Reddit mentions of Mackie Studio Monitor, Black w/green trim, 3-inch (CR3)

these mackies are at your limit but they're gorgeous, I use the CR4's(same thing slightly larger) Good balance and clarity, and surprisingly good bass, though you won't get the pounding bass a sub will provide. I feel like that is not a big deal, I get plenty off these speakers for enjoyable movie, gaming and music.

One of my favorite features, they're reversible, you can set them up in either orientation both speakers can serve as a left or right speaker via a small switch on the back.

Yeah. Good enough. Way better mix than my previous 2.1 system. It's this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KVEIY4E/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I have these $99 Mackies. Definitely not a pro-quality studio monitor, but they're cheap, loud, and work great as both my synth & CPU speakers.

Mackie CR3 fit your budget

Mackie CR3 Studio Monitors $80@ amazon

Mackie Studio Monitor, Black w/Green Trim, 3-inch (CR3)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_VhS-BbG65VV1M

If you want a quality table from Best Buy and are willing to upgrade around it as you go, you can grab the AT LP120 for about $250 and get a set of powered speakers (which would eliminate the immediate need for a receiver). These go on sale periodically, so you could get them for cheaper. To add in the CD player you'll either have to be ok with changing your cabling when you want to switch to the CD player or get a receiver.

How about some active monitors, like these?
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00KVEIY4E/ref=s9_top_hm_boFF1_g267_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=mobile-hybrid-11&pf_rd_r=0Z63887HV9MHZ3MC7ZVB&pf_rd_t=30901&pf_rd_p=a4302e38-8758-5d24-8f61-af0db9a23423&pf_rd_i=11974991

Here! Mackie CR series

Micca PB42X

https://www.amazon.com/Micca-PB42X-Powered-Bookshelf-Speakers/dp/B00NXAEPDC

Edifier 1010

https://www.amazon.com/Edifier-R1010BT-Bluetooth-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B071YV97LK

Mackie CR3, CR4

https://www.amazon.com/Mackie-Studio-Monitor-3-inch-CR3/dp/B00KVEIY4E

https://www.amazon.com/Mackie-Reference-Multimedia-CR4-Pair/dp/B00KVEIY4O

Or Spend some Coin n get Kanto - Quality, built in DAC, amp, sub out

https://www.amazon.com/Kanto-Powered-Speakers-Bluetooth-Preamp/dp/B01N1ZTJJK

I just bought these from Amazon, but don't have them at my place yet so I can't give a full review, but they are the top seller on Amazon and seem to fit what you're looking for.

http://amzn.com/B00KVEIY4E

Here:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KVEIY4E/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Hello! I have a noob question for my setup that probably isn't relevant enough to warrant its own post but it might be simple enough that you could answer real quick.

I just bought these studio monitors:
https://www.amazon.com/Mackie-CR-CR3-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B00KVEIY4E and have the top left L and R inputs connected to my Scarlett 2i4 audio interface (https://www.amazon.com/Focusrite-Scarlett-2i4-USB-Interface/dp/B009B15N0Q) in the balanced inputs 1 and 2 on the back right with TRS cables, but now I don't know what to do to actually be able to get my computer to "recognize" them and use them in my DAW or otherwise be able to control them through my audio interface. The monitors themselves work fine because I can still use them with the auxiliary cable plugged directly into my laptop, but that is a temporary fix because then I can't use my audio interface to control them. No idea what to do and I feel so dumb!

Any help would be huge. I'm using a PC with Windows 10 and my DAW is Reason 10 if that helps at all. Thanks!

Given your budget and space available I have a suggestion and it isn't surround sound. Reason being is that doing it well is expensive and doing it cheap just makes it inferior to a well setup system with fewer speakers.

https://www.amazon.com/Mackie-CR-CR3-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B00KVEIY4E

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0063NU3AA

Small studio monitors + a dedicated 10" subwoofer. Good amounts of detail, a night and day difference vs what you have now. You will need a 3.5mm output, split into RCA lines. You will then need to split said RCA lines and run one set to the subwoofer and another to the studio monitors.

https://www.amazon.com/Hosa-CMR-206-Stereo-Breakout-Cable/dp/B000068O33

https://www.amazon.com/CableWholesales-Audio-Piggyback-Cable-Female/dp/B000I98ZE6

What's your budget? If you've got Amazon, the Amazon Basics speakers will do for a pinch. https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Powered-Computer-Speakers-A100/dp/B00GHY5F3K/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1480363997&sr=8-2&keywords=amazonbasics+speaker If your budget is a little higher, I'd suggest these. The sound is meant to be true to what you're working with, so what you're putting out in audio is what you'll hear. https://www.amazon.com/Mackie-CR-CR3-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1480363965&sr=8-3&keywords=studio+monitors

5" Swans D1010-iv for $139 would be near the top of my list. Nicer fit and finish than the Miccas, more grown up looking than the Mackie's and basically everything Edifier makes is just a Swans clone anyway.

