Behringer NEKKST K8 Active Studio Monitor Pair

The Behringer NEKKST K8 is the larger sibling to the K5 in Behringer’s NEKKST series of active studio monitors. Like the K5, its key selling point is the direct involvement of Keith R. Klawitter, the legendary acoustic designer and founder of KRK Systems, in its development. This collaboration aimed to deliver a high-performance, accurate, and versatile studio monitor with an exceptionally wide sweet spot, all at a competitive price.

The K8, with its 8-inch woofer, is designed for slightly larger control rooms and studios where more bass extension and higher SPL (Sound Pressure Level) are required for critical listening, mixing, and mastering.

Key Features and Highlights:

• 8-inch Glass Fiber Cone Woofer: The K8 features an 8-inch long-throw woofer constructed with a deformation-resistant glass fiber cone. This material choice is crucial for delivering tight, deep, and accurate bass response, along with clear and “smear-proof” midrange frequencies. The larger woofer allows for more air movement and deeper bass extension compared to the K5.
• 1-inch Silk Dome Tweeter with Advanced Waveguide Technology: It incorporates a 1-inch ultra-high resolution silk dome tweeter. The tweeter benefits from Keith Klawitter’s “Advanced Waveguide Technology,” which is engineered to provide superior acoustic dispersion and an exceptionally wide “sweet zone.” This design minimizes off-axis coloration and allows engineers to move more freely within their mixing environment without losing the critical stereo image and detail.
• True Bi-Amplified Class-D Design: The NEKKST K8 utilizes a true bi-amplified Class-D power configuration. This means there are two dedicated amplifiers per speaker (one for the woofer, one for the tweeter), delivering power independently to each driver. Class-D amplification is highly efficient and provides ample power:
  • Total Power: 150 Watts (RMS). This power is distributed with dedicated amplification for both the LF and HF drivers, ensuring absolute signal integrity and efficient performance.
  • High SPL: Capable of a maximum continuous SPL of 102 dB, providing plenty of headroom for dynamic mixes in larger nearfield environments.
• Rear-Ported Bass-Reflex Enclosure: The cabinet design includes a rear-firing bass port, which helps extend the low-frequency response and enhance bass output. The enclosure itself is made from a high-density composite material, specifically chosen for its ultra-low diffraction properties and ability to reduce low-frequency distortion.
• Comprehensive Room Adjustment Controls: One of the standout features of the NEKKST series is its detailed acoustic tuning options on the rear panel, allowing users to adapt the monitors to various room conditions:
  • LF (Low Frequency) Shelf: Adjustable from 0 to -6 dB at 60 Hz (in 2 dB increments) to compensate for bass buildup when placed near walls or in corners.
  • Low-Mid Notch/Peak: Adjustable from 0 to -6 dB at 300 Hz (in 2 dB increments). This unique control targets a common problem area in room acoustics, helping to smooth out lower-midrange response.
  • HF (High Frequency) Notch/Peak: Adjustable from -4 to +2 dB at 8 kHz (in 2 dB increments). This allows for fine-tuning the treble response to suit your room’s brightness or personal preference.
  • Input Trim: A variable input level control from -6 to +6 dB.
• Versatile Input Options: The K8 provides a full suite of professional and consumer input connectors:
  • Balanced XLR Input: For connecting to professional audio interfaces or mixing consoles.
  • 1/4″ TRS Balanced Input: Compatible with both balanced (TRS) and unbalanced (TS) 1/4″ cables.
  • RCA Unbalanced Input: For connecting to consumer audio equipment.
• Protection Circuitry: Features independently controlled limiters for both the woofer and tweeter, protecting the drivers from overload and preventing distortion at high volumes.
• Frequency Response: Offers a broad frequency response of 40 Hz to 20 kHz. The 8-inch woofer extends the bass significantly, providing a solid foundation for accurately mixing a wide range of genres, including those with substantial low-end content.
• “Planet Earth” Power Supply: Behringer’s signature switch-mode power supply ensures maximum flexibility (100-240V~ operation), low noise performance, and superior transient response, all while being energy efficient.

Who is the Behringer NEKKST K8 for?

• Music Producers and Mixing Engineers: Especially those working in medium-sized control rooms or home studios who require robust bass response and detailed, accurate monitoring.
• Mastering Engineers (as secondary reference): Can serve as an excellent secondary reference monitor due to its accuracy and flat response.
• Electronic Music Producers & Hip-Hop Artists: The extended low-end is highly beneficial for genres heavily reliant on deep bass.
• Users Upgrading from Smaller Monitors: Provides a significant step up in power, bass extension, and dynamic range.
• Anyone seeking highly adjustable monitors: The extensive room compensation controls make them adaptable to less-than-ideal acoustic environments.

Considerations:

• Size and Placement: As 8-inch monitors, they are quite substantial (19.2 lbs / 8.7 kg each, 15.5″ H x 10.3″ W x 12.4″ D) and require sturdy monitor stands or ample desk space. The rear-ported design means they need some distance from walls for optimal bass performance.
• Room Treatment: While the built-in EQ controls are excellent, an 8-inch monitor in a small, untreated room can still excite problematic room modes. Proper acoustic treatment (bass traps, absorption) will always yield the best results.
• Subjective Sound: While designed for neutrality, some users might find their sound signature, influenced by Keith Klawitter’s preferences, to have a particular “flavor” that resonates well with KRK users. Reviews generally praise their clarity and bass for the price.