and your position and in your job.
Would love to get to this bit below and I feel there’s should be pretty much straightforward as in your explanation.
[In order to listen to music playing in Garageband you need to select an output e.g. output 11-12. You are now sending the music from Garageband to channel 11-12 on the mixer.
Press the MST button on this channel and set the fader halfway (0).
Set the master fader to 0 as well.
If the speakers are connected and turned on, you should now be able to hear the music. You should also be able to hear the music via the headphone output on the mixer…….]
Have kept your instructions for future use to help others.
Thank you
Kim
Hi Kim,
The Signature 12 MTK offers a lot of routing options. Way too many in your case. All these possibilities make things needlessly complicated. All you need in order to record a piano is an audio interface with two, maybe four inputs. e.g. the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8. If the trial period hasn’t passed yet, I recommend returning the Signature 12 MTK mixer and buying an audio interface instead.
I have a pair of Mackie MR 524 Active Monitors.
https://mackie.com/products/mr-series-studio-monitors
I also have a pair of Mackie HR824 Mk 1
https://www.manualslib.com/manual/97201/Mackie-Hr824.html
I require help connecting them to my laptop, tablet (samsung s6 lite Android 11).
I have:
Y Cable XLR to 3.5mm
stagg microphone cable
2 x RCA Cable
I would then like help finding an interface that would allow me to use my native instruments z1 controller as either a midi controller or sound card.
https://www.manualslib.com/manual/97201/Mackie-Hr824.html
Thanks
I have a pair of Mackie MR 524 Active Monitors.
https://mackie.com/products/mr-series-studio-monitors
I also have a pair of Mackie HR824 Mk 1
https://www.manualslib.com/manual/97201/Mackie-Hr824.html
I require help connecting them to my laptop, tablet (samsung s6 lite Android 11).
I have:
Y Cable XLR to 3.5mm
stagg microphone cable
2 x RCA Cable
I would then like help finding an interface that would allow me to use my native instruments z1 controller as either a midi controller or sound card.
https://www.gear4music.com/PA-DJ-and-Lighting/Native-Instruments-Traktor-Kontrol-Z1-20-Lightning-Compatible/RV9?msclkid=f6e93484a07a13437fb4544a8451073d&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=jEngine%20%7C%20Margin%20%7C%20D&utm_term=native%20instruments%20traktor%20kontrol%20z1&utm_content=(36117d1)%20Native%20Instruments%20Traktor%20Kontrol%20Z1%202.0%20Lightning%20Compatible
SOUNDCRAFT SIGNATURE MTK 12 MIXER – HELP ALL THIS EQUIPMENT AND NOT WORKING!!
I brought my son a Soundcraft Signature 12 Multi-track Mixer and would like to use this audio Mixer to plug into his MacBook Pro 2O2O, using Garageband software for making music and recording. Whilst all of his other equipment goes through the Soundcraft Mixer. Please note, I or my son have absolutely no knowledge of this stuff only that my son is talented and plays piano and can improvise on the fly and sing but I had to extensively research for the little knowledge I have and the right equipment which I’m still paying off for.
Equipment:
a} KRK Classic 5 Studio Monitors – how do I plug these through the Soundcraft Mixer and to Speaker. Do I use cables/leads with both ends the same as in XLR cables male to female or is it better to use cable/leads with different ends as in TRS {3 point contact} into KRK monitor and then XLR into Soundcraft Mixer. At the moment, I have the same ends, XLR male to female cable/leads and as I understand it this cable goes into the very top right of the Soundcraft Mixer via the MST L and/or R, if using one or two speakers but for some reason can’t get the KRK monitors to work! We Could hear the song coming out of one {only Used one} but very quietly. the Garageband software created an “Aggregate Device” and assuming it was for the KRK monitors as nothing no other equipment was plugged in – learnt this from Apple site although still part fashion of course as still learning. However, we noticed in Garageband via the “preferences” it says the “reset Mide driver”. When we clicked on this it appeared as though something happened after a period of time but the message still remains the same. Do you think that MacBook Pro needs KRK Monitor drivers updated? Need guidance here if anyone could help please.