Not OP, but I think they are the Mackie CR Series CR3 - 3" Creative Reference Multimedia Monitors (Pair) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_h.C0xbPGBPA5P.

What about these?
https://www.amazon.com/Mackie-CR3-Creative-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B00KVEIY4E

80Hz low freq cut off so probably not awesome, but that fits with the $100 budget.

https://www.amazon.com/Mackie-Studio-Monitor-3-inch-CR3/dp/B00KVEIY4E

I use the Mackie Studio Montier 3 inch. Perfect compact size with a great range for sound

In my opinion, I'd go with an audio interface and then monitors. Which is basically what you posted. However, that one would be tricky.

The first thing you did wrong was not post a price range for your project so I'm going to just give you the setup I have.

You're looking for a USB Audio Interface. The one you posted is an audio interface but not a digital one. Here is what I have:
https://www.amazon.com/Focusrite-2i2-USB-Recording-Interface/dp/B005OZE9SA/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1466497870&sr=8-2&keywords=focusrite+scarlett+2i2

^This one has two 1/4" outputs for a pair of speakers.

There is a smaller one, too: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01E6T56CM?psc=1
This has RCA output for a pair of speakers that use RCA.

Now, these are for music studios so they have XLR and 1/4" inputs for microphones or instruments. However, they have the headphone jack and two outputs on the back for a pair of speakers.

Depending on what speakers you get, you'll want to look at how they hook up - either 1/4" cable or RCA cables (the Red and White inputs).

For example, say you want to buy these studio monitors. https://www.amazon.com/Mackie-CR3-Creative-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=sr_1_37?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1466498231&sr=1-37&keywords=studio+monitors&refinements=p_36%3A1253547011

They have both 1/4" and RCA on the back. Studio Monitors vary in quality and sound. Ideally they are designed with a flat frequency response so they don't "color" the audio. However, you can always run some kind of equalizer on your computer.

In summary, purchase an audio interface and two studio "monitors" or speakers. It works great for gaming, movies, and music. You can build shelves to wall mount or buy stands for them. You may even be able to find some kind of wall accessory that attaches to the speakers.

Whatever it is, make sure it has an optical audio input, or you'll be spending another 20 or so on a converter.

I recently got some studio monitors because my TV has shit for sound. Also had to get a converter though...

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KVEIY4E

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00F4ORTZ6

I've used these for my Chromcast​ audio for about a year and love them. Incredible build, sound, and also very affordable.

I have really been thinking about getting these:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00KVEIY4E/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1474135266&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=powered+bookshelf+speakers

in my setup I've got these as well as a polk subwoofer

I used to have this system, lasted about 5 years until the speaker clips just broke off.

https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-ProMedia-Certified-Computer-Speaker/dp/B000062VUO

Does not include a sub, but I bet these thump https://www.amazon.com/Mackie-CR-CR3-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B00KVEIY4E

What's your budget? I picked up Mackie CR3 for $100. They are amazing.

https://www.amazon.ca/Mackie-CR3-3-Inch-Creative-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B00KVEIY4E

Some cheap powered studio monitors are what I usually recommend to people with this request. I prefer them over standard bookshelf speakers, at least.

https://www.amazon.com/Mackie-CR-CR3-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B00KVEIY4E

Find these in Ca.

IMO, the best 2.0 speaker set for under $100 are the Mackie CR3:

https://www.amazon.com/Mackie-Studio-Monitor-3-inch-CR3/dp/B00KVEIY4E/

If you don't mind something larger and more expensive, the Mackie CR4 fills in the bass a bit better:

https://www.amazon.com/Mackie-Reference-Multimedia-CR4-Pair/dp/B00KVEIY4O/

If you want to go with 2.1 instead, you can't go wrong with the Klipsch ProMedia 2.1. These speakers have been around for 15 years and are still one of best 2.1 computer speaker sets:

https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-Pro-Media-Certified-Speakers/dp/B009L1NY0M/

In that case I would suggest Mackie CR3. They should cost around $99 and the sound quality is excellent for the price. I've had a pair for the past 2-3 years and am really pleased with the quality.

