A short story…
I first heard the term “studio monitors” when I was in school, just starting to make music in my so-called “home studio", using a pair of regular computer speakers. At that time, I recorded and mixed my music projects through these computer-style monitors, sharing different versions of my so-called “masterpieces” with friends and family. I’d often get honest but sometimes discouraging feedback like:

^{‍“It’s too boomy, too much bass.”
“The guitar riffs aren’t clear enough.”
“Why am I only hearing the drumbeats?”}

‍
Eventually, I asked a friend who had recorded some albums in a professional studio, and he told me, “You need a pair of studio monitors if you want to improve your mixes."

The Truth
What’s the difference between studio monitors and computer speakers?
Generally speaking, a good pair of computer speakers, or even the speakers built into TVs are designed to provide an enhanced sound experience, emphasizing both the low and high ends of music (or movies). For example, imagine watching a Godzilla movie; computer or TV speakers are designed to exaggerate Godzilla’s roar, boosting the bass and treble to create a more dramatic, cinematic effect.

Another example: Imagine you’re listening to Michael Jackson’s 1995 MTV Awards performance through your computer speakers or a full home sound system (including a TV soundbar). The reason we listen to music through these systems is simple, to enjoy and fully experience the punchy bass riffs or MJ’s soulful vocals. Naturally, these sound systems are designed to add or boost certain frequency ranges, allowing listeners to feel and immerse themselves in the music vibe, though in an artificial way.

In contrast, studio monitors are designed to deliver an accurate, uncolored sound without adding effects or EQ boosts. Musicians rely on this “flat” sound to hear their music as authentically as possible.

For instance, let’s say you’ve just finished recording an acoustic guitar session. When you play it back through your studio monitors, the goal for it is to sound as close as possible to how it actually sounded when you played it live, no artificial bass boosts, no exaggerated treble, just the raw, honest sound of your instruments.

What Else?
While this article explains what a studio monitor is, it’s important to note that it’s not the only factor that affects the quality of your mix. A studio monitor is simply a tool designed to deliver an accurate and uncolored representation of your audio. However, factors like room acoustics and monitor placement also play a crucial role in achieving the best sound. For more details, check out the Further Reading section.

How About Studio Headphones?
Studio headphones are designed as an alternative to studio monitors, with a similar goal: to provide a flat, uncolored sound that accurately represents your mix without added enhancements. Like studio monitors, they help you hear the true details of your music, making them a valuable tool for critical listening.

However, due to physical limitations, studio headphones can’t deliver the same sound image or spatial accuracy as studio monitors. While they’re great for checking your mix, especially in environments where you can’t play music loudly, they don’t fully replicate the natural stereo field that studio monitors provide.

Additionally, wearing studio headphones for a long time can lead to ear fatigue, as your ears are exposed to direct sound without the natural reflections of a room. (Of course, this can happen with studio monitors too, but to a lesser extent.)

That said, if your space doesn’t allow for loud playback, a good pair of studio headphones is still an effective and reliable solution for mixing and critical listening. If your budget allows, we recommend getting both studio monitors and headphones. This way, you can A/B check your mix and have an additional reference for better accuracy.

Conclusion
If you’re new to the industry, a pair of studio monitors and studio headphones are essential tools to train your ears properly. However, advanced musicians may have already developed their “musical ears,” allowing them to recognize different monitors based on specific EQ frequencies or even identify the acoustic characteristics of a recording space/ room. Whether you’re a casual musician or a professional mastering engineer, remember, well-rested ears are key to a great mix!!!

Further Reading:

5 Tips for Optimal Sound
‍https://www.sweetwater.com/insync/studio-monitor-placement-5-tips-for-optimal-sound/
Setup Your Studio Monitors the Right Way
https://www.sonarworks.com/blog/learn/setup-your-studio-monitors-the-right-way

‍