TEST: KRK Rokit 8

With the KRK Rokit RP8, the company, which belongs to Stanton Magnetics, launches a product line that should be particularly interesting for small budgets. The product line consisting of three different models (RP5, RP6, RP8), which is manufactured in China, is now already in its second generation and clearly stands out visually from its predecessors. Of course, the optical trademark of the company has remained, the bright yellow woofer made of fiberglass aramid, which is characterized by high strength at very low weight.

With a street price of just under 230 euros per speaker, the company has to face a large number of competitors who also have big names and want to penetrate the monitoring ranks of smaller budget studios with an inexpensive line. For the test we have the most powerful variant Rokit 8 with a, who would have expected it, 8 inch bass speaker.


Construction

A single KRK Rokit 8 speaker comes with a weight of 13.9 kilograms and the dimensions (HxWxD): 381 mm x 265 mm x 330 mm, which can still be handled well in practice, but requires a correspondingly load-bearing construction for wall mounting. In terms of cabinet shape, KRK also follows the general current trend away from fixed cubic basic shapes towards rounded, more stylish cabinets. In the case of the Rokit series, the fashionable adjustment is limited to the front of the housing, which in the form of an attached plastic panel accommodates the tweeter and woofer and forms the slot for the bass reflex port.

The reason for rounded cabinet shapes is not only due to a fashionable trend in the near field monitor sector. Rather, the goal is to minimize so-called edge reflections, which occur primarily in the high-frequency range. Another form of maintaining phase fidelity, an asymmetrical enclosure shape, was not used here.

Although the speakers are magnetically shielded, the KRK Rokit RP8 version is, in my opinion, overdimensioned for a direct placement at a computer workstation near the PC monitor, here the RP6 version, or better yet RP5 would be the better choice. The work surface should already have the standards of a medium control room to be able to use the performance of the speakers accordingly. However, since the bass reflex port radiates to the front, the speakers can be placed somewhat closer to a rear wall than is the case with a rear radiating version. Nevertheless, a small distance to the wall or even a corner placement has to be counteracted with corresponding reductions in the low frequency range.

In terms of speakers, the Prodipe TDC 8 is set up as a 2-way solution, which is expressed in the form of an 8-inch glass-aramid woofer, respectively 1-inch neodymium textile tweeter. According to factory specifications, the tweeter has a load of 20, the woofer over 70 watts, the whole at a frequency response of 45 - 20 kHz. As inputs XLR balanced, TSR balanced and RCA are available, whereby the tweeter range can be varied by -2dB, -1dB, 0dB, +1dB, the low frequency range by -2dB, -1dB, 0dB, +2dB by means of a rotary control. The system can be adjusted between -30 dB to +6 dB via a volume control. Finally, the power or IEC IEC connector and fuse on the back should be mentioned. The power consumption is specified with 160 watts.


Practice

The company KRK, which was founded in 1986 by Keith R. Klawitter, is generally associated with a basic sound standard, which in combination with the characteristic appearance enjoys great popularity in countless studios around the world. Aware of this, the experienced manufacturer will almost certainly not run the risk of jeopardizing its reputation with the Rokit Budget line. And truly, after activating the power switches, the very first sounds leave no doubts about the quality of the signal.

Sonically, the KRK Rokit 8 has an amazingly balanced midrange, which usually sags in the crossover frequency due to the basic construction in 2-way systems. Especially the notorious sound of a distorted guitar, which some competitors like to reproduce rather scratchy, respectively sawing, comes along comparatively balanced with this product. In the bass range, KRK fortunately avoids a too strong reproduction up to about 100 Hertz, with which one likes to try to gain the listener's attention, although due to the radiation of the reflective tunnel to the front, one cannot complain about a too low bass content. On the other hand, the speaker can be placed comparatively close to a reflective wall without falling prey to the notorious reflection boom.

In terms of high-frequency reproduction, the Soft Dome resolves unexpectedly high and displays above-average fine detail. Especially the decent treble range, which lacks any sharpness, pleases with a pleasant basic sound. However, what emerges as immensely important for the KRK Rokit 8 is a scrupulously accurate adherence to the stereo triangle, which is the basis of every good set-up position. Even slight deviations in the listening position result in a massive drop in the depth and resolution in the high frequency range.

Especially if the monitors are placed low, for example on the desktop of the PC, the quality of the vertical dispersion is massively reduced. Thus, if you work in a studio in pairs, you should possibly be prepared to sit behind each other and not next to each other, otherwise at least one, if not both users will approach a dead spot. However, those who don't leave the triangle will be spoiled in return with an unusually good sound in this price range, which is also characterized by a great flexibility in terms of music direction.

