Greetings mate and Welcome aboard. Stuart Charles here, HomeStudioBasics.com helping YOU make sound decisions leading to a beautiful audio experience that will make you fall in love with music (NOT gear) all over again, so…
Before we get into the specifics of the JBL LSR305 vs. Yamaha HS5, grab a snack, sit back, and relax because…
You’ve come to the right place!!
What I will bring you in this review
of each monitor
- Introduction
- Specifications
- Summary
- Pros
- Cons
- Video Review
- Who do these monitors benefit?
- What you will need?
- Thoughts from Stu’s notepad
- Consensus/Conclusion
- Similarities & Differences
- Sound Test
- Final Word
Now without further ado, let’s get rolling!
Comparison Chart
Introduction
Lego men bask in the 305’s glory.
It took me a long time to bite the bullet and buy a pair of studio monitors. What are studio monitors?
I can tell you this right now: If you’re on the fence about it, you may as well just go ahead and take the plunge.
Having a pair is truly priceless, and something that can only be felt and realized when you have them sitting in your studio.
Back when I decided to start my research, I was aware of the KRK line but eventually found out that they are more hype than substance.
The sound is decent, but overall they don’t provide you with an honest frequency response.
If you’re looking for studio monitors, honesty is what you want.
It doesn’t make sense to buy a pair of speakers that hypes the low end while rendering everything else muddy.
For that reason alone I won’t even recommend any KRK monitors today.
Toward the end of this article,
you will be able to hear a comparison of the JBLs, the Yamaha, and the KRK.
You will see exactly why the KRKs pale in comparison to the other two.
When I was looking for the best entry-level option, I came across the JBL LSR 305.
It just kept popping up in my searches, so I read as many reviews as I could about them.
Nearly every review I read was stellar, so I had to bite the bullet and get them.
One of the main reasons it took me so long to buy a pair was fear actually. That sounds crazy, doesn’t it?
I was so overwhelmed with all of the connections, cables, terms, and what have you, that I shied away from it for a long time.
- Check out this page on Cables & Wiring!
As for the monitors, I don’t regret the purchase at all.
They’re worth every penny and more.
With that in mind, let’s dive right into why they’re so valuable!
Entry level heaven.
JBL LSR 305
Price: Check Amazon! | Check B&H! | Check Sweetwater! | Official Review: Here!
Specifications
- Powered: Yes
- Power Configuration: Bi-amped
- LF Driver Size: 5″
- HF Driver Size: 1″
- HF Driver Type: Soft Dome
- LF Driver Power Amp: 41W
- HF Driver Power Amp: 41W
- Total Power: 82W
- Frequency Range: 43Hz-24kHz
- Crossover Frequency: 1725Hz
- Maximum Peak SPL: 108 dB
- Enclosure Type: Ported
- Input Types: 1x XLR, 1x 1/4″ TRS
- Height: 11.75″
- Width: 7.28″
- Depth: 9.88″
- Weight: 10.12 lbs.
Summary
The LSR 305s are by all accounts entry-level studio monitors meant to satisfy the needs of the producer/engineer looking for exceptional, reference-level sound quality.
They are active, meaning they don’t need a separate amp to power.
They do however need AC (alternating current) power.
AC means the power frequently reverses direction many times per second.
The standard is 60Hz, with hertz being your typical unit of measure.
Basically, just plug these bad boys into the outlet from your JBLs and shut up. Just kidding!
These monitors come with two cables, as each needs its own power source.
Basically, they are MONO speakers and need 2 separate cables running from the back into whatever you are using to receive and transmit the signal.
- Recommended: Stereo vs. Mono: What’s The Difference?!
Sources to Consider
Some common sources and DACs (Digital to Analog interfaces/mixers) that are used with the JBLs:
An audio interface.
I previously owned a 1st generation Scarlett 2i2 and loved it.
The reason I sold it is that I got a new laptop and it wasn’t compatible with Windows 10.
