Audio T Verdict
The Gold 50 6G may be the smallest speaker in Monitor Audio's Gold Series, but there is nothing entry-level about what is going on inside it. The combination of a 6-inch HDT C-CAM bass-mid driver and MPD III high-frequency transducer gives this compact two-way speaker some genuinely sophisticated technology.
Its greatest strength is flexibility. The cabinet is compact enough to work in rooms where the larger Gold models simply make no sense, yet it still has enough bass extension, power handling and dynamic ability to form the heart of a serious Hi-Fi system.
Put the Gold 50 6G on a good pair of stands, partner it with a capable amplifier and spend a little time getting the positioning right and it offers an impressively grown-up route into Monitor Audio's Gold Series.
Monitor Audio Gold 50 6G
The Gold 50 6G is the smallest and most compact bookshelf speaker in Monitor Audio's sixth-generation Gold Series.
Its two-way design combines a 6-inch HDT C-CAM bass-mid driver with Monitor Audio's latest MPD III high-frequency transducer, housed within a rigid ported cabinet using HiVe II bass-reflex technology.
- Compact two-way bookshelf design
- MPD III high-frequency transducer
- 6-inch HDT C-CAM bass-mid driver
- Hexagonal Diaphragm Technology
- Gold Series 6G crossover design
- HiVe II bass-reflex system
- 44Hz in-room bass extension
- 150W continuous power handling
- ST-2 Universal Stand compatible
- Magnetic grilles included
- Three premium finishes
- Supplied as a pair
The Most Compact Gold Series 6G Speaker
The Gold 50 6G has been designed for listeners who want the performance and engineering of Monitor Audio's premium Gold Series in a more compact cabinet.
At just 320mm high and 185mm wide, it is considerably easier to accommodate than the larger Gold 100 and floorstanding models, making it particularly attractive for small and medium-sized listening rooms.
Its proportions also give you greater freedom to experiment with positioning, especially when the speakers are partnered with suitable stands.
6-Inch HDT C-CAM Bass-Mid Driver
A single 6-inch driver handles both bass and midrange duties.
The cone combines Monitor Audio's established C-CAM construction with the latest HDT, or Hexagonal Diaphragm Technology.
The hexagonal pattern across the cone surface has been developed to disrupt symmetrical break-up behaviour, helping the diaphragm remain better controlled across its operating range.
Hexagonal Diaphragm Technology
HDT is a new metal-cone technology introduced for Gold Series 6G and draws on lessons learned from Monitor Audio's flagship loudspeaker development.
The patterned surface is designed to alter the way resonances propagate through the cone and allow the diaphragm to behave more consistently as frequency increases.
This combines with the inherent rigidity and low mass of Monitor Audio's C-CAM material to create a driver intended to deliver both controlled bass and clear midrange reproduction.
Optimised Motor and Suspension
Gold Series 6G bass and bass-mid drivers also benefit from revised motor and suspension systems.
Monitor Audio uses FEA-optimised surround and spider designs together with increased voice-coil length to improve linearity as the driver moves through greater excursion.
The driver is supported by a lightweight cast-aluminium chassis designed to provide a rigid mechanical foundation while allowing good airflow around the motor assembly.
44Hz In-Room Bass Extension
Monitor Audio specifies an in-room -6dB frequency response extending down to 44Hz.
That gives the Gold 50 useful low-frequency extension for a relatively compact loudspeaker and means a subwoofer is not automatically required for conventional stereo listening.
A subwoofer can still be worthwhile where deeper bass is required, particularly in larger rooms or when the Gold 50 forms part of a home cinema system.
MPD III High-Frequency Transducer
High frequencies are handled by Monitor Audio's latest MPD III transducer.
MPD stands for Micro Pleated Diaphragm. Rather than operating like a conventional dome tweeter, its finely pleated diaphragm rapidly expands and contracts to move air.
The third-generation MPD design has been developed to improve consistency, clarity and accuracy while integrating smoothly with the HDT C-CAM bass-mid driver.
Extends to 60kHz
Monitor Audio specifies an upper -6dB frequency limit of 60kHz.
This is well above the normal audible range, but demonstrates the broad operating bandwidth available from the MPD III transducer and keeps the audible treble comfortably within its working range.
Gold Series 6G Crossover
A newly developed crossover integrates the 6-inch HDT C-CAM bass-mid driver with the MPD III transducer.
The crossover frequency is set at 2.5kHz.
Monitor Audio uses carefully selected high-quality capacitors and extensive listening during Gold Series crossover development, treating the cabinet, drivers and crossover as one complete loudspeaker system.
HiVe II Bass-Reflex System
The Gold 50 6G uses a ported enclosure incorporating Monitor Audio's HiVe II bass-reflex technology.
The port is tuned to 50Hz and works with the 6-inch bass-mid driver to extend the low-frequency response of the compact cabinet.
HiVe II is designed to promote fast airflow through the port and reduce unwanted turbulence as the driver moves larger volumes of air.
