About the Rear-Panel EQ Contour Switches

These switches allow you to tailor the EQ curve of your CX monitors to complement the frequency response of your studio.

Since studio monitors (including the CX series) are designed to

have a flat frequency response, you may be wondering why these speakers include additional EQ switches. These switches are included for three reasons:

1. Size, shape, and acoustical treatment of your specific studio:

CX monitors are tested and tuned in an anechoic chamber to be as linear (flat) as possible. This means that leaving the switches set to their default settings will result in the printed acoustic frequency response plot when monitoring takes place in an “ideal” environment similar to those found in high-end recording studios. In these studios, acousticians carefully determine the size and shape of the control room, placement of the studio monitors and large furniture, construction materials of the walls and ceiling, as well as all acoustical treatments that must be applied to various parts of the room. All this ensures that studio monitors will sound as flat and accurate as possible at the “mixing position.”

In the real-world, however, most project and home-based studios are set up in preexisting rooms where the size/shape of the room cannot be easily modified to improve acoustics. This means that the design of the room itself may have adverse effects on the frequency response of the monitors (i.e, sound reflections from flat surfaces in the room may cause the monitors to not sound linear). For that reason, the CX line features “corrective” EQ switches to compensate for adverse effects that may be caused by your room.

2. Placement of the CX monitors within your studio:

The proximity of your CX monitors to the walls (and floors/ceilings) may adversely affect the frequency response of what you hear at the mixing position. This is because all speakers radiate low-frequency sounds in all directions—not just toward the mixing position. If there are large, flat surfaces (such as walls or ceilings) within one foot of the speaker, these surfaces act as low frequency “sound reflectors” that return bass energy projected from the rear of the speaker back into the studio. This can result in bass that sounds “tubby” and exaggerated.

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M-Audio CX5 manual About the Rear-Panel EQ Contour Switches, Placement of the CX monitors within your studio
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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.
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