Recently, Universal Audio reached out to me and offered to send their Volt 2.
- Recommended: Universal Audio Volt 2 Review
I absolutely love it. Both are great interfaces, but the Volt 2 has a bit more gain: 55dB vs. 48 for the 2i2.
In any event, either will connect just fine to the LSR305 via balanced TRS/XLR.
You’ll need something like TRS to TRS or TRS to XLR. Also, make sure you buy 2 for each monitor.
A mixer.
An entry-level option would be the Behringer Xenyx 802. Gets pretty nice reviews!
A headphone amp.
Yep, you read that right.
A great example of a headphone Amp/DAC that doubles as a power source for your monitors is FiiO’s K9 Pro (pictured above).
The K9 also happens to be just about the most versatile overall amp I have tried and gets my highest endorsement for those looking at a long-term solution.
The reason the K9 Pro works with monitors like the LSR305s is that it has balanced XLR out jacks that can connect to any powered speaker.
This means you could theoretically use the K9 as a sort of central hub as it can also connect to a myriad of other devices.
That said, if you plan to use a microphone for any recording, don’t buy a K9 as it will be a waste of money since it doesn’t have XLR input jacks.
Only buy something like a K9 Pro for everything else.
With that, let’s get into the Pros and Cons of the LSR305.
Pros
- Amazing detail from bass to high-end.
- Impressively flat and neutral, with just a touch of warmth.
- Nice stereo imaging. Positioning these at the right spot makes them almost disappear if you will.
- Bass reaches down to 43Hz.
- They breathe life into old songs, allowing you to hear those subtle nuances that were previously absent.
- Startling clarity.
- Great at capturing highs; can really be pushed to max volume and remain crystal clear.
- Perfect for mixing, but also work well for general listening as all-purpose computer speakers.
- Rock-solid build.
- Pair great with the M50s. Check out my Audio Technica ATH M50 Review!
- Image control waveguide technology proves to be really beneficial in producing pristine, crystal clear sound, and a wider stereo image. This same technology was used in JBL’s higher-end model monitors (upwards of $20k).
- Very accurate. They give stereo sound rather than surround sound. Don’t expect them to be your go-to home audio speakers.
Cons
- Tweeter material seems fragile. I did gently touch my finger on it and can confirm this. Just be extra careful I suppose. I haven’t had an issue with them, however.
- Some say they are too bulky and look ugly. While I can see the bulky complaint, they aren’t ugly in my opinion. They are kind of big, however, so be aware if you are really strapped for space.
Review/Sound Test!
Credit to Z!
What these monitors are good for
They do really well with pretty much any genre you throw at them and excel at jamming out with your music.
Bass heads and hip-hop artists will appreciate the tight, punchy low end, and crystal clear treble range.
As for being a true reference monitor? We’ll get into that later.
What you will need?
You will need some sort of receiver, interface, or mixer (as mentioned above), acting as a mediator/middleman of sorts, to transmit a signal between the computer and the speakers.
Chillin’ in-studio 🙂 This is the 1st generation model. They have since come out with a 3rd!
As for cables
You may not necessarily need all of these cables.
This is just to kind of get you started and show that there are a lot of ways to connect speakers to an interface or mixer!
Some different options (either/or):
For the Scarlett Solo
- Dual 1/4 in. TS to dual RCA (the standard unbalanced option)
Scarlett Solo 3rd Generation
- 2 Balanced TRS to XLR (my preferred option)
For the Scarlett 2i2
- 2 balanced TRS to XLR (my preferred option)
- 2 balanced TRS to TRS cables
For the Behringer UCA 202
- Dual 1/4 in. TS to dual RCA
For a typical mixer
- XLR female to dual XLR male
For your iPad
- 3.5 mm TRS to dual XLR
For your home audio receiver
Your receiver basically takes the audio in from your CD player, turntable, etc., and releases it out again, amplifying the sound out of the JBLs. (not unlike the other setups).
