Monitors, is the correct name. Have gone active (used by nearly all recording and mixing studios) for the last several (Dynaudio BM5 Mk3, JBL 708P, and Buchardt A500SE). Active have several advantages: low voltage sophisticated crossovers that can incorporate DAC and/or room EQ; mono-block power amps (one per driver) to improve synergy between amp and driver; improved dynamics; greater deep bass response; improved accuracy; no consumer hit or miss matching of power amps to speakers; no speaker cables needed.