KRK has been a staple of the music industry for decades, and its signature entry-level line of studio monitors has an excellent reputation. With a new G5 series now available, we thought we would dive in and see what this latest version of these iconic monitors has to offer.
The KRK Rokit 5 G5 is the smallest option in the refreshed lineup. It features excellent sound and rock-solid build quality. It also adds new voicing and tuning flexibility that helps it adapt to various situations.
We’ve been in the music industry for decades and have used and reviewed previous KRK monitors. During that time, we’ve developed a testing process that we apply to every studio monitor review on this site.
But no man is an island, which is why we tap into our network of industry insiders to gain a deeper understanding of every product we review. This gives us an enhanced view of where each product fits in an ever-growing and confusing market. With that said, let’s see how the KRK Rokit 5 G5 performed in our tests.
Features
Every generation of KRK Rokit monitors takes a step beyond what the previous version had to offer, and the latest G5 series is no exception. Below, we take a deep dive into what’s new with this latest iteration of the iconic Rokit line of studio monitors.
Sound Quality
KRK Rokit monitors hold a special place in many people’s hearts and minds. They are the go-to choice for new artists looking to establish a studio space to craft their latest productions. I have fond memories of using KRK Rokit monitors over the years, and the signature KRK sound is undeniable.
The latest G5 series retains what made the Rokit series a staple while increasing flexibility. Previously, one of the most common gripes people had with the Rokit series was the slightly pronounced low end. While fantastic for listening to and working with bass-heavy genres, they lacked the critical finesse some desired.
Highly flexible fifth generation model.
With the introduction of voice modes, the G5 series tackles this issue head-on and provides a highly flexible offering that will please many. The well-rounded and punchy low-end is still present, as is the rich mid-range and tight top-end.
However, now you can switch between three different voicing modes to better define the sound for specific tasks. The Mix voicing option keeps things flat and balanced, which is an ideal choice for serious studio work like mixing and mastering. While I have used previous Rokit series monitors for this type of work, I often preferred more clinical monitors. However, I’m now more reluctant to look at other choices in this price range thanks to the impressive balance and neutrality the G5 series offers.
The next voicing option is Focus. This mode boosts the mid-range and helps bring instrumental components and vocals to the forefront. It’s an effective way to identify issues in your mix, and I especially like this voicing mode for voiceover work.
The most pro studio friendly Rokit monitors ever.
Finally, the Create voicing mode brings the fun. This voicing mode gives the low end a well-rounded boost and adds a little extra sparkle in the top end. It is perfect for casual listening, tracking, and sketching out your ideas. It is boisterous and engaging without any muddiness.
I’ve always liked the KRK Rokit sound profile, but I will admit that for certain applications, it was not always the right choice. This new series eliminates those doubts and provides the best of all worlds in one slick package. When you also consider the price point, the KRK Rokit 5 G5 rapidly becomes one of the best choices on the market.
Build Quality
I won’t mince words. KRK monitors have always been among the toughest and most dependable available, and the G5 series continues this tradition with a few extra features that elevate it even further over the previous generation.
The cabinet is a solid PVC Vinyl-Wrapped MDF enclosure with a robust and crisp finish that will not scuff easily. Supporting this is a structurally reinforced high-impact polystyrene baffle. Combine these two elements, and you have an ultra-tough enclosure in your hands.
Exceptional build quality at this price point.
The high-quality woofer features a woven Kevlar aramid fiber cone in the iconic yellow hue that KRK is known for. The silk dome tweeter has been upgraded and now offers a copper cap. High-quality components are throughout.
For added security, KRK includes a front baffle with a tough grille to protect the drivers. This is a nice touch if you have these at home and have little ones with wandering fingers! But if you prefer exposed drivers, KRK also provides an alternate grille-free baffle in the box.
Specifications
The KRK Rokit 5 G5 features a bi-amplified design. Two Class D amps power the drivers: 35 Watts for the low-frequency driver and 20 Watts for the high-frequency driver. Class D power ensures maximum efficiency and low heat, ensuring tight and reliable performance even during longer studio sessions.
For a 5-inch studio monitor, it also offers ample headroom with a Max SPL of 104dB. While it is rare I’ll push my monitors to this extreme when doing studio work, I do have a habit of cranking up my monitors when DJing, so the added oomph and headroom are much appreciated.
Powerful output with wide range.
The 5-inch woven kevlar aramid fiber woofer is robust and does an excellent job of delivering tight and controlled low-end performance. Likewise, the all-new 1-inch silk dome tweeter offers crisp highs without overt sharpness.
The KRK Rokit 5 G5 features a wide frequency range of 43Hz-40kHz with a response of 54Hz-30kHz. Ample depth to deliver satisfying bass and enough reach in the upper end to execute fine details in higher frequencies.
Tuning Options
The tuning flexibility is my favorite feature of the new G5 series of KRK monitors. I’ve already covered the excellent voicing modes, which all effectively achieve the desired sound profile associated with each of the three profiles.
But this generation also gives you access to a detailed suite of tuning controls to help adapt the studio monitor to different studio spaces. The rear-facing LCD panel opens up a range of menu options to adjust both lows and highs.
Highly flexible tuning controls.
Within each menu, you’ll have access to five tuning options and 25 potential EQ combinations. You’ll have no trouble adjusting output to handle the most common sound issues, such as reflections, bass build-up, and surface resonance.
