Short answer: the Genelec 8030C for accuracy, the JBL 305P MKII for value. The 8030C’s CEA2034 spinorama shows a near-flat on-axis response with smooth directivity and excellent predicted in-room response, though a minor but measurable dip between 2-3kHz appears on and off axis. The 305P MKII is a fantastic value in studio monitors, with possible slight amp hissing at low levels.
Buy the Genelec 8030C if sound quality is the priority over the price, or the JBL 305P MKII if the price is the priority over sound quality.
Still deciding? The full Powered Home rankings cover every ranked option.
Prices on this page were last checked November 7, 2026 at 7:34 PM UTC. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date/time and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
As an eBay Partner, we may be compensated if you make a purchase.
Specifications Side By Side
| Genelec 8030C | JBL 305P MKII | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $1,750 per pair | $319.00 per pair |
| Ranked | #3 of 108 in Medium Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers | #18 of 108 in Medium Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers |
| Bass Extension (-10dB) | 47Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) | 43Hz (measured, Erin’s Audio Corner) |
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 59Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) | 50Hz (measured, Erin’s Audio Corner) |
| Dimensions | 11.7”H x 7.4”W x 7”D (297.2 x 188 x 177.8 mm) | 11.7”H x 7.3”W x 9.1”D (297.2 x 185.4 x 231.1 mm) |
| Inputs | XLR | XLR, TRS |
| Weight | 11 lbs (5 kg) each | 10.4 lbs (4.7 kg) each |
| Drivers | 5.1” woofer, 0.75” metal dome tweeter | 5” (127mm) woofer |
| App | No | No |
| Bluetooth | No | No |
| EQ | Yes (Bass tilt, treble tilt, room response) | Yes (Room adjustment) |
| Frequency Response | 54Hz - 20kHz (±2.5dB) (Manufacturer specified) | 49 Hz - 20 kHz (+-3 dB) (Manufacturer specified) |
| Amplifier Power | 100W (50W woofer + 50W tweeter) | 81w Per Speaker |
| Maximum SPL | 110dB @ 1m (manufacturer specified) | - |
| XLR Input | Yes | Yes |
| RCA Input | No | No |
| TRS Input | No | Yes |
| Optical Input | No | No |
| Coaxial Input | No | No |
| USB Input | No | No |
| HDMI Input | No | No |
| AES Input | No | No |
| Aux Input | No | No |
| Sensitivity | - | 91.1dB (measured at 0.3V/1m, Erin’s Audio Corner) |
| Spinorama Preference Score | - | 5.38 |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | - | 7.52 |
Related Speaker Comparisons
How Genelec 8030C compares with other leading options: