The Yamaha NS-10 is a loudspeaker that became a standard nearfield studio monitor in the music industry among rock and pop recording engineers. Launched in 1978, the NS-10 started life as a bookshelf speaker destined for the domestic environment. It was poorly received but eventually became a valuable tool with which to mix rock recordings.

Love or hate the Yamaha NS10, this unassuming little speaker has found a place in the studios of many of the world's top producers. We trace its history, and investigate why a monitor whose sound has been described as "horrible" became an industry standard. What is it …

Jan 26, 2020 · NS10 are still great doing what they do, and that won’t change over time. They still provide a very fast transient response, excellent for making compression, limiting and levels decisions. They still have that unique midrange magnifying glass on them (no, they are not replaceable buy modern Yamahas or auratone a for this task).

In my opinion, ns10s are the Pro Tools of studio monitors. Not even close to the best, limited but useable, and largely adopted. The real use case where they work is if you grew up on them and are used to them, but “Objectively Excellent”? That’s misinformed at best.

Jan 11, 2023 · There are three Yamaha NS-10 available, each with a different size. Yamaha NS-10M: The smallest unit is the NS-10M, which stands at 10″ tall and weighs 14 pounds. It can be placed on top of a monitor or sound mixer to elevate it …

The NS10s were a reference between the big speakers and the smaller Auratones. In this century I wouldn't recommend them as a primary pair. As a secondary pair, mated to a powerful amp (you need to buy an amp separately) like a Bryston, they are still incredible, but an acquired taste that many don't understand and love to hate on.

Mar 25, 2025 · The Yamaha NS10s are iconic but controversial among audiophiles. The discussion reveals both admiration and disdain for these speakers, showcasing differing preferences. Comments reflect on the persistent influence of …

2 days ago · NS-10M STUDIO (aka NS-10MS, NS10MS, ns10s, ns-10s, NS10’s, NS-10M’s etc.): One of only two NS10 models that sits horizontally (the other is the MC). The name label is also turned 90 degrees, accordingly, and states clearly that it …

" NS10s are totally incapable of reproducing a double bass or the bottom octaves of a grand piano with any sort of accuracy, and have a harsh high-end that can really numb your ears after a while. " I've never really got on with them and can gladly live without them in the studio.

4 days ago · Check out the NS10 Specifications Chart to quickly compare the specs and list prices of all models side by side, or the gallery to compare visual differences. The buying guide will help you decide if shopping for ns10's, and see the naming conventions page to clarify how the various models are labelled.