For a long time, traveling with studio monitors was cumbersome and often unviable, so most professionals resorted to relying on headphones.
The KRK GOAUX 3 tackles this issue head-on by offering professionals a compact and convenient set of monitors with excellent sound for casual listening and professional applications.
After so many years in the industry, I’ve had my fair share of experiences where a set of monitors would have been ideal for on-the-road work.
After reaching out to our network of industry professionals, I realized that others had encountered this issue. This is why we have put the KRK GOAUX 3 through our detailed testing process to see if there is finally a viable option, and spoiler alert, it’s a fantastic set of portable monitors.
KRK GOAUX 3
Overall Rating (8/10)
What We Liked
What Could Be Better
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The KRK GOAUX 3 is near perfect for the traveling professional. Its impressive sound, high output level, and convenient travel-focused accessories set it apart. Below, I dive into the nitty-gritty details of what these small monitors offer.
Sound Quality
As with any studio monitor we test, the primary factor we emphasize most is how they actually sound from a casual and professional listening perspective, and the KRK GOAUX 3 exceeded our expectations.
The small form factor and 3-inch woofer deliver a satisfying level of bass response for a 3-inch cone. And that is really the key here. You can’t expect rumbling bass from a 3-inch woofer, but when lined up against the competition, the GOAUX 3 punches well above what you might expect.
The mid-range was well-balanced and offered ample definition in this vital area. I tested various genres, from electronic music to acoustic performances, with all translated wonderfully.
The GOAUX 3 are the first KRK monitors with a direct focus on portability.
The top end was equally impressive for a small 3-inch set of studio monitors. Crisp and clear without harshness or brittle tonality, even at higher volume levels.
After trialing these monitors, I couldn’t help but concede that they might be the very best small portable monitors I’ve had the chance to test. Would I rely on them to finish a project? Possibly not, but for on-the-road work, they are surprisingly capable.
Balance across the frequencies is solid, and while slightly colored, the profile is neutral enough to get a firm handle on any potential issues in your mix. It’s a familiar sound profile that any KRK fan will instantly recognize.
I’ll admit my expectations were not immense. It is, after all, just a set of compact monitors; how good could they be? The answer is much better than they have any right to be—an excellent set of portable monitors from a well-respected brand.
Build Quality
Throughout my career in the industry, I’ve owned and tested several KRK monitors, and they have always been superb in terms of build quality and longevity.
The KRK GOAUX 3 meets my expectations for studio monitors in this price bracket and, in many areas, even exceeds what I deem appropriate. The rugged ABS enclosure is ideally suited for travel and is scuff-resistant.
High build quality without a high price.
The 3-inch woven glass aramid woofer and 1-inch soft textile dome are high-quality, and both drivers feature a rigid protective grille for added security, which is a must-have for the traveling professional.
The connection points, buttons, and knobs are all excellent, and the high quality extends to the included carry case and stands. For monitors at this price point, I have nothing to complain about.
Specifications
The KRK GOAUX 3 features a bi-amplified two-way design with a total of 60 Watts of RMS power (30 Watts for each monitor, 22 Watts for the low-frequency driver, and 8 Watts for the high-frequency driver).
The result is an impressive frequency range of 60Hz-22kHz (-10dB) and a response of 65Hz-20kHz (-3dB). As mentioned, it might not go as low as some may want, but for a 3-inch pair, they perform admirably. Likewise, the reach at the top end is more than adequate.
Loud output for small monitors.
Another impressive aspect of these compact studio monitors is the high output level. The maximum system SPL is 105dB, but more importantly, the continuous max SPL of 95.5dB is more than enough for working and listening on the road.
Distortion is also low, ensuring a smooth and engaging listening experience even at higher volume levels. Yes, you’ll encounter some issues with lower frequencies, but that is the case with all small studio monitors.
Tuning Options
The KRK GOAUX 3 also gives you some control over output, which is essential if you intend to take them on the road. Access to some controls to adjust to different spaces is mandatory, so I’m glad there are some options here.
At the rear of the primary speaker, you’ll have access to Low Frequency and High-Frequency control buttons. The high-frequency control button cycles through +2dB, FLATm, and -3dB options. Ample control to help inject more brightness or tackle sharp top-end response in problematic spaces.
High and Low frequency controls.
Likewise, the Low-Frequency button cycles through the same +2dB, FLAT, and -3dB options. The +2dB gives the low end a nice boost without introducing too much color, while the -3dB is perfect for mitigating bass build-up in tight spaces.
For monitors in this price range, that is about as much as I would expect, though some more expensive options provide a few extra bells and whistles. However, only some manage to combine portability, controls, and performance quite like the GOAUX 3, so it’s an unfair comparison.
Design
I’ve always had a soft spot for KRK monitors’ iconic yellow and black combination. I don’t know whether that is because I’ve seen so many in various studios over the years or if it’s just a preference for this color combo. Perhaps it’s a bit of both.