b} Ashton Spirit Microphone Condenser with pop filters- all I know is that the microphone goes into one of the microphone slots at the very top and click on the Phantom Power 58v. How to get it to sound, I don’t know and I’m guessing we need to create another Aggregate Device for this as well, which I’m hoping will automatically create itself – praying.
c} Arturia Keylab 88 Keyboard – Do I plug one end cable into MacBook Pro 2O2O and other end into Arturia Keyboard using a printer cable/usb C tO USB B. then create another Aggregate Device for this? Hoping it’s automatic! But I’m worried that I’m going to have a spaghetti junction of cables because I was also told to get a powered HUB which I did and don’t know if it’s the right one RSHTECH on Amazon for £26. Or how do I use it With the Soundcraft Mixer or Macbook Pro with all the various cables. Someone said it would allow the Macbook Pro to concentrate on data whilst the powered hub deals with the power. Is this right and how do I configure it among all the cables please?
d} BeyerDynamic DT88O Headphones – which I can see has its own slot and I’m thinking another Aggregate Device needs to be created for this also as would know how to do this as no intuitive tutorials anywhere.
So I’m wondering if anyone is brave enough and of the authority knowledge in helping setting up this studio to help unravel connecting all this equipment through the Soundcraft Mixer and the Soundcraft Mixer to the Macbook Pro using GarageBand software and factoring the powered hub into this. My poor son is doomed otherwise as I’ve searched the web and literally nothing or it’s always using the Focusrite and equipment is guitar or mic or for some podcast. Why has no one done something like this? Please Mr Expert, we really need your expertise. Praying and awaiting a reply as a difficult taskmaster for most to take on probably.
Hi Kim,
Configuring the mixer:
The key problem is the configuration of the mixer.
Please make sure you have downloaded and installed the latest Multichannel USB Audio Driver. You can download the driver from the Soundcraft website.
Connect the 14 track usb I/O connector on the mixer to a usb port on the Macbook pro.
Select the Signature 12 MTK as you main audio device in Garageband
In order to listen to music playing in Garageband you need to select an output e.g. output 11-12. You are now sending the music from Garageband to channel 11-12 on the mixer.
Press the MST button on this channel and set the fader halfway (0).
Set the master fader to 0 as well.
If the speakers are connected and turned on, you should now be able to hear the music. You should also be able to hear the music via the headphone output on the mixer.
Warning! Mind your ears. Before you press play, turn down the master fader and the headphone output. Once the music is playing, slowly turn up the volume.
Connecting a microphone:
Before you connect the microphone, please turn off phantom power, turn the ‘gain’ knob all the way to the left and pull the fader all the way down.
Connect the microphone with an xlr-xlr cable.
Turn on phantom power.
Turn on the PFL button on the channel you have connecter the microphone to.
Have someone tell some terrible jokes while you turn up the ‘gain’ until you see the level meter go into the yellow bit.
Turn off the PFL button you pressed earlier
Make a new channel in Garageband and select the input that corresponds with the mixer channel you have connected the microphone to.
You can use two XLR-XLR cables to connect The KRK monitors to the master outputs of the mixer. Monitors, headphones and microphones don’t require drivers or aggregate devices.
Midi keyboard:
The Arturia Keylab 88 is a midi keyboard, it has no sounds of its own. Once you have connected is to the Macbook, you can make a new instrument track in Garageband, choose an instrument and control these sounds with the keyboard.
Hello,
totally noob here so please forgive me. I have just received studio monitors which have their own amp. Currently I use Rega turntable with Onkyo 9110 amp and passive speakers. Is there any way to connect these new active speakers so they could play music? As I understand, i have to buy XRL to RCA cable, connect those to line out on Onkyo. Bu tis there any way to connect in the way so they would be balanced (better sound quality I guess)? Or should there be some sort of external sound card in between them?
You can connect your monitors directly to your Onkyo amplifier using RCA to XLR cables. A possible downside to this could be the lack of volume control. I can’t tell if the volume knob on your Onkyo amp also affects the line out. If this is not the case you won’t be able to turn the music up or down.
