JBL LSR305 & LSR308 Studio Monitors Review

Once I’ve hooked the speakers up, I couldn’t wait to try them out. I may have cranked up the volume a bit too high, as my neighbor was at my doors in a matter of seconds. The funny thing was, he only wanted to know what speakers I was using.

The real question is, are you ready to upgrade your studio speaker setup to a level you’ve never come across so far? If your answer is yes, let’s see what the JBL LSR305 and LSR308 have to offer!

The LSR Brothers – A New Level of Studio Monitor Speakers

JBL as a company doesn’t really require a thorough introduction. For years now, they have been manufacturing top of the line audio equipment, with each new series having something new to offer.

The LSR Series is all about bringing high-end specs, audio and build quality, to the consumers that either can’t or don’t want to spend a lot of money. That’s exactly why getting a JBL LSR305 or LSR308 pair could be what you were looking for as an upgrade for your home studio.

With only a couple main differences between the models, let’s take a look at our JBL LSR305 studio monitors review, and compare it with its brother, the LSR308 along the way.

Pros:

  • A broad center image
  • Present, natural sound
  • Crisp and clear highs
  • Sturdy build
  • Amazing price to quality ratio

Cons:

  • Mids are a bit left behind
  • Lacks an RCA input

After reading the quick overview of the pros and cons, it’s clear that JBL focused on both the design and performance of these studio monitors.

But what makes these two models special? Why should you consider getting them in the first place?

As there are many great options on the market, it’s easy to get lost in the specifications. Here’s what makes the LSR305 and LSR308 special:

Key Specs:

 LSR305LSR308
Price~ $150~ $250
Weight10 lbs19 lbs
Dimensions11.75 in x 7.28 in x 9.88 in16.5 in x 10 in x 12.1 in
Frequency Response43 Hz- 24 kHz37Hz – 24 kHz
Driver SizeLF- 5”, HF- 1”LF- 8”, HF- 1”
Power41W/ 41W56W/ 56W
InputsXLR & TRSXLR & TRS

 

Features:

  • Image Control Waveguide – For a precise and accurate audio representation
  • Slip Stream Port Design – Ensures a deep bass response at all volume levels
  • LF & HF Trim Switches – Gives you the option of fine tuning the lows and highs to compensate the acoustics of the room you’re in
  • Input Sensitivity Options – Switchable -10dB/ +4dB sensitivities offer great experience no matter the signal source

As both models share the same features, with slightly different specs, they are definitely both well-rounded pieces of audio equipment, being versatile and packing a punch.

Are These the Right Studio Monitors For My Needs?

Offering a fairly wide frequency response, both the LSR305 and 308 will definitely cover your needs.

As they are not too expensive, they stand as a great option for beginners making their own home studio, as well as more advanced audio engineers out there. For more information on other top studio monitors, read our buying guide here.

It’s All About the Details

Versatility isn’t something you can achieve easily. JBL however, showed us that they managed to manufacture studio monitor speakers that can perform very nicely in different situations.

The waveguides make sure that you get the most accurate audio image at all times, which is very important when you’re working on the same project for a couple of days.

Sometimes you can’t blast the volume at higher levels, but both the LSR305 and 308 will deliver fat and clear bass at even the lower settings.

User Opinions

“Though not as flat as other models, the lows and highs are very clear”

“Even after coming from a 2.1 setup, the sound was amazing”

“They sound decent, that’s all”

Both models have a definite majority of positive reviews, showing that JBL pretty much nailed it with this series.

Additional Info

Step up your game with the JBL LSR305 or JBL LSR308 on Amazon by following the included links.

Do have in mind that they are sold separately, and we advise you to get a pair to achieve the optimal experience.

Both models are active, meaning that you don’t need an additional amp.

Wrapping Things Up

As we’ve covered the basics when it comes to the JBL LSR305 and LSR308, it’s time to wrap things up.

If you’re looking for durable, great sounding studio monitors, which you can tweak and set up exactly how you want, go for these.

Though the LSR308 are a bit more expensive than other competitor models featuring similar specs, they are still a great option if you need that extra kick.

Thank you very much for reading, we hope that you found this article helpful!

1 Star2 Stars3 Stars4 Stars5 Stars (129 votes, average: 4.60 out of 5)
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1 thought on “JBL LSR305 & LSR308 Studio Monitors Review

  1. GREAT SPEAKERS for under $250 / pair. Review from my experience-
    1) Shot Noise (7/10)
    If you notice, the built-in amplifiers will have a bit of shot noise even when there is no input connected to the speaker! It is very subtle, but you can hear the small static “hiss” sound when the monitor is powered on. When you are playing music at normal levels, this shot noise is negligible, but nevertheless I want to disclose that it is there for all those considering this purchase.
    2) High Frequency (9.5/10)
    Extremely clear high claps and vocals. One can clearly distinguish and discern high frequency from the rest of the spectrum. Great speakers for deep house + vocals.
    3) Mid Frequency (9.5/10)
    Flawless here 🙂 Listen to Armin van Buuren’s “In and Out of Love” to test.
    4) Low Frequency (8/10)
    Again, these are STUDIO MONITORs, so it is not entirely fair to hold them up against the bass of a subwoofer, but I just want to be completely objective here. The bass is good for most casual listeners, but these speakers will miss a few low frequency notes without a subwoofer. Want to test how well your speakers respond to low frequency? Listen to Above & Beyond’s “Sun in your eyes” starting at 2:00. Those are extremely low notes that most speakers cannot reproduce well.
    5) Stereo Imaging (10/10)
    If you close your eyes, it actually sounds as if someone is singing right in front of you, rather than from the sides. It really has changed the way I listen to music! It also brings an excitement to listening to my music collection at home. Extremely priceless
    Overall, great speakers and I fully recommend them for the casual listener. The only comment I would have is that don’t be surprised if the low end does not satiate your appetite for bass. You may need a subwoofer, but that is ok!! These are studio monitors, and for what they are, they are absolutely awesome.

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