Auratone

Auratone is not just a speaker manufacturer; it is an icon that has served as the final arbiter of mixes for over 50 years. Founded in 1958 by Jack Wilson, the brand became famous for the 5C Super Sound Cube, which quickly earned the nickname "Grotbox" for its brutally honest sound. These small cubes sat on meter bridges during the mixing of Michael Jackson's "Thriller" by Quincy Jones and Bruce Swedien, becoming an integral part of some of the biggest hits in music history. Today's Auratone represents a triumphant return to its roots under the leadership of the founder's grandson, Alex Jacobsen, who meticulously recreated the original drivers in Nashville. But the brand isn't stuck in the past: in collaboration with the Polish company Bettermaker, they created dedicated amplifiers (A2-30) and active versions of the monitors, preserving the classic midrange character in a modern, convenient format. Why are they still essential? Because in an era of hi-fi systems and headphones, Auratone simulates the "real world"—car radios, laptops, and Bluetooth speakers. By focusing on the critical midrange (where vocals and snares live) and eliminating phase issues (thanks to their single-driver design), these monitors force you to create a mix that translates perfectly everywhere, not just in a treated studio.