Introducing the Kali Audio SM-5 3-way Active Monitor
A new 3-way professional mixing solution from Kali Audio.
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Introducing the Kali Audio SM-5 3-way Active Monitor · Source: Kali Audio
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The Kali Audio SM-5 3-way active studio monitor is the latest addition to the flagship Santa Monica range with an integrated DSP system.
Kali Audio has developed a great reputation for creating budget studio monitors with excellent translation properties. However, the Santa Monica series offers pro users a solution for stereo or immersive systems that aims to compete with well-known brands like Genelec, Focal, and Adam Audio.
Kali Audio SM-5
The Santa Monica series was first announced at NAMM 2023 with the SM-5-C passive monitor, and now, Kali Audio presents its active equivalent, the SM-5. Like the passive version, the SM-5 uses a coaxial coincident midrange and tweeter configuration.
This means that the 4-inch midrange driver and 1-inch metal dome tweeter time aligned, allowing complete phase coherence from any listening angle. Powered by a 150W Class D amplifier, the SM-5 delivers a maximum SPL of 117 dB and the frequency response is 39 Hz – 28 kHz at -10 dB.
The 5-inch low-frequency driver is separated with a crossover at 280 Hz, while the midrange HF crossover sits at 2800 Hz. In addition, the onboard DSP system is impressive with features such as 8 bands parametric EQ with shelving filters, as well as high and low-pass filters.
Furthermore, the SM-5 allows app control for creating custom EQ profiles and adjusting delay, while the USB port on the front panel gives you access to calibration functions. On the rear panel, digital connectivity includes AES/EBU In and Thru ports and an RJ45 port for control.
Overall, the SM-5 looks to be a formidable contender. However, the competition in this price range is steep, especially if you’re looking to build an immersive mixing setup.
Pricing and Availability:
The Kali Audio SM-5 is currently available for order from Thomann.
More about the Kali Audio SM-5:
- Official Product Page
- More Kali Audio News
- More about Studio Monitors
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