Hi guys!!

Im looking for a 100 dollars or less speakers for my pc!

Should I get Mackie CR Series CR3 - 3"

or one of these

Cyber Acoustics 30 Watt Powered Speakers

Logitech Speaker System Z313


please help :) any other suggestion is welcomed

Sure thing.
Speakers (4" silver): https://www.amazon.com/Mackie-CR-CR3-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1488319509&sr=8-1&keywords=mackie+cr3

Desk top: http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/60275223/

Desk legs: http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/80150095/

Well your motherboard has a built in audio controller which is generally considered pretty good (unless you plan on doing high end audio work, e.g. audio production/mixing). These are quite good studio monitors in my experience for $100. They’re an active/passive pair so you plug your inputs into the back of the active speaker which will act as an amp and send signal over to the passive one. Basically this means you won’t have to buy an external DAC/amp to use these. I plan to buy myself a set in the near future as the cheap Logitech pc speakers I’m currently using are pretty not awesome.

I have an lp60 (wanted to start small) and I bought Mackie CR4's from Amazon. They have been everything and then some.

Got my dad the same setup for christmas but with CR3's, watching the old man rock out to zeppelin IV was the coolest thing. The mackies sound good for the price.

http://www.amazon.com/Mackie-CR-CR3-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1457983336&sr=8-6&keywords=mackie+cr5

Yes, you either need amp+speakers or powered speakers. You aren't really going to find any powered speakers for under $100 except like a set of Logitech computer speakers.

You can check out these but with 3" woofers you're going to get very little bass and you might end up blowing them by driving them too hard.

You're going to need active monitors like these http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ which start at $100/pair

TEAC LS-M100 2-Way 3" Powered Monitor Speakers Ebay CA, or if shipping from the US new, TEAC LS-M100 2-Way 3" Powered Monitor Speakers.

Mackie CR Series CR3-3-Inch Creative Reference Multimedia Monitors (Pair)

Or, gasp, computer speakers, Edifier R19U.

Why does the PC tower need to be on your desk? You can't move it to the floor or to a small table or get a larger desk?

Or put bookshelf speakers on stands to either side of your desk or wall mount the speakers or put them on stands placed behind and as tall as the monitor.

HEY YOU! Get Those Speakers Off Your Desktop/Shelf by founder JohnBooty.

For reference, most people around here just wouldn't consider $129 expensive. Most people around here probably aren't going to have very much experience with small plastic speakers in this price range.

However, there are lots of people here who listen to a lot of music at their computer and there are lots of solutions for that ranging from $100 to $10,000. If you're looking for an inexpensive speaker solution for a computer, these are a pretty good option. Cheaper than the T40 and will likely sound better.

Looks to be these.

If you're dead set on just a single speaker, you could find some sort of iPod dock or Bluetooth speaker (like Bud said) with an auxiliary input to plug in the Chromecast. They're fairly common, and many are under $100. I did the same with my girlfriend's old iPod dock and it works great.

However, if you're open to 2.0, these Mackies are powered (no need for an external amplifier) and sound wonderful. Probably better than a lot of bluetooth speakers or iPod docks that are under or around $100.

I would like to add music production hardware to this list. Since OP is gonna use it for making music, good speakers and a sound card are a must.

I recommend the UR22 sound card. It connects via USB to your computer has 2 ins and 2 outs and comes with pre-amps, which is perfect for the home studio (unless you're recording several tracks at once for drums). The UR22 comes with the Cubase 6 software, which is what I personally use. The Pro Tools Sound card is really expensive and harder to find. If you already have software you can still use the UR22. My only complaint is that the preamps are a little on the low side, but they get the job done on a budget, not really a big deal.

https://www.amazon.com/Steinberg-UR22MKII-2-Channel-USB-Interface/dp/B017MVUAHM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1465770351&sr=8-1&keywords=ur+22

As for audio monitors, I really like the Mackie CR3s. You can get a pair of these for 99, which is great on a budget and still produce high quality sound. Monitors can get really pricey and take up a lot of space, if you want something of a higher quality you'd have to buy each on separately. Also get 2 1/4" cables to go out from the sound card to the audio monitors.

https://www.amazon.com/Mackie-CR3-Creative-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=zg_bs_11974991_1

Here's a few solid choices:

Presonus 3.5"

Mackie 3" (I have these and love them, though I kind of wish I got the 4" version)

Mackie 4"

Also keep in mind there is a bluetooth version of each of the Mackie's if that appeals to you. Mackie's customer service was good to me too. My CR3's started going out randomly around the time the 1-year warranty was about to expire and they sent me new ones for free. I've had the new ones for over a year and they're still going strong.

