Best Passive Stage Monitors of 2025

Hayden Bryant Avatar
Hayden Bryant
Last Updated: 5 Feb 2025

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Passive stage monitors are an essential tool for any performer or musician who requires clear and accurate sound on stage. These monitors are designed to project sound towards the performer, allowing them to hear themselves and their bandmates clearly. They are typically placed on the floor in front of the performer and can be adjusted to provide the desired level of sound. Passive stage monitors do not require external power and are therefore easy to set up and use. They come in a variety of sizes and configurations to suit different performance spaces and requirements.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Palmer MI PMONICON Passive Monitor Controller Cover #TOP 1
Palmer MI PMONICON Passive Monitor Controller
ftb score rating icon 9.9
SUBZERO C12MA Active Stage Monitor with 1100W Cover #TOP 2
SUBZERO C12MA Active Stage Monitor with 1100W
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Laney CXP-108 Active Stage Monitor Cover #TOP 3
Laney CXP-108 Active Stage Monitor
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 4 Passive Stage Monitors

#TOP 1

Palmer MI PMONICON Passive Monitor Controller

Palmer
PMONICON
Mehrfarbig
One Size
Palmer MI PMONICON Passive Monitor Controller Cover
Palmer MI PMONICON Passive Monitor Controller

Features
Convenient Analogue Control Of Monitor Volume
Palmer Monicon, And The Volume Is Right
Model Number: PMONICON
Equipment For Your Ideas
#TOP 2

SUBZERO C12MA Active Stage Monitor with 1100W

C12MA
Black
12 Inch
SUBZERO C12MA Active Stage Monitor with 1100W Cover
SUBZERO C12MA Active Stage Monitor with Class D Amp 1100W Max Power

The SUBZERO C12MA Monitor is a powerful 12-inch active stage monitor equipped with a Class D amplifier that delivers a maximum power of 1100W. Its easy-to-use control panel includes EQ and volume control, allowing you to tailor the sound to your preference effortlessly. You can connect microphones and line inputs, along with a passive speaker output, making it versatile for various setups. Additionally, the robust cabinet features a metal grille and rubber feet, ensuring durability and stability during performances.

What We Like
High maximum power output
Easy control panel
Versatile input options
Durable design
#TOP 3

Laney CXP-108 Active Stage Monitor

CXP-108
black
8 inch
Laney CXP-108 Active Stage Monitor Cover
Laney CONCEPT Series CXP-108 - Active Stage Monitor - 80W - 8 inch Coaxial Woofer,Black

The Laney CXP-108 Monitor is an ultra-compact 80W active stage monitor, perfect for situations where space is limited and high speaker power is not essential. It is versatile and can be used in various settings, including stages, DJ events, and gyms. With a balanced mic input, two-band EQ, and a master volume, you can easily adjust your sound to suit your needs. Additionally, the option to mount it on a tripod enhances its usability for both live performances and home setups.

What We Like
Compact and lightweight design
Versatile for multiple uses
Adjustable sound settings
Tripod mount option
#TOP 4

Behringer EUROLIVE F1220D Lightweight Monitor Speaker

F1220D
Grey
Behringer EUROLIVE F1220D Lightweight Monitor Speaker Cover
Behringer EUROLIVE F1220D Monitor Speaker, Grey

The Behringer EUROLIVE F1220D is a lightweight 250-watt two-way monitor speaker designed for both live performances and playback applications. You will appreciate its exceptional sound quality, which offers a wide frequency bandwidth and dynamic range, ensuring clarity in every note. The true bi-amping mode features two amplifiers, enhancing sound reproduction for a richer audio experience. Additionally, the revolutionary class-D amplifier technology provides enormous power while remaining super-lightweight, making it easy to transport and set up.

What We Like
Exceptional sound quality
Lightweight and portable
True bi-amping for better sound
Powerful class-D amplifier
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a passive stage monitor?

Passive (unpowered) stage monitors Active or powered stage monitors house their power amp in the same cabinet as the speaker drivers Those that need external amplifiers are referred to as unpowered or passive monitors.

2. How do you use a passive stage monitor?

Passive speakers To set up a passive monitor, connect the outputs of the mixer to the inputs on the amplifier. Then, connect the outputs of the amp to the monitor's inputs. While the inputs on a power amp receive a balanced signal, the amp's outputs send an unbalanced signal.

3. Are active or passive monitors better?

Better-integrated sound According to professionals, the line level signal can be very accurate, and deliver a clean and integrated sound. Active monitors are great if you don't have good room acoustics.

4. How many stage monitors do I need?

How many monitors do you need? Ideally one for each musician, but considering the cost (see final point) of monitors this is not always possible. Every monitor speaker needs to have a dedicated aux send on the mixer in order to give that speaker a specific mix.

Editor's Notes

During our passive stage monitor research, we found 4 passive stage monitor products and shortlisted 4 quality products. We collected and analyzed 6,347 customer reviews through our big data system to write the passive stage monitors list. We found that most customers choose passive stage monitors with an average price of £129.19.

The passive stage monitors are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of passive stage monitors, including Palmer, SUBZERO, Laney, Behringer. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 82 consumers with an average rating of 4.5.

Written by
Hayden Bryant Avatar

Hayden was born in Liverpool, and he never left his hometown until university. In his freshman year at the University of Manchester, Hayden was the group leader of a popular music group. Hayden is responsible for the popularity of his music, and this is because of his natural ability to play with keys and strings. He graduated with BFA in 2016 and returned in 2018 as a lecturing staff in the School of Music.