
Review Summary
S2X Nearfield Monitor
The S2X is designed as nearfield monitor for use in small and medium-sized control rooms. The 7.5-inch Hexacone woofer is driven by a sophisticated magnetic system whose large linear cone excursion realized by the 2" voice coil makes for excellent dynamics of sonic events.
The impulse response of the S2X is accurate within the entire frequency range, the stereo image well balanced and the accurate placement of individual sound events is problem-free. Distracting noises can be precisely located; the generous sweet spot remains stable even when you leave the listening position so you can always keep track of your sound. Despite the compact case the bass sounds big and precise, the 250 Watt PWM amplifier interacts with the 50 Watt tweeter amp allow for a maximum sound pressure level of 120 dB per pair.
Sub15 Subwoofer
ADAM Audio subwoofers are designed with one primary goal in mind: Achieving absolute accuracy and an authentic natural sound in the process of music reproduction. This means combining exceptional bass power with precision and clarity in every subwoofer. These elements are the perfect partners to complement the highly acclaimed clarity and transparency of ADAM monitors in the lower and lowest frequencies. All subwoofers feature both balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) input/output connectors and comprehensive control options that allow for adapting to different room acoustics and requirements.
The Sub15 is an extremely powerful subwoofer capable of extending the frequency range of main and midfield monitors down to 20Hz. The sturdy 15" woofer is made of an exceptionally rigid aluminum membrane and is driven by two powerful magnets and a 100mm voice coil. With 1000 Watts (RMS) power capability, the PWM amplifier has an efficiency factor of nearly 90%. With these performance features, the Sub15 is easily capable of handling critical musical passages with intense and sudden bass peaks without showing signs of distortion or overheating. The downward firing bass port has been specially designed with ample dimensions and rounded edges to cancel any port noise.
In order to adjust the sound of the Sub15 to different room situations or individual taste, they have implemented several controls including one for volume (-60dB to +6dB) and one for the crossover frequency (50Hz - 150Hz). The satellite speakers can either be driven full range or high pass filtered at 85Hz. This allows the Sub15 to be easily integrated into a Dolby surround setup. Unfavorable phase relationships between the satellites and the subwoofer, particularly in the crossover frequency range, can be easily controlled with the supplied phase reverse switch.
The Sub15 is also very flexible when it comes to connectivity: There are balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA) input/output connectors to be found on the rear of the subwoofer. The Sub15 combines excellent transient response capability with an impressive low frequency performance to enable a genuinely musical reproduction experience. With a high and undistorted sound pressure output of 120dB maximum SPL at one meter, the Sub15 makes the perfect subwoofer for mid-sized and larger control rooms.
Panel / Controls
All subwoofers feature a level control (-60dB to +6dB), phase switch (180deg. ) and a variable upper frequency control (50-150Hz). For the satellite outputs, an 85Hz high pass filter can be switched in to block frequencies below 85Hz so satellite speakers can meet the Dolby recommendations for theater sound and also to relieve the satellites from the lower frequencies. In addition, you can either switch on/off the subwoofer manually or use the option of automatically powering up the subwoofer whenever it receives a signal (signal-on/ continuous).