If you plan to use these in a home theater setup, you will need to check the manual (or the back) of your receiver to see which audio-out cable you will need.
A common one would be:
- Dual 1/4 in. TS to dual RCA. The RCA cables would run from your receiver to each of the monitors.
Placement
They are near-field monitors, meaning that they sound best when you’re near them!
Sounds obvious, but the farther you are away, the less impact the sound has.
This is especially true for the higher frequencies that lose a bit of energy at a greater distance.
I suppose it’s also not that obvious since I still see people configuring active speakers wrong.
That said, you want them both facing diagonally towards you, creating a 3-point, equilateral triangle.
Also of importance, they will sound much better at ear level.
This means you should invest in some stands (if space allows), or build 2 simple shelving units on the wall.
All of this really depends on your studio space.
I actually built 2 shelves for my current monitors (Presonus Eris e3.5) and made sure to install them at ear level. This is super important.
Acoustics
Being that the bass is ported on the rear, you may want to consider some room treatment in the form of a couple of acoustic foam panels and bass traps for the corners of your room. Acoustic Sound Treatment.
If possible, make sure they’re not right up against the wall as this will cause some abnormalities in the sound.
You’ll want the sound to be able to escape properly without bouncing all over the place.
That said,
It’s impossible to get a perfect sound in a bedroom, but taking this extra step will help the sound coming out of the JBLs (and any rear-ported speakers) immensely.
In addition,
having these sitting on your desk with the proper placement (equilateral triangle/ear level) will also go a long way in improving the overall sound coming out of them.
Consensus/Conclusion
The LSR305s are some of the best bang-for-buck monitors available on the market.
They sound excellent, hit hard, and can be used for mixing although I will caution you they aren’t entirely neutral.
More on that later!
Onto…
Yamaha HS5
Price: Check Amazon! | Check B&H! | Check Sweetwater!
Specifications
- Powered: Yes
- Power configuration: Bi-amped
- LF Driver Size: 5″
- LF Driver type: Cone
- HF Driver size: 1″
- HF Driver type: Dome
- LF Driver power amp: 45W
- HF Driver power amp: 25W
- Total Power: 70W
- Frequency Range: 54Hz-30kHz
- Crossover frequency: 2kHz
- Enclosure type: Ported
- Input types: 1x XLR, 1x 1/4″ (TS). TRS vs. TS. Find out about your cables!
- Height: 11.2″
- Width: 6.7″
- Depth: 8.7″
- Weight: 11.7 lbs.
Summary
The Yamaha HS5 is the perfect reference monitor for your small to medium-sized room.
If the LSR305s were better for general listening, the HS5 excels best as a true reference monitor.
You will be able to tell a bad mix from a good one almost instantaneously.
With such a revealing set of monitors, if your mix sounds good on these, it will sound good on anything!
They also have a rock-solid build and will sound bigger than their footprint.
A ton of reviewers reported being able to pick out even the smallest of details, which comes in handy when you really need to dissect a mix and find flaws quickly.
Pros
- Tight, flat, and clean sound. Very neutral.
- Clear highs.
- The clarity and separation of highs, mids, and bass are phenomenal.
- Very revealing. If your mix sounds good on these, it will translate extremely well to other sources.
- Minimal changes are required after the initial mix-down. Very accurate and true.
- Solid construction/heavy enough.
Cons
- They may not provide the punch that people are looking for. You may have to upgrade to the HS8s or add a subwoofer.
- Mid-range may become problematic being that it’s a bit too forward at 1k.
Video Review!
Make sure to subscribe to Sonar Works!
What these monitors are good for
- Hip-hop production. Some were saying that while they are good for hip-hop, don’t buy them solely for this purpose, as the bass may be a bit difficult to mix. There’s simply not much there, and it’s been said that if you can hear the bass on these, you have too much.
- Audio/video post-production.
- Guitar performance (Critical listening).
- Acoustic/Chamber music.
