Feature:
nice features include "room controls" - 3-way switches for both the low and high frequencies to help get the best sound for your particular environment (the changes are hardly noticeable at first - but after repeated listens, they are a little more obvious). also appreciated is the "auto on" switch on the back which will turn on the amps in the monitors whenver they receive audio input - such as a synth, or a mp3 going through a soundcard. this keeps your power usage to a minimum and adds a little convenience to your recording.
Quality:
i absolutely love the construction of this monitor. the curved edges and construction materials are top notch and ensure a tight yet punchy sound. the port at the bottom of the monitor is necessary to disperse distortion - im surprised other manufacturers have not tried similar methods. of course, no monitor is absolutely perfect and you will realize the limitations of your V8s after a few recording or mixing sessions. however, they are designed to withstand quite a bit and you can mix on these confidently knowing they won't go out on you.
Value:
this is certainly an appropriately-priced monitor. both the 824s and SP8s are a hundred or two more a piece, and i would definitely put the V8s up in that esteemed category. if you produce electronic music or any other style that requires deep and accurate bass representation these may be the perfect monitors for you and wont destroy your wallet.
Desirability:
these monitors are dead sexy. in addition to the smooth, rounded curve of the casing, each kevlar subwoofer is painted a deep yellow color and the active LED lights are also yellow. in the right room, they can be a great compliment to your decorations. black and yellow just go great together.
Sound:
the series 2 version of the well-known KRK V8 is extremely good. as a huge fan of the Mackie HR824s and Event SP8s, i had very high expectations for the new V8s and was hesitant at first. however these things really won me over with their exceptional handling of loud audio and especially deep bass. where the other monitors i mentioned excel in flat and sharp response, the KRKs have that but also a little "grit" for dealing with louder sources such as a pair of turntables playing at high volume, or other situations not typical to recording studios. these things can take a beating, are designed beautifully and deliver accurate frequencies and adequate bass. they are most certainly worth a comparison with the big boys, and chances are, you'll walk home with a pair.
Support:
i haven't dealt with KRK personally yet so i'll leave this at a 9, assuming they are responsive.
Overall:
awesome sounding monitor - great design - great look - good value - 180W amps - super sharp mids and highs - what else do you want?
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