Buyer’s Guide: Genelec Studio Monitors

Genelec "The Ones" Series studio monitors.

With a wide range of distinctly shaped speakers powered by groundbreaking software, Genelec is behind some of the most recognizable, celebrated, and trusted products in the audio world.

From compact monitors to Smart Active Monitoring systems, you can expect the same level of quality and reliability across Genelec’s product line. But with so many options to choose from, each with its own strengths, it can be difficult to know which pair is right for your studio.

In this buyer’s guide, we’ll summarize all of Genelec's products to help you find the perfect solution.

History of Genelec

Genelec started with a commission job back in 1976. The Finnish Broadcasting Corporation’s new Helsinki headquarters required active studio monitors, so engineers Ilpo Martikainen and Topi Partanen designed a prototype in about two weeks.

Genelec opened for business two years later, with that original speaker design reworked into the flagship S30 speaker. With features like an advanced amplifier topology, robust driver protection circuits, and a proprietary ribbon tweeter, the S30 showed Genelec’s commitment to pushing the industry forward from the very start.

Today, Genelec remains as forward-thinking as ever. Their studio monitors, installed speakers, and home audio speakers are packed with features like unconventionally shaped Minimum Diffraction Coaxial drivers, Acoustically Concealed Woofers, and slightly sloped Directivity Control Waveguides. All of this technology serves the explicit purpose of giving the listeners the best possible audio experience for mixing, mastering, and even casual listening.

The innovation doesn’t stop at the hardware, either. Software like Genelec Loudspeaker Manager (GLM), Smart Active Monitoring (SAM), and Aural ID allow users to extensively personalize their speaker and headphone setups using automatic room calibration, subwoofer setup, monitor control, and more. Over four decades on, Genelec continues to lead the audio technology industry with unique designs, ambitious features, and a true passion for the craft.

Now that you know the history of Genelec, let's take a closer look at all of the products the storied monitor brand has to offer.

Active Monitors and Subwoofers

8000 Series

Genelec's 8000 Series studio monitors utilize an active 2-way design to deliver truthful, uncolored sound that's perfect for home or commercial studios.

Genelec 8010A studio monitor.

8010A

These compact monitors are designed to deliver accurate sound and high SPL in the studio, at home, or on the go. The 8010A utilizes Genelec Intelligent Signal Sensing (ISS) circuitry to automatically switch to a power-saving mode when not in use, making it an ideal travel companion for any artist or producer.

Genelec 8020D studio monitor.

8020D

The 8020D sports better accuracy and higher SPL than previous iterations, so it’s particularly great for near-field monitoring or small spaces. Available in Producer Gray and White.

Genelec 8030C studio monitor.

8030C

As a consistent best-seller at Vintage King, the 8030C is right in the sweet spot between large, high-performance studio monitors and compact desktop monitors. It's loaded with features like the high-precision Directivity Control Waveguide (DCW) but sports a footprint that works for professional studios and home setups alike. Available in Producer Gray and White.

Genelec 8040B studio monitor.

8040B

A common go-to for both recording and post-production, the 8040B is a small but mighty monitor known for its versatility and transparent output. Available in Producer Gray and White.

Genelec 8050B studio monitor.

8050B

The Genelec 8050B is a premium studio monitor known for its outstanding SPL output, expansive dynamic range, and transparent performance. Suited for large studios, mastering suites, and broadcasting hubs, the speaker comes stock with advanced technologies like Directivity Control Waveguide and Intelligent Signal Sensing circuitry for eco-friendly power-saving standby mode. Available in Producer Gray and White.

7000 Series Subs

Tailor-made to complement Genelec's 8000 Series studio monitors, the brand's 7000 Series Subs deliver tight, controlled LF extension with extremely low distortion.

7050C

The 7050C is the third version of the already great 7050 model, sporting an increased maximum SPL of 103 dB, lower distortion at high volumes, and a bypassable onboard bass management system. It’s a great choice of sub for any speaker system but works particularly well with Genelec 8010, 8020, 8030, and M030 models.

Genelec 7040A subwoofer.

7040A

Equipped with Genelec's Laminar Spiral Enclosure (LSE) technology for tighter articulation and clearer bass response, the 7040A is designed specifically to bring impactful bass response to smaller spaces. It’s a great match with other compact speakers like the 8010 and 8020 models.