- Keyboards.
- Good with the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 and 2i4.
Not as good for
Your home speaker set-up. Definitely don’t buy these expecting them to bring the house down.
They are reference monitors and won’t do quite well if you need something loud/entertaining.
For that, definitely look to the LSR305.
What will you need?
Your audio interface is highly recommended with these.
I touched on the Scarlett 2i2 and Volt 2 above, but generally, you’ll want a good interface because you can’t really use monitors without one.
- Related: What does an audio interface do?
It will give you a good, clean digital-to-analog conversion, and will power the monitors with relative ease.
- Recommended: Beginners Guide: What is a USB DAC?
Thoughts from Stu’s notepad
One reviewer said that the Yamaha HS5s are better than the LSR 305s, Adam F5s, and Adam F7s.
If what he said is true, you’re in for a world of excitement.
I’ve had the LSR 305s since Dec. of 2014 and they are phenomenal as well.
Balanced
Make sure to purchase balanced cables to avoid noise/ground floor issues.
Lack of Low-End?
There were quite a few people complaining about a lack of low-end on the HS5s.
As mentioned above, they do well with Hip-Hop, but if you were going to be mixing only that genre, you might consider the HS8s or HS7.
- Recommended: Yamaha HS5 vs. HS7 vs. HS8; Which Is Right For You?
Both are much better in that regard.
You may also purchase a separate sub-woofer if you’re really craving that bass, but it isn’t necessary from a pure mixing standpoint.
Treatment
You may opt to treat your room for the optimal mixing environment.
- Recommended: Acoustic Sound Treatment!
After your ears adjust, the HS5s will really start to sound fantastic.
A modification on these is said to bring out the bass, among other things.
Consensus/Conclusion
Yamaha’s HS5 is an excellent reference monitor with a rock-solid build. It may not have quite the bass impact that some are looking for, but overall, provides a flat, neutral response that’s ideal for most mixing scenarios.
Similarities & Differences
Similarities
- They are both entry-level options with 5″ drivers.
- They both have a pretty flat frequency response.
- Both are very revealing.
Differences
Power
The HS5s have 70 watts of power, while the LSR305s have 82 watts.
The 305s are overall a bit more powerful with a deeper bass response than the HS5s.
It is said that to get more of a punch, you may have to purchase the HS8s and bypass the 5s altogether.
You can also pair a subwoofer with either and get a pretty rad impact.
Intended Use
The HS5s are definitely more suited for mixing overall, but the lack of bass is a bit problematic for some. That said, you may be able to pick out flaws in a mix better with the HS5s.
You can see from the frequency response of each.
The 305s have a 43Hz – 24kHz response, while the HS5s go from 54Hz – 30kHz.
If you listen carefully to the demo below you will hear these subtle differences in each.
Sound Test
Final Verdict
If you’re looking for fantastic entry-level monitors, the HS5 easily wins over the 305.
That said, I mixed on the 305s with great results and there’s more bass to work with. This makes them a bit better overall for mixing in my opinion.
I think the 305 is something you may purchase if you’re looking for a reference monitor that also doubles as something you can simply kick back and listen to music with.
The HS5?
Sure, you can technically listen to music with any monitor, but if I had a choice, I’d only buy an HS5 for strictly mixing purposes.
That said, I truly believe that those looking to mix harder genres like Hip-Hop, House, Electronic, etc. should opt for the HS7 instead.
It’s flat like the HS5 but doesn’t lack in the bass department.
It also happens to be very highly rated on Amazon, so I wouldn’t think twice!
Learn More:
As a final note,
The 305s sat in my studio for many years until I had to sell them in 2019 for some quick cash.
They’ll really knock your socks off, especially when pushed.
So if you’re just getting started and don’t want to spend the money on the HS7s right away, the 305s are definitely my top pick.
Learn More:
Not quite ready to take the plunge on the 305?
Try the Presonus Eris e3.5; a fantastic stopgap and speakers I use daily!
