Genelec 8351B vs Kali Audio LP-6 V2

Short answer: the Genelec 8351B for better sound quality, the Kali Audio LP-6 V2 for the lower price. The Genelec 8351B ranks #6 of 40 powered bookshelf speakers at $9150. The Kali Audio LP-6 V2 ranks #17 at $398, $8752 cheaper.

What the Genelec 8351B offers: CEA2034 spinorama shows exceptionally flat response both on- and off-axis. Watch for: Deep bass distortion rises substantially at higher output (96dB SPL/1m) - the reviewer notes “deep bass suffers” below about 100Hz.

The case for the Kali Audio LP-6 V2: Outstandingly neutral active monitor for the money, with no audible amplifier hiss in Erin’s listening and excellent horizontal directivity from the contoured waveguide. The tradeoff: A vertical directivity disturbance around 1.5-2kHz makes ear height important; desk or console reflections and ceiling bounce can expose the crossover lobing, so absorption may help.

Buy the Genelec 8351B if sound quality matters more than the price. Buy the Kali Audio LP-6 V2 if the price matters more than sound quality.

Specifications Side By Side

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The Two Speakers In Full

Genelec 8351B: $9150 Bhphotovideo

Pros: CEA2034 spinorama shows exceptionally flat response both on- and off-axis. Predicted in-room response is “as good as it gets” - should sound very neutral in nearly any room. Horizontal beamwidth of about ±50 degrees is described by the reviewer as exceptionally smooth, a model example of well-executed directivity control. Vertical directivity is nearly as good as horizontal, a benefit of its coaxial driver design that’s rare among non-coaxial monitors. Distortion at 86dB SPL/1m is remarkably low - the reviewer says it’s “better than many headphones.”

Cons: Deep bass distortion rises substantially at higher output (96dB SPL/1m) - the reviewer notes “deep bass suffers” below about 100Hz. A distortion spike also appears near 8-10kHz at that same higher output level. Cumulative spectral decay (waterfall) measurements show resonances around 1-2kHz. Very expensive.

Full Genelec 8351B review and specifications →

App	Yes (GLM)
Bass Extension (-10dB)	28Hz (measured, Audio Science Review)
Bass Extension (-3dB)	33Hz (measured, Audio Science Review)
Bluetooth	No
DSP	Yes
Dimensions	17"H x 11.3"W x 10.9"D (431.8 x 287 x 276.9 mm)
Drivers	8.6" woofer, 5" coaxial with tweeter midrange, 0.75" (19mm) coaxial tweeter
EQ	Yes (via GLM software)
Frequency Response	32Hz - 40kHz (±1.5dB) (Manufacturer specified)
Inputs	XLR
Max SPL	113dB @ 1m
Output Power	550w Per Speaker
Weight	31.1 lbs / 14.1 kg each

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• Links
  • Official Genelec 8351B Product Page
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Audio Science Review Measurements
  • Reddit Search for Genelec 8351B Review
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  • Genelec 8351B vs Kali Audio IN-8
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  • See all 13 comparisons

Kali Audio LP-6 V2: $398/pair Amazon Sweetwater

Pros: Outstandingly neutral active monitor for the money, with no audible amplifier hiss in Erin’s listening and excellent horizontal directivity from the contoured waveguide. Erin measured 42Hz F3 and on-axis linearity within approximately -2.51/+1.99dB. The pair remains respectably linear to roughly 102dB at 1m, the front port controls turbulence, and rear DIP switches provide practical boundary-placement profiles plus LF/HF trims. Balanced XLR/TRS and unbalanced RCA inputs broaden compatibility; Erin needed only about +1.5dB near 8kHz for his preferred amount of air.

Cons: A vertical directivity disturbance around 1.5-2kHz makes ear height important; desk or console reflections and ceiling bounce can expose the crossover lobing, so absorption may help. Limiting becomes visible above 96dB/1m, and from 76 to 96dB the low-frequency/midband balance drops by roughly 1dB, making this better as a nearfield or modest-distance monitor than a far-field high-output system. There is no digital input or network control, and each speaker needs AC power and a separate signal cable.

Full Kali Audio LP-6 V2 review and specifications →

Amplification	Bi-amplified Class D, 40W LF + 40W HF per speaker
Bass Extension (-3dB)	42Hz (measured, Erin's Audio Corner)
DSP	Yes; boundary presets and LF/HF trims
Dimensions	14.1"H x 8.8"W x 10.2"D
Drivers	1" soft-dome tweeter; 6.5" woofer
Inputs	XLR, balanced TRS and RCA
Max SPL	Approximately 102dB per pair with good measured linearity (Erin's Audio Corner)
Sensitivity	Not applicable (active DSP loudspeaker)

As an eBay Partner, we may be compensated if you make a purchase.

• Links
  • Official Kali Audio LP-6 V2 Page
• Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
  • Erin’s Audio Corner: Kali Audio LP-6 V2 Review
  • Erin’s Audio Corner Website: Kali Audio LP-6 V2
  • Reddit Search for Kali Audio LP-6 V2 Review
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