Speaker Placement
Start with the Gold 50 6G positioned on solid stands with some space between the rear of the cabinet and the wall. Moving the speakers closer to room boundaries will generally increase bass reinforcement, while bringing them further into the room can tighten the low frequencies and improve stereo imaging. Small adjustments can make a surprisingly large difference.
85dB Sensitivity
The Gold 50 6G has a free-field sensitivity of 85dB at 2.83V/1m.
Nominal impedance is 4 ohms, with Monitor Audio specifying a minimum impedance of 4.0 ohms at 225Hz.
This is not an especially sensitive loudspeaker, so the quality and current capability of the amplifier matter if you want to hear what the Gold 50 6G can really do.
Amplifier Matching
Monitor Audio recommends amplification rated between 130 and 300 watts RMS into 4 ohms with a music signal.
The Gold 50 6G itself has a continuous power-handling specification of 150 watts.
That recommendation should not be interpreted as meaning the speaker needs an enormous amplifier to work. A well-designed amplifier with a strong power supply and good current delivery is far more important than simply chasing the largest wattage figure.
Choosing the Right Amplifier
The Gold 50 6G is revealing enough to make amplifier matching worthwhile. A good demonstration will tell you far more than comparing output figures on paper, particularly when deciding how the amplifier controls the bass and balances the clarity of the MPD III transducer.
114dB Maximum Peak SPL
Monitor Audio specifies a maximum peak sound pressure level of 114dB using the AES75 Z-weighted measurement method.
For a compact bookshelf speaker, that gives the Gold 50 useful dynamic headroom for everything from intimate acoustic recordings through to larger-scale rock and orchestral music.
Designed for Speaker Stands
Although Monitor Audio classifies the Gold 50 6G as a bookshelf speaker, a good pair of stands is the preferred option for a dedicated Hi-Fi installation.
The Gold 50 6G is compatible with Monitor Audio's ST-2 Universal Stand, which has been designed to complement both the Gold 50 and Gold 100.
Using proper stands provides a stable mechanical support and helps position the MPD III transducer at an appropriate height for seated listening.
Why Use Speaker Stands?
A rigid stand gives the Gold 50 6G a stable foundation and makes it much easier to optimise the spacing between the speakers, distance from the walls and toe-in. It also places the high-frequency transducer at a more suitable listening height than simply putting the speakers wherever there happens to be shelf space.
Rigid Gold Series Cabinet
The Gold Series 6G cabinet is designed to provide a rigid platform from which the drive units can operate.
Monitor Audio uses carefully calculated cabinet geometry and advanced internal bracing to reduce unwanted movement and resonance.
The drivers are also securely mounted using through-bolt technology, helping increase cabinet rigidity while keeping visible fixings on the front baffle to a minimum.
Premium Cabinet Detailing
Gold Series 6G combines its acoustic engineering with a high level of cabinet finishing and detailing.
Machined and die-cast aluminium elements surround the drive units, with subtle shadow gaps used to visually separate the aluminium trim from the main cabinet finish.
Magnetic grilles are included for customers who prefer a more understated appearance.
Three Finishes
The Gold 50 6G is available in three current finishes:
- Macassar
- High Gloss Black
- Satin White
The same finishes are available across the wider Gold Series 6G range, making it possible to maintain a consistent appearance when building a multi-channel system.
Compact Dimensions
With all standard accessories fitted, each Gold 50 6G measures:
- Height: 320mm
- Width: 185mm
- Depth: 303mm
- Weight: 8.5kg each
The compact proportions make the Gold 50 the easiest speaker in Gold Series 6G to accommodate and particularly suitable for smaller and medium-sized listening rooms.
Gold 50 or Gold 100?
Gold Series 6G includes two bookshelf models, but they are very different loudspeakers in both size and architecture.
Gold 50 6G
- Compact two-way design
- 6-inch HDT C-CAM bass-mid driver
- MPD III transducer
- 44Hz in-room bass extension
- 8.5kg each
- Ideal where space is more limited
Gold 100 6G
- Larger three-way design
- 8-inch HDT C-CAM bass driver
- Dedicated 3-inch midrange driver
- MPD III transducer
- 32Hz in-room bass extension
- Greater scale and low-frequency authority
The Gold 50 is the obvious choice where compact dimensions and placement flexibility are priorities. The larger Gold 100 offers substantially greater bass extension and the advantages of a dedicated three-way layout where room size and budget allow.
Part of a Gold Series Home Cinema System
The Gold 50 6G is equally at home in a two-channel system or as part of a complete Gold Series 6G home cinema installation.
Monitor Audio itself uses the Gold 50 as the front left and right speakers within its compact Gold 50 6G 5.1 system, partnered by the Gold C250 centre speaker, Gold On-Wall surrounds and an appropriate subwoofer.
This makes the Gold 50 a particularly flexible starting point for anyone who wants premium stereo performance today with the option of expanding into multi-channel sound later.
