Discover the Superior Sound of M-Audio Forty Series: Detailed Review

Shape Your Sound, Inspire Your Creativity.

M-Audio’s Forty Series monitors are crafted to meet the needs of modern creators, from beat-makers and DJs to mix engineers and podcasters. This series includes the Forty Sixty and Forty Eighty, two models designed for different spaces and production requirements. Combining advanced DSP technology, Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, and flexible EQ options, these monitors deliver professional-grade sound in a sleek, user-friendly package.

Sound Quality:

The M-Audio Forty Series stand out for its balanced and customizable sound. Both models provide crystal-clear highs, a detailed midrange, and punchy, controlled lows. The Forty Sixty, with its 6.5-inch woofer, excels in mid-sized rooms, offering tight bass and precise imaging. Meanwhile, the Forty Eighty delivers more power and low-end depth with its 8-inch woofer, making it ideal for bass-heavy genres or larger spaces. Both models use Burr-Brown analog-to-digital conversion and DSP processing to ensure accuracy and minimize distortion.

Frequency Response:

• Forty Sixty: 42 Hz – 35 kHz
• Forty Eighty: 37 Hz – 35 kHz

Both monitors offer an extended frequency range, capturing intricate details in the highs and providing a strong low-end response. The difference lies in the low-frequency extension, with the Forty Eighty better suited for sub-bass-heavy productions.

Driver Configuration:

• Forty Sixty: 6.5-inch Kevlar woofer, 1-inch silk dome tweeter with waveguide.
• Forty Eighty: 8-inch Kevlar woofer, 1.25-inch silk dome tweeter with waveguide.

Kevlar woofers enhance durability and reduce distortion, while the waveguide ensures smooth high-frequency dispersion for a broad sweet spot.

Amplification:

• Forty Sixty: 100W bi-amplified (60W LF, 40W HF).
• Forty Eighty: 150W bi-amplified (90W LF, 60W HF).

Both models use efficient Class D amplification, providing plenty of headroom for dynamic audio production.

Build Quality and Cabinet Design:

The rear-ported MDF cabinets are acoustically optimized to minimize resonance and deliver tight bass. Both models feature a sleek, modern design, ensuring durability and aesthetic appeal.

Room Calibration:

The Forty Series includes Instant Listening Modes: Flat for reference monitoring, Hype for emulating consumer playback systems, and a customizable EQ accessible via the M-Audio Control App. Rear trim controls further tailor the response to fit different studio setups.

Connectivity:

Both models support balanced XLR and TRS inputs, as well as Bluetooth 5.3 for wireless audio streaming. The Forty Sixty and Forty Eighty provide seamless integration into professional and home environments.

User Experience:

Setup is straightforward, and the controls are intuitive. The Instant Listening Modes and mobile app make the Forty Series highly adaptable, allowing users to tweak settings on the fly.

Price and Value:

The M-Audio Forty Series offer professional-level sound and advanced features at a competitive price. The Forty Sixty suits mid-sized studios and content creators, while the Forty Eighty is perfect for larger spaces or users needing extended bass.

Pros:

• Customizable sound with DSP and EQ options.
• Bluetooth 5.3 for wireless playback.
• Durable build with sleek design.

Cons:

Best suited for nearfield monitoring.

Rear-ported design requires careful placement.

Conclusion:

The M-Audio Forty Series combines precision, flexibility, and modern features, making it a top choice for creators at every level. Whether you choose the Forty Sixty or Forty Eighty, you’ll enjoy reliable performance, elegant design, and value-packed versatility.