My only gripe is the integration with the KRK App. While I like the app, it doesn’t allow me to change the voicing settings remotely. If you want to switch between the settings, you’ll need to physically go to the back of the monitor to make the change. It’s not a dealbreaker but more of a missed opportunity. Future app updates may add this feature, so I’ll update the review if that becomes the case.
Design
Beyond the iconic KRK sound, the other notable component of KRK Rokit series monitors is the unique and eye-catching design that has become a staple in studios worldwide. I’m a sucker for eye appeal, and the KRK G5 series has it in spades.
A clean and modern design that can comfortably and seamlessly blend into any studio space while offering enough pizzazz to prevent it from looking boring. The iconic yellow woofer hits me right in the nostalgia feels, but even people unfamiliar with the legacy of KRK monitors like the attractive finish and bright pop of color that these monitors offer.
Attractive and iconic design.
Beyond pure appearance, the KRK G5 series features forward-facing bass reflex ports, which make placement more versatile. Forward-facing ports are especially helpful in smaller spaces, where you’ll likely end up having these monitors closer to walls than you might like.
Mounting points on the monitor’s base make it easy to integrate with mounting hardware from KRK. The slimline padding on the base also provides some decoupling, stability, and grip if you use monitor stands.
Dimensions
The latest KRK Rokit 5 G5 is very similar to the general size of many 5-inch monitors on the market. It’s a teeny fraction larger than the previous series, but we’re talking millimeters difference.
A good choice for smaller studio spaces.
It’s also a little heavier than the previous iteration at 10.91 lbs. (4.95 Kg.), but we’re talking about minimal differences. This is a clean replacement for the last model with minimal changes to size and weight.
Inputs
As with the previous generation, the KRK Rokit 5 G5 offers one primary input connection point. This combo jack supports XLR, TRS, and TS. It offers balanced connectivity and good flexibility to comfortably fit into your studio space. As expected, you’ll need to supply your own cables.
Balanced input for maximum sound quality.
As a professional studio monitor, I don’t expect to see any further bells and whistles in this area. But if you want consumer-focused choices like Bluetooth, AUX-In, or a headphone port, you’ll need to explore alternatives.
Value
The KRK Rokit 5 G5 offers exceptional value for money. This is a well-balanced and dependable studio monitor with a lot of features. In its price bracket, it is easily among the very best available.
Including isolation pads is a nice touch.
Including the extra front baffle and a pair of isolation pads further elevate the value proposition. These pads help decouple the monitors from surfaces to reduce resonance and vibrations. The angular design also allows you a choice of configuration angles so you can target the output and achieve a precise sweet spot.
Adapt. Adjust. Overcome.
Adapting, adjusting, and overcoming new challenges is essential to success. These challenges could be a new project, ademanding client, or something as simple as working in a new studio space. They will present themselves, and how you tackle them can go a long way in impacting your creativity and productivity.
The last thing you want is to fight against your studio monitors when encountering new challenges. I’m a firm believer in granting access to as many tuning options as possible to help artists and professionals adapt to different scenarios.
Access to tuning controls is essential for adaptability.
Studio monitors like the KRK Rokit G5 series are ideal, thanks to the wealth of tuning options and voicing patterns. You can quickly switch from enjoying your latest creation to critical listening. With access to flexible controls, pinpointing issues in your mix becomes more straightforward, and your motivation and confidence will increase.
There are many ways to overcome challenges, but you want to have as few barriers as possible in a studio setting. The results will speak for themselves as you’ll create more refined productions and become more energized to give it your all in the studio.
Alternatives
The KRK Rokit 5 G5 is an excellent entry-level studio monitor and one I can easily recommend. But I’m also aware that people may have different needs and expectations. Let’s look at some alternatives you might want to consider.
Pioneer VM-70
The Pioneer DJ VM-70 is another fantastic studio monitor if you like a meaty, low-end response. The larger woofer offers ample punch, making it a solid choice as a home DJ studio monitor.
- High 112dB output level for people who like to play loud music.
- Easy-to-use controls make it a viable choice for both producing and DJing.
- Not as flexible as the KRK Rokit 5 G5.
Pioneer DJ VM-70
Yamaha HS4
For those who want something a bit cheaper, the Yamaha HS4 is an excellent alternative. While it is more consumer-focused, it still retains Yamaha’s signature clarity and precision.
- Affordable pair of studio monitors with fantastic sound.
- Forward-facing volume controls and headphone jack.
- It’s less loud and punchy than the KRK Rokit 5 G5.
Yamaha HS4
KRK GOAUX4
The last option I want to highlight is the ultra-portable GOAUX4 from KRK. This compact set of studio monitors is ideal for traveling artists who love the iconic KRK sound profile.
- Impressive sound and output levels for a monitor this size.
- Comes with a travel case and stands for easy transportation.
- Minimal tuning controls compared to the KRK Rokit 5 G5.
KRK GOAUX4
Our Verdict
With every new iteration of a popular product line, you risk moving too far away from what made the line successful in the name of making changes. Thankfully, that is not the case with the new KRK Rokit 5 G5. Every change from the previous generation is a thoughtful exercise in addressing some previous minor flaws and giving the end user more agency and control.
Everything that made the KRK Rokit series an industry favorite for new and established artists is present, along with an excellent set of new features to help elevate it further. I have no doubt that the Rokit 5 G5 will become a favorite and popular choice, and I’m more than happy to recommend it.
KRK Rokit 5 G5
Overall Rating (9/10)