I recommend using a small mixer like the Devine MixPad 502. The mixer has balanced outputs which you can connect to the speakers using TRS to XLR cables.
Hi!
I’ve recently purchased a vintage turntable as well as the RP7 G4’s.
The turntable does not have a built-in preamp, so i’ve already purchased an external one (Behringer MicroPhono 400).
However I would also like to connect a regular 3,5mm for the odd mixing/producing from my laptop (or is there a better way to do this?) and a bluetooth receiver for general use/parties.
I’ve been looking at this mixer: Devine MixPad 502 professionele 5-Channel mixer.
However i’m wondering if this is the best option, and would my setup then be as listed below?
Turn Table > Preamp > Mixer > RP7’s
Laptop > (Audio interface?) > Mixer > RP7’s
Bluetooth receiver > Mixer > RP7’s
Thank you!
Hi Bas,
FYI: If you wish to converse about this topic in Dutch, there is always the Dutch blog page about this topic: https://www.bax-shop.nl/blog/studio-recording/studiomonitors-aansluiten/
I think that an analogue mixing desk is a fine solution to connect multiple sources to your RP7’s.
The headphone output on your laptop would most likely be just fine when connected to a line input of a mixing desk, just be aware that most headphone outputs are of a lower sound level, which means the sound the mixer receives would be just a bit quieter than it expects.
It seems that the MixPad 502 would have enough inputs for the entire operation. You’ll probably need some adapter cables to connect all the devices!
I would like to use my Rokit RP7 G4 monitors to listen to to my turntables (which has a preamp, and rca cables) and my computer/phone. I think I may need a mixer or audio interface so that I dont have to keep changing cables, and to easily adjust the volume, but am not sure whether these are necessary and I do not intend to record or mix music. Are you able to recommend what I should use? Thank you
Hi Will,
I would recommend using a simple mixer like the MixPad 502, with a mini jack adapter cable for your smartphone and/or computer.
You could connect your turntable with an adapter plug like the ADA152 to the main Line In channel.
If you have more turntables than one, you’ll need a slightly bigger mixer like the MixPad 602.
You can use regular TRS cables to connect the Main Outputs of these mixers to your Rokit RP7 G7 monitors.
Hi,
I am planning to attach 2x KRK Rokit active speakers to my DJ Controller (DDJ-400). RCA to TLS/XLR I believe.
However, I would also like to be able to attach them to my PC for day-to-day music (Spotify/etc/) when not using the controller. It would also be nice to add a Bluetooth audio source.
Is there a simple mixer/switch combination that would allow me to cable it all up and switch easily between the controller and the PC (and a bluetooth device) as audio sources?
Thanks,
Joe
A mixer will enable you to send audio to your KRK monitors from you computer and from your DDJ-400. I recommend the Devine MixPad 602-FX-USB. By connecting a separate Bluetooth receiver like the Nedis BTTC100BK to this mixer you can also play music from your phone. You might need some RCA to Jack adapters to connect your DDJ-400 and the Bluetooth receiver to the mixer.
@Ben
Well, one thing that an audio interface will solve is this struggle with Y-cables. These typical coupled RCA-cables are meant for hi-fi, certainly not for studio monitors, even though the signal will get through.
How about something like this:
https://www.bax-shop.co.uk/jack-jack-adapter-plugs-cables/devine-ve2215-trs-mini-jack-to-2x-female-trs-jack-cable-1m
This converts your Mac-output to two 6.3 mm jack females, with that you can use any 6.3 mm jack cable to connect your KRK’s. Like these:
https://www.bax-shop.co.uk/products/search?q=jacm
Keep in mind however that your signal will be unbalanced (meaning potentially more interference), and all these cables don’t improve on that. A good audio interface has balanced outputs, meaning you get the best signal flow from interface to monitors, using balanced cables.
Got 2 questions:
1) I have to KRK rokit 8 monitors and want to connect them to my mac without having to purchase an audio interface if i can. I am curently using a split RCA Y to 3.5m cable however the Y is too short and so the montiors are tooclose together. Do you know of any cables with 1-2m split?
