Front-ported monitors offer a range of benefits for home studios. You can place them closer to walls and enjoy a more forward-facing bass presence. But with so many options available, selecting the one right for you can be challenging.
Our Editor’s Choice is the PreSonus Eris E5. It’s an affordable monitor with great sound and a well-tuned port to deliver a satisfying bass response.
We’re gear-obsessed and have high standards after over 15 years in the industry. It’s the reason this website exists; we want to share our knowledge and expertise so you can find the right gear for you.
Independent research is a core principle behind our guides. We assessed 27 front-ported monitors to uncover the best choices. Testing in our studio then helps refine the selections further so that only the top options make our recommended list.
WINNER
PreSonus Eris E5
An affordable and highly capable front ported studio monitor with excellent sound and high quality components.
RUNNER UP
Pioneer DM-50D
An aggressively priced front ported monitor with flexible sound modes, a slick design, and consumer-friendly features.
Product Reviews
A high-quality monitor should feature an intelligent and thoughtful design. This is even more important with a front-ported monitor. The engineering behind the port can make a huge difference in audio quality. Below is a breakdown of some of the best and what you’ll need to consider before handing over your hard-earned money.
PreSonus Eris E5 Review
- Woofer Size: 5.25"
- Tweeter Size: 1.25"
- Frequency Response: 53Hz – 22 kHz
- Inputs: 1 x RCA, 1 x 1/4″ TRS, 1 x XLR
- Weight: 10.2 lbs. (4.63kg)
- Size (W/H/D): 7″ – 10.24″ – 7.7″ (178mm - 260mm - 195mm)
Pros
- High Quality – The PreSonus Eris E5 offers excellent build quality, especially considering its price point. Good components and a slick finish.
- Loud Output – With a Max SPL of 102dB, these 5-inch monitors have ample headroom. Performance at higher volume levels is also impressive.
- Affordable – These are among the best value monitors on the market. If you are setting up a studio with a restricted budget, these are worth adding to your shortlist.
- Pro Appearance – The clean matte finish and minimal embellishments ensure that this monitor will blend into any studio environment.
Cons
- Needs Tuning – The sound profile is a tad unbalanced out of the box. You’ll need to play around with the tuning options to achieve a more neutral response.
The PreSonus Eris E5 is a popular and affordable front-ported studio monitor. With loud and clear output, it is a viable option for a project home studio. It features a well-defined midrange but has a few issues in both the low and high end. Despite a more v-shaped sound profile, the build quality and low price point make the E5 an appealing option.
Read our full Presonus Eris E5 review for more detailed information.
Pioneer DM-50D Review
- Woofer Size: 5"
- Tweeter Size: 0.75"
- Frequency Response: N/A
- Inputs: 2 x 1/4" TRS (L, R), 1 x Dual Stereo RCA, 1 x 1/8"
- Weight: 16.3 lbs. (7.4kg) (pair)
- Size (W/H/D): 6.88" - 10.31" - 10.11"(L) / 9.72" (R) (175mm - 262mm - 257mm (L) / 247mm (R))
Pros
- Meaty Low End – The DM-50D offers a punchy and satisfying bass response that will appeal to lovers of bass-heavy music.
- Straightforward Modes – You’ll have access to a simple switch to adjust the output. A DJ Mode for a more v-shaped sound profile and a Production Mode for a flatter response.
- Connection Flexibility – The DM-50D features both balanced and unbalanced connection options. The option for RCA is very consumer friendly and ties in well with Pioneer’s range of entry-level DJ controllers.
- Tough Cabinet – The molded plastic cabinet is durable and scratch resistant. A good choice if you take your monitors on the road with you.
Cons
- Could Be Flatter – While the Production Mode is serviceable for light tasks, it is not flat enough for detailed analytical studio work.
The Pioneer DM-50D is an interesting hybrid front-ported studio monitor. Its dual bass ports help deliver a surprising amount of bass for a 5-inch monitor. High build quality and extra consumer-focused features like a headphone jack add to the appeal. These are great for day-to-day listening, DJ practice sessions, and light studio work.
Read our full Pioneer DM-50D review for more detailed information.