Learn More:
Well, that’s about it for today my friend. I hope I’ve explained the differences between the JBL LSR305 vs. Yamaha HS5, and given you some newfound knowledge!
Questions? Comments? Requests? Did I miss the mark on something? Please leave me a comment below or Contact me!
Which of these monitors tickles YOUR fancy? Let me know as well, I would love to hear from you. Until next time…
All the best and God bless,
-Stu
Be sure to check out my Reviews and Resources page for more helpful and informative articles!
48 comments
Hello,
I just recently discovered your blog, and I really like it. You seem like a knowledgeable person, and it’s obvious that you know what you’re talking about. It seems that you really want to help people, and I appreciate it! Your blog has everything that a good blog should have.
Keep up the good work man!
Thanks Julius! I try to help people and lay out the facts first and foremost. I appreciate you stopping by!
Blessings,
-Stu
Since the HS 5 do not have much of the low end and yet are clean on sound and better for mixing, how about getting one HS 5 and one LSR 305 and using both together simultaneously?
Hey Philip!
Honestly man I would just go with 2 of the same monitor. You will most likely end up with more headache if you were to use two separate. I would imagine it’s going to just end up being more difficult to mix down. The 305’s are such a steal nowadays, I would try those first and see how you like ’em. I’ve had mine for 2 years now and I love the sound. Let me know!
Edit: Just saw there’s only one left. The pack of two is a bit more expensive for some reason, so I would just wait until they get more in stock.
Blessings,
-Stu
Hi dude. Was wondering if the HD Yamaha series (HS 5 with hs8s subwoofer) is better than a jbl lsr 305 with the suited jbl 310s subwoofer?
Are you just asking if the JBL sub is better than the Yamaha sub?
I just ordered a pair of the LSR305s and then discovered your review. Glad to have made the choice and can’t wait to listen to them!
Yeah man!
Love the 305’s. Have had them in my studio since Dec. 2014 or thereabouts. Couldn’t have made a better investment. Let me know how you like them! Try not to get blown away. Lol. I still haven’t put mine past 7 on the back dial. With the right tracks they really thump. I remember one of the first tracks I listened to was off of Rage Against the Machines’ first album. I was floored.
I am thinking of getting HS8 for general home usage like listening to music and watching movie. Or should I get others? Any recommendations…
Hey there!
I think the HS8 should work wonders for you. Do you plan on getting the amp as well?
There is in build amp for powered speaker. You mean audio interface?
Not sure I understand your question? Please clarify 🙂
Thanks for this blog! Just ordered two 305s (white:) and I am going to use them with 7.2 pre-out featured Yamaha RXV781. I’ll let you know when I listen to this setup. I thought about 2 x HS5s as the back supporters – do you think it may be interesting to have JBLs in front and HS5s at the back so let’s say for stereo I would have left side combined of 305+HS5 and the same for the right side?
Cool let me know how you like them! Hint: You will really like them lol. Not too sure about your question though, as I’ve never had experience doing anything like that.
-Stu
Stu – short and simple – the sound from these two is amazing! I had to trim bass down -20db at the back as it’s just too much for my living room. The sound floods the room you close your eyes and it’s everywhere. Three dimensional stereo from two speakers. Mediums and highs are perfect – I can hear and feel sounds I never could before. Even my JBL E50BT can’t compete. Completely different thing. Thank you!
Yeah dude!
Thanks for the ringing endorsement! The 305’s have been in my studio since December of 2014. For me there’s no real reason to upgrade. They have some crazy bass slam if you so desire, and in fact I still to this day haven’t put the dial past 7. Since I’m in an apartment, I’m not trying to blow people away, lol. But for 5″ woofers, these guys have some crazy impact. The cool thing is that they double as mixing monitors and casual listening speakers. So glad you’re enjoying them!
Ever need anything just Contact me..
Blessings,
-Stu
Lsr305 or hs8 for casual listening? Is there any noticeable difference from casual listening?
