The Making of a Leader: S-Series

ADAM Audio‘s famous S-Series models are reference monitors in many of the most prestigious sound studios around the globe. In only a few years they have become some of the most sought after professional tools at recording facilities. The S-Series combines all of ADAM‘s innovative speaker technologies with the best materials available today.

The New Models: SX-Series

The new SX-Series is based on the S-Series. However, it is not a simple revision of existing models but a fundamental transformation. No details have been overlooked and every sound-crucial aspect has been evaluated. All transducers, drivers and electronics have been redesigned. The result is much more than an improvement, it is a quantum leap in professional monitoring.

All models of the SX-Series are equipped with the new X-ART tweeter. Its fundamental principle is the very same as ART , one of ADAM's core technologies that has already been written in the annals of audio technology. The X-ART tweeter has a 4dB higher efficiency, a 3dB higher maximum sound pressure level, and an increase in frequency response up to 50 kHz.

The new HexaCone woofers are designed with larger and longer voice coils that deliver a more linear excursion for higher SPL max. values. A stronger magnetic structure is added as well for greater efficiency and accuracy.

All SX-models, starting with the S2X all the way up to the S5X, can be retrofitted with an optional 24 bit/192 kHz D/A Converter featuring an AES/EBU (XLR) and a SPDIF (RCA) input as well as a R/L/Mono switch. Furthermore, these models feature an innovative front panel with sophisticated controls. These controls allow the user to adapt the speakers to the soundroom with high precision.

All models can optionally be magnetically shielded.

”You could be forgiven for thinking that there isn't too much left to achieve with monitoring technology. The ADAM SX generation disproves this by bringing a new benchmark to the market.”
( Audio Media , 12/2009)

S3X-H

S3X-H - Yes, even better

The S3A is one of ADAM's most famous models and is found in many of the most prestigious recording studios all over the world. The successor of this world famous model is the S3X-H, a monitor second to none within its size and price point.

Unlike the S3A, the new X-model incorporates a 4” HexaCone-midrange as part of the redesigned construction to further improve the musically most important midrange. This new design provides more detail with improved radiation characteristics while presenting a musically coherent sound.

To produce deep, tight bass both woofers now work within the same frequency range and radiate symmetrically. This allows for a problem free installation in any multi-channel application.

Reviews: “...the monitor reference...”

Due to the outstanding reputation of its predecessor, it was to be expected that the S3X-H would be reviewed with the most critical of all ears. Here are some samples (complete reviews can be found here ):

“The S3X-H convinces all along the line. ADAMs new member is all but just an improvement of a successful monitor. With a new loudspeaker design and painstaking tuning it is a first-class control tool in any studio. From now on, the monitor reference in the Professional audio-studio is called S3X-H.” ( Professional audio , 09/2009)

“[...] anyone seeking an uncompromised solution to studio monitoring should add these to your short list of products to consider.” ( MIX , 12/2009)

“The S3A is an amazing unit with some excellent technologies, and ADAM hasn't just built on this to give us the S3X, but has built something new and exciting with what it knows so well. The sound has been opened up in a whole new way that I believe consistently delivers more reliable results outside of your studio. These are reference monitors, and as they make their way into studios they will become part of the standard called ‘music production'. The S3X radiates sound into the room with depth, accuracy, and clarity in the way you need it to be with comfort and ease. These are monitors that need to be heard.” ( Audio Media , 09/2009)

AWARD

Technical Data

* S3X-H User Manual (PDF)

* Audio Media - September, 2009 (PDF)

* Professional Audio - October, 2009 (PDF)

* MIX - December, 2009 (PDF)

* Audiofanzine.com - May, 2010 (Online)