Pricing and availability

Average Price: $8,000

High-end/Boutique

$300

$801+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

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Description

The Genelec 8361A SAM 3-Way Powered Coaxial Studio Monitor is a powerhouse of innovation, designed to meet the demands of professional audio environments. With its sleek design and cutting-edge technology, it promises to transform any studio space into a haven of sonic precision. At its core, the 8361A boasts Genelec's Acoustically Concealed Woofer (ACW) design, which delivers an expansive sweet spot that ensures consistent audio quality across a wide area. This is complemented by the Directivity Control Waveguide (DCW), providing exceptional stereo imaging that brings your mixes to life with pinpoint accuracy.

Engineered for versatility, these monitors are equipped with dual 10" woofers, a 5" midrange driver, and a 1" high-frequency dome tweeter, each meticulously crafted to produce a balanced and detailed sound. The integration of Genelec's SAM (Smart Active Monitor) technology further elevates the listening experience by allowing for automatic calibration to suit any control room or speaker setup, ensuring optimal performance in any acoustic environment. Whether you're mixing, mastering, or simply enjoying your favorite tracks, the Genelec 8361A offers unmatched clarity and depth, making it an indispensable tool for audio professionals.

Key Features:

  • 3-way coaxial design with dual 10" woofers, 5" midrange, and 1" tweeter
  • Acoustically Concealed Woofer (ACW) for a broad sweet spot
  • Directivity Control Waveguide (DCW) for precise stereo imaging
  • Smart Active Monitor (SAM) technology for automatic room calibration
  • Suitable for any control room or speaker configuration
  • Ideal for both professional and personal studio environments

Product specs

Brand Genelec
Model 8361A SAM 3-Way Powered Coaxial Studio Monitor (Pair)
Year 2019 - 2021
Made In Finland
Categories Studio Monitors
Amplification Active
Electronics Analog, Solid State

FAQs

What are the standout features of the Genelec 8361A studio monitor?

The Genelec 8361A features Smart Active Monitoring (SAM™) and GLM™ calibration technology, along with Minimum Diffraction Coaxial (MDC™) Driver Technology, offering unparalleled acoustic performance and precision in studio monitoring.

How does the Genelec 8361A compare to the 8351B in terms of frequency response?

The Genelec 8361A offers a wider frequency response starting at 36Hz and can achieve a higher maximum SPL of 124 dB, providing more low-end extension and headroom compared to the 8351B's 38Hz-20kHz range and 113 dB SPL.

Is the Genelec 8361A suitable for mixing and mastering in professional studios?

Yes, the Genelec 8361A is designed for high-end professional studio environments, delivering precise and transparent sound reproduction that is ideal for critical mixing and mastering applications.

Does the Genelec 8361A require any specific calibration for optimal performance?

The Genelec 8361A utilizes GLM™ calibration technology, which allows you to easily calibrate the monitors to your specific room acoustics, ensuring optimal performance and accuracy in any listening environment.

Can the Genelec 8361A be used in a home studio setup?

While primarily designed for professional studios, the Genelec 8361A can be used in a home studio setup, provided the room is properly treated and the monitors are calibrated using GLM™ for accurate sound reproduction.

Audio Science Review

Audio Science Review

Genelec 8361A: Amazing Powered Speaker!

Video thumbnail for Genelec 8361A:  Amazing Powered Speaker! by Audio Science Review

Genelec 8361A: Amazing Powered Speaker!

Audio Science Review

Audio Science Review

Video thumbnail for Can The Genelec S360 Or Genelec 8361A SAM Keep Up With KEF Blade Two Meta? by Daily HiFi

Can The Genelec S360 Or Genelec 8361A SAM Keep Up With KEF Blade Two Meta?

Daily HiFi

Daily HiFi

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Genelec 8361A SAM 3-Way Powered Coaxial Studio Monitor (Pair).

User experience

  • The 8361A's coaxial waveguide design allows for flat, phase-correct sound up to 36 Hz, with noted phase errors becoming negligible in typical room acoustics.

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  • Owners note optimal listening distances: around 1.5-1.7 meters for 8361A in small rooms, maintaining clarity and punch without overwhelming the space.

