Monoprice Monolith THX-365C Center Channel Speaker Review
Specs:
| MSRP | $500 |
| Dimensions (H × W × D) |
9.70” × 22.90” × 10.80” 246mm × 582mm × 274mm |
| Power Type | Passive |
| Frequency Response | 65-24,000 Hz |
Key Takeaways
TLDR Summary: The Monoprice Monolith THX-365C center channel is a beast in home cinema setups, delivering crystal-clear dialogues and robust build quality. Certified by THX, it assures an immersive, room-filling experience. The mid-range is articulate, while the dual 6.5 woofers ensure a punch in the lower frequencies. However, its considerable size might not suit all spaces, and the weight demands a sturdy shelf. An exceptional value, this speaker is a sonic powerhouse for serious home theater enthusiasts.
Monoprice Monolith THX-365C: Our Take
When it comes to home theater systems, the center channel speaker arguably carries the weight of the experience, anchoring dialogue and on-screen action directly to the screen. In this regard, the Monoprice Monolith THX-365C Center Channel Speaker doesn't just fulfill expectations—it exceeds them with a presence that captures the essence of what enthusiasts seek in high-fidelity audio reproduction. This speaker is part of Monoprice's lauded Monolith series, which aims to deliver premium quality audio gear at competitive prices, a philosophy that has garnered a loyal following among audiophiles and home theater aficionados alike.
The THX-365C is THX Certified, which for many is a mark of quality assurance. This certification means the speaker has been tested and meets the stringent standards set by THX for accurate reproduction of movie soundtracks as the director intended. With its dual 6.5-inch midrange drivers and a 1-inch silk-dome tweeter nestled between them, the THX-365C promises a powerful performance with a clear and natural sound profile that is crucial for the discerning ears of a home theater enthusiast.
Design and Build Quality
Monoprice has certainly not cut corners when it comes to the build quality of the THX-365C. The hefty construction exudes a robustness that is felt the moment you lay hands on it. The speaker comes in a no-nonsense, all-black finish that should complement the aesthetics of most home theater setups. Its build is reinforced by a solid cabinet that helps in reducing vibrations, providing a cleaner and more focused soundstage. However, its sizable footprint means it will need ample space and may not be the best fit for smaller entertainment units.
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Sound Performance
The THX-365C shines in delivering crisp and intelligible dialogue, ensuring that even the most subtle inflections and nuances of speech are conveyed with clarity. This is paired with an impressive dynamic range that can handle the softest whispers to the most explosive action sequences without flinching. The tonal balance is commendable, offering a smooth transition between frequencies, which is particularly important in a center channel to avoid any auditory disconnects with the rest of the surround setup.
Compare to similar speakers:
While the sonic fidelity is impressive, the THX-365C isn't without its quirks. The speaker benefits greatly from careful positioning and may require a bit of trial and error to find the sweet spot in your particular space. Additionally, while it is designed to handle a wide range of frequencies, those looking for earth-shattering lows may need to pair it with a competent subwoofer, as is often the case with dedicated center channel speakers.
Comparisons and Alternatives
In the landscape of center channel speakers, the Monoprice Monolith THX-365C sits in a comfortable mid-range position. It's a step above budget offerings without encroaching on the exorbitant price tags of high-end models. For comparison, the Klipsch RP-504C II is another favorite among home theater enthusiasts, offering a different sound signature with its horn-loaded tweeter design. The MartinLogan Motion 30i, similarly priced, delivers a more audiophile-centric experience with its Folded Motion tweeter technology. It's always advisable to consider such alternatives as they may offer different advantages that could better suit individual preferences.
For those on a tighter budget or looking for something less bulky, the Polk Audio ES35 might be a consideration, though it arguably doesn't match the THX-365C's performance. On the other end of the spectrum, the KEF R2c offers a taste of high-end luxury but at a significantly higher price point. Each speaker brings something unique to the table, and choice often boils down to personal preference and the specific needs of your home theater system.
Prospective buyers should weigh these options, keeping in mind the specific characteristics they are looking for in a center channel speaker. The Monoprice Monolith THX-365C boasts a compelling combination of sound quality, build, and value that could very well be the sweet spot for many. However, the correct choice will always be contingent upon matching your system’s characteristics, room acoustics, and your subjective auditory predilections.
In summary, the Monoprice Monolith THX-365C is a formidable contender in its bracket. It offers a professional-grade audio experience that could elevate any home theater setup. Its minor drawbacks are easily overshadowed by its overall performance and the value it represents. Ultimately, for the discerning ear that craves cinematic clarity and presence, the THX-365C is a center channel speaker that deserves a serious audition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What distinguishes the Monoprice Monolith THX-365C's driver configuration from others?
The driver configuration of the Monoprice Monolith THX-365C is meticulously designed to deliver a balanced and rich sound profile. This speaker utilizes a dedicated set of drivers that are meant to reproduce a specific segment of the audio spectrum with fidelity. The key here is not just the number of drivers, but how they're integrated within the speaker's overall design to ensure they work in concert to provide an immersive listening experience with clear mids, detailed highs, and integrated bass response. This precise driver array is one reason why the THX-365C is lauded for its vocal clarity—a crucial factor in making movie dialogues and vocals in music stand out.
How does the build quality of the Monoprice Monolith THX-365C affect its performance?
Build quality is paramount when discussing any high-fidelity audio equipment, and the Monoprice Monolith THX-365C is built like a tank. The solid construction, which often employs dense materials, is not just for longevity but also serves an acoustic purpose. The sturdy cabinet construction reduces unwanted resonance that can color the sound, thereby maintaining audio purity. A rigid structure ensures that the sound waves produced by the drivers are not compromised by the vibration of the cabinet, which could otherwise affect the accuracy of the sound, particularly at higher volumes.
Are there specific positioning requirements for optimizing the performance of the Monoprice Monolith THX-365C in a home theater setting?
Positioning can dramatically impact the performance of any center channel speaker, and the Monoprice Monolith THX-365C is no exception. Ideally, the THX-365C should be placed directly below or above the center of your TV or projection screen, ensuring that the dialogue and on-screen action are sonically anchored to their visual counterparts. It should be angled toward the primary seating area for the best directivity of sound. Given its acoustic design, the speaker does offer some flexibility in placement; however, avoiding obstructions and aiming for symmetry in respect to the main listening position can significantly enhance the overall sound stage and immersion of your home theater experience.