Hey!
The HS8 is for larger rooms, and will thump much harder than a 305. 305’s are incredible for the price though, you really can’t go wrong. I’ve had a pair since December 2014, and they do great for mixing and casual listening. For a 5″ inch woofer, they slam pretty hard.
Let me know what you think!
Both sound great for their pricing. However, Yamaha had a better build than the LSR305. 8 inches had better treble than 5 inches. What do u think?
It really comes down to your budget and the size of your room to be honest. I love the 305’s, and wouldn’t have a great need for the HS8’s unless I was in a larger room with treatment. Let me know what you decide!
I had a pair of HS5 and later traded in for a pair of HS7. Yesterday I auditioned the LSR305. To my ears, the closer sounding speakers to the LSR305 are the HS7, not the HS5. The HS5 tonal balance is not very ideal. The HS5 has a lower treble peak than makes instruments and vocal sound more pop out and more 3D than the HS7, which excites at first, but in long session, it’s quite fatiguing. Both the LSR305 and HS7 are more neutral, at the same time extended at the bottom, and both sound quite a lot more natural than the HS5. The HS7 and the LSR305 are pretty much in the same ball park. The differences between the HS7 and the LSR305 are: 1. The HS7 has a more forward treble and the LSR305 has a more laid back treble. This lead to seemingly more details and more defined images of the HS7. I love how acoustic guitars sound on the HS7, clear, sparkling and image very well. However, in close range, like on the desktop, within 3 feet, the LSR305’s treble sounds smoother and cleaner, and it’s absolutely fatigue-free. 2. The HS7 although quite a lot bigger in size, has actually less elevated bass. Both neutral, but I would say, for music listening, the LSR305 sounds more balanced and natural. 3. The HS7 ‘s best listening position is more limited than the LSR305. Both image well, but I will give the edge to HS7. For studio use, for the money, I think the LSR305 is a better buy, though I think the HS7 might give a slightly better mix. And for music listening, I feel the LSR305 is more balanced at the bottom. But again, both are great, the LSR305 being quite a bit cheap, in my opinion is a more solid buy.
Thank you so much for that valuable insight! Some people think a very bright treble helps with mixing as it kind of reveals a lot of flaws that you would otherwise miss. I agree, but also agree with you that it can become quite fatiguing. The MDR 7506’s are the same way in that they can wear you out over a long session.
It seems that your sentiments are echoed by the majority of folks. I don’t think the HS5’s are quite worth it, though they are still pretty solid overall. The LSR305 is indeed the better buy, while the HS7 would be a nice step up from that.
I’m sure your comment will help a lot of folks!! I appreciate it.
Blessings,
-Stu
I’m currently torn between the LSR305 and the HS7. I can get the 305s for 200€ a pair and the HS7s for 350€. My room is quite large that’s why people told me to go for the HS7, but I’m not sure if the 150€ would be worth it since I’m hearing that they are both really solid.
I wouldn’t mind investing, since I plan on using them for a while.
Is there something I should consider?
Hey Lukas!
Yeah it’s definitely a close call. The 305’s actually provide quite a bit of slam for the price. They will most definitely surprise you regarding how full the sound is. My default recommendation based on what you said is to go with the HS7, but why don’t you try the 305’s and see if they will suffice? My room is larger than average, and they do quite well, even with the dial only on 7 (out of 10).
If they aren’t loud enough, you can always return them for the HS7’s. The reason I say this is precisely because of price. The 305’s are basically a steal nowadays. I bought them for $149 (USD) a pair a few years ago and they’ve come down considerably. It’s almost a crime how good the price to performance ratio is.
Keep me posted on your decision..
-Stu
Stu,
I’m still not sure which monitors to select. Even after reading your reviews and watching the videos I’m feeling uncertain. I thought that going for the Yamaha’s was a sure thing, but some of the reviews about them have left me questioning that. If you were to choose among the Yamaha, JBL, or KRK, which would you choose for a medium sized room with no acoustic panels? Is there another monitor out there that is better than these three? Thank you!