Kali Audio LP-8 V2 Review
- Woofer Size: 8"
- Tweeter Size: 1"
- Frequency Response: 37 Hz – 25 kHz
- Inputs: 1 x 1/4" TRS, 1 x XLR, 1 x RCA
- Weight: 19.8 lbs. (9 kg)
- Size (W/H/D): 10" - 16.5" - 11.25" (254mm - 419mm - 286mm)
Pros
- Neutral Response – The LP-8 V2 delivers in the sound department with a neutral response that will appeal to professionals. It’s also equally great for casual listening.
- Excellent Low-End – The sizeable front port features a low-noise design to eliminate chuffing and muddy lows. Clean and accurate bass at low and high volume levels.
- Improved Highs – The V2 series of the LP range offers detailed and crisp highs. A significant improvement over the previous model, where the highs were a little sharp and shrill.
- Reasonable Price – The asking price is very affordable for a studio monitor that performs this well. Good balance between performance, quality, and price.
Cons
- Fiddly Switches – The LP-8 V2 has a range of precise tuning controls to adapt to your studio space, but the switches to make changes are small and fiddly.
The 8-inch LP-8 V2 from Kali Audio is an aggressively priced front-ported monitor that ticks several boxes. Flat frequency response for serious studio work and flexible tuning options to handle sound issues. High-quality construction and a very approachable price point. If you want a larger monitor but don’t want to spend too much, the LP-8 V2 is excellent value.
Read our full Kali Audio LP-8 V2 review for more detailed information.
ADAM Audio A7V Review
- Woofer Size: 7"
- Tweeter Size: Rotatable X-ART
- Frequency Response: 44Hz - 41kHz (-3dB)
- Inputs: 1 x XLR, 1 x RCA
- Weight: 19.18 lbs. (8.7 kg)
- Size (W/H/D): 7.87" - 13.25" - 11" (200mm - 336mm - 279mm)
Pros
- Superb Sound – The A7V has all the elements you need for serious studio work. Flat response with excellent definition and accuracy across the frequency range.
- Room Correction – The room adaptation controls at the rear make it very easy to adjust the output to suit your studio space. It also features Sonarworks integration for even deeper customization.
- Ribbon Tweeter – The X-ART ribbon tweeter delivers incredible highs that are detailed and crisp without sounding harsh or fatiguing. The tweeter is also rotatable so that you can adapt it to your preferred orientation.
- Loud And Clear – Max SPL of 105dB is nice and loud for near-field monitoring. You’ll rarely have to push this monitor to its limits.
Cons
- High Price Point – This is a professional-grade studio monitor, and with that does come an elevated price point. There are better value monitors out there that still sound great.
The ADAM Audio A7V is a premium studio monitor with forward-facing bass ports. The sound quality is exceptional, with satisfying low-frequency delivery, lush and engaging mid-range, and delicate and precise highs. A detailed selection of tuning options and outstanding component quality seal the deal. While not the cheapest, they are a worthwhile investment.
Focal Alpha 50 Evo Review
- Woofer Size: 5"
- Tweeter Size: 1"
- Frequency Response: 45Hz – 22kHz (-3)
- Inputs: 1 x XLR, 1 x RCA, 1 x 1/4"
- Weight: 13.1 lbs. (5.94kg)
- Size (W/H/D): 9.9" - 12.2" - 9.4" (251mm - 310mm - 239mm)
Pros
- Accurate Audio – This studio monitor offers exceptional neutrality with minimal deviations. An ideal choice for music production, mixing, and mastering.
- Tight Bass – The low-end is punchy and satisfying while retaining accuracy. The large front-facing bass port keeps bass delivery smooth without a hint of boominess.
- Slick Styling – The molded cabinet features plenty of character with a modern design mentality. Combine it with the slate-fiber woofer, and you have an attractive monitor on your hands.
- Generous Imaging – The Focal Alpha 50 Evo features a broad sweet spot that makes finding the ideal listening position hassle-free.
Cons
- Premium Price – These are not as expensive as some options on this list, but they are equally not exactly budget-friendly.
