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M-Audio AV42 Compact Desktop Reference Speakers — main product image
M-Audio AV42 Compact Desktop Reference Speakers
M-Audio AV42 Compact Desktop Reference Speakers
M-Audio AV42 Compact Desktop Reference Speakers
M-Audio AV42 Compact Desktop Reference Speakers
M-Audio AV42 Compact Desktop Reference Speakers
M-Audio

M-Audio AV42 Compact Desktop Reference Speakers

★★★★★4.4 (1974 reviews)

Compact active monitor speakers with polypropylene drivers and silk dome tweeters deliver studio-quality sound on any desktop.

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Overview

The M-Audio AV42 is a 2.1 active desktop speaker system designed to bring professional-grade audio quality to personal workspaces. The system pairs two compact satellite speakers — each equipped with a 3-inch polypropylene midrange driver and a 1-inch silk dome tweeter — with a dedicated subwoofer housing a down-firing 6.5-inch woofer in a ported enclosure. A 3-channel amplifier built into the subwoofer cabinet powers all three units, so the system is entirely self-contained with no need for an external amplifier or receiver.

Connectivity is a strong point, with digital optical (TOSLINK), analog RCA, and balanced TRS inputs accommodating everything from computers and gaming consoles to audio interfaces and mixers. The included remote control lets you adjust volume, toggle standby mode, and bypass the subwoofer without leaving your chair. With bass response extending down to 36Hz, the AV42 handles music production monitoring, movie soundtracks, and gaming audio with a fullness that standalone desktop speakers typically cannot match, all in a footprint designed to fit comfortably on or around a desk.

Key Features

3-channel amplifier in sub cabinet powers the subwoofer and two speakers

Digital (optical), analog RCA and TRS inputs for connection to virtually any equipment

Subwoofer uses powerful down-firing 6 1/2-inch woofer in ported enclosure for deep bass to 36Hz

Speakers have 3-inch polypropylene midrange drivers and 1-inch silk dome tweeters

Remote control switches unit in and out of standby, adjusts volume, and bypasses sub

Specifications

Brand
M-Audio
Model
AV42XUK
System Type
2.1 Active Desktop Speakers
Amplifier
3-channel (built into subwoofer cabinet)
Subwoofer Driver
6.5-inch down-firing woofer, ported enclosure
Low Frequency Response
36Hz
Satellite Midrange Driver
3-inch polypropylene
Satellite Tweeter
1-inch silk dome
Inputs
Digital Optical (TOSLINK), Analog RCA, TRS
Remote Control
Yes (volume, standby, subwoofer bypass)

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Built-in 3-channel amplifier eliminates the need for a separate receiver or amp
  • Three input types (optical, RCA, TRS) make it easy to connect diverse audio sources simultaneously
  • Down-firing 6.5-inch subwoofer reaches 36Hz for substantial low-end in a compact form factor
  • Silk dome tweeters produce smooth, detailed highs without harshness
  • Included remote control provides convenient volume, standby, and subwoofer bypass from your desk

👎 Cons

  • Compact 3-inch midrange drivers may lack projection for larger rooms
  • Subwoofer cabinet adds a third unit to your desk or floor space
  • No Bluetooth or wireless input option requires a wired connection at all times
  • Limited EQ or tone adjustment controls for tailoring sound to your room

Frequently Asked Questions

The AV42 offers digital optical (TOSLINK), analog RCA, and TRS inputs, covering virtually any audio source from computers to mixers.
No, the AV42 is an active (powered) speaker system with a built-in 3-channel amplifier, so no external amp is needed.
Yes, the system includes a subwoofer cabinet with a down-firing 6.5-inch woofer in a ported enclosure that extends bass response down to 36Hz.
Each satellite speaker has a 3-inch polypropylene midrange driver and a 1-inch silk dome tweeter.
Yes, the remote also switches the system in and out of standby mode and can bypass the subwoofer entirely.

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