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PreSonus Eris 3.5 (2nd Gen)

4.7/5.0By AudioProHome Team

The PreSonus Eris 3.5 (2nd Gen) is not just an update; it's a refinement of the world's best-selling multimedia studio monitors. Trusted by over a million users, these compact monitors have democratized "reference quality" sound, proving you don't need to spend a fortune to get honest audio for music production, video editing, gaming, and content creation.

Professional Audio Architecture

At the heart of the Eris 3.5 is a design philosophy rooted in professional recording studios:

  • 3.5-Inch Woven Composite Woofer: Unlike paper cones, this rigid material delivers a more constant dispersion pattern for a cleaner sound. The 2nd Gen features an improved voicing that delivers startlingly punchy bass down to 80Hz, defying its small footprint.
  • 1-Inch Silk-Dome Tweeter: Produces a smooth, refined high-end transient response. The wide sweet spot means you can move around your workspace and still hear an accurate stereo image—crucial for collaborative work or dynamic gaming setups.
  • 50 Watts of Class AB Power: While many competitors use cheaper Class D amps, PreSonus sticks with Class AB amplification for that classic, warm, and low-distortion studio sound.

Acoustic Tuning: Adapt to Your Room

Here is where the Eris 3.5 leaves "computer speakers" in the dust. Real rooms aren't acoustically perfect.

  • Acoustic Tuning Controls: High and Low frequency knobs on the rear panel allow you to boost or cut frequencies by 6dB.
  • Why this matters: If your monitors are against a wall (which boosts bass naturally), you can cut the lows to regain clarity. If your room is "dead" with too much carpet, boost the highs to bring back sparkle.

Connectivity and Workflow

Designed for the modern creator who juggles devices:

  • Inputs: Balanced 1/4-inch TRS (for professional interfaces), unbalanced RCA (for gaming consoles/DJ gear), and a front 1/8-inch AUX (for phones/tablets).
  • Front Panel Convenience: A large volume knob, power switch, and a headphone jack that auto-mutes the speakers make daily use a breeze.

Verified Sustainability

The 2nd Gen also introduces an energy-saving Standby Mode, which puts the monitors to sleep after 40 minutes of inactivity—a small but professional touch for the eco-conscious studio.

Verdict: The Smartest Start for Your Studio

Whether you are editing your first YouTube video, mixing a demo track, or just want to hear your favorite games as the sound designers intended, the PreSonus Eris 3.5 (2nd Gen) is the gold standard for entry-level monitoring. It doesn't hype the sound; it tells you the truth, making you a better creator.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main difference between Gen 1 and Gen 2?

The 2nd Gen features a re-voiced acoustic design for a richer low-end and a slightly wider "sweet spot" (stereo image), plus an updated, sleeker aesthetic.

Are these monitors Bluetooth capable?

This specific model is the wired studio reference version, preferred for zero-latency monitoring. PreSonus does offer a separate "Eris 3.5 BT" model if wireless connectivity is a priority.

Can I connect these directly to my PC sound card?

Yes, you can use the included 1/8-inch to RCA cable to connect directly to your computer's headphone jack or line out. No audio interface is strictly required to start.

Do I need a subwoofer with these?

For general mixing and listening, no. They are surprisingly punchy. However, if you are mixing EDM or hip-hop and need to feel the sub-bass below 80Hz, adding the Eris Sub 8 would be a great upgrade.

Are they good for mixing music?

Absolutely. Unlike Hi-Fi speakers that color the sound, the Eris 3.5 provides a flat, neutral response that helps your mixes translate accurately to other systems like cars and phones.
PreSonus Eris 3.5 (2nd Gen) Review 2026 - AudioProHome