The attractive front-ported Focal Alpha 50 Evo is another superb 5-inch monitor with detailed sound reproduction. A comprehensive selection of input options and effective tuning controls make it easy to set up. Once going, you’ll have a detailed and well-rounded sound profile that is more than capable of handling serious studio work.
Read our full Focal Alpha 50 EVO review for more detailed information.
Neumann KH 80 Review
- Woofer Size: 4"
- Tweeter Size: 1"
- Frequency Response: 57Hz - 21kHz
- Inputs: 1 x XLR-1/4" combo
- Weight: 7.7 lbs. (3.5 kg)
- Size (W/H/D): 6.1" - 9.2" - 7.6" (154mm - 233mm - 194mm)
Pros
- Flat Delivery – Neumann has an excellent reputation in the audio gear scene, which is on full display with the KH 80. An outstanding sound profile that is flat and accurate.
- Well-Tuned Port – The dual bass reflex ports provide a solid refinement to low-end delivery. Impressive for a monitor with a 4-inch woofer.
- Compact Choice – The compact form factor of the KH 80 makes it an ideal choice for smaller studio spaces or any studio where desk space is at a premium.
- Distortion Free – Fantastic clarity and delivery without a hint of distortion, even when approaching the Max SPL of 108dB.
Cons
- Not Cheap – Premium components and intelligent design from a leader in the industry do equal a high price. Despite that, it is money well spent if you can afford them.
If you don’t have a lot of space in your studio, the diminutive KH 80 from Neumann should be on your list of options. The high-quality sound retains all the qualities you need to make accurate decisions in the studio without taking up space. Perhaps not the most attractive monitor out there, but with performance like this, it’s easy to look past appearances.
Read our full Neumann KH 80 review for more detailed information.
KRK Classic 5 Review
- Woofer Size: 5"
- Tweeter Size: 1"
- Frequency Response: 46Hz - 34.5kHz
- Inputs: 1 x XLR, 1 x RCA, 1 x 1/4"
- Weight: 12.95 lbs. (5.87 kg)
- Size (W/H/D): 7.4" - 11.2" - 9.68" (188mm - 284mm - 246mm)
Pros
- Refined Sound – The Classic series from KRK presents a more refined and accurate sound than the ROKIT series. A more appropriate option for mixing and mastering.
- Legendary Design – Few music producers will not instantly recognize the iconic yellow and black design. Lively and bright and a real showcase in any studio setting.
- Exceptional Value – The Classic 5 features an aggressive price without skimping out on quality. Rock solid cabinet and reliable components without a massive price tag.
- Versatile Connections – Access to both unbalanced RCA and your choice of TRS or XLR balanced connections. A very flexible studio monitor.
Cons
- Auto Standby – While excellent for saving power, the auto standby can be annoying, with a noticeable lag to kick back in. I would have preferred the flexibility to switch this on and off as needed.
KRK monitors have graced the studios of some of the world’s most decorated artists. The accurate sound and lively sound profile have cemented them as an excellent choice for various applications. While more accurate options are available, you’ll be hard-pressed to find monitors this well-rounded at such a low price point. A classic, not just in name.
Yamaha MSP5 Review
- Woofer Size: 5"
- Tweeter Size: 1"
- Frequency Response: 50Hz - 40kHz
- Inputs: 1 x XLR, 1 x TRS
- Weight: 17.42 lbs. (7.9 kg)
- Size (W/H/D): 7" - 11" - 8.2" (178mm - 279mm - 208mm)
Pros
- Delightful Mid Range – The MSP5 features superb mid-range clarity and definition. Getting your mid-range right can be difficult, but these will ensure you can make the correct decisions.
- Clever Use Of Space – With an intelligent cabinet design, there is not a scrap of the surface that doesn’t serve a purpose. The integration of the ports also helps make it smaller than other monitors.
- Magnetic Shielding – An abundance of shielding within the enclosure eliminates unwanted interference in the monitor and surrounding audio gear.
- Rugged Construction – Excellent component quality and a rock-solid enclosure for maximum durability. The added grilles for the woofer are also a nice inclusion.