The overall form factor of these compact monitors is excellent, with a beautiful curve and smooth rounded edges that complement the shape and size of these compact monitors.
Attractive design and useful inclusions.
However, beyond aesthetics, multiple other design decisions highlight the precise design mentality at work.
The primary monitor features a forward-facing volume control for easy access and a dedicated headphone jack. It is perfect for both travel and multimedia applications at home.
The portability-focused design is further cemented with an excellent pair of included stands that offer a flat or angular orientation, which is ideal for getting the sweet spot hitting your ears perfectly. Wrapping it up is a durable protective case with a carry handle for easy transportation.
Dimensions
As you would expect from a set of studio monitors aimed at the traveling professional, the GOAUX 3 is compact and portable. But I need to emphasize how convenient it is to take these anywhere thanks to the included carry case.
Ultra compact and lightweight monitors.
The KRK GOAUX 3 is also very lightweight. When you add up both speakers, the stands, cables, and the carry bag, it weighs a measly 6.94 lbs. (3.15 kg). Once again, it is ideal for travel.
Inputs
The KRK GOAUX 3 offers a basic set of connection options, but due to its simplicity, it does lack one element, which might make you consider its bigger sibling, the GOAUX 4, over the 3-inch version.
At the rear, you’ll have access to a Left and Right RCA point and an AUX-In. However, it lacks a balanced connection option, which the GOAUX 4 offers via a dedicated set of TRS connection points.
Reliable Bluetooth but no balanced connections.
It’s not a dealbreaker by any stretch, but I do know some people who demand having access to balanced connection points. For what it’s worth, I don’t see it as an issue, and I was experiencing excellent sound with RCA cables.
The other notable connectivity option is Bluetooth 5.0, which supports older Bluetooth versions. The pairing process was quick and seamless, with no dropouts. You can stream music from your smartphone, computer/laptop, or any other Bluetooth-capable audio device.
Value
The KRK GOAUX 3’s value offering is also very impressive. There are cheaper 3-inch monitor sets available, but few manage to match the GOAUX 3 when you factor in durability, performance, and inclusions.
Excellent travel bag for ultimate portability.
You get access to high-quality sound, flexible controls and connections, monitor stands, and a carry bag at this price. It’s a great deal, and while not exactly “cheap,” it’s a small investment for on-the-road convenience.
Tips For Touring Performers
While the KRK GOAUX 3 solves the problem of bringing studio monitors on the road with you, it can’t solve some of the other issues that traveling performers can face. Below, I cover some quick tips to keep you motivated and healthy when on the road.
Self-care is essential. Make sure to get as much high-quality sleep as possible and eat a balanced and healthy diet. This will allow you to give your performances 100% and avoid burnout.
Isolation can be another problem for solo artists. Keep in touch with your friends and family back home, and don’t hesitate to network and connect with other performers in the area.
The final tip I’d like to offer is to be thoroughly prepared. Nothing quite adds stress and anxiety to your travels like feeling unprepared. Consider everything you need and stick to a schedule.
These tips are just the beginning. If you are nervous about travel or have had issues in the past, there is a wealth of resources available for performers on the road.
Alternatives
There is nothing quite like the KRK GOAUX 3 on the market to compare it to directly, but several other small monitors are worth considering if you don’t intend to travel often.
Mackie CR4-XBT
If you want to stretch your money further, the Mackie CR4-XBT is a budget-focused pair of 4-inch studio monitors that perform well while offering a very low price point.
- Decent sound and balanced connection option.
- Reliable Bluetooth connectivity and an eye-catching color scheme.
- No tuning controls and less refined sound profile.
Yamaha HS3
The Yamaha HS3 is an excellent alternative for detailed studio work in smaller spaces. Compact and well-built, it is an ideal choice if clarity and precision are your priorities.
- Excellent sound balance with high accuracy for monitors at this price.
- Attractive design and combo jacks for balanced connections.
- No travel accessories like stands or a bag.
Pioneer DJ VM-50
If bass response is a primary consideration, the larger 5.25-inch Pioneer DJ VM-50 is a great option. It’s also a good candidate for DJs and producers who want an all-in-one monitor.
- Lively and loud sound profile.
- Excellent tuning options that can serve both causal and professional applications.
- It is much larger and less travel-friendly than the GOAUX 3.
Our Verdict
It’s been a long time since I’ve encountered a product that has managed to nail the brief so tightly like the GOAUX range from KRK. They set out to deliver capable and portable monitors, and they succeeded with flying colors.
The KRK GOAUX 3 is a superb set of 3-inch monitors for professionals who want an easy, travel-friendly solution. I now feel comfortable taking a set of monitors on the road and not having to depend on my headphones.
If you are often on the road or have a small studio space, the KRK GOAUX 3 is a value-packed offering that delivers excellent sound, durability, and eye appeal.
KRK GOAUX 3
Overall Rating (8/10)