Regarding professional studio monitors, Genelec has long been a trusted name, delivering cutting-edge technology and exceptional sound quality. The Genelec 8351B, a successor to the acclaimed 8351A, pushes the boundaries of audio innovation even further. Designed for critical listening environments, this model boasts features that cater to audio professionals and audiophiles alike. In our in-depth evaluation, we examine the Genelec 8351B’s design, features, performance, and overall worth to determine whether it is a good fit for your studio setup.

What is Genelec 8351B?

The Genelec 8351B is a professional-grade studio monitor renowned for its exceptional sound accuracy, innovative design, and cutting-edge features. Genelec’s “The Ones” series integrates a coaxial driver arrangement, acoustically concealed woofers, and a compact aluminum enclosure to deliver unparalleled audio clarity. The 8351B features advanced Smart Active Monitor (SAM™) technology for critical listening, allowing seamless room calibration via the Genelec Loudspeaker Manager (GLM™) software. With a wide frequency range, immersive audio compatibility, and energy-efficient operation, this monitor is ideal for mixing, mastering, and immersive sound production. Its premium build quality and future-proof design make it a top choice for professionals seeking precision and reliability. Top of FormBottom of Form

Design and Build Quality

The Genelec 8351B is a part of Genelec’s “The Ones” series, known for its coaxial design and minimal diffraction. At first glance, the monitor’s futuristic design is elegant and functional. With its rounded edges and compact footprint, the 8351B is optimized for acoustic performance, reducing reflections and delivering a more accurate soundstage.

The enclosure is die-cast aluminum, ensuring durability while maintaining a lightweight profile. The iconic Minimum Diffraction Enclosure (MDE™) minimizes acoustic distortions, allowing the speaker to provide precise audio reproduction. This focus on design ensures that the 8351B performs well and integrates seamlessly into professional studio environments.

Furthermore, Genelec’s attention to detail extends to the IsoPod™ technology. This feature decouples the monitor from its mounting surface, minimizing vibrations and ensuring accurate audio output. Combined with its compact dimensions, the 8351B’s versatile design makes it suitable for various setups, from large control rooms to smaller studio spaces.

Key Design Highlights:

• Coaxial Driver Arrangement: The midrange and tweeter are housed in the same unit, ensuring point-source sound delivery for unparalleled audio fidelity.
• Acoustically Concealed Woofers (ACW): Dual concealed woofers deliver powerful bass without compromising the compact design, allowing the speaker to perform at its best, even in smaller rooms.
• Versatile Placement Options: Thanks to IsoPod™ (Isolation Positioner/Decoupler) technology, the 8351B can be positioned horizontally or vertically, making it adaptable to various studio layouts. This flexibility is ideal for studios with unique spatial constraints or users seeking ergonomic efficiency.

Technical Specifications

The Genelec 8351B is packed with cutting-edge technology, ensuring uncompromising performance across the frequency spectrum. Here are the key technical specifications:

• Frequency Response: 32 Hz – 43 kHz (-6 dB)
• Maximum SPL: 113 dB
• Amplifiers: 150W (Bass), 120W (Midrange), 150W (Treble)
• Drivers: 8.5-inch concealed woofers, 5-inch midrange, and 0.75-inch tweeter
• Dimensions: 452 x 287 x 278 mm
• Weight: 19 kg
• Connectivity: Analog XLR, AES/EBU digital input, RJ45 for GLM™ control

These specifications demonstrate why the 8351B is highly regarded among professionals. Regardless of the genre or application, the combination of strong amplifiers and sophisticated drivers guarantees a well-balanced and detailed sound. The extended frequency range of 32 Hz to 43 kHz highlights its capability to reproduce everything from deep bass to shimmering treble with pristine clarity.

The 8351B’s ability to achieve a maximum SPL of 113 dB allows it to handle even the most demanding audio scenarios. Whether it’s subtle acoustic recordings or bass-heavy electronic tracks, this monitor maintains clarity and power without distortion. Connectivity options, including analog and digital inputs, make the 8351B versatile for modern and traditional studio setups.