2) would it be better to use a TRS split cable to 3.5m if so could you show me the right cable as would like my speakers to be about 1.5m apart if possible.
Thanks
Hello, I have two Devine studio monitors and right now I am using a 2x xlr to 3,5mm jack. However I can only plug the jack in my monitor, and still then it’s very sensitive and white noise very quickly comes out of monitors if I slightly touch the cable. When trying to put the 3.5mm jack into my pc, it really doesn’t work. I have to put it in at an angle and hold it in a specific way for there to be any output. What do you guys suggest as a work-around for this problem? When holding it the right way in my pc I have the idea that sound quality and volume is drastically improved, but since I have to hold it like that it doesn’t work. For now, I would like to not have to buy an audio interface, so if there’s another possibilty, I would love to hear it! Thanks in advance!
It sounds like either the output of your laptop or the cable is damaged. You could try a different cable but I’m afraid the the only proper way to connect your monitors to you laptop is through an audio interface. This doesn’t have to be very expensive. A Devine Centro 2i2o gives you two balanced outputs which makes it a perfect match for your Devine studio monitors.
Hi, further to all the above, please could you recommend the best way to connect a pair of Yamaha MSP3 monitor speakers to a PreSonus Audiobox USB96 audio interface. The kit is to used in conjunction with a Laptop and DAW. Is it possible to get stereo output?
Kind regards
Jeremy
You can connect the TRS outputs of the AudioBox USB96 to the XLR inputs of your MSP3 monitors using two TRS to XLR cables. This setup will indeed give you glorious stereo sound.
Hi guys! I want to buy a single Adam studio monitor: https://www.bax-shop.co.uk/studio-monitor/adam-t7v-active-studio-monitor-single-unit, could you tell me what cable I need in order to connect it to my laptop? Please share the link so I can add it to the basket.
Thanks
You can connect the Adam T7v to your computer using an RCA to mini jack cable. Since you only have one speaker you only use one of the RCA plugs. Please note that you will only hear one side of the stereo image. You can avoid this by setting your audio preferences to mono.
if i buy these 2 products will i be albe to plug everything into to my pc or is there anything else i need to buy? (https://www.amazon.co.uk/PreSonus-3-5-inch-High-Definition-Active-Monitors/dp/B075QVMBT9/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=sl1&tag=10bes-21&linkId=6ea5d06b3e045f6cd11a67978bc36fba&language=en_GB)
(https://www.amazon.co.uk/Focusrite-Scarlett-Solo-Audio-Interface/dp/B07QR6Z1JB/ref=bmx_1/259-9002645-8170548?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B07QR6Z1JB&pd_rd_r=630672f1-335a-4b36-8e78-635fce6d8f11&pd_rd_w=2seJo&pd_rd_wg=ks82b&pf_rd_p=1c67f0c1-d460-4c49-88d7-d8384dea5f37&pf_rd_r=994R3SNNV01FK9BDTA04&psc=1&refRID=994R3SNNV01FK9BDTA04)
Yes, this should work. You can connect the Focusrite Scarlett Solo to you computer. The next step is to connect the Eris studio monitors to the outputs of the Scarlett solo. You need two jack cables for that.
Could you help me decide what is the best way to connect a pair of yamaha hs8 to a pioneer plx 500?
Hi,
The easiest way to connect the PLX 500 to your HS 8 speakers is by using two RCA to jack adapters and set the output level of the PLX 500 to ‘line’. This is not a very elegant solution since you probably also need adapters to extend the cable and you won’t be able to adjust the volume. I recommend using a mixer instead. The Omnitronic PM-322P for instance. You can connect your PLX 500 directly to one of the RCA line inputs and use proper balanced XLR cables to connect the mixer to the speakers.
Hello I have a DDJ 400 and want to connect a pair of KRK Rokit G4’s up to them, which cables do I need to do this? Or do I need an interface as I’m looking at getting into production too.
TIA
Hi,
The DDJ 400 has a built in audio interface. You can connect the speakers straight to the outpouts with a cable like this. Gently separate the two cables until you have enough length to reach both speakers.
