Quested Systems
ActiveOverview
Quested Monitoring Systems Limited manufactures professional studio monitors and speakers for audio recording and mixing applications. The company targets professional studios, broadcast facilities, and live sound environments with products emphasizing accuracy and reliability. It maintains a niche presence in the high-end monitoring market, known for custom and nearfield speaker designs used in critical listening setups.
History
Founded in 1978 by Roger Martin Quested, the company was formally incorporated as Quested Monitoring Systems Limited on 8 May 1985 in the UK, initially under the name Mardirich Limited. It has operated continuously from its Devon base, focusing on special-purpose machinery for audio monitoring under SIC code 28990. Roger Quested remains a person with significant control, with Yan Xu as a director since recent years.
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Nearfield Monitors | Accurate nearfield studio monitoring | $1,500 - $5,000 |
| Main Monitors | High-output main field speakers | $4,000 - $15,000 |
| SKA Series | Compact high-SPL monitoring | $2,000 - $6,000 |
| Custom Install Systems | Bespoke studio and live solutions | $10,000+ |
| Subwoofers | Low-frequency extension units | $2,500 - $8,000 |
Manufacturing
Products are manufactured in the UK at the company's facility in Ottery St. Mary, Devon. Operations are handled in-house by the small team, supporting custom builds and special-purpose audio machinery production.
Notable Products
- V3512 - 12-inch 3-way active monitor for main field use in large studios.
- NS3 - Nearfield 3-way monitor with 6.5-inch woofer for precise stereo imaging.
- SKA108 - Compact 8-inch subwoofer for nearfield systems.
- Q212 - Dual 12-inch main monitor for high-SPL applications.
- BAM - Balanced Array Matrix custom systems for immersive audio.
Reputation
Quested is regarded by audio professionals for delivering transparent, high-fidelity monitors with strong low-end response and build quality suited to pro environments. Enthusiasts praise the custom options and longevity of units, though higher pricing and limited model range draw some criticism compared to mass-market brands. The brand holds a solid reputation in UK and European studios for reliability over flashy features.