Features

The Genelec 8351B stands out for its innovative features that enhance performance and user experience. Here are some standout aspects:

SAM™ (Smart Active Monitor) Technology

One of the 8351 B’s defining features is its Smart Active Monitor technology. With the Genelec Loudspeaker Manager (GLM™) software, users can calibrate their monitors to the specific acoustics of their studio. This ensures that the monitor’s performance remains consistent regardless of room anomalies. Calibration is straightforward and enables users to create tailored setups for different production tasks.

Directivity Control Waveguide (DCW™)

The DCW technology ensures that sound is distributed evenly throughout the listening area, providing an optimal soundstage and accurate imaging. This feature is particularly beneficial in multi-listener environments or for applications requiring precise spatial placement, such as immersive audio production.

Acoustically Concealed Woofers (ACW)

The innovative ACW design enhances low-frequency performance while maintaining a compact form factor. This design eliminates visual distractions, contributing to a cleaner studio environment and offering greater flexibility in monitor placement. The dual-woofer system minimizes unwanted resonance, providing tight and controlled bass reproduction.

Immersive Audio Compatibility

With support for immersive audio formats like Dolby Atmos and Auro-3D, the 8351B is future-proof and caters to modern audio production needs. This compatibility makes it an excellent choice for engineers working on film scores, gaming soundtracks, or other spatial audio projects.

Energy Efficiency

The monitor features an Intelligent Signal Sensing (ISS™) circuit that reduces power consumption when the speaker is not in use. This aligns with Genelec’s commitment to sustainability and ensures that the 8351B operates efficiently without compromising performance.

Performance

The Genelec 8351B delivers a listening experience that’s second to none. Here’s how it performs across key audio parameters:

Soundstage and Imaging

The coaxial design and DCW technology create an expansive soundstage with pinpoint accuracy. Instruments and vocals are placed with remarkable precision, making it easy to discern subtle details in a mix. This is especially advantageous for audio professionals working on complex arrangements or immersive formats.

Frequency Response

From thunderous lows to shimmering highs, the 8351B offers a flat frequency response that ensures transparency. The mids are warm and intricate, the highs are clear without overpowering, and the bass is tight and controlled. This balance makes it suitable for various genres and production tasks.

Dynamic Range

The monitor handles dynamic range exceptionally well, maintaining clarity even at high SPL levels. This makes it suitable for genres ranging from classical and jazz to electronic and hip-hop. Whether it’s a whisper-quiet piano track or a high-energy EDM mix, the 8351B delivers consistently and precisely.

Room Adaptation

The SAM technology and GLM software allow the 8351B to adapt seamlessly to various acoustic environments. Whether working in a treated studio or an improvised setup, you can rely on consistent performance. This adaptability ensures that you hear accurate sound, regardless of external conditions.

Use Cases

The Genelec 8351B is versatile enough to cater to a wide range of applications:

• Professional Studios: Ideal for mixing and mastering engineers who demand precision. Its detailed imaging and flat frequency response make it a go-to choice for critical audio tasks.
• Broadcast Environments: Its accurate sound reproduction makes it suitable for critical audio editing in television, radio, and streaming applications.
• Home Studios: The compact design and advanced features benefit high-end home studios. Even in smaller setups, the 8351B delivers professional-grade performance.
• Immersive Audio Production: This tool is perfect for creating content in Dolby Atmos and other spatial audio formats. Its ability to integrate with immersive audio systems makes it an excellent choice for forward-thinking engineers.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional sound quality with precise imaging
• Compact and aesthetically pleasing design
• Advanced room calibration with GLM software
• Wide frequency response and dynamic range
• Future-proof with immersive audio support

Cons:

• A high price point may not suit all budgets
• Requires GLM kit for optimal performance
• Weight may be cumbersome for some setups

Comparison with Genelec 8351A

The Genelec 8351B builds upon the strong foundation laid by its predecessor, the 8351A, incorporating several key improvements that make it a standout choice in professional audio monitoring. One of the most notable upgrades is the enhanced bass response, which delivers tighter and more impactful low frequencies. This improvement is especially beneficial for genres and applications where bass accuracy is critical, such as electronic music production or film scoring.