Marnix | Bax Music
@Salvatore Dellepiane
If you mention the 4i4, does that mean that the 4i4 is actually part of the signal chain?
If not, a cable like this would do, which connects the mixer to the monitors:
https://www.bax-shop.co.uk/jack-rca-adapter-plugs-cables/devine-va3013-2x-male-jack-2x-male-rca-cable-3m
Two disadvantages though;
– you should obviously fork/pull the TRS-side apart as your speakers are probably at least a meter apart from eachother
– the cable is not balanced, although with short cables this is mostly an audiophile arguement.
If you’d be able to use the 4i4 in the signal chain, best would be to route the mixer’s output to the 4i4’s input (at the front or in the back), then route the 4i4’s output to the HS8 monitors using two balanced TRS-cables. To route the mixer’s output to the 4i4’s input, use the cable mentioned above. To route the 4i4’s output to the monitors, use 2x: https://www.bax-shop.co.uk/jack-cables/procab-cla610-classic-jack-jack-cable-3m
Do note, that all the lengths are estimations for typical use, you pick the length that suits your situation. Make sure, for optimal quality, that the jack plugs between 4i4-outputs and the monitors feature two black rings.
Hi, I have a pair of Yamaha HS8 monitors, I want to connect them to my Behringer VMX200 usb mixer (I’ll connect my two turntables to the mixer), but the mixer only have rca’s out for an amplifier. How can I connect the two monitors directly to the mixer? I also have an Focusrite 414 interface
I have 2 yamaha hs5’s and a desktop. I try and plug in the headphone jack from a 1/4” live wire to headphone jack cable into my keyboard where my headphones were plugged in, and it doesn’t work. I try to plug the headphone jack into the computer where the parts are itself, still doesn’t work, but when i plug into my macbook, it works. I need to plug it into my desktop
Hi,
If I understand correctly you want to connect your HS5 speakers to your desktop computer. You can do this by connecting the 1/4 inch line/headphone out to the inputs of your HS5 speakers using a 3.5 mm TRS to 2 x 6.3 mm TS cable
Hi,
I came across this thread when looking for an answer to my problem, hopefully you can help as you seem to have helped many before me!
I want to connect my Yamaha HS8’s to my pioneer plx500 turntable (no mixer). The RCA’s on the turntable are wired in to the chassis and the hs8 are trs and xlr only. Is there a way around this?
Many thanks
Hi Will,
this can be easily fixed by using this adapter (twice of course). That way you can hook up your HS8’s without a problem. Just connect the adapters, and put one jack in each speaker.
Make sure you set the switch on the back of the turntable to ‘line’.
Kind regards,
Brian | Bax Music
Great information, helpful for me.
Hi, I’d like to know whether playing Piano VSTs like Native Instruments – Grandeur, Gentleman etc will sound better in a Studio Monitor rather than on a multimedia speaker. I’ve got that doubt since a very long time and couldn’t get over it. Since the MM speakers sound so unnatural and gloomy with a lot of base and mid.
Will the studio monitors do it better straightly without tweaking any knobs on the plugin?
Hi Paul,
First of all, if you simply buy better (probably more expensive) speakers, you will get better sound quality.
The question is then whether you want to buy studio monitors or simpy better multimedia/hifi-speakers. In your case I would recommend studio monitors, because these are built to sound as neutral as possible. In that way you’re getting the sound the way the plugin-makers intended it to sound, and it will also guarantee more reliable mixing results (assuming that that’s something you also do).
Marnix | Bax Music
I have a pair of KRK Rokit 10″ g4’s and a buddy is selling a pair of KRK Rokit 8″ g4’s….can i use them as a quad…one of each a side?…How would i do that?
thanks in advance..
Hi Ray,
First of all, you need an audio interface with four discrete outputs (outputs that can be assigned individually). Next, you need software that can access these four outputs. In most DAWs you can choose between different output configurations. They’re always set to stereo by default but most DAWs also offer various surround configurations. Once you’ve set your DAW to quadrophonic the pan knobs on all the channels will change from a simple L-R panner to a L-R-Ls-Rs panner, allowing you to place the sound source anywhere in the soundfield.