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  • In a small room, the Genelec 8361A can feel overkill, but provides excellent sound with precise bass integration when paired with a 7360A subwoofer.

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  • Owners praise the Genelec 8361A for its detailed, uncolored sound, ideal for professional settings, but some find it too clinical for casual listening.

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Software and compatibility

  • AutoPhase in GLM helps align delay for subwoofer integration, but manual adjustments using REW can further refine phase and timing for improved results.

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  • GLM software's phase linearity and low latency make it preferable in domestic settings, simplifying setup by avoiding dual EQ profiles.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Effective acoustic treatment includes DIY panels with 60mm fiberglass and air gaps, crucial for small room setups to manage reflections and bass response.

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  • K&M 26791 stands, designed for 8050/8351 and above, are height adjustable with cable management, recommended for 8361A due to their stability and lower height.

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  • Owners note the challenge of finding suitable speaker stands due to the 8361A's massive size; some resort to using barstools as a practical solution.

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Features and functionality

  • The Bass Management feature in GLM allows mains to return to full-range when the sub is deactivated, ideal for users switching between music and movies.

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  • The coaxial design allows for smooth, even dispersion with a wide 50-degree angle, maintaining consistent sound horizontally and vertically.

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  • The Genelec 8361A works seamlessly with the GLM software for room correction, allowing users to tune sound profiles to their preference.

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Use cases and applications

  • For small rooms, the 8361A with a single 7360A subwoofer is sufficient; dual subs are only necessary for larger spaces or if bass nulls are evident.

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  • Digital audio connections are preferred as the 8361A processes internally; ideal for users utilizing sources like Qobuz via Chromecast.

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  • Suitable for both studio and home hi-fi use, the 8361A provides excellent stereo imaging and clarity, with a detailed soundstage that can be too analytical for some.

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Other

  • The speakers' design integrates twin woofers behind a front waveguide, maximizing the baffle area without compromising on the waveguide's size.

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Comparisons

  • The Genelec 8361A's sound is likened to KEF Blades, offering similar sound quality at a third of the price, despite slightly less bass presence.

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  • Compared to the 8351B, the 8361A offers more SPL and slightly better bass due to its heavier build, ideal for larger rooms.

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Value and pricing

  • At around $10,000, the Genelec 8361A is seen as a high-value alternative to more expensive hi-fi setups when considering integrated amplification and DAC.

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Critic Reviews

Genelec 8361A

soundonsound.com

The Genelec 8361A SAM studio monitors hit all the right notes with their stunning clarity, control, and power. The GLM 4 automatic calibration software further elevates their performance, making them a standout choice for high-end studios. Bass enthusiasts will appreciate the deep extension, though it can feel overwhelming without adjustment. Despite the hefty price tag, the unparalleled audio fidelity and detailed soundstage justify the investment. If your budget allows, these monitors are a must-audition for serious audio professionals.

positive

RECORDING Magazine Review: Genelec 8361A studio monitors

recordingmag.com

Genelec's 8361A SAM monitors are an audio engineer's dream come true, offering a clean, detailed soundstage with remarkable imaging and phase cohesion thanks to its coaxial design. The powerful and precise low-end, paired with effortlessly clear highs, makes them a standout choice for critical listening environments. While the price tag is steep, the quality and performance justify the investment. The accompanying GLM system further enhances their capabilities, although it may slightly tame the bass. Overall, these monitors are a top-tier choice for those seeking unparalleled accuracy and depth in their mix room.

positive

Genelec 8361A - Tested | Production Expert

production-expert.com

The Genelec 8361A SAM 3-Way Powered Coaxial Studio Monitor is a triumph in design and clarity. Its innovative coaxial design and three-way setup deliver exceptional sound reproduction, with precise imaging and a wide sweet spot. The monitors excel in detail and off-axis performance, making them suitable for both nearfield and larger control room applications. While setup and calibration can be tricky, especially in new environments, the monitors' true-to-source nature ensures they reveal every nuance, for better or worse. Ultimately, these monitors are a top-tier choice for professionals seeking accuracy and consistency in their audio work.

positive

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