JBL 305P MkII (single)
Sold as a single, the 305P MkII is a powered 5-inch near-field that lands as the beginner-tier benchmark for first studios. It suits tight desks and small rooms where a compact 5-inch woofer fits without overloading the space. Skip it if you're shopping a stereo pair on a budget — the stand bundle or stepping up to the 6.5-inch 306P is the smarter buy.
Scores
BreakdownHideOverall62±6Caliber-forward blend — tier caliber + within-tier price rank 30%, value 25%, confidence 20%, compatibility 15%, upgrade path 10% — renormalized over applicable dimensions; excluded here: compatibility (no ecosystem dimension).
Scores
BreakdownHideCaliber-forward blend — tier caliber + within-tier price rank 30%, value 25%, confidence 20%, compatibility 15%, upgrade path 10% — renormalized over applicable dimensions; excluded here: compatibility (no ecosystem dimension).
The ± band on the overall score reflects sourcing confidence — wider when fewer specs are verified.
How each score is computed: our scoring methodology.
Specifications
| Spec | Value | Verification |
|---|---|---|
| woofer (in) | 5Sourced | Sourced |
| powered | yesSourced | Sourced |
| sold as | singleSourced | Sourced |
3/3 detail specs sourced. Amber rows are flagged for verification — we show them as reported, not confirmed.
Verdict
Best for
- The budget monitor benchmark (sold individually)
Who should skip this
- Pair shoppers — see the stand bundle
Where to buy
List price $169
Prices are a guide and can change — confirm the current price on the retailer's site before buying.
Prices last checked Jun 13, 2026 — retailer prices change often, so click through for the current price.
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Compatibility
No platform-specific compatibility requirements — this works in any standard music production setup.
Upgrade path
Outgrow it and the Yamaha HS5 (pair) is the natural next step up in studio monitors. See it →