Mackie CR3's work well, had a roommate with them (and he was a professional musician). $120 for a pair.

I had my issues recording too loud. I've tried to keep it softer. How much if any gain do you typically have to add? As far as monitors I currently am using these.

looking for headphones to mix and master with. I already have monitors that I spent around $100 on, here's the ones I got https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KVEIY4E/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1 ..

Issue is that I live in a noisey house and it interferes with my production most of the time, other than that the quality of the monitors is fine. So what I'm looking for is headphones of the same or better quality as these monitors. The most I'd like to spend would be $100.

Try these or these.

If you don’t want to have to deal with amps you can try:
Hivi Swan-D1010IV(B)


Mackie CR3

Mackie CR4

Edifier R1280T

Definitely an unpopular opinion, but The Bose Companion II Series III aren’t terrible if you’re really pressed for space and aren’t too picky..I received a pair as a gift and they’ve suited me fine since I don’t use speakers for much anyway.

If you're setting up a small system in a bedroom or dorm, I'm not sure that the subwoofer is completely necessary. You'd have to put it together and see if you need more bass.

If you go with a powered/active speaker setup, you don't need much for setup. The RCA wire from the turntable will go in the input slots on the back of the Mackies. Then I think you'd use speaker wire included to link up the 2nd speaker to the first to get stereo sound.

Unfortunately, I don't know how you could get the subwoofer attached to this setup.

I second this. I have a pair and they're fine for practice.

($100 USD on amazon: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KVEIY4E/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o08_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

Wena pregunta. Ando en lo mismo.

Los mas baratos que he encontrado son los Alesis Elevate

Los mas baratos con buenas recomendaciones son estos Mackie. Los recomiendan en todos los videos de estudio barato, pero dicen que no tienen una respuesta plana, creo que esta medio tirao pa los bajos.

Looks great!

Question - How do you like those monitors? Currently I have Bose Companion 2 speakers, but am considering these (Mackie CR Series CR3):
https://www.amazon.com/Mackie-CR-CR3-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=s9_cartx_gw_g267_i1_r?_encoding=UTF8&fpl=fresh&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=&pf_rd_r=ZCQ0RPVV85BS2HKK1ZQS&pf_rd_t=36701&pf_rd_p=6aad23bd-3035-4a40-b691-0eefb1a18396&pf_rd_i=desktop

Can you get these in australia?

www.amazon.com/dp/B00KVEIY4E

The speakers are the Mackie CR3 - 3" https://www.amazon.com/Mackie-CR-CR3-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1506780902&sr=8-1&keywords=cr3+speakers

For that price and for that many rooms...

Chromecast audio paired with set of $100 powered monitors from amazon. Something like this.

What are people's opinions on the Mackie CR3 and CR4 reference monitors? I'm on a very tight budget ( I don't want to spend more than $150 on a pair of monitors) and they seem to be a fairly decent pair for my first monitors. I have read that they lack low end (bass), but I'm not too worried about that. I would be using them in a small room for production, and also for my turntable.

Mackie CR Series CR3 - 3" Creative Reference Multimedia Monitors (Pair) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_ahRyybK966713

Edit: New question, since the Mackie CR3's are clearly not a good pair of cheap reference monitors.

1. What's a good pair of reference/studio headphones for production/mixing that are cheaper than $150 (or $200)?
   
   
2. What's a good pair of speakers/monitors that would be used strictly for listening to music with my turntable?
   
   Thanks for the input, I know nothing about monitors/speakers/headphones so all advice is greatly appreciated!

Bam, Mackie CR4s

$149 and a $25 Chromecast audio and you have the best bang for your buck audio setup possible for a smart home. Much better than the dinky Sonos speakers you can get for the same price. You could also go with the smaller CR3s as well.

I also have a pair of Realistic Minimus 7s hooked up with an Amp that has another chromecast audio. They're fantastic but the Mackies are a better plug in play setup that I've recommend many times when people see my setup. I'm not the only one too, this Amazon Review is basically everything I've said.

