Yamaha HS8 Review

Do you need a reliable studio monitor that won’t break the bank? Look no further than the Yamaha HS8.

This review will provide an in-depth look at the Yamaha HS8, from its power and frequency response to its I/O and build quality.

You’ll discover how it stacks up against other monitors in the same price range, and you’ll be able to decide whether it’s the perfect choice for you.

Let’s dive in and see what the Yamaha HS8 has to offer.

Key Takeaways

  • The Yamaha HS8 may be the best option from Yamaha’s HS line, suitable as secondary reference monitors with good sound quality and great for mixing.
  • The frequency response of the HS8 spans from 38 Hz to 30 kHz, but the sound may be overhyped in the high end and scooped in the lower mids.
  • The rear panel features balanced XLR and TRS inputs, along with room correction and HF trim switches, but these additional controls may not be necessary.
  • The build quality of the HS8 is hefty and not recommended for mobile setups, but it has a simple and classic Yamaha speaker design suitable for any studio environment.

Expertise and Verdict

You can trust the expertise of the author, who’s decades of experience in producing and engineering, to provide the final verdict on the Yamaha HS8.

The author has worked with a wide range of gear and has experience with monitoring systems like Genelec, Neumann, Adam Audio, and Yamaha.

According to him, Yamaha HS8 is suitable as secondary reference monitors and has great sound quality for mixing. Power and frequency response span from 38 Hz to 30 kHz, with sound described as overhyped in the high end and scooped in the lower mids.

I/O and controls feature balanced XLR and TRS inputs, as well as room correction and HF Trim switches. Build quality is sturdy and classic, but not suitable for mobile setups.

In comparison to other studio monitors, Yamaha HS8 is a good option under $1000 for mixing purposes. Alternatives to consider are HS8I, JBL 308P Mk2, Kali Audio LP-8 V2, Adam Audio T8V, and Focal Alpha 80 Evo.

The target audience for the Yamaha HS8 are music makers and enthusiasts looking for reliable and consistent secondary reference monitors.

Power and Frequency Response

Second, the power and frequency response of the Yamaha HS8 range from 38 Hz to 30 kHz, with sound that can be described as overhyped in the high end and scooped in the lower mids. This produces a clean sound, though some may find it too clean.

When it comes to sound quality and accuracy, the Yamaha HS8 does well. However, it isn’t recommended as a primary monitor. Pros and cons of the frequency response include clean sound, but perhaps overly clean, and a range which may not be suitable for certain applications.

I/O and Controls

On the rear panel of the Yamaha HS8, you’ll find balanced XLR and TRS inputs, as well as room correction and HF Trim switches. These connectivity options provide you with the flexibility to connect to various audio devices.

The control features and functionality are great too, with a gain knob for volume control, room control switch, and HF trim switch accompanied by visual graphs. It’s a nice addition, but not necessary.

The simple and classic Yamaha speaker design makes it suitable for any studio environment, and the room control switches are especially useful for finding the right size compatibility.

All in all, the Yamaha HS8 is a great choice for your studio setup.

Build Quality

At a hefty weight, the Yamaha HS8 isn’t the most portable option, but it’s designed for any studio environment. With its classic Yamaha speaker design and durability, it’s built to last and offers long-term value.

The HS8 is also conveniently sized, with room control switches that help with size compatibility. The aesthetics are also great, making it suitable for any space.

On the downside, its portability is limited, making it less ideal for mobile setups.

Comparison to Other Monitors

Comparing the Yamaha HS8 to other studio monitors, it’s a good option under $1000 for mixing purposes.

Alternatives to consider include the HS8I, JBL 308P Mk2, Kali Audio LP-8 V2, Adam Audio T8V, and Focal Alpha 80 Evo.

The HS8I is identical to the HS8 with the addition of a mounting bracket.

The JBL 308P Mk2 offers a more neutral response and is recommended.

The Kali Audio LP-8 V2 is a better option as a primary reference monitor.

The Adam Audio T8V provides a fuller sound and is more affordable.

The Focal Alpha 80 Evo is a higher-end option.

All these monitors have their pros and cons, making it important to evaluate the price-quality ratio before investing.

Conclusion

Overall, the Yamaha HS8 is a reliable and consistent studio monitor that won’t break the bank. It offers plenty of power and a wide frequency response, as well as a robust build quality and a good selection of I/O and controls.

When compared to other monitors in its price range, the Yamaha HS8 stands out as one of the best options available. If you’re looking for a reliable monitor that won’t break the bank, the Yamaha HS8 is definitely worth considering.

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