Short answer: the Neumann KH 310 A for better sound quality, the Kali Audio LP-6 V2 for the lower price. The Neumann KH 310 A ranks #13 of 40 powered bookshelf speakers at $4400. The Kali Audio LP-6 V2 ranks #17 at $398, $4002 cheaper.
What the Neumann KH 310 A gets right: CEA2034 spinorama shows a near-perfect on-axis response with superb directivity control and minimal off-axis variation. The catch: An unidentified dip around 80Hz shows up in the measurements, which Neumann was asked to investigate.
What the Kali Audio LP-6 V2 offers: Outstandingly neutral active monitor for the money, with no audible amplifier hiss in Erin’s listening and excellent horizontal directivity from the contoured waveguide. Watch for: 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 Neumann KH 310 A 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
| Neumann KH 310 A | Kali Audio LP-6 V2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $4400 | $398/pair |
| Ranked | #13 of 40 in Large Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers | #17 of 40 in Large Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers |
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 70Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) | 42Hz (measured, Erin’s Audio Corner) |
| Bass Extension (-10dB) | 42Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) | - |
| Dimensions | not published by manufacturer | 14.1"H x 8.8"W x 10.2"D |
| Frequency Response | 34Hz - 21kHz (+/-3dB) (Manufacturer specified) | - |
| Weight | not published by manufacturer | - |
| Drivers | 8.25" woofer, 3" midrange, 1" tweeter | 1" soft-dome tweeter; 6.5" woofer |
| App | No | - |
| EQ | No | - |
| DSP | No | Yes; boundary presets and LF/HF trims |
| Output Power | 290W total (150W woofer, 70W mid, 70W tweeter) | - |
| Sensitivity | - | Not applicable (active DSP loudspeaker) |
| Amplification | - | Bi-amplified Class D, 40W LF + 40W HF per speaker |
| Inputs | - | XLR, balanced TRS and RCA |
| Max SPL | - | Approximately 102dB per pair with good measured linearity (Erin’s Audio Corner) |
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The Two Speakers In Full
Neumann KH 310 A: $4400 Bhphotovideo
Pros: CEA2034 spinorama shows a near-perfect on-axis response with superb directivity control and minimal off-axis variation. Distortion measured very low at 96dB SPL/1m. Bass stays clean and dry without bloat, and vocals show no harshness. Tri-amplified design delivers 290W combined output and up to 116.3dB SPL.
Cons: An unidentified dip around 80Hz shows up in the measurements, which Neumann was asked to investigate. Bass response shifts somewhat with amplifier temperature. Distortion rises above 100% THD at the very bottom of the bass range, as expected at that extreme. Expensive at $4,400 per pair.
Full Neumann KH 310 A review and specifications →
| App | No |
|---|---|
| Bass Extension (-10dB) | 42Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) |
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 70Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) |
| DSP | No |
| Dimensions | not published by manufacturer |
| Drivers | 8.25" woofer, 3" midrange, 1" tweeter |
| EQ | No |
| Frequency Response | 34Hz - 21kHz (+/-3dB) (Manufacturer specified) |
| Output Power | 290W total (150W woofer, 70W mid, 70W tweeter) |
| Weight | not published by manufacturer |
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- Links
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head 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
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
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