I don't have a lot of experience with powered speakers but a small set of studio monitor powered bookshelves are what your looking for. Something similar to this... https://www.amazon.com/Mackie-CR-CR3-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1482419456&sr=8-2&keywords=studio+monitors

Ya its two of us! I have these speakers for mixing and for $100 i think its one hell of a deal makes a big difference.
https://www.amazon.com/Mackie-CR-CR3-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1481917632&sr=8-1&keywords=mackie+monitors
I (Matt) use MASSIVE and Jake uses MASSIVE and Sylenth so you can definitley get good sound out of that VST just keep experimenting!
As for the new song work on that percussion more especially the kick drum using compression to help it stand out. The drum rolls are sick tho! And the filter cut after the drop is done really well too! That lower synth that you can clearly hear at 1:07 is prolly my fav in the song very dark sounding. The higher "drop" synths make it sound kinda big room but you shoudl try a track without them soon because you're getting really good tones with other synths especially in your intros! Lets keep in touch its great sharing music with you!

Aye man its not about what you got but what you can do with what you got. I would recommend some Mackie cr3's They are a bit price ($99 on amazon) but I think its definitely worth it for starter monitors.

Here's a link
https://www.amazon.com/Mackie-CR-CR3-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?ie=UTF8&qid=1521568837&sr=8-1-spons&keywords=mackie+cr3&psc=1

bass isnt thumping or anything but it is quite balanced, and will provide a realistic audio experience. Not gonna shake your whole living room like a real subwoofer but for just casual pc gaming, theyre pretty decent. Otherwise, invest in a pair of studio monitors, which can be pretty cheap for an ok pair and will provide great sound. The actual woofer is larger than most subwoofers on those so they can provide a great range. http://www.amazon.com/Mackie-CR-CR3-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=sr_1_1?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1450658928&sr=1-1

I believe the green rimmed ones are at Amazon for the same price: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KVEIY4E/

If I can recommend, get a line level controller so you can turn the volume up and down independent of your computer (https://www.amazon.com/PAC-LC-1-Remote-Amplifier-Controller/dp/B0002J226O/)

https://www.amazon.com/Mackie-CR-CR3-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B00KVEIY4E/

These are great, and on sale right now!

I use Mackie CR3s which I quite like

They won't fit/sound good behind the monitors. Sitting on the shelves would be kinda crappy.

​

These are the speakers I intend to have:

​

https://www.amazon.com/Mackie-Studio-Monitor-3-inch-CR3/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1550875670&sr=8-3&keywords=mackie+cr3

It does not include monitor, keyboard, mouse

Here's link with best budget
Including mouse, etc and good budget 120hz monitor
https://pcpartpicker.com/list/scHRHh


Here is best PC 2.0 Speakers

https://www.amazon.com/Mackie-CR3-Creative-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=mp_s_a_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1539562528&sr=8-3&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=mackie+cr3

Best 2.1 (with subwoofer)

https://www.amazon.com/Klipsch-ProMedia-Certified-Computer-Speaker/dp/B000062VUO/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1539562576&sr=8-2&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=klipsch+promedia+2.1&dpPl=1&dpID=41kgImde1TL&ref=plSrch

Here's best overall Gaming monitor if you have the cash: $400

https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1334650-REG/dell_s2417dg_gaming_flat_panel_gaming_monitor.html

If you want to play at 120fps+ there isn't any place you can't really cut corners on the build unfortunately.

These are the ones I’m using
Mackie CR3 CR Series 3" Creative Reference Multimedia Monitors (Pair), Black, 3" https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_qJOTBbD6RGZTZ

They sound amazing, they’re just bulky so I’m looking to replace them soon

You'll want something like this:

BEHRINGER XENYX Q802USB https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008O517IC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_Finmzb3WQNQN5



And a pair of something like these:

Mackie CR Series CR3 - 3" Creative Reference Multimedia Monitors (Pair) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_KdnmzbVDQGXFN

You can spend a lot more money but those or something like them will do, and allow for some expansion later. Also the USB out will let you record straight into Garageband. Get a mixer with some effects, and it can be part of your complete sound.

Have fun!

FYI I got the orbit + this preamp ART DJPREII Phono Preamplifier https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000AJR482/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_q9nZCbXH6A7TS and these powered speakers Mackie Studio Monitor, Black w/green trim, 3-inch (CR3) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_29nZCbZ0KGP5C

About 4 years ago and they still hold up perfectly and I haven’t felt the need to spend more money to upgrade it yet

I'm looking to buy a nice pair of speakers, preferably audio monitors and I'm looking for a nice sound throughout.
These are some I found and I was wondering on people's opinion:
Been eyeing this for a while
A better version of the same(?)
Doesn't look too bad?
I think my friend had these

Sorry for the weird titles lol but I really want to buy some nice monitors for my somewhat low budget XD

Mackie CR Series CR3 - 3" Creative Reference Multimedia Monitors (Pair) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_GLKnzb0H692JX

The A2 looks more feature rich. In particular it has a built in DAC. Also looks like you can RCA out from the A2 which means you can more easily connect an external subwoofer. With the DAC you have the option to USB into the A2. Depending on your motherboard sound chipset, or if you have a sound card, this by itself is a plus for audio quality. Since the A2 has a 2.5" woofer it's usually used with a small like 6-8" subwoofer.