Smart Active Monitoring (SAM) Speakers

No matter how much you’ve acoustically treated your studio space, there’s a chance that the room will still impact your monitor sound. Anything from an open doorway to an off-center rug will have a subtle but significant impact on how well your mixes translate in other spaces.

Genelec’s Smart Active Monitoring (SAM) technology is here to fix that. The SAM-equipped monitors and subs will measure your room’s specific acoustic profile and adjust accordingly to give you the most transparent, uncolored sound possible. This tech sets these speakers apart from the competition in a pretty big way.

Three-Way Compact Studio Monitors (aka The Ones)

Billed as "the world’s most compact three-way studio monitors," Genelec's The Ones offer extraordinary imaging, extended frequency response, and controlled directivity.

Genelec 8331A studio monitor.

8331A

The Ones are impressively compact three-way monitors, and the 8331A is the smallest of the bunch. It not only offers vivid sonic imaging and an extended frequency response, but the SAM technology also reduces sound fatigue so you can keep working at your best for longer stretches. Available in Producer Gray, White, Mystic Black, and Raw.

Genelec 8341A studio monitor.

8341A

These speakers sport all of the same features and benefits as the 8331A but with more output and headroom (mind your listening levels, though!). Available in Producer Gray, Mystic Black, White, and Raw.

Genelec 8351B studio monitor.

8351B

The 8351B is only slightly larger than the 8341A but sports a higher maximum SPL for longer listening distances and lower frequency response. Available in Producer Gray, Mystic Black, and White.

Genelec 8361A studio monitor.

8361A

The biggest (but still compact) monitor in The Ones series, the 8361A is one of Genelec’s flagship models. With an output distance of up to five meters, an SPL of 118 dB, and an extended frequency response of up to 40 kHz, the 8361A is one of the most advanced and reliable three-way monitors on the market. Available in Producer Gray and Mystic Black.

SAM Main Monitors

Designed to tackle even the most demanding sessions, Genelec's Main Monitors deliver precision reference performance even at high SPLs and long listening distances.

Genelec 8381A studio monitor.

8381A

The Genelec 8381A provides creators with true-to-life sound, dynamic flexibility, and precise room adaptation via the Genelec Loudspeaker Manager (GLM) software for optimal performance in any environment. As with the rest of this series, the 8381A also supports Immersive Audio setups for engineers working on film audio, video games, or mixing in programs like Dolby Atmos.

Genelec S360 studio monitor.

S360

The S360 may be one of the more compact main monitors, but it easily holds its own even in large spaces and delivers the coverage and clarity needed for critical listening and post-production.

Genelec 1238A studio monitor.

1238A

On the flip side of the S360, the 1238A is the largest monitor of this series, delivering massive output and SPL in the process. Building on the design and technology of the highly regarded Genelec 1038, the 1238A has the added benefit of SAM and GLM to be the ultimate monitoring solution for any studio.

Genelec 1238ACPM studio monitor.

1238ACPM

This center channel speaker is designed with the same features and care as the 1238A, making the two a match made in monitoring heaven.

Genelec 1238DFM studio monitor.

1238DFM

Designed for use with a subwoofer, the 1238DF delivers complete and vivid sonic imagery and SAM technology to rooms with limited space.

Genelec 1237APM studio monitor.

1237APM

The 1237APM is based on the successful 1037A but with the added benefit of GLM and SAM technology. The result is a monitor setup that will reveal the smallest details of your mix, and ensure that those mixes will sound their best in any setting.

Genelec 1234ACM studio monitor.

1234ACM

This tri-amplified monitor has the range, on and off-axis imaging, and clarity you need for mixing, mastering, and even video post-production.

Genelec 1234A studio monitor.

1234A (previously 1034B)

This version of the 1234 monitor is ideal to use alongside hi-res video screens or panels thanks to its vertical form factor.

Genelec 1235A studio monitor.

1235A

The successor to the beloved Genelec 1035, the 1234A combines high SPL and clarity with cutting-edge SAM imaging.

Genelec 1236AM studio monitor.

