Yamaha introduced the second-generation HS Series studio monitor and subwoofer series at Musikmesse 2013 in Frankfurt, Germany. The extended, revamped lineup features a new 6.5” monitor.

Improving on the original HS line, launched in 2006, the new HS series feature new transducers that achieve smooth response over a wide bandwidth and ensure the accuracy of signal reproduction throughout the audio spectrum. By upgrading to a 1″ tweeter (from the previous3/4″ models) the new monitor series provides an extended frequency range and delivers high-resolution sound. Yamaha engineers have optimized the HS powered monitor and subwoofer monitor system for a variety of music production environments.

The HS5 (5″ cone and 1″ dome tweeter), HS7 (6.5″ cone and 1″ dome tweeter) and HS8 (8″ cone and 1″ dome tweeter) are housed in bass reflex-type cabinets and reproduce tight low-end and smooth, high frequency response. Two inputs, a balanced XLR and a 1/4″ phone jack, can accommodate a wide range of balanced and unbalanced sources, including mixers, keyboards and audio interfaces.

The ultra-responsive HS8S (8″ cone) powered subwoofer employs large, carefully selected magnets to produce low distortion sound with a well-defined bottom end at all output levels. Two balanced XLR and two balanced 1/4″ phone jacks are provided for advanced connectivity and customization.

Additionally, the new HS Series cabinets offer low resonance enclosure designs constructed from a dense, resilient MDF for a damped acoustic response that is perfectly suited for reference monitors. Each monitor and subwoofer is also equipped with a unique high performance amp unit, perfectly paired with each transducer. The coupled amp unit ensures that each HS Series speaker delivers high-resolution sound with exceptionally flat response across the spectrum.

Each monitor speaker employs “leading edge” noise reduction technology, controlling and reducing the vortex at either end of the speaker port that can generate air vibrations inside and cause unwanted noise in many studio monitors.

Availability and Pricing

The HS5 (MSRP: $250), the HS7 (MSRP: $399), the HS8 (MSRP: $499) and the HS8S (MSRP: $599) subwoofer are currently available.