The Edifier has 4" subwoofer meaning more bass response. It would be more of a hassle to connect a subwoofer. Also, you're depending on your MOBO or sound card for digital to analog conversion. IMO, 4" is on the upper side for near field listening. If you're gonna be sitting back watching movies it might be just right.

An alternative, from a trusted audio brand:

Mackie CR Series CR3 - 3" Creative Reference Multimedia Monitors (Pair) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_hGwqzb3W4HN9B

I only paid 100$ for my audio setup. Fact is if you are using shotty computer speakers/tv speakers you won't hear footstep. Nor should you.

Mackie CR3 CR Series 3" Creative Reference Multimedia Monitors (Pair), Black, 3" https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_Jk3SBb51KEKA1

If you are still looking, I was also researching a 2.0/2.1 setup recently and stumbled across these

http://www.amazon.com/Mackie-CR-CR3-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1457106254&sr=8-3&keywords=presonus+ceres

http://www.amazon.com/Mackie-CR-CR3-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1457106254&sr=8-3&keywords=presonus+ceres

I ended up getting the Presonus (4inch variant) because it had a sub out which gives me the option to add a sub later if I wanted/needed. Surprisingly enough, the bass is actually pretty good so I am happy enough to settle for 2.0 for my bedroom setup.

Depends on what you're looking for. These are a well-priced set of surround sound speakers that'll fare well in music, movies, and gaming. However if you wanted to focus on just music, I'd pick up a pair of active (powered speakers) like these maybe?. Honestly, haven't done a lot of research on them but I've seen these recommended fairly often.

edit: these are a solid 2.1 set of speakers as well: http://www.amazon.com/Cyber-Acoustics-Subwoofer-Frustration-CA-3602FFP/dp/B00BXF5HQ8/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1457603783&sr=8-6&keywords=speakers

Ah I see. Looks like you can make some HUGE improvements within your budget.

First you need a pre amp. I used this one for a while and found it to be very good especially considering the price:
http://www.amazon.com/Pyle-PP999-Phono-Turntable-Pre-Amp/dp/B00025742A/ref=sr_1_sc_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1458143345&sr=8-2-spell&keywords=phono+pre+ampo

Second, you'll want new speakers. The easiest and least expensive route would be to go with powered speakers. For $99 these little guys put out very balanced sound and will make your flip seem like a toy:
http://www.amazon.com/Mackie-CR-CR3-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1458143493&sr=8-1&keywords=mackie+cr3

As for putting it all together you will need only basic red/white male end RCA cables, no silly adapters:
http://www.amazon.com/Monoprice-102869-Premium-22AWG-Cable/dp/B002JTV7UM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1458143790&sr=8-1&keywords=RCA+cables+monoprice

~$130 all together.

Thanks for the suggestion. After a bit more research I actually found out my guitar amp has a line in, so I'm just going to use that for now and use the money towards some better guitar pickups (gear acquisition syndrome).

When I do upgrade in a short while, those JBL's look sweet.

I also found these: https://www.amazon.com/Mackie-Studio-Monitor-3-inch-CR3/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=sr_1_10?keywords=studio+monitors&qid=1568576228&sr=8-10

Do you have any info on those?

Right now, prebuilt is probably your best option. The - wait till GPU prices go down - is pretty rough because there is no way to predict when the shortage will be done. However, if you really want to get into PC building, you can set up alerts on nowinstock.net to catch GPUs at MSRP. Since you're brand new at this I'll assume you need keeb, mouse, monitor, speakers (I'd recommend a decent entry level headset over speakers) included in the budget. Here is an alright prebuilt option for 1440p gaming: HP Omen and a 1440p monitor. Also I'd strongly recommend picking up an SSD to switch windows over to and keep your games on the stock hard drive.

