If you're reading this review, it's because (like me previously), you are trying to decide if the PMC6's are the right fit for you.
I'm going to share from 2 lenses: 1. Why should you listen to me (a stranger on the internet). 2. What did I think of the monitors, and what were the other options I tried and considered before landing on these?
1.
Read moreWhy should you listen to me (a stranger on the internet)?
I worked for Disney as a composer, and then launched my own audio business. I've been working in the games industry for nearly 2 decades, and the project we're working on require everything from music composition, sound design, and voice over, to final mixing and mastering. We have to do it all, and we have to work fast. Working with companies like Disney, Warner Brothers, Niantic, Microsoft, and the Olympics, means that we're expected to deliver consistently and efficiently. So, when my previous studio monitors (Focal Solo 6be's) died after nearly 15 years, I needed a worthy replacement that was going to serve my growing business, and be around for 15+ more years.
2. What did I think of the monitors, and what were the other options?
The PMC's are exactly what I was looking for. Frankly, I had never heard this kind of depth and separation before listening to the PMC's. What I really like about them is how I get detailed information on my mix, and can make decisions quickly. Previously, I believed that "It doesn't matter what monitors you have, you just need to learn what they do by listening to them a lot." While I still believe this is true, I have never heard a pair of monitors that I felt I could trust so quickly. A lot of other monitors are 'lying' to you, and it's just a matter of understanding where they bluff. The PMC6's don't have that problem, and this leads to greater efficiency. This was a mindset shift for me, but one I'm frateful for.
2. So, what monitors did I consider, and why did I land on the PMC6's, even though they were more expensive than I planned on spending originally?
I had used the Yamaha HS8's, when I was at Disney, and had the Focal Solo 6be's for my personal rig (these were the ones that died). Both of these monitors were really great for the price point, but I was looking for something that would mature with me into the next 15 years. I did a lot of research, and was torn between the Barefoot lineup, and the Genelec lineup. After doing a bunch of research, I decided to bet on the Barefoot Footprint 02's, and Economik sent them out. I figured, at least I could return them if they weren't a good fit. The Footprint 02's had very impressive low end, and a phantom center like I'd never heard previously. They also had a great value because of the MEME technology and switch; however, I didn't think I could trust them. They had such an amazing bass response, but it felt overhyped, and I was concerned that (while they were fun to listen to) they weren't going to give me accurate information. If you're mostly a musician and composer, you might enjoy the Barefoot 02's. They create a really magical experience, but I wouldn't recommend them for detailed mixing/mastering, unless you want to spend a lot of time referencing.
At this point I was back to the drawing board, and re-considered every option I could think of (Including the ATC SCM25A, Neumann KH 310's). I checked out the Generlec lineup from the 8030's to the Ones, but I didn't really like the more forward mid-range sound of the Genelecs (my personal taste may not match yours, and that's okay). I kept returning to the Focal lineup, but felt like their tech stack was behind other brands, and I'm not convinced they are an innovative company anymore. The ATC's and Neumann's were 'fine', but didn't really stand out, which wasn't going to work with the price point. I had some post-production friends recommend the PMC's, and I got a chance to listen to them in person when I was in LA. Then I was hooked. Everything else felt second-rate compared to the PMC's.
What I like about the PMC's:
1. Frequency Depth - I've never heard this kind of frequency and volume separation before. Each sound feels somehow separate (perhaps because of the transient response across frequencies?). This has been a great accelerant for my workflow, because I feel like it gives me insights into the issues in the mix, and a targeted way to attack them.
2. Flat Response - I know it's cliche, but I do feel like these speakers are giving me an accurate picture across the frequency spectrum. Mixes have been translated very well, and it's really useful to have these insights.
3. Clear High End - The Barefoot 02's felt dul in the highest frequencies, and sharp in the mid-highs. The PMC's come across smooth and clean, but without feeling dull or lacking fidelity.
4. Great Low End Extension - The low-end is not extreme, it's balanced and trustworthy. Downstream, if I get a larger room, I might consider getting the matching sub from PMC, but the low-end extension is perfect for my space (a 8.5/12.5/9' working space).
5. A trusted lineup - The PMC6's (to my knowledge) use the same drivers as their bigger cousin the PMC6-2's. I chose the PMC6's because of their size (appropriate for the size of my studio). I listened to the Result6's, but didn't find them as clear and compelling as the PMC6's. So I went with the latter.
The PMC6's are perfect for me! You may have different needs, so I encourage you to listen to them in person if you get a chance. Best of luck with your search - It's pretty exhausting to find the right monitors, but I'm really glad I ended up with the PMC's. Hopefully this review helps you figure out the best path.