Cons
- Aggressive Highs – The MSP5 features a very accurate frequency response, but the top end is a little too bright for my ears.
The Yamaha HS range is a common recommendation for entry-level monitors. But if you can bump your budget up, the MSP series is a fantastic improvement. Superb sound quality that is accurate and detailed, allowing you to have complete confidence when composing, mixing, and mastering. One of the best near-field front-ported studio monitors available today.
Our Expert Buying Guide
Front-ported monitors are one of the market’s most popular forms of studio monitors. Their adaptability and ability to sit closer to walls make them an appealing option for smaller studio spaces. Below we take a deeper dive into a few topics you should consider when buying front-ported studio monitors.
Front Vs Rear Ported Vs Sealed
When buying studio monitors, you’ll come across three types. Front Ported, Rear Ported, and Sealed. Each offers its benefits and drawbacks, and understanding the differences can help you make the right choice.
Sealed studio monitors don’t feature a bass port. This results in a more restrained bass response but also helps increase bass accuracy. Sealed monitors will also need more power to deliver rich lows as there is no port to help enhance the low end. But the lack of a port also helps reduce chuffing and boominess, along with dealing with bass build-up issues.
Front-ported monitors give you the option to place them closer to rear walls.
Rear-ported studio monitors will feature one or more bass ports at the back of the monitor. These can be the ideal choice in larger spaces or studios where the mixing desk is located away from walls. Having the port at the rear will prevent the air and sound from interfering with the woofer and tweeter output. But in tighter spaces, a rear-facing port can cause bass build-up issues.
The final type and the focus of this guide are front-ported monitors. These hit a good balance between practicality and function. You’ll be able to set these up closer to walls which is handy for smaller studio spaces. A well-designed port can also improve bass tonality without requiring a lot of excess power. But as with any studio monitor, the design needs to be on point, or you’ll end up with muddy and boomy bass frequencies.
The right one for you will depend on your studio space and what you expect from a monitor. A front-facing bass reflex port is a popular choice for home studios where space is often at a premium. If this resonates with you, I’d suggest buying a front-ported studio monitor.
Monitor Positioning
While front-ported studio monitors allow for more flexibility in their placement, there are still some fundamental things to consider when setting up your monitors.
Front-ported speakers can sit closer to a rear wall, but you should still aim to have some distance. This can vary based on the dimensions of your studio, but generally, around 6 inches (15cm) is a good range to begin with.
Correct positioning is essential irrespective of what monitors you buy.
The other thing to consider is that you form an equilateral triangle with your listening position. This will provide the best stereo image. Also, aim to have the monitors at a height where the tweeter is aligned with your ears.
It would also be best to avoid corner placement, as this can compound bass resonance issues. Reflections can also be an issue, especially with front-ported monitors where the port is at the bottom of the front baffle. Appropriate monitor stands and isolation pads are the best way to address some of these issues.
If you take all those elements into account, you’ll be able to achieve the best possible sound quality from your shiny new front-ported studio monitors.
FAQ
Do Ported Speakers Have More Bass?
Ported speakers feature a design that is perfectly suited for dynamic and aggressive bass. If you listen to or work with bass-heavy music, they are an excellent choice.
Which One Should You Buy?
Selecting the best front-ported monitor speakers is not an exact science, as there are several factors to consider. Every studio space is different, so one monitor might be ideal for one setup but woeful for another. Having considered that, there are a couple that I want to highlight.
The PreSonus Eris E5 is a standout due to how much it gets right while maintaining a low price. Setting up your first studio can be expensive, so I appreciate great value offerings like the Eris E5. There are more refined monitors, but with some tuning, the Eris E5 offers outstanding value.
The other notable option is the DM-50D from Pioneer. As a DJ, it’s appealing to have a set of monitors that sound engaging and fun when doing practice sessions. But there are times when a little more accuracy is needed, and in Production mode, they can get the job done for light editing work. I wouldn’t use them for detailed work, but they are hard to beat as an all-rounder. Easy to use and at a very reasonable price point.
No matter which one you buy, you’ll enjoy the flexibility and convenience that front-ported monitors offer, which can open up more options for laying out your studio space.