A noob query.
I have a monitor pair, audio interface, electronic keyboard, and work on macbook. My cheap keyboard speakers suck, I want to play VST piano through macbook. Monitors are connected to the interface. So for playing vst piano, should my keyboard midi input go to mac directly or to the interface?
(I have doubt that if I give keyboard input to interface, it will play sounds which are there on my keyboard on monitors, and not VST plugin)
Hi,
As long as the connection is MIDI, it doesn’t matter how it’s connected. If your interface has a MIDI input, then the MIDI will go through the interface to your Mac. If it doesn’t, you can use a simple MIDI interface to connect your keyboard directly to the Mac. But the result will be the same: your computer receives the MIDI data which can then be used to control your VST’s.
Marnix | Bax Music
Hi, I have a Xenyx802 Mixer (with several synths connected), Rubix24 Audio Interface, Yamaha HS7 Monitors and iMac. Is there a possible way to connect all of this so as to home record and jam or play about with synths simultaneously, with the computer on or off to jam etc? I’m just not sure where to plug the monitors interface/mixer? And mixer to interface inputs? Thanks
Hi Craig,
Three options:
1. Without a computer. Simply connect your monitors to the mixer’s main outputs. Of course, recording will not be possible then.
2. With the computer *always on* and DAW software open. Main outputs of the mixer go the inputs of the interface. Connect your monitors to the interface. Then both jamming and recording is possible.
Or:
3. You could buy a monitor controller that supports multiple sounds sources. In this way you can easily switch between the two sources (computer and mixer). Then the computers doesn’t need to be turned on when you just want to use your synths.
Marnix | Bax Music
Hey,
I’m looking to connect a set of ADAM T7V’s to my Mac without an audio interface – is there any particular 3.5 mm to 2X XLR cable’s you would recommend to do this? Cheers.
Hi,
A budget cable will be fine for this situation. You can use this cable.
Marnix | Bax Music
Im very sorry the website dont let me reply
but to connect the boxes I bought 1x https://www.amazon.de/dp/B07H2VNB2D/ref=cm_sw_r_wa_apa_i_a.OZEb2ABFZFB and 2x https://www.amazon.de/dp/B016D50A1Y/ref=cm_sw_r_wa_apa_i_c-OZEbBK7CKBE
( I hope its ok when I send the links)
Hi,
Well, it should work fine if you connect the speakers with the XLR’s to 3.5 jack to your headphones-output. Make sure all the volumes are set correctly (on the speakers, on your laptop). Your computer won’t recognize speakers or anything, it should just output the sound like it would with a pair of headphones.
Marnix | Bax Music
Hey,
I have bought 2 JBL 305p mkii and also all the cables you need but I still cant use them my pc does not show, that the boxes are conneceted
Hi Henry,
Can you tell me exactly how you connected the speakers?
Marnix | Bax Music
hello, i want to connect Yamaha HS5 PAIR 5-inch Powered Studio Monitor Pair with my windows 10 laptop without audio interface. Is it possible? Would it effect my mixing if i don’t use audio interface?
Hi Liam,
Yes, it’s certainly possible. Just use this cable.
An audio interface usually sounds noticeably better, but that is just to your ears. The mixing is happening entirely on the inside of your computer, so an audio interface does not influence the sound of the mix. However, the better sound of the interface does allow for more critical (and more comfortable) mixing.
Marnix | Bax Music
I am looking into purchasing the PreSonus Eris 3.5 and I would like to connect that to my Macbook Air without an audio interface. I don’t think the monitors have XLR connections, so which cables should I use instead? Thank you!
Hi,
You can use this cable!
Marnix | Bax Music
I have normal pa system with a monitor (active) speaker but as I want to go live on fb etc. Is there a way to use what comes out the speaker directly to the laptop so you got the full sound on the laptop as the mic get’s all other sounds as well.. XLR to USB? Might that work?
Hi Kristof,
Apologies for the late reply. Do you use a mixer? It probably has a tape rec output. You can use that to send the mix to your laptop. You’ll need an audio interface with two channels.
Marnix | Bax Music