Regarding SPL (Sound Pressure Level), the 8351B boasts a higher maximum output, allowing it to handle louder and more dynamic mixes without distortion. This makes it better suited for larger studios or scenarios where volume is a priority. Additionally, the 8351B incorporates advanced energy efficiency measures, such as improved Intelligent Signal Sensing (ISS™), making it a more environmentally friendly option over the long term.

The 8351 B’s design refinements also contribute to its superior performance. While the overall form factor remains similar, the internal components have been fine-tuned for better thermal management and reliability. Because of these improvements and its immersive audio capabilities, the 8351B is a future-proof investment for professionals who want to stay ahead in the quickly changing audio landscape. For those who already own the 8351A, the 8351B represents a meaningful upgrade that justifies its premium price tag, particularly for users seeking cutting-edge features and top-tier sound quality.

Price and Value

The Genelec 8351B is a premium studio monitor, and its price reflects its high-end capabilities. It’s undeniably a significant investment, with prices typically ranging between $4,000 and $5,000 per unit. However, for audio professionals who prioritize precision, reliability, and longevity, the 8351B offers unmatched value. Its advanced features, including SAM™ technology and immersive audio support, ensure that users can adapt to the latest production standards and trends.

When considering the price, it’s essential to factor in the longevity and durability of Genelec products. The die-cast aluminum enclosure and robust internal components are built to last, providing years of consistent performance. The 8351B’s energy-efficient operation also contributes to long-term savings, particularly in professional environments where monitors are used extensively.

Another aspect of its value lies in its versatility. The ability to seamlessly integrate into various studio setups, from traditional mixing environments to immersive audio configurations, makes the 8351B a versatile choice that can evolve with the user’s needs. While the upfront cost may deter some buyers, the long-term benefits and the monitor’s exceptional performance justify the investment for those who demand the best from their equipment.

Maintenance and Longevity

The Genelec 8351B’s robust construction ensures that it stands the test of time, but proper maintenance is essential to maximize its lifespan. The die-cast aluminum enclosure is resistant to wear and tear, but occasional cleaning with a soft, damp cloth will help maintain its sleek appearance. Users should also ensure that the IsoPod™ base remains free from dust and debris to preserve its vibration isolation capabilities.

To maintain optimal performance, periodically check the connections and cables for wear and tear. The GLM™ software also allows users to recalibrate the monitor over time to accommodate changes in the studio environment. This adaptability ensures that the 8351B delivers precise audio output even as external factors evolve.

User Feedback and Community Insights

The Genelec 8351B has garnered praise from many audio professionals and enthusiasts. Users often highlight its exceptional clarity and imaging as standout features. The ability to discern subtle details in complex tracks makes this monitor a valuable tool for mixing engineers.

Online forums and communities are also a rich resource for tips and insights. Many users recommend pairing the 8351B with high-quality audio interfaces to leverage its capabilities. The GLM software’s flexibility is another frequent topic of discussion, with users sharing calibration presets and best practices. For those new to the Genelec ecosystem, these communities provide invaluable guidance.

FAQs

What is the primary use case for the Genelec 8351B?

The 8351B is ideal for professional studios, immersive audio production, and high-end home studios requiring precise sound monitoring.

Does the Genelec 8351B support Dolby Atmos?

It is compatible with immersive audio formats like Dolby Atmos and Auro-3D.

Is room calibration necessary for the 8351B?

Room calibration is recommended and can be done quickly using the SAM™ technology with GLM™ software.

How does it compare to the Genelec 8351A?

The 8351B offers an improved bass response, higher SPL, better energy efficiency, and enhanced internal components compared to the 8351A.

Is the 8351B suitable for small studio spaces?

Its compact design and adaptable placement options make it perfect for smaller setups while maintaining top-tier performance.

Conclusion

The Genelec 8351B is a testament to Genelec’s commitment to innovation and excellence. Its cutting-edge technology, stellar performance, and versatile features set a new standard for studio monitors. While it’s not the most affordable option, it offers unmatched value for professionals who demand precision and reliability in their audio production workflows.

Whether you’re a seasoned audio engineer or an audiophile looking for the ultimate listening experience, the Genelec 8351B is a worthy contender that delivers on all fronts. It’s more than just a monitor; it invests in superior sound quality.