Short answer: the Monoprice DT-3, if you are buying new, though neither ranks well in its class. The Midiplus MI3 II ranks higher than it (#47 vs #48 of 48 powered bookshelf speakers, 2.4/5 vs 2.3/5) but is discontinued, so only consider it used; the Monoprice DT-3 is still sold new at $139.99. The Midiplus MI3 II’s replacement, the Midiplus MI3 II V2, is rated 2.5/5 at $139. Both are rated below 3.0/5 among the 48 powered bookshelf speakers; for better sound, the Edifier MR3 ranks #11 at $109.99.
The case for the Monoprice DT-3: An inexpensive compact powered pair with a front volume knob, aux input and headphone output for a simple desk setup. The catch: The measured response spans 7.6dB from 300Hz to 5kHz, with large irregularities both on-axis and across the listening window.
The Midiplus MI3 II is the more accurate option. Compact desktop speakers with Bluetooth, analog inputs and a treble adjustment for a basic computer setup. Its measured preference score, a predictor of how neutral it sounds, is 0.99 against 0.10 for the Monoprice DT-3. The catch: Preference scores of 0.99 standalone and 3.84 with an ideal subwoofer are poor.
Buy the Monoprice DT-3, since the Midiplus MI3 II is discontinued and only worth hunting down used.
Looking for alternatives? See the complete Powered Home rankings.
An inexpensive compact powered pair with a front volume knob, aux input and headphone output for a simple desk setup.
Compact desktop speakers with Bluetooth, analog inputs and a treble adjustment for a basic computer setup.
Prices on this page were last checked October 23, 2026 at 8:27 AM 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.
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Specifications Side By Side
| Monoprice DT-3 | Midiplus MI3 II | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $139.99 per pair | $139 per pair Discontinued |
| Ranked | #48 of 48 in Small Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers | #47 of 48 in Small Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers |
| Enclosure | Powered 2-way stereo pair, rear-ported | Powered 2-way |
| Drivers | 0.75-inch tweeter, 3.5-inch woofer | 0.75-inch silk tweeter, 3-inch fiberglass woofer |
| Amplifier Power | 50W system | 60W RMS per pair |
| Bass Extension (-6dB) | 69Hz (measured, Spinorama) | - |
| Inputs | Rear stereo RCA and front 3.5mm auxiliary | RCA, 3.5mm, Bluetooth |
| Outputs | Front headphone | - |
| Dimensions | 8H x 5.5W x 5.9D in each | 6.5H x 4.7W x 6D in |
| Spinorama Preference Score | 0.10 | 0.99 |
| Spinorama Preference Score with Perfect Sub | 3.03 | 3.84 |
| Headphone Output | Yes | - |
| XLR Input | No | No |
| RCA Input | Yes | Yes |
| TRS Input | No | No |
| Optical Input | No | No |
| Coaxial Input | No | No |
| USB Input | No | No |
| HDMI Input | No | No |
| AES Input | No | No |
| Aux Input | Yes | Yes |
| Bluetooth | No | Yes |
| Frequency Response | 75Hz - 20kHz (Manufacturer specified) | 70Hz-25kHz |
| Weight | - | 3.9 lbs (1.77 kg) |
| Maximum SPL | - | 98dB |
| Bluetooth Version | - | 5.0 |
Frequency Response Compared
Both speakers’ spinorama measurements, overlaid. A flatter line is more neutral: peaks sound forward or harsh, dips sound recessed. Each curve is shifted so its average from 300 Hz to 3 kHz sits at 0 dB, so loudness differences between the two are removed and only the shape is compared. The two were measured by different sources, so small differences, especially in the bass, can come from the measurement setup rather than the speakers.
Measurement data: Monoprice DT-3 (measured by Erin’s Audio Corner) and Midiplus MI3 II (measured by an independent reviewer), via spinorama.org.
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