What Are Auratone 5C Studio Monitors?
The Auratone 5C Super Sound Cube is a legendary single-driver, passive studio monitor designed to offer honest midrange reproduction without any flattery. Unlike some monitors that exaggerate bass or treble, the 5C is built to reflect how your mix will sound on real-world playback systems. Think smartphones, laptops, & TVs.
This is why they’re often called ‘real-world reference monitors.’ When engineers say a mix ‘translates well’ they’re often testing it on Auratones.
Aurotone also make an active version that’s great if you don’t want to use an external amplifier.
Why Choose Auratone 5C Monitors?
Unparalleled Midrange Clarity
In most mixes, the midrange is where vocals, guitars, snares, and synths live. The Auratone 5C emphasizes this crucial frequency range, helping audio engineers make precise EQ and balance decisions. If your mix sounds great on the 5C, it will likely sound great anywhere.
Legacy in Major Studios
From Quincy Jones and Michael Jackson’s Thriller sessions to today’s top mastering engineers, the Auratone 5C has been a mainstay in world-class studios for decades. When it comes to vintage studio monitor speakers with real-world application, Auratones are the benchmark.
(above) The late, legendary Quincy Jones cradles his 5Cs in the studio
Ideal for Critical Mix Translation
The 5C isn’t designed to sound “nice.” It’s designed to sound real. Engineers use them to ensure that a mix will translate well across all consumer-grade systems. This makes them one of the best studio monitors for mix referencing.
Compact and Space-Saving
Their cube-shaped design and passive architecture make the Auratone 5C perfect for smaller spaces and minimalist home studio setups. Pair them with a transparent amplifier and you’re ready to work with unmatched accuracy, or choose the active version for the same great sound.
Durable, Hand-Built Quality
Modern 5Cs are still manufactured in the USA with strict quality control. Their minimalist wood cabinetry and no-frills driver are a nod to durability and function over flashy aesthetics.
How to Use Auratone 5C Monitors in Your Studio Setup
For optimal performance, use the Auratone 5C alongside your primary monitors. Many engineers set them up on a dedicated A/B switch or use a studio monitor controller to flip between speaker sets. Use them primarily during the mixing stage to check for midrange clarity, vocal presence, and overall mix balance.
Pro Tip: Pair the 5C with a neutral amplifier like the Auratone A2-30 to preserve the monitor’s transparent tone.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Tool for Honest Mixes
Looking for compact studio monitors for honest playback? The Auratone 5C Super Sound Cube is one of the most reliable options on the market. Their simplicity is their strength. No flashy features – just pure, uncoloured sound that ensures your mix will stand up in the real world.
Whether you’re a home studio producer, a professional mixing engineer, or just beginning your audio production journey, Auratone 5Cs are a worthwhile investment that can elevate your mixes to industry-standard clarity.
More links:
- Shop Auratone at Andertons Music Co.
- Shop Studio Monitors
- Studio monitors & regular speakers: what’s the difference?
- What’s the difference between mixing & mastering?
- Andertons Scoreboard: the best 5-inch woofer studio monitors
- Andertons Scoreboard: the best 7-inch woofer studio monitors
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