Kali Audio Launches New SM-8 Studio Monitor
The Burbank-based company introduces a high-performance 3-way monitor designed for professional mixing applications.
Updated on Oct. 25, 2026 in Music — General
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Kali Audio has released the SM-8, a new 3-way studio monitor engineered for professional imaging and audio accuracy. Each unit features a coaxial design with specialized driver configurations to provide precise sound monitoring.
Why it matters
The SM-8 utilizes user-definable DSP to help engineers calibrate the speakers to specific room acoustics, ensuring consistency in varied mixing environments. This capability allows creators to counteract common acoustic issues that can compromise professional audio production.
The SM-8 system outputs 300 W of power and reaches 119 dB peak SPL with a THD of less than 0.5%. Each monitor is priced at $2,499 per unit, while the required Earthworks M23R G2 calibration microphone retails for $549.
The players
Kali Audio
A professional audio equipment manufacturer based in Burbank, California, that specializes in studio monitors.
The details
The monitor incorporates an 8-inch woofer, 4-inch midrange driver, and a 1-inch coaxial metal dome tweeter inside a 32-pound enclosure. Connectivity options include USB-A, XLR/TRS combination inputs, AES/EBU, and Ethernet ports for system integration.
Timeline
2018: Kali Audio was founded in Burbank, CA.
- 2026-10-25
Kali Audio officially released the SM-8 3-way studio monitor.
Industry Dynamics
As modern studio workflows increasingly shift toward software-defined acoustic correction, manufacturers are moving away from passive designs toward active DSP-heavy systems. The SM-8 exemplifies this trend by integrating deep calibration tools into the hardware ecosystem.
Professional mixers can utilize the Kali Control Panel app to manage the monitor's 8 parametric EQs and up to 12ms of delay for room optimization. Users must acquire the dedicated Earthworks measurement microphone to enable the full calibration feature set.
The takeaway
The SM-8 provides professional-grade room correction capabilities for studio environments seeking high-precision audio output. Engineers should ensure they have the specific measurement hardware required to take full advantage of the monitor's integrated DSP features.
Further reading
Explore the latest professional audio trends in the Music — General section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Music Connection Magazine.
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