Kali Audio SM-5-C – Precision Monitoring at Its Finest

The Kali Audio SM-5-C is the pinnacle of Kali’s speaker design, combining a proven 3-way architecture with premium materials, advanced DSP processing, and meticulous craftsmanship. Engineered for unmatched accuracy, imaging, and detail, the SM-5-C is built for the most critical mixing and mastering applications.

Kali’s Ultimate Studio Monitor

Kali Audio’s philosophy is simple: deliver the best possible sound quality at an accessible price. The SM-Series continues this tradition, utilizing high-end components, cutting-edge DSP, and precision tuning to deliver a high-performance studio monitor that stands up to the demands of professional studios.

Key Features:

• Advanced 3-way design – optimized for extreme accuracy and natural sound reproduction
• Onboard DSP calibration – 8-band parametric EQ, adjustable delay (up to 12ms), and loudspeaker trim for room optimization
• 1-inch aluminum-dome tweeter – extended high-frequency response without harshness
• 4-inch profile-optimized midrange driver – precision-engineered for ideal directivity and minimal distortion
• 5-inch flux-stabilized woofer – dramatically reduces distortion for clean, accurate bass
• Capacitive touch logo – multi-function control button for basic operations
• Multi-color LED indicators – displays trim level, DSP status, standby mode, and performance warnings
• Recessed input panel – ideal for wall or ceiling mounting, featuring XLR, TRS, AES/EBU, and RJ45 connectivity
• USB-A input – allows for firmware updates and custom tuning, even in permanent installations
• Mounting-ready design – compatible with Triad-Orbit U-brackets and other 4.25” x 2” bolt pattern mounts
• Self-powered with 225W Class D amplification – capable of producing 117 dB SPL @ 1m

Advanced DSP Room Calibration

The SM-5-C features onboard digital signal processing (DSP) for precise room calibration, allowing users to fine-tune their listening environment. With the Kali Control Panel (Mac & Windows), users can adjust:

• 8-band parametric EQ for customized frequency response
• Up to 12ms of delay for phase alignment
• Trim adjustments from -12dB to +6dB

This DSP processing is built into the speaker, meaning no additional latency is introduced, making the SM-5-C suitable for real-time tracking.

High-Performance Drivers for Unmatched Clarity

1-Inch Aluminum-Dome Tweeter

Designed for clear, extended high frequencies, the aluminum-dome tweeter features a unique geometry that reduces ultrasonic resonances, ensuring smooth, fatigue-free listening.

4-Inch Profile-Optimized Midrange

Precision-engineered for both midrange clarity and waveguide performance, this driver ensures accurate imaging and peak-to-peak excursion under 1mm to prevent intermodulation distortion.

5-Inch Flux-Stabilized Woofer

The woofer incorporates features that minimize magnetic flux modulation, significantly reducing distortion and delivering clean, punchy low-end.

Intelligent Design for Maximum Usability

Recessed Input Panel

The recessed panel makes mounting simple and includes:

• Balanced XLR & TRS inputs
• AES/EBU in & thru over BNC
• RJ45 for network control

Capacitive Touch Kali Logo

Acts as a multi-function button for quick access to key features like standby mode.

Multi-Color LED Indicators

• Displays trim level, DSP activation, standby mode, and performance warnings.

USB-A Input

Allows for firmware updates and custom DSP tuning, even if the speaker is permanently mounted.

Mounting Options for Any Studio Setup

The SM-5-C includes top and bottom mounting holes (4.25” x 2”) and is compatible with **Triad-Orbit U-brackets** or any mount rated for 21 lbs (9.5 kg).

Specifications

• Amplification: 225W Class D
• Drivers:
  • 1-inch aluminum-dome tweeter
  • 4-inch paper-cone midrange driver
  • 5-inch paper-cone woofer
• Crossover Frequencies:
  • LF-to-Midrange: 280 Hz
  • Midrange-to-HF: 2800 Hz
• Frequency Response (-10dB): 39 Hz – 25 kHz
• Frequency Range (+/-3dB): 47 Hz – 21 kHz
• Max SPL: 117 dB @ 1m
• THD:
  • < 0.75% from 100-450 Hz
  • < 0.5% above 450 Hz
• Inputs:
  • Balanced Analog over XLR
  • AES/EBU over BNC
  • RJ45 for Control
• Outputs: AES/EBU over BNC thru
• Enclosure: Front Ported
• Mounting Holes: Top and bottom, spaced 4.25 x 2 Inches (108 x 50.8 mm)
• Dimensions:
  • Height: 15.6 inches (39.6 cm)
  • Width: 7.9 inches (20 cm)
  • Depth: 9.8 inches (24.8 cm)
• Weight: 21 lbs (9.5 kg)

Why Choose the Kali Audio SM-5-C?

With its high-performance 3-way design, **onboard DSP calibration**, and **superior build quality**, the **Kali Audio SM-5-C** is the ultimate **studio monitor for professionals**. Whether you’re mixing, mastering, or producing, the **SM-5-C ensures absolute accuracy**.

Learn More

For **room calibration procedures** and **firmware updates**, visit: Kali Audio Santa Monica How-To.