Radial Engineering MC3 Passive Studio Monitor Control

THIS UNIT IS JUST RIGHT FOR OUR STUDIO, A SPEAKER CONTROLLER DOES NOT NEED TO HAVE A HUNDRED KNOBS ON IT TO HEAR WHAT I'M RECORDING. KEEP IT SIMPLE, AND NO ADDED COLOR.

I read other reviews and was skeptical but I ordered it anyway - other units were just too big for the desk. I am using it with a JBL subwoofer and a pair of high-end Equator Audio monitors. The first thing I noticed was that it is dead quiet. I have a somewhat noisy studio, electrically, so it was nice not to be adding any noise to the chain. My Equators appeared to open up a bit more with more detailed midrange. Separation is good down to whisper levels (not everyone's experience) with R&L being clear all the way down. Controls are convenient enough. It could be a little better but the unit would have to be larger. No thanks. LEDs are really bright, a common issue on studio equipment - nothing that smoke colored tape can't fix. I run the sub through its own bus. This lets me tweak the level independently and reverse polarity from my desk instead of crawling around on the ground and fiddling with controls and switches behind the unit. It claims to be completely passive. This does not seem to be correct. Yes, the power is required for the LEDs and headphone amplifier but, when you remove the power, the mains go quiet and the sub level reduces by about 25dB. So something is active - even if I can't hear it (this is good!).

The simplicity of design,clarity of sound,and appropriate controls (just the right amount) make this a no-brainer. You might think it is only a 2-monitor controller, but it can easily be configured for up to 4. A headphone output (there are 3) can drive another monitor set with a y-cable, and there is an aux output in the back that can also do the job. Since there is an on/off switch that controls the headphone/aux outputs, you don't have to fuss with the headphone volume control to shut that signal off. The DI box size of this unit makes it easy on your desk real estate. HIghly recommended!

Radial has another winner! The link between you interface and monitors is crucial. The MC3 gives you passive level control and a killer headphone amp. My DT 770's have never sounded better. This unit does what it says- with class.