Supplied as a Pair
The Monitor Audio Gold 50 6G is supplied as a stereo pair.
One pair therefore provides the left and right loudspeakers required for a conventional two-channel Hi-Fi system.
Key Features
- Monitor Audio Gold 50 6G
- Premium bookshelf speaker
- Supplied as a pair
- Two-way configuration
- MPD III high-frequency transducer
- 6-inch HDT C-CAM bass-mid driver
- Hexagonal Diaphragm Technology
- FEA-optimised surround and spider
- Extended voice-coil design
- Cast-aluminium driver chassis
- Gold Series 6G crossover
- 2.5kHz crossover frequency
- 55Hz to 60kHz free-field response
- 44Hz to 60kHz in-room response
- 85dB sensitivity
- 4-ohm nominal impedance
- 4.0-ohm minimum impedance at 225Hz
- 114dB maximum peak SPL
- 150W continuous power handling
- 130 to 300W recommended amplifier into 4 ohms
- HiVe II bass-reflex system
- 50Hz port tuning frequency
- Through-bolt driver fixing
- ST-2 Universal Stand compatible
- Magnetic grilles included
- Macassar finish
- High Gloss Black finish
- Satin White finish
- 8.5kg each
- Five-year manufacturer warranty
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Monitor Audio Gold 50 6G speakers sold as a pair?
Yes. The Gold 50 6G is supplied as a stereo pair.
Is the Gold 50 6G a bookshelf or stand-mount speaker?
Monitor Audio officially classes the Gold 50 6G as a bookshelf speaker. For a dedicated Hi-Fi system, it is ideally suited to a good pair of speaker stands.
Is the Gold 50 6G a two-way speaker?
Yes. Each speaker uses one 6-inch HDT C-CAM bass-mid driver and one MPD III high-frequency transducer.
What is HDT?
HDT stands for Hexagonal Diaphragm Technology. Monitor Audio applies a hexagonal pattern to its C-CAM cone to help disrupt symmetrical break-up behaviour and improve diaphragm control.
What is MPD III?
MPD III is the third generation of Monitor Audio's Micro Pleated Diaphragm high-frequency transducer, designed for extended and highly controlled treble reproduction.
How low does the Gold 50 6G play?
Monitor Audio specifies an in-room -6dB response extending to 44Hz and a free-field response extending to 55Hz.
What is the sensitivity?
85dB at 2.83V/1m in free-field conditions.
What is the nominal impedance?
4 ohms.
What is the minimum impedance?
Monitor Audio specifies a minimum impedance of 4.0 ohms at 225Hz.
What amplifier power does Monitor Audio recommend?
Monitor Audio recommends 130 to 300 watts RMS into 4 ohms with a music signal.
What is the power handling?
The Gold 50 6G has a continuous power-handling specification of 150 watts.
What is the maximum peak SPL?
Monitor Audio specifies a maximum peak sound pressure level of 114dB using the AES75 Z-weighted measurement method.
Is the Gold 50 6G ported?
Yes. The Gold 50 6G uses Monitor Audio's HiVe II bass-reflex system with a 50Hz port tuning frequency.
What is the crossover frequency?
The 6-inch bass-mid driver crosses to the MPD III transducer at 2.5kHz.
Which speaker stands does Monitor Audio recommend?
The Gold 50 6G is compatible with Monitor Audio's ST-2 Universal Stand.
How large is each Gold 50 6G speaker?
With all standard accessories fitted, each speaker measures 320mm high, 185mm wide and 303mm deep.
How much does each speaker weigh?
8.5kg.
Which finishes are available?
Macassar, High Gloss Black and Satin White.
Are grilles included?
Yes. Magnetic grilles are included.
Can the Gold 50 6G be used for home cinema?
Yes. It can be partnered with the Gold C250 6G centre speaker, Gold On-Wall 6G surrounds and a suitable subwoofer to create a complete matching multi-channel system.
How long should the Gold 50 6G take to run in?
Monitor Audio recommends approximately 50 to 70 hours of normal music playback at low to moderate levels, with performance potentially continuing to settle after that period.
What warranty do the Gold 50 6G speakers have?
Monitor Audio specifies a five-year manufacturer warranty.
Related Monitor Audio Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy Monitor Audio From Audio T?
The Gold 50 6G may be compact, but it is a revealing loudspeaker that deserves careful amplifier matching and positioning. Audio T can demonstrate the Gold 50 6G with suitable electronics, compare it directly with larger alternatives and help you choose the stands and room position that allow it to perform properly.
- Monitor Audio demonstrations
- Amplifier matching
- Speaker stand advice
- Speaker positioning guidance
- Room-size advice
- System matching
- Source component matching
- Subwoofer integration where appropriate
- Gold Series 6G home cinema planning
- In-store demonstrations where appropriate
- Home demonstrations where appropriate
- Part-exchange options where applicable
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store to arrange a Monitor Audio Gold 50 6G demonstration or discuss suitable amplification and speaker stands.