Do I need new speakers for Pro Tools

[Defier]

Hey everyone,

I have lowered my faders in PT 12.4 to -10Dbs instead of 0 to prevent clipping.

My computer desk USB speakers are maxed out and they are not very loud.

Is that an indication for new speakers such as the Rokit 5 G3 or such?

These are what I currently use: (http://prntscr.com/cfa8s8)

Thx, Defier

[JFreak]

You would definetely want to have something better if you want to mix with your system. I use http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/8040BPM and I'm very happy, but is doesn't have to be that expensive.

[JoelG]

Depending on what your expectations are, I would say yes, it would be a good idea to get some better speakers.

What interface are you using, and what budget would you be looking at? Also, what type of music are you working with? Ideally you'll want a set of powered monitors like the Rokit you mentioned.

Joel

[Defier]

Thx for the replies,

I am using the PT 12.4 monthly sub and Focurite Scarlett Solo usb hooked up to my Korg microkey 61.
I am having fun composing epic scores with Action Strikes and NI brass/strings ensemble demos.
My budget is around $300 for now.

Thx, Defier

[EGS]

Originally Posted by Defier

...My budget is around $300 for now.

I think you'll get a lot of mileage from these:

http://www.sweetwater.com/store/deta...FYY0aQodC3cH6w

[albee1952]

I second the JBL's and feel they beat everything in your price range by a country mile
( have owned the KRK's, Yamaha and M-Audio speakers with 5" woofers and the JBL's outperform them in every way, except for having a slightly low input sensitivity. They have input switches for -10 and +4, so setting them to the -10 position makes up for it BTW, GC has these on sale for $119 each

[take77]

The fact that you are inquiring about "speakers" and not "reference monitors" doesn't quite indicate "mixing" needs.
IMHO you're better off investing in the best pair of studio headphones you can afford.

And remember, one thing leads to another in this biz.
If you want to invest in "mixing", count the cost.
If you have the monitors, you'll also need quality XLR cables, an interface with XLR outs, stands or a desk with a shelf that elevates the monitors to ear level, de-couplers and an acoustically treated ROOM etc.
Expensive monitors are pointless in an uncontrolled room as the room will influence your perception of sound more than you know.

Invest in studio headphones for starts.
Rest your ears often.

Beginner mix tip: Mix at low levels, and test louder low end levels in the car.

It's all going to be hit or miss without the room.
Quality over-ear headphones can provide an accurate and controlled reference.
You won't regret paying $199 on a reputable pair of AKG or Sennheiser studio headphones.

[The Weed]

If headphones I'd try the Sennheiser HD380 Pros. Crystal clear with no added color and brutally honest.

[take77]

Good recommendation.
I know this post was a call for monitor suggestions but I just wanted to share my advice as someone who is NOT a mixing engineer.
I love learning about mixing and encourage you to do so.
It's by all means OK to have a cool little set up that you can afford.
I quit spending money trying to attain the means for mixing long ago.
If I could afford it, I would absolutely go all the way with it.
But again, it's all just pretending if I don't have a nice room.

It's not so much that room treatment is expensive, it's that there are so many other things on the wish list!
So my setup is simply geared for songwriting more so than mixing.
I'll rough mix with a couple sets of headphones the best I can.
An expensive pair and a cheap pair.

If you were to spend $199 on good headphones then you can use what's left over on an instrument expansion or an external drive. :)
My VI collection sounds way more like I'm in the studio or live room with a good set of cans on!

[JFreak]

Originally Posted by take77

An expensive pair and a cheap pair.

My recommendation for the cheap pair would be the Apple iPhone headset. That's what many of your potential customers are using