1236AM

The flagship of the entire Genelec range, the 1236A is the pinnacle of acoustic engineering, audio technology, and pure creativity. With dual 18-inch woofers, dual-5-inch midrange drivers, and a 1-inch compression tweeter, this monitor’s incredible clarity and coverage are perfected by SAM technology.

Smart Active 2-Way Monitors

Genelec's Smart Active studio monitors combine the brand's best-selling speaker designs with cutting-edge GLM calibration software to create a reference monitoring system that is optimised for any acoustic environment.

8320A

With a compact design and SAM technology on board, the 8320A will literally be the perfect speakers for your space, whether that be in the studio, in your room, or on the road. Better yet, it's a fantastic entry point for those curious about SAM without costing an arm and leg. Available in PRoducer Gray and White.

8330A

The 8330A features a 5-inch woofer and 3/4-inch tweeter, bringing SAM technology and reliable sound to smaller studio setups. Available in Producer Gray, White, and Raw.

8340A

This Class D bi-amplified monitor sits at the bullseye between acoustic prowess and technological innovation. The 8340’s Minimum Diffraction Enclosure (MDE) combined with SAM technology ensures that your signal is perfectly uncolored and transparent in any room. Available in Producer Gray and White.

8350A

The biggest of the compact SAM monitors, the 8350A offers all of the previous features in a size that suits both home and professional studios. Available in Producer Gray and White.

1032C

This high-SPL nearfield monitor combines all of the acoustic qualities and soffit-mountable design of the Genelec 1000 series with the latest Genelec innovations, including SAM, Directivity Control Waveguide (DCW) technology, and more.

Smart Active Subs and Woofer Systems

Designed to complement the brand's Smart Active 2-Way Studio Monitors, Genelec's Smart Active subs intelligently adapt to your room to provide clean, controlled LF reproduction that integrates seamlessly with your main monitors.

Genelec W371A subwoofer.

W371A

When combined with the 8341, 8351, or 8361 monitors, this sub creates an optimal monitor setup with impactful low end and SAM-powered clarity—all while taking up minimal space.

7350A

Designed for the 8320A and 8330A monitors, the 8-inch 7350A utilizes Laminar Spiral Enclosure (LSE) technology for clean, articulated low end in a compact package.

7360A

With a 300 W Class D amplifier and a maximum SPL of 109 dB, this 10-inch sub adds plenty of punch and dynamics to any of the SAM monitors.

7370A

This 12-inch speaker packs even more output and SPL than the smaller speakers, but the LSE and SAM technology ensure that the lower register is impactful but never muddled.

7380A

The 15-inch 7380A offers the same clarity and adaptability as the previously mentioned subs, but it also comes with Standalone Mode for seamless use with non-SAM monitors.

7382A

This behemoth is basically three 7380A subs in one unit, easily making it Genelec’s most powerful subwoofer to date. If you have the space, then it’s a great choice for mixing, mastering, film production, and anything else that requires the absolute best low-end money can buy.

Accessories

GLM 2.0 SAM LOUDSPEAKER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

Every SAM system is made possible by Genelec Loudspeaker Manager (GLM), and this easy-to-use add-on helps you get the most out of your smart setup. Made for Windows or Mac, this handy system lets you control and manage up to 30 Smart speakers for simple setups, full immersive audio spaces, and everything in between—all from one computer screen.

9320A SAM REFERENCE CONTROLLER

For the hardware lovers out there, the 9320A is a simple but versatile reference controller made specifically for smart monitoring and immersive audio systems.

Genelec UNIO PRM Personal Reference Monitoring System

Genelec's Personal Reference Monitoring (PRM) is an active reference monitoring solution that combines the brand's best-selling 9320A SAM Reference Controller with 8550A Professional Reference Headphones. The 8550A headphones are electronically matched and optimized within the 9320A controller, resulting in unparalleled precision.

9301B

This digital I/O unit is made to easily add 16 high-quality channels to your rig and incorporate 7300 Series Smart Active Subwoofers into your immersive audio system.

If you’re interested in purchasing Genelec studio monitors, contact a Vintage King Audio Consultant via email or by phone at 866.644.0160.

Products in this Article

Genelec 8040B 2-Way Active Studio Monitor - Producer Gray, Single

$ 1,175 .00

Buyer's Guide: Genelec Studio Monitors