Introduction
Thank you for choosing the KRK Classic 5 Professional Bi-Amp 5" Powered Studio Monitor. This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient use of your studio monitors. Please read it thoroughly before setup and operation, and retain it for future reference.
Important Safety Instructions
- Read these instructions.
- Keep these instructions.
- Heed all warnings.
- Follow all instructions.
- Do not use this apparatus near water.
- Clean only with dry cloth.
- Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
- Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
- Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
- Only use attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
- Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
- Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
- Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power-supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
Package Contents
Upon unpacking, please verify that all items listed below are present and in good condition:
- 2 x KRK Classic 5 Professional Bi-Amp 5" Powered Studio Monitors
- 2 x Power Cords
- 2 x XLR Cables
- 1 x Gravity Phone Holder
- Instruction Manual (this document)
Product Overview
Key Features
- Versatile powered nearfield studio monitor suitable for various music styles.
- Soft-dome tweeter with optimized waveguide for smooth, pristine, and articulate highs up to 35kHz.
- Lightweight glass-aramid composite woofer for clear midrange and tight bass.
- Flat low frequency adjustment for improved accuracy across different environments.
- Superior low-end extension with an optional +2dB KRK bass boost.
Components
The KRK Classic 5 monitor features a robust design with accessible controls and connections.

Figure 1: Front Panel View. This image displays the front of the KRK Classic 5 studio monitor, highlighting the yellow glass-aramid composite woofer and the soft-dome tweeter. The front-slotted bass port is visible at the bottom.
Front Panel
- Woofer: 5-inch glass-aramid composite cone for low and mid-range frequencies.
- Tweeter: 1-inch soft-dome tweeter for high frequencies.
- Front-Slotted Bass Port: Designed to reduce boundary coupling and allow flexible positioning.

Figure 2: Rear Panel View. This image shows the rear panel of the KRK Classic 5 studio monitor, detailing the various input connections and adjustment controls for sound customization.
Rear Panel
- HF Level Adjust: Knob to adjust high-frequency response (-2dB, -1dB, FLAT, +1dB).
- LF Level Adjust: Knob to adjust low-frequency response (-1dB, FLAT, +1dB, +2dB).
- Volume: Knob to control the overall output level (-30dB to +6dB).
- Input Connections:
- RCA (Unbalanced): For consumer audio equipment.
- TRS (Balanced): 1/4-inch jack for balanced audio signals.
- XLR (Balanced): For professional audio equipment.
- Power Switch: Toggles the monitor's power ON/OFF.
- AC Power Inlet: For connecting the power cord.
Setup
1. Placement
- Place monitors on sturdy surfaces, ideally on isolation pads or stands, to minimize vibrations.
- Position the monitors to form an equilateral triangle with your listening position. The tweeters should be at ear level.
- Ensure adequate space around the monitors for ventilation, especially at the rear.
2. Connections
- Ensure the monitors are powered off and unplugged before making any connections.
- Connect your audio source (e.g., audio interface, mixer) to the monitor using one of the available input types:
- XLR: For balanced professional connections.
- TRS: For balanced 1/4-inch connections.
- RCA: For unbalanced consumer-level connections.
Note: Use only one input type per monitor. Balanced connections (XLR, TRS) are recommended for optimal sound quality and noise rejection.
- Connect the provided power cords to the AC Power Inlet on each monitor and then to a suitable power outlet.
3. Initial Power On
- Before powering on, set the Volume knob on each monitor to its minimum (-30dB) position.
- Power on your audio source first, then power on the KRK Classic 5 monitors using the Power Switch on the rear panel.
- Gradually increase the Volume knob on the monitors to a comfortable listening level.
Operating Your Monitors
Adjusting Sound Settings
The KRK Classic 5 monitors offer rear-panel adjustments to tailor their sound to your listening environment.
- HF Level Adjust: Use this knob to fine-tune the high-frequency response. Adjusting it can help compensate for overly reflective or absorbent rooms.
- -2dB, -1dB: Reduces high frequencies.
- FLAT: Neutral high-frequency response.
- +1dB: Boosts high frequencies.
- LF Level Adjust: This knob allows you to modify the low-frequency response, useful for managing bass in different room sizes or when using a subwoofer.
- -1dB: Reduces low frequencies.
- FLAT: Neutral low-frequency response.
- +1dB, +2dB: Boosts low frequencies (the acclaimed KRK bass boost).
- Volume: Controls the overall output level of the monitor. It is recommended to set this to a level that allows your audio interface or mixer to operate at its optimal output.
Experiment with these settings to find the most accurate and balanced sound for your specific studio environment.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Disconnect the power cord before cleaning. Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the exterior surfaces of the monitors. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosols.
- Ventilation: Ensure that the ventilation openings are not blocked by dust or debris. Periodically check and clean if necessary.
- Storage: If storing the monitors for an extended period, keep them in a dry, cool environment, ideally in their original packaging.
- Avoid Moisture: Do not expose the monitors to rain, moisture, or excessive humidity.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| No sound from monitor. |
|
|
| Distorted or unclear sound. |
|
|
| Hum or buzzing noise. |
|
|
If the problem persists after trying these solutions, please contact KRK customer support.
Specifications
| Brand | KRK |
| Model Name | Classic 5 |
| Speaker Type | Woofer, Tweeter |
| Woofer Diameter | 5 Inches |
| Tweeter Diameter | 1 Inches |
| Speaker Maximum Output Power | 25 Watts |
| Frequency Response | Up to 35 KHz |
| Connectivity Technology | XLR, TRS, RCA |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Item Weight | 24.9 pounds (for the pair, packaged) |
| Product Dimensions | 24 x 12 x 12 inches (packaged dimensions) |
| Material | Aramid (for woofer cone) |
| Indoor/Outdoor Usage | Indoor |
| UPC | 744271618495 |
Warranty and Support
For detailed warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official KRK website. KRK provides customer support for technical assistance, service, and parts.
Manufacturer: KRK
Website: www.krksys.com
Contact: Please visit the KRK website for contact information and support resources.