How to Set Up Full-Range Studio Monitoring

Monitor Monday | EP 4

Monitor Monday EP 4: How to Set Up Full-Range Studio Monitoring 

A full-range monitor setup ensures your system reproduces the entire frequency spectrum with complete accuracy. 
By combining Neumann studio monitors with a powerful subwoofer, you gain control across the entire frequency spectrum, from the deepest bass to the most delicate detail. 

Let’s set it up properly! 
 
 
In this video you’ll learn: 

  • What defines a full-range monitor setup
  • How the Neumann KH 420 and KH 870 II work as a system
  • Why accurate midrange and low-end extension matter
  • How to align your system for a precise and reliable monitor setup 
Watch the video here or read our transcript and step-by-step guide for everything you need to know about your full-range monitor setup.

We need your consent to display this content

By clicking on "Accept" you agree to the data processing to. Further information on data processing can be found under "More information".

Monitor Monday: KH 420 & KH 870 II

Full-Range Monitoring with Power, Precision and Control

Hi and welcome to Monitor Monday.

Today, we’re going big. And we’re getting loud.

The Neumann KH 420, together with the KH 870 II, forms a powerful monitoring system. It delivers precision, depth and full control across the entire frequency range.

Full-range sound with system alignment

Thanks to the DSP capabilities of the KH 870 II subwoofer, you can align your entire system using Neumann’s MA 1 Automatic Monitor Alignment.

This results in a flat frequency response down to 16 Hz, with phase linearity precisely matched to your room. The outcome is a consistent and reliable monitoring environment.

KH 420 in detail

The KH 420 is a three-way, tri-amplified studio monitor designed for midfield and main monitoring. It performs best at listening distances between 1.5 and 3 meters.

Its low-frequency driver delivers tight and punchy bass down to 25 Hz.
The large 3-inch midrange dome ensures high resolution and accuracy in the critical midrange.
The 1-inch alloy tweeter adds clarity and fine detail.

The carefully designed waveguides provide a wide and even horizontal dispersion. This gives you flexibility in your listening position. At the same time, the narrower vertical dispersion helps reduce reflections from desks, consoles or ceilings.

A practical feature is the adjustable driver orientation. By rotating the midrange and tweeter section, the KH 420 can be used both horizontally and vertically.

Adapting to your room

On the back, the KH 420 offers acoustic controls for bass, midrange and treble. It also includes a parametric equalizer to address room modes.

This allows precise adaptation to different acoustic environments.

KH 870 II: extending the low end

When paired with the KH 870 II, low-frequency content is handled by the subwoofer. This reduces the load on the main monitors.

The result is higher headroom and lower distortion.

The KH 870 II extends the system response down to 16 Hz. It does not just reproduce bass. It makes it tangible.

Two long-throw 10-inch woofers operate in a rigid bass reflex enclosure with protective metal grilles. This ensures controlled and low-distortion performance even at high SPL levels.

Designed for stereo and immersive workflows

The KH 870 II is DSP-controlled and supports automatic calibration with MA 1.

It also features bass management for up to 11 speakers. This makes it suitable for immersive setups up to 7.1.4.

Conclusion

Together, the KH 420 and KH 870 II deliver a powerful, high-resolution monitoring experience.

From the deepest bass to the finest d

Monitor Monday EP 2 - FAQs

A full-range monitor setup combines studio monitor speakers with a subwoofer to cover the entire frequency spectrum, from deep bass to high frequencies, with accuracy.

The Neumann KH 870 II extends low-end performance, while the KH 420 delivers precise midrange and clarity, together creating a balanced, full-range system.

Use proper placement, level and phase alignment, and tools like MA 1 to adapt your monitor setup to your room for consistent, reliable results.

What defines a full-range monitor setup 

A full-range monitor setup ensures that every frequency is reproduced accurately, from sub-bass to high-frequency detail. 

This is achieved by combining: 

  • High-performance Neumann studio monitors
  • A subwoofer for low-frequency extension 
The result: a system that reveals everything in your mix without gaps or exaggeration. 

 

The role of the Neumann KH 420  

The Neumann KH 420 is a three-way reference among studio monitor speakers, designed for midfield and main monitoring. 
 
It delivers: 
  • Tight, controlled bass down to 25 Hz
  • A detailed and highly accurate midrange
  • Clear, precise high frequencies 
Its waveguide design ensures: 
  • Wide horizontal dispersion
  • Stable stereo imaging
  • Reduced reflections from room surfaces 
In short: accuracy across the spectrum, with flexibility in real-world setups. 

Furthermore, the Neumann KH 420 includes advanced acoustic controls: 
  • Bass, midrange, and treble adjustments
  • Built-in parametric EQ for room modes 
This allows precise adaptation to different environments. 

A thoughtful detail: The rotatable driver section lets you position the monitor horizontally or vertically, depending on your setup. 
 
KH-420-Left_Neumann-Studio-Monitor_M
KH 420

The Neumann KH 870 II: extending the system to full range 

The Neumann KH 870 II takes over low-frequency reproduction, extending the system down to 16 Hz.
 
This brings two key advantages: 
  • Deeper bass extension
  • Higher headroom for your main monitors 
By offloading low frequencies, the KH 870 II can operate more efficiently, reducing distortion and improving clarity. 

The Neumann KH 870 II is designed for both stereo and immersive applications: 
  • DSP-controlled system alignment
  • Bass management for up to 11 speakers
  • Suitable for setups up to 7.1.4 
Whether you’re mixing music, film, or immersive audio, this system scales with your needs. 

KH 870 II

When does a full-range setup make sense?

A full-range monitor setup is ideal when: 
  • You work in midfield or large rooms
  • Your productions require deep low-end control
  • You need maximum precision across the spectrum
  • You work in film, post-production, or immersive formats 
Simpler systems work well in compact setups. 
Full-range monitoring is where you gain complete control over the entire spectrum. 
 
 


Ready to explore more?

  • Check out the other episodes of the Monitor Monday Series here
  • Discover more tips in our Knowledge Hub
  • Follow us on Instagram to stay updated on our daily news!