Floorstanding speakers are generally used as front speakers, which is exactly why they can make or break a hi-fi system.
In this post, we’re testing out the Monitor Audio MR4 to find out if the speaker pair offers the experience you’re looking for.
But before we get to the reviews, here’s a preview of our top picks:
The Monitor Audio MR4 is one of our top picks for all-around floorstanding speakers. The speaker pair has a relatively low price, is high-powered, and delivers deep bass.
Alternate #1 – Polk Audio Monitor 60 Series II Floorstanding Speaker
If you’re on a tight budget, we suggest the Monitor 60 from Polk Audio. The floorstander excels for its price, as it produces rich sound quality with minimal distortion.
Alternate #2 – Q Acoustics 3050i Floorstanding Speaker
These floorstanding speakers are one of our top recommendations for smaller rooms. We found the Q Acoustics 3050i to be flexible, lightweight, and appealing to the eye.
Quick Summary of the Main Product
The Monitor Audio MR4 is a floorstanding speaker pair and is part of the Monitor Reference range. As they were first manufactured in 2011, the speakers aren’t exactly new additions to the market.
But don’t get the wrong idea, the Monitor Audio MR4 can hold its own against today’s up-to-date models.
They’re particularly ideal for someone wanting to experience audio that’s immersive and lively.
The Monitor Audio MR4 is only an entry-level to mid-range product, so its price is another highlight.
Features and Benefits
Sound Quality
We really liked the sound quality of the Monitor Audio MR4. The MMP II bass driver delivers continuous, deep bass while the C-Cam tweeter keeps the audio consistent and detailed. This results in a wide, immersive soundstage.
Design
The Monitor Audio MR4 is relatively compact for a floorstanding speaker. The drivers are housed in slim cabinets which feature a wood effect finish. We found the MR4 to be suitable for most rooms, as the design and dimensions don’t come off as too much.
Construction
We were impressed by the overall construction considering the Monitor Audio MR4 isn’t a high-end product. The cabinets feel super solid. They don’t excessively vibrate which minimises audio distortion. Plus, the front and rear bass ports make the floorstanding speaker more efficient.
Pros and Cons
- Good value for money as an entry-level product
- Offers plenty of bass
- Pretty loud
- Distortion is minimal
- Mid-range tone delivery is crisp
- Front and rear ported design improves efficiency
- Solid overall build
- Relatively outdated model
Social Proof
We decided to browse the internet for reviews to find out how the customers like the Monitor Audio MR4.
The floorstanding speaker pair has an exceptional rating of 5 out of 5 on Amazon.
The customers really found the Monitor Audio MR4 to be worth their money. Most of them were particularly impressed by the delivery of low bass tones.
More Recommendations!
#1: Cheaper Alternative - Polk Audio Monitor 60 Review
The Monitor Audio speakers are reasonably priced, but you can still find cheaper products on the market. The Polk Audio Monitor 60 is sold individually which makes it more affordable.
The speaker’s sound quality really caught our attention. The mid-range tones are clean and the highs are distinct. Overall, the audio is natural but impactful – ideal for a hi-fi system.
At the same time, the Monitor 60 earns extra points for its design. The speaker’s small footprint and black vinyl finish are super easy to work with.
Features of Polk Audio Monitor 60
- 3 x 5.25-inch woofers
- 1-inch tweeter
- Bass reflex design
- Frequency response of 48-24000 Hz
- Sensitivity of 90 dB
- Great value for money
- Balanced, crystal clear audio
- Accurate in terms of music
- Relatively loud
- Simple yet appealing design
- Decent construction
- Not the best at delivering deep bass
- Plastic spikes feel cheap
Cheaper Alternative
The cheaper alternative is the Polk Audio Monitor 60 due to its audio clarity and detailed sound.
#2: Alternative for Small Rooms - Q Acoustics 3050i Review
The Q Acoustics 3050i perform particularly well in small rooms. The speaker pair is designed to reduce reverberation.
We liked the design of the speakers. They’re relatively lightweight and have a minimalist look. Plus, the 3050i come in a range of finishes which makes matching easy.
Another highlight of the speaker pair was its sound at high volumes. The mid to high-range frequencies are impressive, and the vocals are particularly clear.
Features of Q Acoustics 3050i
- 2 x 6.5-inch woofers
- 0.9-inch tweeter
- Bass reflex design
- Frequency response of 44-30000 Hz
- Sensitivity of 91 dB
- Relatively affordable
- Great design
- Lightweight
- Not restricting in terms of positioning
- Clear, punchy audio
- Decent amount of bass on loud volumes
- Bass significantly reduces on low volumes
Alternative for Small Rooms
The alternative for small rooms is the Q Acoustics 3050i due to its flexibility and appearance.
Guide to Buy
Size
It’s significantly important for speakers to be the right size for your room.
Why?
If speakers are too small, they sound isolated and weak. At the same time, speakers that are too large cause reverberation which can be overpowering.
Therefore, it’s imperative to consider their dimensions so they deliver exactly what they’re capable of.
Construction
Floorstanding speakers are not all constructed the same way. There are significant differences in the materials used and their physical features.
Speakers that are well-constructed are more sturdy and feel solid. This reduces vibration which in turn minimises audio distortion.
Speaker cabinets usually don’t come without rubber feet. These are ideal for hard floors. However, you’ll need to look for spikes if your floor is carpeted.
Room Placement
Finally, you need to consider where exactly you plan to place your speakers. This will help you figure out if floorstanders are the right type of speakers for you.
The rule of thumb is to not put them against the wall, as this diminishes the bass. Ideally, the speakers need to be placed on the sides of your system and away from any corners.
Simply put, you need to have enough space to make sure the speakers aren’t being blocked off from any side.
Wrapping Things Up
In conclusion, the Monitor Audio MR4 isn’t exactly a modern piece of technology.
However, this has made it a lot more affordable. The speakers offer good value for money and an energetic musical experience.
If that sounds like what you’re looking for, we definitely recommend trying out the Monitor Audio speakers.