What is also very pleasant is the fast response of the system. The low weight of the woofer is immediately noticeable and provides the monitors with a high impulse fidelity even at higher listening volumes.


Conclusion

With the KRK Rokit 8 series, the American manufacturer manages to transport a lot of the sound culture of its forefathers into the budget line. As with the more expensive lines such as Expose, V or RP, the Rokit series also uses a low / midrange construction of lightweight but high-strength composite membranes, in this case aramid, which sustainably shapes the sound through high impulse fidelity and good spatial resolution.

With an affordable price and good detail solutions, the Rokit series is a real recommendation in this price range.

Additional informations:

KRK Audio is a renowned company in the audio industry, specializing in the design and manufacturing of professional studio monitors and related audio equipment. Established in 1986, KRK has become a trusted brand among music producers, engineers, and artists worldwide. This report aims to provide a detailed overview of KRK Audio, covering its history, products, reputation, and contribution to the audio industry.

History and Background
KRK Audio was founded by Keith R. Klawitter, a passionate musician and audio engineer. Recognizing the need for accurate and reliable studio monitors, Klawitter set out to create a company that would deliver superior sound reproduction for professionals in the music industry. Since its inception, KRK Audio has been committed to innovation, incorporating cutting-edge technology into their products.

Product Line KRK Audio offers a comprehensive range of studio monitors that cater to the diverse needs of audio professionals. Their product line includes:

Rokit Series: The Rokit series is one of KRK's most popular and affordable options. It features a range of active studio monitors, including the Rokit 5, Rokit 7, and Rokit 8. These monitors provide accurate frequency response, extended bass, and detailed imaging, making them ideal for recording, mixing, and mastering.

b. V Series 4: The V Series 4 monitors are designed for professionals who demand precision and clarity. With advanced drivers and boundary EQ controls, these monitors deliver transparent and balanced sound across the entire frequency spectrum. They are available in different sizes, including the V4, V6, and V8.

c. Classic Series 5: The Classic Series 5 pays homage to KRK's iconic Expose E8B monitors. These monitors combine modern technology with a vintage design, offering exceptional performance and aesthetics. They are equipped with Kevlar drivers and an onboard DSP engine for optimal sound reproduction.

d. Subwoofers: KRK also offers a range of subwoofers, such as the 8s2, 10s2, and 12s2. These subwoofers enhance the low-frequency response of the studio monitors, providing a more accurate representation of bass-heavy content.

Technological Innovation KRK Audio has been at the forefront of technological innovation in the audio industry. They have developed several proprietary technologies to ensure exceptional sound quality and performance:

Kevlar Drivers: KRK pioneered the use of Kevlar material in their monitor drivers. Kevlar is lightweight, yet rigid, allowing for accurate and detailed sound reproduction across the entire frequency range.

b. Waveguide Design: KRK's monitors feature a unique waveguide design that helps to minimize diffraction and optimize the dispersion of sound. This technology ensures a wide sweet spot and precise imaging.

c. DSP-driven EQ: Many of KRK's monitors are equipped with onboard DSP (Digital Signal Processing) engines that allow users to tailor the frequency response according to their room acoustics and personal preferences. This feature enhances the accuracy and adaptability of the monitors.

Reputation and Industry Recognition KRK Audio has earned a solid reputation within the audio industry for its commitment to quality and innovation. Their products have been widely praised by professionals and are commonly found in professional studios, recording facilities, and home studios alike. KRK has received numerous industry awards and accolades for their monitors, including the prestigious TEC Award.
Contribution to the Audio Industry KRK Audio has made significant contributions to the audio industry by consistently delivering high-quality studio monitors that meet the demanding standards of professionals. Their monitors have played a crucial role in facilitating accurate sound reproduction during recording, mixing, and mastering processes. KRK's commitment to innovation has raised the bar for audio quality and inspired other manufacturers to strive for excellence.

Customer Support and Service KRK Audio is known for its excellent customer support and service. They offer warranty coverage on their products and provide assistance to customers through their dedicated support team. Additionally, KRK's website features a knowledge base, user forums, and resources to help users optimize their audio setup and troubleshoot any issues.

Conclusion:
KRK Audio has established itself as a leading manufacturer of professional studio monitors and audio equipment. With a rich history, innovative technologies, and a strong commitment to quality, KRK continues to be a trusted choice for professionals in the music industry. Through their dedication to accurate sound reproduction and customer satisfaction, KRK Audio has played a vital role in shaping the audio industry.