iLoud MTM MKI vs iLoud MTM MKII: Evolution of Compact Studio Monitors
IK Multimedia’s iLoud MTM series has been a game-changer in the world of compact studio monitors, offering powerful performance in a small form factor. The first generation, the iLoud MTM MKI, impressed many with its unique design and accurate sound. However, the newly launched iLoud MTM MKII takes things to the next level, with several significant improvements that make it a superior option for those looking for even more precise audio reproduction.
Design and Build Quality: Continuity with a Twist
Both the iLoud MTM MKI and MKII feature the same general design philosophy: compact, professional, and user-friendly. The MTM configuration (mid-tweet-mid), where two 3.5-inch woofers are placed around a 1-inch tweeter, is maintained in the MKII, ensuring wide dispersion and precise imaging. This setup minimizes phase issues, giving users a clearer, more coherent sound.
However, the MKII benefits from slightly refinements in terms of build and material quality. It feels more robust and better equipped to handle the rigors of studio environments. The matte black finish and sleek appearance are consistent between both models, making them visually appealing and fitting for any setup.
Bass Performance: MKII Wins with More Depth
One of the most noticeable improvements in the MKII over the MKI is in bass performance. While the original MTM MKI already impressed with its low-end response, the MKII takes it even further. The MKII’s bass extends down to 36Hz, which is significantly deeper compared to its predecessor. This improvement is due to a new driver technology and tweaks to the bass port design, allowing the MKII to produce tighter, punchier lows with better control. Whether you’re working on bass-heavy genres like electronic music or need precise low-end clarity for mixing, the MKII offers a noticeable upgrade in this department.
This enhanced bass also means that the MKII can handle larger dynamic ranges more effectively. In a studio context, where accurate reproduction of low-end information is critical, the MKII stands out as a true powerhouse for its size.
Clarity and Detail: The MKII Raises the Bar
While the MTM MKI was known for its clarity and definition, the MKII takes things to a whole new level. The updated tweeter in the MKII delivers smoother, more detailed high frequencies with significantly reduced harshness. This makes long mixing or listening sessions more pleasant, as you’re less likely to experience listening fatigue. The overall balance of the MKII is more refined, with each frequency range—bass, mids, and highs—working in harmony to give a well-rounded listening experience.
The increased clarity is also evident in the midrange, where the MKII’s precision and transparency allow for a more accurate representation of vocals, guitars, and other key elements in a mix. The added depth and definition in the midrange improve the overall listening experience, ensuring that you’re not only hearing everything clearly but also hearing it as it was intended.
Tweeter Optimization: Less Harshness, More Smoothness
A significant criticism of the original MTM MKI was that the tweeter could sometimes sound harsh at higher volumes. This was particularly noticeable when listening to certain genres or when monitoring the high-end frequencies. In response, IK Multimedia has made improvements to the MKII’s tweeter to reduce harshness and offer a smoother, more natural sound.
The tweeter in the MKII is optimized to eliminate unwanted artifacts and distortion at higher levels, delivering a more balanced treble. As a result, the MKII is more pleasant to listen to during long studio sessions or while making detailed adjustments to your mix. This upgrade addresses a key pain point of the previous version and is one of the main reasons the MKII surpasses the MKI in terms of overall sound quality.
X-MONITOR Software Integration: Control at Your Fingertips
Another major upgrade in the MTM MKII is the integration of IK Multimedia’s X-MONITOR software. While the original MTM MKI was capable of high-quality audio reproduction, the MKII introduces a higher level of customization and flexibility, thanks to the X-MONITOR software.
With X-MONITOR, users can access a range of features that allow them to fine-tune their listening experience. This includes adjusting the EQ, setting up room calibration, and managing multiple speakers in a multi-speaker setup. Whether you want to adjust the frequency response to better suit your room or tweak the volume and stereo balance, the X-MONITOR software makes it easy to make these changes without interrupting your workflow.
This integration is a huge step forward for the MKII, offering greater control over the sound and ensuring a tailored listening experience. In contrast, the MKI was more limited in terms of customization, and the MKII’s software compatibility adds substantial value for users who demand precision.
Room Calibration: ARC System in Action
The iLoud MTM MKII is also equipped with IK Multimedia’s renowned ARC (Automatic Room Calibration) system, which was also present in the original MTM MKI. The ARC system measures the acoustics of your room and automatically adjusts the speaker’s output to correct for any acoustic issues. However, the MKII takes the calibration to a higher level by providing more accurate and reliable results, particularly in difficult acoustic environments.
Thanks to the improved room correction, the MKII ensures that you get a neutral and accurate listening experience regardless of room size or acoustics. For users who work in untreated or acoustically challenging rooms, this feature is invaluable and enhances the MKII’s appeal as a professional-level monitor that adapts to its environment.
Portability and Size: The Same Compact Design
One area where the MTM MKI and MKII are virtually identical is their size and portability. Both models are designed to be compact, making them perfect for smaller studios or desktop setups where space is at a premium. Despite the MKII’s improved performance, its form factor remains small and manageable, making it easy to integrate into tight spaces without compromising on sound quality.
The compact nature of the MKII makes it a great option for producers, sound engineers, or content creators who need a high-quality monitoring solution without the bulk of larger speakers. Both models provide impressive sound in a space-saving package, which is one of the key selling points for anyone looking to maximize their studio space without sacrificing audio fidelity.
Price vs. Value: A Worthwhile Investment
Although the iLoud MTM MKII carries a slightly higher price tag than the MKI, the additional features and performance enhancements make it well worth the investment. With improved bass, greater clarity, less tweeter harshness, and added software integration, the MKII is a far more advanced monitor overall. For those who are serious about their audio work and demand the best in terms of precision, the MKII is a valuable upgrade.
Conclusion: The MKII Surpasses the MKI
While the original iLoud MTM MKI set a new standard for compact monitors, the MTM MKII takes that foundation and builds upon it in meaningful ways. With deeper bass, clearer high-end frequencies, less harshness from the tweeter, and the inclusion of X-MONITOR software, the MKII is undoubtedly the superior option for those seeking a more refined, precise monitoring experience.
Whether you’re a producer, sound engineer, or content creator, the iLoud MTM MKII offers the performance and customization options needed to elevate your audio production. The improvements in the MKII are substantial enough that it makes the MKI feel somewhat outdated in comparison, especially when considering the added versatility and ease of use with software integration. For anyone looking to make the most of their monitoring setup, the iLoud MTM MKII is the way to go.
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