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An introduction to Focal Professional Solo6, based on information from the maker and distributors: what it does, how to use it and who it may suit. It is not scored.
The versatile Solo6 2-way monitor offers unrivalled definition, transparency, dynamics and soundstage precision.
— Focal Professional official site
What is Solo6?
Solo6 is a 2-way active studio monitor in Focal's ST6 line. It has a 6.5-inch W-cone woofer and a 1-inch beryllium inverted-dome tweeter. In the line with Trio6 and Twin6, it is the smallest configuration.
Focal emphasizes that the switchable Focus Mode lets one speaker act as two monitors. It changes from 2-way to a woofer-only 1-way mode (110 Hz to 10 kHz), so you can check how a mix sounds on small speakers without adding more positions or cabling on the desk.
It includes a variable high-pass crossover, a 160 Hz parametric control to reduce desk and console reflections, and an automatic standby mode that can be disengaged. These cover the main ways of fitting the bass to a room.
The ST6 cabinet is thick MDF with internal bracing to limit vibration and distortion. Focal says TMD suspension reduces distortion in the 1 to 3 kHz range by 50%. Mounting inserts for wall and ceiling use are also mentioned for immersive setups.
2-way plus Focus Mode
Normally it runs as a 2-way (40 Hz to 40 kHz), and Focus Mode switches it to a woofer-only 1-way (110 Hz to 10 kHz). It is useful for checking how a mix sounds on small speakers.
Beryllium tweeter
A pure beryllium inverted dome handles the highs. Focal describes the material as suited to a wide band and fine detail, making it a candidate when you need to examine the high frequencies.
6.5-inch W cone
A sandwich of two glass layers around a foam core, intended to balance lightness, rigidity and damping according to Focal. It handles the low mids, the range at the heart of most mixes.
TMD suspension
This technology places fine weights on the suspension to stabilize its movement. For the ST6 line Focal states that it cuts distortion in the 1 to 3 kHz range by 50%.
Room adjustments
It offers a high-pass filter (full range, 45, 60, 90 Hz), a 160 Hz bass/midrange control (±3 dB) and bass and treble levels. They can reduce the effects of desk reflections and placement.
Wall and ceiling inserts
Inserts for wall and ceiling mounting are provided for immersive installations such as Dolby Atmos and Sony 360 Reality Audio. It helps in setups using multiple speakers.
Specifications
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | 2-way active monitor |
| Drivers | 6.5-inch W cone / 1-inch beryllium inverted dome |
| Frequency response (±3 dB) | 2-way 40 Hz-40 kHz / 1-way 110 Hz-10 kHz |
| Max SPL (peak @ 1 m) | 110 dB |
| Amplifiers | Low/mid 80 W (class G) / high 50 W (class AB) |
| Input | XLR balanced (10 kOhm) |
| High-pass | Full range / 45 Hz / 60 Hz / 90 Hz |
| Dimensions (H x W x D) | 33.4 x 24.6 x 29.5 cm |
| Weight | 13 kg |
| Power | 100-120 V / 220-240 V |
What is included and system requirements
- Solo6 speaker (two are needed for a stereo pair)
- Input: XLR balanced
- Wall and ceiling mounting inserts (built into the cabinet)
- Documents: product sheet, user manual, quick start, beryllium instructions
How to use it
- Choose the position and set up the speaker; use the mounting inserts for wall or ceiling installation.
- Connect your audio interface outputs to the rear XLR inputs with balanced cables.
- Check the mains voltage matches your region and turn on the rear switch.
- Adjust the rear sensitivity to match your interface output level.
- If desk reflections bother you, use the 160 Hz control and the high-pass filter.
- Use the bass and treble level controls to set the balance in your room.
- Connect a footswitch and try switching Focus Mode to the 1-way mode.
- Disengage automatic standby with the switch if you do not want it.
Production in a smaller room
At 13 kg and relatively compact, it may suit songwriting and mixing in a room with limited desk space.
Checking mixes in two ways
Switching Focus Mode to the woofer-only sound may make it easier to check under conditions closer to small speakers.
Trying immersive layouts
With wall and ceiling inserts it may be worth considering when testing speaker layouts for Dolby Atmos and similar formats.
Video and streaming audio
It may serve as a nearfield monitor for checking the balance of voice and music at the desk.
Who it may suit
- People seeking a compact model in the ST6 line
- People who want a beryllium-tweeter monitor in a limited space
- People who want an easy way to check mixes on small speakers
- People considering later expansion to immersive setups
Good to know before you buy
- The only input is XLR balanced.
- The footswitch for Focus Mode is sold separately.
- Two units are needed for stereo.
- Beryllium is used, so reading Focal's handling instructions is a good idea.
How it differs from similar products
We do not pick a winner; the official figures are placed side by side.
Twin6
Solo6 has one 6.5-inch woofer, 110 dB max SPL and weighs 13 kg. Twin6 is a 2.5-way with two 6.5-inch woofers, 112 dB and 22 kg. Both list a 40 Hz to 40 kHz response.
Price
Please check the official page for the price.
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