If you are ok with being patient and putting in some work to catch GPUs in stock I'd go with the below. Went with a non overclockable CPU since its your first time and I'm assuming it is a gaming focused build. If you also wanted to get into streaming I'd switch to an [AMD 1600])https://pcpartpicker.com/product/mV98TW/amd-ryzen-5-1600-32ghz-6-core-processor-yd1600bbaebox) and the Asrock b350 pro4 motherboard. Went with a 1440p monitor because of the price range but you could also go with a high refresh rate 1080p(I personally would go with the 1440p option for the IPS panel's better colors since there are only TN panel 144hz 1080p panels) but that is down to personal preference. As far as Windows goes, Paul's Hardware on youtube did a good video on that subject - just search his name + windows. EDIT: monitor in this list has speakers that can get ya by watching youtube or whatever, headphones are waaayy better for gaming tho - But if you must have speakers - I'd probably go with the Mackie CR3's or the Logitech z623

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant

Type|Item|Price

----|:----|:----
CPU | Intel - Core i5-8400 2.8GHz 6-Core Processor | $189.87 @ OutletPC
CPU Cooler | CRYORIG - H7 49.0 CFM CPU Cooler | $34.99 @ Amazon
Motherboard | ASRock - Z370 Pro4 ATX LGA1151 Motherboard | $127.88 @ OutletPC
Memory | G.Skill - Ripjaws V Series 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR4-3000 Memory | $169.99 @ Newegg
Storage | SanDisk - SSD PLUS 240GB 2.5" Solid State Drive | $74.40 @ OutletPC
Storage | Seagate - Barracuda 2TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive | $59.79 @ OutletPC
Video Card | EVGA - GeForce GTX 1070 Ti 8GB Video Card | $450.00
Case | Fractal Design - Meshify C ATX Mid Tower Case | $86.99 @ SuperBiiz
Power Supply | EVGA - SuperNOVA G3 650W 80+ Gold Certified Fully-Modular ATX Power Supply | $106.88 @ OutletPC
Monitor | BenQ - GW2765HT 27.0" 2560x1440 60Hz Monitor | $299.00 @ Amazon
Keyboard | Corsair - K66 Wired Gaming Keyboard | $59.99 @ Amazon
Mouse | SteelSeries - Rival 310 Wired Optical Mouse | $54.89 @ Amazon
Headphones | Kingston - HyperX Cloud II 7.1 Channel Headset | $92.00 @ Newegg Marketplace
| Prices include shipping, taxes, rebates, and discounts |
| Total | $1806.67
| Generated by PCPartPicker 2018-02-08 18:56 EST-0500 |

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KVEIY4E/?tag=thewire06-20&linkCode=xm2&ascsubtag=AgEAAAAAAAAAALxgAAAAACUt93wAAAAAWnxqFg

These are pretty boss according to the wirecutter:

https://thewirecutter.com/reviews/best-computer-speakers/

One of the hardest parts with audio recommendations is everyone has a different standard for what is acceptable. Like when someone says they don't want rin can sound do they mean not sound like it's coming from a $5 flat speaker put on something just to say it has sound or do they mean it needs a solid low and mid range to fill out the sound or do they mean they don't want their high end to clip? It gets even harder because often when asking that they don't actually know.

While I made a cheap recommendation it's not something I'd personally like. A prefered place to start talking about speakers involves about doubling that $50 budget to get something like the PB42X or these Mackie reference monitors which is actually starting to get you into decent sound.

You think these could also be okay?

https://www.amazon.ca/Edifier-R1010BT-Creative-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B071YV97LK/ref=sr_1_5?crid=16YCX6Q3CKVCC&keywords=dj+speakers&qid=1562533427&s=gateway&sprefix=dj+speakers%2Caps%2C-1&sr=8-5

​

https://www.amazon.ca/Mackie-CR3-3-Inch-Creative-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=sr_1_6?crid=16YCX6Q3CKVCC&keywords=dj+speakers&qid=1562533427&s=gateway&sprefix=dj+speakers%2Caps%2C-1&sr=8-6

Powered speakers
https://www.amazon.com/Mackie-CR3-Creative-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=sr_1_1?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1465784987&sr=1-1&keywords=active+speakers

https://www.amazon.com/Mackie-CR3-Creative-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B00KVEIY4E

A lot of clarity and clean sound, Studio Monitor Mix, and they can get very loud without any distortion.
I got them when i went to college and theyve been great ever since, well worth the 100 i spent to get them

Did you Paint It Black? or what style did you choose to fit your set up?
Ahh, well they look like they'll do the job. Do you know if the pair compliment that turntable?
Also, would the two (for the size) resonate/echo softly/smoothly around a room?
Last Q: what's the difference between the Mackie CR4 Pair and the Mackie CR3, 3"?

Here we go, I am torn between these options. Anyone have any thoughts or insight into them? Maybe a better recommendation?

