Have a read of this:
http://www.soundonsound.com/pdfs/ns10m.pdf
It will tell you lots about the NS10s and why they are popular as a reference monitor.
I also like looking at the waterfall plots showing the decay time, which seems to be something people rarely consider.
Here's the summary:
6. SUMMARY
From the investigations presented, and from experiences in the use of the NS10M, it would appear that
the following statements can be made.
• The free-field frequency response of the NS10M gives rise to a response in typical use which
has been recognised by many recording personnel as being what they need for pop / rock
music mixing. The principal characteristics are the raised mid-range, the gentle top-end rolloff,
and the very fast low-frequency decay; the latter is aided by the 12dB / octave roll-off of
the sealed-box cabinet.
• The time response exhibits a better than average step function response, which implies good
reproduction of transients. Many people speak of the "rock and roll punch" of the NS10M.
• The distortion characteristics are also better than average for a loudspeaker of such size.
• The output SPL is adequate for close-field studio monitoring with adequate reliability.
• In many of these characteristics, the NS10M mimics the response of many good larger
monitor systems in well-controlled rooms. They are hence recognisable to many recording
personnel in terms of their overall response.
• They are tools to achieve a well-balanced mix. It is notable how many of the people who use
them in studios do not use them for home listening.
