Barefoot Sound MasterStack12 (Pair) – Active 4.5-Way Main Studio Monitors

The Barefoot Sound MasterStack12 pair is a modular main-monitoring system built around two active 4.5-way towers. Each tower combines ten drivers, dedicated Hypex amplification and integrated deep-bass reproduction.

Across the stereo pair, eight 12-inch subwoofers work alongside six woofers, four midrange drivers and two ring-radiator tweeters. Barefoot specifies low-frequency extension to 18 Hz, while MEME monitor emulation offers alternative reference voicings through the same system.

The MasterStack12 is designed for studios planning a substantial, full-range monitoring installation rather than a compact desktop setup.

What makes it a 4.5-way system?

Each tower contains four main driver sections: subwoofers, woofers, midrange drivers and a tweeter. The additional half-way describes how the three woofers share their operating range.

All three woofers work together in the lower part of the woofer band. Only two continue upwards to the midrange crossover. This arrangement combines the output capability of three drivers at lower frequencies with a different radiation pattern higher in the band.

The result is a more specialised architecture than a conventional four-way system in which every driver within a section covers the same complete frequency range.

Four 12-inch subwoofers per tower

Each MasterStack12 tower incorporates four 12-inch aluminium-cone subwoofers using Barefoot’s Dual-Force arrangement.

Opposing drivers combine their acoustic output while reducing the mechanical reaction transferred to the enclosure. The subwoofer frames also contribute to lateral cabinet bracing.

This approach addresses cabinet vibration. It does not cancel room resonances, isolate the building from bass transmission or remove the need for acoustic treatment.

With eight subwoofer drivers across the stereo pair, the low-frequency section is integrated into the main-monitor system rather than provided by a single shared external subwoofer.

Full-range monitoring down to 18 Hz

Barefoot specifies a response of 18 Hz–50 kHz within ±3 dB and 26 Hz–40 kHz within ±1 dB. The low-frequency −3 dB point is 18 Hz.

This bandwidth provides access to deep synthesiser content, low-frequency effects and the lowest components of acoustic and electronic recordings.

The response at the listening position still depends on the room. A system with this much low-frequency capability requires appropriate placement, measurement and acoustic planning to turn extension into reliable monitoring information.

Dedicated Hypex amplification

Each tower uses dedicated Hypex amplification for its driver sections: 2,400 W for the subwoofers, 500 W for the woofers, 250 W for the midrange and 250 W for the tweeter.

Barefoot markets the system as approximately 3.5 kW of amplifier power per tower. No external speaker power amplifier is required.

Amplifier ratings are not the same as continuous acoustic output or mains power consumption. Electrical supply and circuit capacity must be planned using the manufacturer’s installation requirements.

Modular construction and separate distribution enclosure

The ten drivers in each tower are housed across two speaker cabinets. A third enclosure contains signal and power distribution and can optionally serve as the tower’s decoupling base.

The sealed acoustic sections use internal damping and machined aluminium baffles. The modular arrangement separates the system into manageable functional sections, but it remains a heavy installation requiring suitable handling and support.

Barefoot lists approximately 127 kg per tower without handles. Confirm the supplied configuration and installed dimensions before selecting supports or planning delivery access.

Analogue and AES3 system integration

The MasterStack12 supports analogue and AES3 operation, with source selection, AES3 left/right channel selection, a stepped input attenuator and subwoofer-level adjustment.

These controls support integration with a suitable studio monitoring chain. Plan a convenient, reliable master-volume arrangement upstream rather than treating individual setup controls as a complete monitoring controller.

Confirm the precise connection layout, required inter-cabinet cables and supplied accessories for the current system configuration.

MEME reference voicings

MEME stands for Multi-Emphasis Monitor Emulation. The system provides Flat, Hi-Fi, Old School and Cube voicings through a wired controller.

Flat is the main reference presentation. The other voices offer different tonal and dynamic perspectives for reassessing vocal balance, midrange emphasis and the audibility of important mix elements.

Barefoot’s emulation models more than frequency response, but it does not reproduce every physical characteristic of a separate loudspeaker. MEME is a translation-checking tool, not automatic room correction.

Plan the room around the monitoring system

Each tower is approximately 1.6 metres high, with a specified base footprint of 584 × 546 mm. Delivery access, structural support, safe handling and mains provision should be established before installation.

Allow for the actual supplied configuration, including handles where selected, and obtain installation guidance for the intended placement. Do not assume approval for flush mounting or enclosed installation without manufacturer confirmation.

A reference system for a dedicated control room

The MasterStack12 pair suits studios seeking integrated deep-bass reproduction, modular main-monitor construction and several listening perspectives within one system.

Its value lies in the complete installation: driver architecture, amplification, room integration and monitoring control working together.

This offer includes two Barefoot Sound MasterStack12 towers for stereo use. Contact Falkenstein ProAudio to confirm the finish, handle configuration, controller package, installation accessories and delivery arrangements.