Kanto YU2's


Mackie CR3's


Edifier R1280T's


Edifier R1280DB


Micca PB42X



Also looking into Mediabridge 3.5mm Male to 2-Male RCA Adapter

I'd go for the Mackie CR3s powered speakers. They're $80 and as good as you'll ever need for desktop for years to come.

https://www.amazon.com/Mackie-CR-CR3-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B00KVEIY4E

Go with this for now - the Mackie has a 3.5mm headphone jack, will easily power the SHP9500s and add a low-cost (sub-$100) DAC when you're ready. Will this work? Currently listening to Sade through my Ships out of my CR4s... with a NuDAC5 providing clean source.

You'll also notice a pair of Mackies sitting on Z's desktop (albeit the bigger ones). ;-)

Mackie CR3, 3" Creative Reference Multimedia Monitors https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_oIoJxbYNBA57E

Thanks! I like that price a lot more than the route I was thinking about going.

I was thinking about getting a set of Mackie 3" (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KVEIY4E/) along with a breakout cable (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000068O3C/) to hook up the speakers to my laptop.

Don't need anything super theater quality, just something that sounds decent and able to perform halfway decent outside.

Mackie CR Series CR3 - 3" Creative Reference Multimedia Monitors (Pair) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_lc05xb09XF4EX

I have these for my laptop and they work great!!

https://www.amazon.com/Mackie-CR-CR3-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1474949244&sr=8-3&keywords=mackie+monitors

Are these too big?

I would go one of two ways:

If you want a more accurate reproduction of sound for your personal listening environment, look into studio monitors. They will be more focused on clarity and use better components, like active crossovers. If you will ever be into any type of audio/video editing or really enjoy the finner detais, this is the ideal road.

This for example:
https://www.amazon.com/Mackie-CR-CR3-Reference-Multimedia/dp/B00KVEIY4E/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1484435931&sr=8-2&keywords=studio+monitor

If you just want something good, but louder and with more low end, look into a 2.1 setup. more consumer based. ~50-100 would be enough to satisfy you since it seems you primarily use headphones.

Random example:
https://www.amazon.com/Logitech-Watts-Multimedia-Speakers-980-001203/dp/B0151K2AB0/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1484436731&sr=8-5&keywords=logitech+2.1

Intel Core i7-6700k 4.0GHz Quad-Core Processor
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B012M8LXQW/?tag=tonymacx86com-20

Corsair H100i v2 Liquid CPU Cooler
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B019EXSSBG/?tag=tonymacx86com-20

GA-Z170MX-Gaming 5 Micro ATX LGA1151 Motherboard
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B014SL2XKQ/?tag=tonymacx86com-20

Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB DDR4-3200 Memory
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0143UM4TC/?tag=tonymacx86com-20

eVGA Nvidia 980 TI SC+ ACX 2.0
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00YDAYLTY/?tag=tonymacx86com-20

Samsung 850 Pro 256GB SSD (OS X)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00LMXBOP4/?tag=tonymacx86com-20

FenviUS 802.11AC Desktop WiFi Bluetooth Card FV-T919A (works native out of the box no drivers)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MDLG51U/?tag=tonymacx86com-20

Samsung 850 Evo 500GB SSD (Files, Games, etc)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00OBRE5UE/?tag=tonymacx86com-20

EVGA G2 Gold 850W Power Supply Fully-Modular ATX
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IKDETOC/?tag=tonymacx86com-20

Corsair Air 240 MicroATX Mid Tower Case, White
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00LA6Y5XQ/?tag=tonymacx86com-20

LG - 27" IPS LED 4K UHD FreeSync Monitor
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01C3BZIIC/?tag=tonymacx86com-20

Logitech MX Master Mouse, Wireless
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00TZR3WRM/?tag=tonymacx86com-20

Logitech K750 Black Mac Wireless Solar Powered Keyboard
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B005L38VRU/?tag=tonymacx86com-20

Blue Yeti USB Microphone
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B002VA464S/?tag=tonymacx86com-20

GLTECK XXL Large Mouse Pad
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01FTQUC3Y/?tag=tonymacx86com-20

DualShock PS4 Controller White Bluetooth Game Pad :)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KVP76G0/?tag=tonymacx86com-20

Mackie CR3 - 3" Creative Reference Multimedia Monitors (Pair)
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KVEIY4E/?tag=tonymacx86com-20

Audio Technica M50X Professional Studio Monitor Headphones
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HVLUR86/?tag=tonymacx86com-20