HF Trim Switch, MF Boost Switch | M-Audio CX5 instruction

HF Trim Switch 8

This control allows you to boost or attenuate (reduce) your CX monitors’ high frequency response above 3kHz. This switch can be set in the following ways:

0dB This default setting leaves high-frequency signals unaffected (high frequency sounds are neither boosted nor attenuated).

+2dB This setting boosts signals above 3kHz by 2dB.

-2dBThis setting attenuates signals above 3kHz by 2dB.

To configure the HF Trim switch, begin by mixing a few songs with this switch set to the default “0dB” position. If your mixes sound good in the studio and on other speakers (car stereos, “multimedia” computer speakers, etc.), leave this switch in the default position.

If your mixes sound good in the studio but they sound “dull” and lack high-frequency “sparkle” on other playback systems, set this switch to “-2dB.” Alternatively, if your mixes sound good in the studio but sound too “crispy” or “brittle” and contain too much high-frequency content, set this switch to “+2dB.” Setting this switch to either “+2dB” or “-2dB” allows the CX monitors to compensate for a mixing environment that is either too “live” (i.e., too much high-frequency reflection from the walls and other surfaces) or too “dead” (i.e., not enough high frequency sound is being reflected around the room).

MF Boost Switch 9

This control engages a midrange boost from 1.5 KHz - 2.5 kHz with a 2 dB peak at

2 kHz. This switch can be set in the following ways:

Out This default setting allows incoming signals to bypass the midrange boost circuitry (the midrange of a signal is not affected).

In This setting engages the midrange boost circuitry and creates a 2dB peak at 2kHz with a 1 kHz bandwidth (i.e., signals between 1.5 kHz - 2.5 kHz are boosted).

To configure the MF Boost switch, leave the switch set to the “out” position and mix a few songs. If you notice your mixes sound good in the studio but the midrange tends to be too prominent (e.g., the vocals/guitars are too loud) on other speakers, set this switch to “in.” This will make the midrange of your CX monitors slightly more pronounced in the studio and will result in more balanced mixes since you will be less inclined to “push” the midrange of your mixes.

CX5 specifications

The M-Audio CX5 is a powerful studio monitor designed for both professional and home studio environments. Known for its exceptional sound quality and acoustic precision, the CX5 is an ideal choice for musicians, producers, and audio engineers seeking a reliable monitoring solution.

One of the standout features of the CX5 is its 5-inch high-performance woofer, which delivers dynamic bass response and exceptional clarity in the low-frequency range. This is complemented by a 1-inch silk-dome tweeter, which provides smooth and detailed highs, ensuring that every nuance in the audio is accurately reproduced. Together, these drivers allow the CX5 to produce a wide frequency response, ranging from 45 Hz to 22 kHz, making it suitable for various musical genres and audio projects.

The CX5 incorporates a bi-amped design, utilizing separate amplifiers for the woofer and tweeter. This dual amplification ensures that each driver receives an optimal amount of power, allowing for higher output levels without distortion. The built-in amplifiers deliver a total power output of 80 watts, providing sufficient headroom for critical listening and mixing.

In terms of connectivity, the M-Audio CX5 features balanced XLR and TRS inputs, along with an unbalanced RCA input. This variety of connection options makes it compatible with a wide range of audio interfaces and equipment, ensuring versatility in any studio setup. Additionally, the rear of the monitor has acoustic tuning controls, which allow users to adjust the speaker’s performance based on their environment. This includes settings for room positioning, helping to minimize unwanted reflections and improve overall sound clarity.

The cabinet of the CX5 is designed for optimal acoustic performance, featuring a ported rear design that enhances low-end response and reduces standing waves. The sleek, modern aesthetic makes it a visually appealing addition to any studio, while its sturdy construction ensures durability and longevity.

In conclusion, the M-Audio CX5 is a versatile, feature-rich studio monitor that excels in sound reproduction. With its combination of high-quality drivers, bi-amped design, and adjustable acoustic controls, the CX5 provides an accurate listening experience essential for any serious audio professional. Whether you are mixing tracks, producing music, or simply enjoying your favorite tunes, the CX5 stands out as a reliable choice for exceptional sound clarity and performance.