ADAM Audio S3V 9-Inch 3-Way Powered Midfield Studio Monitor Speaker

The S3V is a three-way studio monitor optimized for vertical use and designed primarily for midfield applications, although it may also be used in more compact listening environments.

Bass frequencies from 32 Hz to 250 Hz are handled by ADAM Audio’s entirely new 9-inch Extended Linear Excursion (ELE) LF driver, which incorporates the company’s equally groundbreaking Symmetrical Magnet Assembly (SMA) and delivers a powerful, extremely accurate low end extending right down into the sub-bass region. Mid-range and HF information is reproduced with equally analytical precision thanks to the combination of ADAM Audio’s newly developed 4-inch DCH mid-range driver and the highly refined S-ART folded-ribbon HF driver. Together with the brand-new HPS waveguide, the latter offers high-frequency reproduction with an extremely broad sweet spot with fine, highly detailed imaging and a natural-sounding sense of depth.

The S Series’ custom-designed DSP optimizes the loudspeaker crossovers to create linear responses for the entire range, as well as providing user equalization and in-room tuning/voicing functions. The DSP also handles the limiter-based high-frequency driver protection, processes the signals from the AES3 digital inputs, and will in time facilitate various expansion options. Software updates can be carried out with ease via the associated USB port, which also allows users to connect computers and control the speakers’ DSP functions via a software front-end.

The S3V’s built-in amplification is generously specified, comprising Class D units for the bass and mid-range drivers (500 W and 300W RMS respectively) and a 50 W Class A/B amplifier for the S-ART tweeter.

Offering flawless reproduction of audio frequencies between 32 Hz and 50 kHz, the S3V is a standout offering for anyone demanding highly accurate imaging and localization from their reference monitors.

Features

• S-ART tweeter, handmade in Berlin and manufactured to the tightest tolerances in ADAM Audio’s history
• The air velocity ratio of 4:1 during the sound generation by folded S-ART membrane
• Newly designed HPS waveguide, milled from a solid block of aluminum
• New midrange driver with one-piece hybrid dome/cone (DCH) design
• Custom-built Extended Linear Excursion (ELE) bass driver
• Custom-designed Symmetrical Magnet Assembly (SMA)
• Vertical 3-way system with 1 x 9” woofer and 1 x 4" DCH midrange
• Spacious bass reflex ports on the front
• Highly efficient PWM ICE Power amplifier for the woofer and midrange driver coupled with an A/B amplifier for S-ART tweeter
• Linear frequency response of 32 Hz to 50 kHz (-20 dB)
• Maximum peak sound pressure per pair in 1 m ≥ 124 dB
• Custom DSP engine
• Analog XLR input
• Acoustically optimized and weightily constructed cabinets
• 2 years warranty with optional extension to 3 years with the registration of the product
  
  

Benefits

• Allows longer operation with fewer signs of fatigue
• Their breakup is prevented by the folded diaphragms, distortions are effectively reduced to a minimum
• Advanced dynamic range due to acoustically effective diaphragm surface that is 2.5 times bigger (compared to a classic tweeter according to the piston principle)
• Direct, fast response in the high-range even with complex transients
• Makes dispersion more consistent and imaging more stable over a wider area
• Reduction of early reflections on the surfaces of, e.g. mixing consoles, desks, etc.
• Offering the sonic advantages of both driver types, with minimal partial resonances
• Partly responsible for the excellent mid-range dispersion characteristics of the S Series, due to improved integration with the treble driver
• Accurate audio reproduction at an extremely high resolution thanks to the precision-designed relationship between its low weight, optimized inner damping and highly rigid HexaCone membrane, in conjunction with a basket which has been developed to eliminate unwanted resonance and distortion
• Allows the voice coil a maximum excursion three times greater than that offered by previous designs, with an extended, symmetrical magnetic field ensuring linear, low-distortion operation
• Power compression effects are prevented by an intelligent self-cooling system
• Very high resolution of the stereo image
• Bass reproduction with very low compression
• Allows positioning close to walls
• Low-distortion amplification at both low and high volume levels
• Unbiased reproduction in a wide frequency band
• Powerful, compression-free sound reproduction even at very high sound levels
• Perfect crossovers for optimal frequency response and maximum dynamic range
• EQ options and presets for in-room optimization
• Limiter-based amp protection, AES3 digital inputs and board connectors for future expansion options, together with a USB connector for software upgrades and computer-based control
• Optimized for balanced line signals
• Reduction of susceptibility to vibrations and unwanted edge-diffraction effect
• Full repair service if required for 5 years