Canton AM 5 white
Overview
This active monitor from German manufacturer Canton packs into a compact format everything that makes a good nearfield monitor: 24-bit digital processing, built-in 80 W amplification, and a range of settings that allow it to adapt to almost any environment, from home studio to office.
A compact format, serious construction
The AM 5’s cabinet is made of HDF (high-density fiberboard), a material that is denser and more rigid than the usual MDF. The dimensions are compact (14 × 24 × 16 cm), but the satin lacquer finish, available in black or white, shows great care in manufacturing. The metal grille that protects the drivers is pressure-mounted and can be easily removed to reveal the two transducers.
The 25 mm tweeter uses an aluminum dome driven by a neodymium magnet. Canton has integrated a waveguide into the front baffle to control the dispersion of high frequencies and maintain stable on-axis listening. The 115 mm woofer, also made of aluminum, handles the bass and midrange. The crossover frequency between the two ways is 3,000 Hz.
Built-in amplification and processing
Each speaker has its own amplifier (80 W continuous, 100 W peak) and a DSP that processes the signal in 24-bit. A limiter with “soft clipping” function protects the drivers in case of overload: instead of clipping abruptly, the speaker gradually compresses the peaks. The switching power supply accepts a wide voltage range.
The stated frequency response extends from 50 Hz to 38 kHz, with a maximum sound pressure level of 97 dB SPL. For a monitor of this size, reaching down to 50 Hz without noticeable coloration is a solid achievement.
Settings to adapt to the environment
The rear panel of the AM 5 features several switches that allow you to adjust the sound according to placement and intended use. The high-pass filter offers three positions (50, 70, or 100 Hz) to attenuate low frequencies: useful when the speaker is placed near a wall or used together with a subwoofer. An input sensitivity selector (10 dBu, 0 dBu, -6 dBu) lets you match the level to different sources.
Three tonal adjustments act on bass, mids, and treble, each with a range of ±6 dB. These settings are subtle: they fine-tune the balance without altering the speaker’s character. The midrange correction (between about 200 and 500 Hz) in particular compensates for proximity to reflective surfaces.
Professional and consumer connectivity
The AM 5 offers two inputs: a balanced XLR, which eliminates interference on long cables and is suitable for connections to mixing consoles or audio interfaces, and a standard RCA for consumer sources. This dual connectivity reflects the monitor’s hybrid purpose, halfway between studio gear and home equipment.
The auto standby switch puts the speaker into sleep mode after a period of inactivity (standby consumption: 0.4 W). It can be disabled for continuous operation.
Uses and positioning
The AM 5 is used as a nearfield monitor for mixing and mastering in small studios. Its linear response and low distortion make it possible to hear flaws in a recording or mix, which is precisely the role of a reference monitor. In a multimedia context (PC, Mac, tablet), it significantly improves playback compared with standard desktop speakers. Connected to a TV via the headphone output, it can serve as an audio system for movies, with the volume then controlled from the TV remote.
For wall mounting, Canton offers optional brackets (Cantomount AM and Cantomount XL) that allow you to fix the speakers to a wall or ceiling.
Documentation
Technical Specifications
Acoustic Characteristics
- System: 2-way, bass-reflex
- Tweeter: 25 mm, aluminum dome
- Woofer: 115 mm, aluminum
- Frequency response: 50 – 38,000 Hz
- Maximum sound pressure level: 97 dB SPL
- Crossover frequency: 3,000 Hz
Amplification and Power
- Power: 100 W music / 80 W system
- Amplification: active, built-in
- Standby consumption: 0.4 W
Connectivity and Controls
- Connections: 1 RCA, 1 balanced XLR
- Controls: adjustable bass and midrange
Physical Characteristics
- Dimensions (W × H × D): 14 × 24 × 16 cm
- Weight: 3.1 kg
- Cabinet: high-density MDF
Key Features
- Linear and neutral reproduction, ideal for mixing and mastering
- Powerful bass down to 50 Hz, with no coloration
- Compact and sturdy, perfect for small studios or PC use
- Active amplification for detailed sound, with no need for an external amplifier
- Simple controls to optimize sound according to the room or placement
- Versatile: studio, gaming, presentations, TV, and multimedia
Applications
- Professional studio: precise mixing and mastering
- Home studio: studio-quality sound in smaller spaces
- PC and multimedia: significant sound improvement for gaming, movies, and music
- Conferences and presentations: clear vocals, high-pass filters to reduce ambient noise
Delivery and Warranty
- Package contents: AM 5, power cable, feet, manual
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the AM 5 sold individually or as a pair?
Canton sells the AM 5 individually. For a stereo setup, you need to buy two separate speakers. Each speaker is self-contained with its own amplifier and settings.
Can the AM 5 be used with a subwoofer?
Yes. The built-in high-pass filter allows you to cut frequencies below 50, 70, or 100 Hz, depending on the selected position. This feature makes it easier to integrate with a subwoofer that handles the low-end range.
What is the difference between the XLR input and the RCA input?
The XLR input carries a balanced signal, which is less sensitive to electromagnetic interference over long cables. It is suitable for connections with professional equipment (audio interfaces, mixers). The RCA input is unbalanced and matches consumer devices (players, TVs, computers via adapter).
Is the AM 5 suitable for high-volume listening in a large room?
The maximum level of 97 dB SPL and the frequency response starting at 50 Hz are sufficient for small rooms in nearfield listening. In a large living room or for high-volume monitoring, larger speakers or an additional subwoofer will be more appropriate.
Do the rear-panel settings require technical knowledge?
The switches are documented in the manual and their effect is intuitive. The neutral (flat) position suits most situations. The tonal adjustments and high-pass filter allow you to correct placement-related issues without radically changing the sound.
Which device should be used to control the volume?
The AM 5 has no volume knob. The level is adjusted from the source (computer, audio interface, preamplifier, TV). This is standard operation for studio monitors.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.
- Manufacturer reference: 03420
- GTIN / EAN: 4010243034201