Brady,
LSR 305 without question. I have them, and they’re the absolute best entry level monitors. You’re right about the HS5. Good monitor, but the sound is too thin down low and that’s basically unanimous. Forget about the KRK. It’s an overly bass heavy, muddy sound. 305 all the way. Crazy tight sound, lots of impact, great for your situation. I’ve had them since Dec. 2014 and still haven’t pushed the dial on the back past 7 and they blow me away. Plus they’ve come down in price over the last few years.
Let me know if that helps and what you decide!
-Stu
I just read your review and this is really helpful. Thank you so much for doing this.
I am a beginner and have a small room with no sound treatment. I am struggling with getting JBL SLR305 Or Yamaha Hs5, this is so hard to decide. I am a singer-songwriter, besides making demos and transcribing music, I also want to connect it directly to my keyboard sometimes. Ive heard that HS5 accept unbalanced signals better than JBL. May I have your opinions and suggestions? really appreciate!!!
Sorry for the late reply man! My internet has been down for a week and I just recently got it in working order. I would go with the 305’s without hesitation here. They are extremely powerful but perfect for your situation. Don’t think twice about it. I’ll look forward to hearing about them from you soon as well. 😉
God bless!
Hello,
Do you use the 305’s with a subwoofer or is it not needed with the bass that is built in with them?
I wouldn’t worry about a Sub for the 305’s. They provide plenty of slam and will pretty much blow you away. Lol.
Im getting the jbl 305s would you say that the mixes translate as well from source to source?
Yeah I would say so, as you’re not overcompensating for bass and what not. It’s just a great investment my man. Had ’em since 2014. They are perfect. Let me know what you decide.
-Stu
I intend to buy set of speakers for my keyboard. My play is mainly classical music. My room is not a big one. In my situation, what would you recommend ?
I would still go with the 305’s my friend without hesitation. They have a newer model which you may find interesting. I still have the old ones and they have been working flawlessly since Dec. 2014.
Let me know what you decide!
Really interesting and eye opening post. I have a newbie question. I’ve just bought myself a pair of JBL 305P mkii and I’m running them through my Scarlett 2i2 1st gen. How should I set the monitors input on their back? -10 or +4? Also, sometimes when playing guitar through them, some notes get really bassy and boomy. What could that be?!
Hey buddy! Mine came defaulted to -10. I’d probably just stick to that for now. As for your other question. Hmm. Are you using balanced cables? Honestly though my first initial thought is that perhaps you should upgrade to the Gen 2 Scarlett although I can’t say for sure that would make a difference. I’m running 2i2 1st gen with 305 first gen and have never had any problems. Also, are you plugging straight into the front via the combo XLR/TRS jack? Could be you’re suffering some latency issues. It’s really hard to say. Let me know the exact set-up.
-Stu
Hey Stuart,
Thanks for the review man. I have an untreated medium or small size room and have a 2i2 scarlett interface. Could you suggest me which fits my needs perfectly. JBL 305 or the Yamaha HS5
Hey Raju!
I’d go with the 305 MK II’s man! The HS5’s are lacking in the bass region so if you need them for mixing it’s going to be imperative that you get a subwoofer to go with them. I would personally go with the 305. More punch yet still a good entry level set for mixing. One of the best investments I’ve made in my studio over the years. I also have the 2i2 and with TRS to XLR they are a dream.
Let me know if you have any other questions!
-Stu
Thank you so much Stuart!
One last thing. Are the 5 inch ones good enough for the small room, or should I go for the 6 or 8 inch?
Hey man!
The 5″ work great for me in a small room. You can always upgrade later if it’s not enough, but I think you’ll find that it will be plenty. I still don’t move the dial past 7 on my 305’s and I’ve had them since 2014. Hope that helps! Keep me posted.
