Short answer: the Pioneer DJ VM-50 for better sound quality, the Neumi BS5P for the lower price. The Pioneer DJ VM-50 ranks #32 of 36 powered bookshelf speakers at $169. The Neumi BS5P ranks #35 at $150, $19 cheaper.
What the Pioneer DJ VM-50 offers: Compact active monitor with 96kHz DSP, 4mm aluminum front baffle, 5.25-inch aramid woofer and constant-directivity horn. Watch for: The default axial response is not reference-flat and the upper-mid/treble directivity behavior varies with angle; correct EQ-switch selection and listening geometry matter.
What the Neumi BS5P offers: Exceptionally broad connectivity for the price: Bluetooth, optical, coaxial and RCA inputs, remote control and 75W total amplification. Watch for: The original firmware Erin reviewed produces a pronounced V-curve—excess midbass and treble with recessed dialogue/midrange—and is a fidelity step backward from the passive BS5.
Buy the Pioneer DJ VM-50 if sound quality matters more than the price. Buy the Neumi BS5P if the price matters more than sound quality.
If sound quality matters at all to you, skip both of these and look higher up the 36 powered bookshelf speakers instead.
Specifications Side By Side
| Pioneer DJ VM-50 | Neumi BS5P | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $169 each | $150/pair |
| Ranked | #32 of 36 in Medium Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers | #35 of 36 in Medium Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers |
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 61Hz (measured, Erin’s Audio Corner) | - |
| Sensitivity | Not applicable (active DSP monitor) | Not applicable (active DSP loudspeaker) |
| Drivers | 1" tweeter in horn; 5.25" aramid-fiber woofer | 1" silk-dome tweeter; 5" fiberglass woofer |
| Amplification | Class D, 30W LF + 30W HF | - |
| Inputs | XLR/TRS combo and RCA | Bluetooth, optical, coaxial and RCA |
| DSP | Four LF and four HF EQ settings | - |
| Bass Extension | - | Erin’s response shows usable midbass but limited deep-bass headroom |
| Power | - | 75W total |
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- Presonus Eris E5 XT vs Donner Dyna 3
- Edifier R1700BT vs Neumi BS5P
- Presonus Eris E5 XT vs Pioneer DJ VM-50
The Two Speakers In Full
Pioneer DJ VM-50: $169 each Amazon
Pros: Compact active monitor with 96kHz DSP, 4mm aluminum front baffle, 5.25-inch aramid woofer and constant-directivity horn. Erin measured F3 at 61Hz, low distortion at 86 and 96dB, almost no long-term compression above 50Hz and only roughly quarter-decibel dynamic nonlinearity. Four-position low- and high-EQ controls yield 16 useful voicings, while balanced TRS/XLR and RCA inputs suit studio and consumer sources.
Cons: The default axial response is not reference-flat and the upper-mid/treble directivity behavior varies with angle; correct EQ-switch selection and listening geometry matter. Bass does not reach 50Hz at reference level despite its pleasing punch, making a subwoofer useful. Output is appropriate for nearfield use rather than home-theater distance. As an internally amplified monitor, passive impedance and sensitivity measurements are not applicable.
Full Pioneer DJ VM-50 review and specifications →
| Amplification | Class D, 30W LF + 30W HF |
|---|---|
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 61Hz (measured, Erin's Audio Corner) |
| DSP | Four LF and four HF EQ settings |
| Drivers | 1" tweeter in horn; 5.25" aramid-fiber woofer |
| Inputs | XLR/TRS combo and RCA |
| Sensitivity | Not applicable (active DSP monitor) |
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Neumi BS5P: $150/pair Amazon
Pros: Exceptionally broad connectivity for the price: Bluetooth, optical, coaxial and RCA inputs, remote control and 75W total amplification. The 5-inch fiberglass woofer/1-inch silk-dome platform has generally useful directivity outside port resonances and therefore responds well to corrective EQ. Compact dimensions and ample nearfield volume make it practical for a desk or small room.
Cons: The original firmware Erin reviewed produces a pronounced V-curve—excess midbass and treble with recessed dialogue/midrange—and is a fidelity step backward from the passive BS5. Nearfield treble above 8kHz rises as much as 4dB relative to farfield, distortion is already substantial at 86dB, and compression becomes severe above 96dB. Port resonances further contaminate the response. Erin later measured improved firmware, but buyers must confirm revision. Passive sensitivity and impedance are not applicable.
Full Neumi BS5P review and specifications →
| Bass Extension | Erin's response shows usable midbass but limited deep-bass headroom |
|---|---|
| Drivers | 1" silk-dome tweeter; 5" fiberglass woofer |
| Inputs | Bluetooth, optical, coaxial and RCA |
| Power | 75W total |
| 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