The Genelec 8010A starts with a balanced audio XLR input, a 3-inch bass driver, 3/4-inch tweeter both driven by two 25-watt Class-D power amplifiers, one for each driver. The electronic crossover frequency is set to 3kHz and there is a set of rear panel dip switches to select different amounts of bass tilt as well as a Desktop Switch for a -4dB roll off at 200Hz when using the monitors directly on your desktop as I used them.

Other good features are: selectable (on/off) Intelligent Signal Sensing or ISS circuitry that saves energy by automatically putting the monitor to sleep when no audio signal is present. When a signal is detected, the monitor wakes up automatically. I liked the rear-mounted on/off switch that I could just reach around and touch easily without fumbling. Also noteworthy is the built-in Genelec's IsoPod™ or Isolation Positioning/Decoupler that comes with each monitor.

I placed the pair of 8010As sent for review right on the desktop of my project studio DAW desk on either side of my 22-inch flat panel DAW monitor. They were made for this application and offer a low profile that doesn't interfere with my two sets of main monitors on stands in front of my DAW desk. They plug straight into the AC mains without any pesky wall-warts and the IsoPods are adjustable to aim them up at me. To tilt them up even higher, I used a couple of 1/4-inch Auralex isolation pads as spacers under the front feet of the IsoPod.

I've been using these baby Genelecs constantly since I got them for checking how mixes translate from what I hear on my pairs of Adam S2.5A, Mackie MR8 mk 3 with MR10S mk3 sub, Yamaha NS10Ms and Reftone Cubes. I'm finding the 8010As consistently reveal more problems with some of my mixing decisions--EQ and panning etc. They seem very unflattering and not too bright sounding. Because they are so close to me on my desktop, they go louder than they should. My clients (when sitting in the mix/listening position) are always impressed by their sound despite their diminutive size.

Of course, the 8010A's 3-inch woofer cannot produce the sub energy of bass instruments but they certainly show off any problems in the octave above it! I also found the most important mid-range accurate--not scooped, not pushed up as compare to other monitors this size.

Finally, there is a full range of accessories available for the 8010 to cover all mounting needs. Their L-shaped table stand option is a proper solution for my aforementioned spacer idea. It would also raise the monitors up higher too--good for setups in editing bays where the 8010A monitors need to be optimally positioned for listening when either sitting or standing. Anyway you want to set them up, the 8010A is a great little monitor speaker for small rooms or music professionals on the move. It also a great cost-effective way to get into the sound of Genelec and I highly recommend them!