TEST: Presonus Eris E8 XT

 As a near-field monitor manufacturer, you have it e.g. Truly not easy at the moment. The market is flooded with suppliers and products, and especially in the budget sector, users are not only dealing with inexpensive special series from established names, but are also confronted with a more than rich selection of small and micro manufacturers, some of which have interesting ones Detail solutions shine. What remains for the manufacturer is to convince the buyer with ever better products, or to give an upgrade to a product that is already doing well, as in this case with the Presonus Eris E8 XT, which represents a continuation of the internal Eris series.

Structure of the Presonus Eris E8 XT

As is usually the case in the near-field area, the Presonus Eris E8 XT is an active 2-way near-field monitor with the dimensions (W x D x H): 247 mm x 292 mm x 406 mm and a weight of 10.4 kilograms is comparatively compact. The system features an 8-inch Kevlar woofer and a silk dome tweeter separated at 2.2 kHz. The Kevlar woofer material, which is dark blue in this model, is often used in the bass speaker area, as the low weight and fast response are a popular argument for the woven material. A special feature is the 100 degree x 60 degree waveguide, which represents one of the further developments compared to the previous model.

Even if the box can still be seen as comparatively handy, placing it on the desk close to the DAW monitor is no longer possible in this size. Speaker stands are definitely in demand here, which need to be placed as optimally as possible. In this case, it is important to keep the greatest possible distance to the next wall in order to avoid corresponding room modes.

The Presonus Eris E8 XT has a wide range of tonal correction options to counteract any problems that may arise with reflective walls or the (possibly forced) positioning of the monitors close to standing walls or in room corners in small control rooms. In particular, the oscillation in the bass range can lead ad absurdum to any perception that is kept as neutral as possible, which is why Presonus wants to tackle this problem with several filter levels. More on that later in the connection area.

In order to minimize comb filter effects, the side edges of the housing have been rounded off. In addition, the bass reflex opening has been moved to the front. In general, in my opinion, near-field monitors that are used in the home studio should always have their bass reflex opening facing the front, which counteracts any drone frequencies that may occur.

According to the manufacturer, the Presonus Eris E8 XT has a frequency response of 35 Hz to 20 kHz and a sound pressure level of 105 dB in continuous operation. The performance data of 75 watts in the bass range and 65 watts in the treble range once again suggest use in a small control room or in a home studio. Even if the performance specifications are convincing, one should never forget the corresponding headroom for impulse peaks, which can occur with hard bass peaks. We will place a special focus on the bass reproduction in the practical area, as this would have been significantly improved according to the manufacturer.

Visually, Presonus plays it safe and uses the popular matt black. In terms of workmanship, the Presonus Eris E8 XT, which is made in China, has to be attested to have an extremely good image. The MDF panels covered with black vinyl fit neatly together and do not allow any corners to protrude or unclean foiling to be seen.


The back of the Presonus Eris E8 XT

As already mentioned, the Presonus Eris E8 XT offers extensive filter settings, which are housed next to the entire connection peripherals on the back of the housing.
On the one hand there is a gain controller with a raster at 0 dB (U). Unfortunately, only this 0 dB range can be firmly defined, but if you consider how many products in this price range have no grid at all, you cannot rate this fixation aid highly enough. The connection options are also really extensive with symmetrical XLR, symmetrical TRS and asymmetrical cinch. In the home studio in particular, you should take the different signal sources into account, as high-quality XLR signal routing is not always available within the studio peripherals.

When it comes to filters, Presonus goes the established way with a shelving filter (+/- 6 dB) in the treble range and an optional bass reduction using low cut at 80 and 100 Hz. In addition, the system offers a so-called acoustic space switch, which can be set with - 2 dB or - 4 dB in the bass range the above Counteract room modes. These switches taper down quite extensively from about 800 Hz, i.e. in the best case you can lower exactly the frequency range that the reflection of the wall swings up disproportionately.

The real specialty, however, is located in the mid-range. While many manufacturers deliberately leave the mid-range linear and thus to the basic sound of the box, Presonus decided to set up a bandpass at 1 kHz, optionally with +/- 6 dB. An interesting variant, especially since there are a lot of frequencies in the vocal and guitar range in this frequency band. It should be briefly mentioned that Presonus does indeed have an extensive filter section at the start for a product in this price range, which is by no means a matter of course in this segment.

There is also an IEC cold device connection, optionally for 120/240 volts, the voltage selector switch and the on/off switch.

The Presonus Eris E8 XT in action

Before I start the hearing test, I always first take a look at the retail price of the product. Why? In order to adapt the sound expectations to the product. It would be grossly unfair to compare a product in the highly competitive 250 class to one in the four figure range. So then.

After activating the Presonus Eris E8 XT, the listener is initially offered a comparatively neutral sound, which is tight and a little "bony". Nevertheless, considering the price, the sound can be described as consistently balanced, including a decent transient image. The high-frequency range is well defined, although it tends to "buzz" a little, that is to say, it reproduces the highs, but it lacks the "pleasing" quality of the next higher price range. The waveguide leaves a very good impression and in fact expands the stereo triangle by a few centimetres, so that the working range is significantly expanded.

In the high-mid range we encounter the crossover point, which, as expected, weakens the definition somewhat, which is primarily at the expense of the vocals and some horns. Once again, the Presonus shows the low mids as a clear plus point in the sound. This is where the box has its strengths, although the sound is a little harsh, but considering the retail price it is a real highlight.

