Focal Studiomonitor CMS65

For nearfield mixing, a monitor needs to reproduce sound accurately even at a limited listening distance and allow you to adapt it to the room acoustics. The active two-way monitor Focal CMS65 combines a 16.5 cm mid-bass driver with a Polyglass cone and an inverted aluminium-magnesium tweeter. Its frequency response extends down to 45 Hz, so depending on the application, you can also use it without a subwoofer.

The two integrated Class A/B amplifiers power the woofer and tweeter separately. Connections include a balanced XLR input and an unbalanced RCA input. Use the input sensitivity switch to match the monitor to the output level of your source; the volume can be adjusted from −66 dB to 0 dB. A clip LED indicates when the signal is overloading.

Filters and tone controls help you adapt the sound to the speaker placement and room. The high-pass filter can be disabled or set to 45, 60 or 90 Hz – for example, when using a subwoofer. A low shelf adjusts the range below 450 Hz, while a high shelf affects frequencies from 4.5 kHz upwards. For placement on a desk or console, there is also a 160 Hz cut to account for typical reflections from the supporting surface.

The cabinet is made of reinforced, damped die-cast aluminium and has a black powder-coated finish. The speakers are shielded internally by a compensating magnet. You can position the monitor vertically or horizontally and mount it on a suitable surface, stand or compatible wall or ceiling bracket. The mounting points have a 3/8-inch BSW thread; a listening distance of around one to three metres is recommended.

Four rubber feet, two height-adjustable spikes and a decoupling desk stand are included. The spikes can affect the orientation and height; a separate dimension is specified for the desk stand. You can also switch the monitor off completely using the mains switch or mute it using the standby switch. An LED indicates the operating or standby status.

The CMS65 is suited to a nearfield setup for mixing and mastering if you are looking for an active single monitor with XLR and RCA connections, adjustable filters and bass reproduction down to 45 Hz. The selectable placement and mounting options, as well as the integrated level and clip indicators, are also relevant when planning your workstation.