Avid's M-Audio is expanding its Studiophile monitor series with new mid-range line. Starting at $400, the CX-5 and CX-8 speakers fit between the company's entry-level BX line and its high-end Studiophile DSM Monitors. The new units include kevlar low-frequency woofers and silk-dome tweeters powered by built-in class A/B amplifiers.

M-Audio executives claim the new monitors have a much larger "sweet spot" than competing products in the same price range. Specially designed waveguides, they say, allow the monitors to provide optimal sound over a wider area.

Both of the new models look similar, but the Studiophile CX-8 has a larger 8-inch low-frequency driver while the CX-5 has a 5-inch driver. This allows the CX-8 to handle 80 watts RMS while the CX-5 can handle 50 Watts. The CX-8 a slightly better frequency response, from 38Hz to 38KHz, while the CX-5 is rated at 50Hz to 38KHz. Both models have 1.25-inch tweeters rated at 40 watts RMS.

The CX series feature rear panel trim controls for high-frequency, mid-range boost and low-frequency cut-off and include unbalanced RCA inputs and Neutrick combo connectors, which accept XLR and standard 1/4-inch TRS phone plugs.

The CX-5 will retail for $400 for a single unit, while the CX-8 will ship for $500. Both are expected to be available in the second quarter of this year.