After getting these set up and hearing them for the first time I almost cried. These sound beyond amazing. Perfect for in the studio or even just as home theater, pc, or living room speakers. You need an outlet per speaker and an audio interface in order to use these. Power cable is included but no xlr or 1/4" cable is included.

Wasssap mothalovas! I'm coming from the previous model HS80, as one of mine recently blew. It's been interesting comparing the two. I thought they'd be more similar from most of the reviews I've read, but I feel like they definitely have uniquely different sounds. The HS80 (previous model) seemed to be a bit more tamed, with less pronounced highs. I think the new HS8's may need some burn in time, but at first listen, they seem almost shrill to my ears. They definitely seem clean, but I feel like the HS80's had a more pleasing overall sound. The HS8's may be better for mixes, but time will tell. I always thought the 80's had a good combo of delivering an accurate mix, while also still sounding good to listen to. I'll have to see if the break in (and time) makes me favor these more, but right now, I'm sort of wishing I bought a used HS80 instead of the new set of HS8s. With all that being said, I still do feel like these monitors are the best bang for your buck that you can buy, and the differences may decrease after breaking the new speakers in, but these are my initial thoughts, and will update if things change. I would still recommend these as a great set of mixing speakers. They pack a lot of punch, and do sound crisper than the HS80's...I'm just not sure if that extra crispness is as pleasing to my ears personally. I'm listening to everything from "Betty Davis Eyes" to Droid Bishop to give these a good listen. Currently cautiously optimistic.