REVIEW  Music Production  December 8, 2023  Reading time: 4 Minute(s)

Max (RS editor)

Embarking on my journey into finishing my second - smaller - control room, I sought the perfect companion for my small space. The PreSonus Eris 5, with its compact design and promising features, became the focus of my exploration. In this personal review, I'll share my experiences with these monitors.

In the Box and Connectivity

Unboxing the monitors felt like unwrapping a treasure chest. The meticulous packaging included foam sticker pads, an IEC power cable, and a user manual, setting the stage for a thoughtful user experience. The array of connectivity options—RCA, TRS 1/4", and XLR sockets—offered a level of versatility that suited my evolving audio setup, providing a seamless integration with my studio gear.

Controls and Equalization

Navigating the controls on the back of the E5 monitors felt empowering. The equalization settings became my sonic playground, allowing me to adapt the monitors to the unique acoustics of my room. Experimenting with the Acoustic Space, MF Control, HF Control, and Low Cut options became a daily ritual, until I finally found the perfect setting for my needs and I must say that I'm perfectly happy with it. It wasn't very easy, but this is more due to the fact that it is always necessary to proceed one step at a time and listen and listen again day after day to understand what the right sound is. The monitor controls allowed me to achieve an optimal result in a rather simple way. 

Construction and Materials

The robust build of the E5 monitors instilled confidence. The marriage of Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) and metal not only contribute to durability but also convey a sense of craftsmanship. Surprisingly lightweight, these monitors became my go-to choice for on-the-go music-making, proving that portability could coexist with sturdiness.

Woofer and Tweeter Design

Exploring the intricacies of the 5.25-inch Kevlar woofer and the 1-inch silk dome tweeter heightened my appreciation for thoughtful design. The Kevlar cone, derived from aerospace-grade material, acted as an efficient sound sculptor. The tweeter, delicately handling high frequencies, added a layer of clarity to my music, making each listening session an unexpectedly immersive experience.

Frequency Response and Amplification

The quoted frequency response intrigued me, and while the measurement method remained undisclosed, my ears attested to a pleasingly flat response. The bi-amped configuration, coupled with the shielding against interference, deliver a powerful and clean sound. It felt as if each note was precisely sculpted, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail in the amplification design. This aspect struck me a lot, being used to work with high-level monitors, but evidently for solutions in small spaces and with the aim of emulating a sound as similar as possible to that of average monitors, the Eris Studio 5 proved to be perfect for this job.

Design and Styling

The modern aesthetic of the E5 monitors seamlessly blended into my studio environment. The matte black finish, complemented by the blue logo and Kevlar cone, added a touch of sophistication. The subtle waveguides and front reflex port not only contributed to the sleek design but also hinted at the engineering prowess within.

Placement and Performance

As usual, experimenting with placement became a journey of discovering the sweet spot. Forming that equilateral triangle, adjusting angles, and incorporating the provided foam pads became rituals for enhancing my acoustic experience. In terms of performance, the Eris E5 monitors delivered beyond my expectations. The vocals are crisp, the highs silky smooth, and the bass, while not earth-shattering, remained tight and focused—a testament to their adaptability across various music genres.

Verdict: The Best Small Studio Monitors?

My personal verdict echoes the sentiments of many fellow music enthusiasts. The PreSonus Eris 5 monitors are not just speakers; they are companions on the path to musical self-discovery. The balanced sound, coupled with extensive EQ controls and versatile connectivity, makes them an ideal choice for those navigating the intricate world of studio monitoring, especially in smaller studio spaces.

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