Focal Alpha 50 5" 35W Class AB Powered Studio Monitor

91
GEARANK

91 out of 100. Incorporating 175+ ratings and reviews.

Street Price: 

$299
Focal Alpha 50

Gearank High Notes

Gearank Recommendation

The Alpha 50 appeared on our recommended list for Studio Monitors when we published our first edition in February 2016.

It remained on the list until September 2020 when it was out-ranked by other models in the Under $300 price category.

Rating Source Highlights

Website Source *Rating Value
Recording Magazine Paul Vnuk Jr. 96/100
Gearspace djedga 85/100
*Displayed values are prior to the Gearank Algorithm's adjustments it makes when evaluating the source.

Overview

Many professionals and experienced studio owners swear by the Focal brand. While many of their products have premium price tags, the Alpha 50 makes their brand of quality more accessible.

What's unique about this monitor is its low directivity design, which goes against the usual sweet spot focused design that other manufacturers follow.

This means that the sound coming from its 5" woofer and 1" dome tweeter are distributed more across the room.

Another noteworthy feature of the Focal Alpha 50 is its automatic standby mode, which conveniently turns off the speaker after 30 minutes of inactivity.

If you want to dip your toes in Focal's signature sound and clarity, the Alpha 50 is a good starting point. It carries over the brand's best qualities like clarity and dynamic transparency over to a more affordable price point.

Specifications

  • Driver: 5" Woofer, 1" Dome Tweeter
  • Amplifier: 35W LF, 20W HF
  • Inputs: 1 x XLR, 1 x RCA
  • Frequency Response: 45Hz-22kHz (-3dB)
  • Enclosure: Ported
  • Controls: Sensitivity, LF Shelving, HF Shelving
  • Dimensions: 12.3" x 8.7" 10.2"
  • Weight: 16.1 lbs.
Although these used to be on our recommended list, there are now more highly rated options available in our guide to The Best Studio Monitors.