Since I don't know the first Eris series, I can't draw a direct comparison to the upgrade, but the promised bass extension doesn't really work for me. Despite the voluminous 8-inch speaker, there seems to be little movement in the low-frequency range. It may be that the frequencies are shown in the test image, but in terms of sound, the box achieves a maximum rating of "satisfactory" in the bass range, but remains rather unspectacular despite the 8-inch speaker. Here you should use an additional subwoofer for a balanced frequency image and adjust it accordingly to the satellites.

Unfortunately, this shortcoming cannot be compensated for using appropriate filters either, since all sound measures in the bass range were only designed to reduce bass. Although Kevlar woofers are known for their quick response and clean definition, the Presonus Eris E8 XT woofer seems to me to be firmly clamped or is fixed by a strong magnet. The tonal definition is very good, but the hub suffers.

The system handles the usual spatial impressions such as depth gradation and spatial resolution well enough for the retail price. All in all, the Presonus Eris E8 XT can be said to have a “cheap” sound in the best sense of the word, which means that the system is really worth its price.


Conclusion

With the Presonus Eris E8 XT, the American manufacturer has a near-field monitor in its ranks that can shine with a neutral basic sound and convincing low-mid reproduction. The system convinces with extensive connection options and a versatile filter section.

For a retail price of €249 per box, you get a good home recording monitor that also knows how to assert itself in acoustically unfavorable control rooms.


Additional Informations:

Comprehensive Report on PreSonus Audio

1. Introduction: PreSonus Audio is a leading technology company specializing in audio hardware and software solutions for music recording, production, and live sound applications. Founded in 1995 by Jim Odom and Brian Smith in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA, PreSonus has rapidly grown into a prominent player in the pro audio industry. This report provides a comprehensive overview of PreSonus Audio, including its history, product range, technological innovations, market position, and commitment to empowering musicians and audio professionals.

2. Company Background: PreSonus Audio was established with the vision of providing accessible and user-friendly audio solutions for musicians and recording engineers. The founders, both musicians and audio enthusiasts, sought to bridge the gap between professional audio quality and affordability. Through innovative technologies and product offerings, PreSonus has become synonymous with high-quality audio equipment that empowers creatives across the globe.

3. Product Range: PreSonus Audio offers an extensive product range that caters to musicians, audio engineers, and content creators. The company's product lineup includes:
a) Audio Interfaces: PreSonus audio interfaces provide high-quality audio input and output for recording and live performances. They are available in various configurations, offering a range of connectivity options.
b) Digital Mixing Consoles: PreSonus digital mixing consoles combine intuitive control surfaces with powerful digital processing, enabling seamless mixing and signal routing in both studio and live sound settings.
c) Studio Monitors: PreSonus studio monitors deliver accurate and transparent audio reproduction, essential for critical listening and professional audio production.
d) Studio One Software: Studio One is PreSonus's flagship digital audio workstation (DAW) software, offering a robust platform for music production, recording, editing, and mixing.
e) Audio Processors: PreSonus offers a range of audio processors, including compressors, equalizers, and channel strips, designed to enhance audio signals and achieve optimal sound quality.
f) StudioLive Series: PreSonus StudioLive series combines digital mixers, recording interfaces, and software integration, providing an all-in-one solution for live sound and recording applications.
g) Notion Software: Notion is PreSonus's notation software, catering to composers and arrangers for music notation and scoring.

4. Technological Innovations: PreSonus Audio has been a driving force in technological innovations, revolutionizing the audio industry with its products. Some notable technological advancements by PreSonus include:
a) Fat Channel Processing: PreSonus introduced the Fat Channel processing technology, a powerful digital processing engine, incorporated into their mixers and audio interfaces, allowing users to apply studio-quality effects and signal processing in real-time.
b) Integrated Hardware and Software Solutions: PreSonus is known for its seamless integration of hardware and software products, ensuring a cohesive and efficient workflow for audio professionals.
c) Remote Control Software: The company developed remote control software for its digital mixers, enabling users to control mixer functions wirelessly from their smartphones or tablets.
d) Advanced DSP Technology: PreSonus utilizes cutting-edge DSP (Digital Signal Processing) technology in their products, enabling low-latency monitoring, audio effects, and real-time audio processing without taxing the computer's CPU.

5. Market Position and Global Reach: PreSonus Audio has garnered significant market recognition and has established a strong global presence. Their products are distributed through a network of authorized dealers and retailers, reaching customers in various countries.

6. Empowering Musicians and Audio Professionals: PreSonus Audio is committed to empowering musicians and audio professionals through accessible and user-friendly technology. Their products are designed with a focus on usability, efficiency, and seamless integration, allowing creatives to focus on their artistry without technical limitations.

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8. Education and Support: PreSonus Audio provides extensive educational resources, including tutorials, webinars, and online communities, to support musicians and audio professionals in mastering their products and techniques.

9. Conclusion: In conclusion, PreSonus Audio stands as a leading force in the audio technology industry, providing innovative and user-friendly solutions for musicians, producers, and audio engineers. With a diverse product range, technological advancements, and a commitment to empowering creativity, PreSonus continues to shape the future of audio production, recording, and live sound, solidifying its position as a trusted and influential brand in the pro audio market.