Just thought of something: If you were referring to the HS5’s, I would bypass them and get the HS7’s (which is actually 6.5″)
-Stu
hey stu ,
Just bought the 305 p M2 considering your suggestion . Thank you for the help. waiting for them to get delivered and get going .
Hey man!
Please keep me posted on set up/impressions, etc. Would love to help out further in any way and looking forward to your thoughts!
Hi Stuart,
I’m extremely frustrated with my setup – I beg for your help haha! For over 3 years I’ve owned the HS5 monitors after being advised by a friend that they’d be suitable for listening pleasure in my bedroom. My room is approximately 14ft (L), over 13ft (W), 10ft (H), with two alcoves either side of the chimney breast. Left alcove is 8 inches deep and about 4ft wide. Right side is five sided bay window 4ft deep and ft (W). Each monitor is placed near both corners of the chimney breast. I listen to various kinds of metal and rock and find that the HS5s lack body and depth… They’re rather tinny… unexciting! Given my room dimensions, what would you recommend? Do you think the JBL LSR 305’s would do a much better job, or do you reckon I’d need to look at different monitors/speakers altogether?
Hey man!
My first initial thought is that YES! The 305’s sound incredible with stuff like Rage Against the Machine, Rock, Metal, Hip-Hop, and pretty much everything. I remember the first time I blasted songs from Rage first album in my old room at my parents house when no one was home 😛 It nearly melted my face off and I only had the dial on 7/10 (and still do!). They are great for everyday listening. I still have a pair in my studio and love ’em! You could go with the original 305 or try out the MK II’s. Admittedly I haven’t done a whole lot of research on the II’s but I would imagine they are really good going by the great marks they receive on amazon.
As for your room, I’m drawing up a diagram. Is the chimney seated at the back? And the 2 alcoves are on the side?
I did a bit of research and your bedroom seems to be on the larger side. I may recommend you the Yamaha HS7’s as they are more meant for medium to large sized rooms. the 305’s would probably be okay (and will still sound fantastic), but the HS7 is a definite step up from the HS5 and an incredible monitor overall.
Keep me posted and let me know about the chimney!
Regards,
-Stu
Hello,
I recently started developing hearing loss in both of my ears which ended up resulting in hearing recruitment [Instead of frequencies where my hearing loss is located being less sensitive, they are abrasive and louder. Its similar to hyperacusis. I have a hard time listening to music for more than a few minutes, especially at mid to high volumes.
I compose and produce my own music, and I am trying to find monitors that would sound great at very low volumes and have very low noise fatigue or impact on my sensitive ears. Between these two, which would you recommend? Or any others in a similar price range.
Hey man! Hmm. The 305’s sound great at low volumes for me because they tend to sound meatier overall. The HS5 has been accused of being a bit thin and dry sounding. Great at higher volumes, but perhaps not so much very low. They don’t have the bass extension that the 305’s have. In all honesty, music should be mixed on monitors at lower volumes, which is something you probably already know. 🙂 I would go with the 305’s. They are really amazing. Keep me posted!
Hi Stuart, between the Mackie MR624 and the JBL LSR305, which one do you suggest to mix and also to casual listen to? My room is 3x4x3, untreated.
Hey man! Haven’t heard the Mackie but I’d def go with a 305. Funny you should ask that, as I had to sell mine in 2019 due to financial strain. Had
’em for 5 years at that point. Loved every second for both casual and mixing. It’s a hard-hitting but still an elegant sound perfect for mixing. I remember listening to Rage Against the Machine’s first album and my jaw literally dropped. The bass is done incredibly well and not overdone, but the entirety of the frequency response performs beautifully.
Well, now I’m in the market for monitors again, and guess what? In my research, I keep going right back to the 305. LOL. It’s an incredibly easy purchase! You’ll be ecstatic, trust me. Check ’em out at Sweetwater and Amazon. I’d take advantage now at the current price which I’m going to do as well I think.