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).