I heard Steve talk about "hearing the space" or studio for years but never heard it irl until I put First Watt and vintage JBL together. It can literally sound like you are no longer in the listening room but that you're physically in the room it was recorded. It's basically a teleporter
I use these as near-field monitors, as they were designed. They pump, but have a very audible hiss coming from the tweeter and woofer at idle. Z reviews called these 'Frat Party' speakers. Surprisingly, these work as music studio monitors, AND thumping party speakers. I really enjoy them.
Thanks Steve for not only reviewing audio gear but also introducing us to new artists like Indra Rios Moore, I didn't know about her until today, I checked few of her songs on RUclips, she has a beautiful voice, I'm going to buy her cd for sure, thanks again.
Never heard of Anna von Hausswolff before. So just had a search on RUclips and she makes absolute wonderful music & voice. Most valuable tip that outweighs any speaker
I have loved active speakers for the past 8 years after buying the M-Audio BX5s as they had clarity I had never heard. I added the Klipsch R41PMs ($175 open box) which are even better and they have an internal DAC and control a sub crossover and volume. I can also send analog from my Sanskrit 2 and Asgard 3.
You cant beat the insane value of pro market active speakers. They compete on specs and performance pr. dollar, because there is much less snake-oil and targets engineers. The problem is that they also compromising the look and aesthetic for better performance, which can be a deal-breaker for casual listener. But the value is through the roof, pretty much always the conclusion on every review i have seen.
I have a pair of t5v's that I've mounted on the wall over my computer setup, I am continually surprised by how good the low end response is even with the 5 inch cone. And so, so crisp in the high end
@@n_dawson it’s honestly lacking but mainly the really low end stuff. It’s fine for listening to music but when making music you pop some headphones on and realise what your missing. They do make a sub which would fix that but I have a neighbours kids bedroom on the other side so I just work between the monitors and headphones.
@@n_dawson basically the same here I couldn’t really fit larger monitors in the space I had and the A3X is front ported so you can get them up against walls and although they do have bass it’s not so low as to rattle through the walls too much. With guitars you’ll love them the only time the bass really causes an issue is when I’m using really low notes with synth sequences making bleep bloop music or mixing say drums and without headphones I could have too much thump ha ha. My guitar sounds great through them with Logic or Live though I would recommend them entirely 👍🏻
Love me a well-integrated AMT. A more well-heeled acquaintance of mine has Goldenear Triton Ones, which I love, and that inspired me to give Emotiva a try, and now I have their T1+, which I'm loving. If/when the powered speakers on my desk give up the ghost (I do like them, so I'm not in a hurry), I will almost certainly give Adam Audio a look.
The T8V has received excellent reviews from many pro audio reviewers, well choice dear Steve👍 these active monitors present a real challenge to traditional HiFi / “audiophile” systems in terms of performance price ratio
@Douglas Blake Many great points. You're right, pre-loudspeaker signal non-linearities are largely inconsequential compared to those of the loudspeaker. Next, the acoustic distortions the transfer function the room imparts may be even higher. Big fan of active, dsp contoured mains, I've got a house full. (btw; I can't think of any active loudspeakers that utilize passive crossover networks)
@Douglas Blake Very cool, Still, can't remember any that fit that category. Somewhat different, however I know of studio mains, ie., Westlake multiways, ATC, Genelec etc, that may fit that description... but not even certain of that.
Your description reminds me of my non-active Golden Ear Aon 3's….. It’s definitely a different sound….from dome tweeters. Once again, thanks for all the music for me to listen to this afternoon! YAY! 👍🏼
Joe, do you recommend them for audiophile listening? I want to get the T5Vs + subwoofer for guitar playing through my computer and at the same time have it plugged in on a turntable to listen to my vinyl records. Now guitar performance wise I know what the ADAMS can do, they were built to record and produce pro instruments. I am hesitant to pull the trigger cause I don’t know how they will sound as hifi speakers, listening to records. Any thoughts?
@@gpapa31 That's exactly what I'm using them for. Lost of rock and metal, some orchestral stuff, as well as PC gaming. I actually just got a T10S today to go with them. Seems plenty powerful enough for my purposes so far.
So I went to a pro audio retailer today and listened to the Yamaha HS8 and Adam T8V. The Adams had a bit more lively highs due to the AMTs but the yammys had a warmer smoother mid range. Adam had it on bass quality and impact but the yammys had better speed and cleaner bass. I’m split as the T8V is $299 per speaker and HS8 was $350. I could buy both and pay a restocking fee of 15% to keep the ones I liked but not sure.
Been there, and I went with T7V instead (that's 7, not 8). No regrets whatsoever. Yamaha's do reveal an extra layer of information in the mids, but overall they can be fatiguing on a long-term listen whereas TxV keep you mixing (or listening to pre-recorded stuff) for hours on end. ;)
New to pro audio and as a mix engineer I was recently able to acquire a set of ADAM A7X Monitors which are thoroughly impressive. They're slightly more expensive than the T8V but well worth it for anyone considering them.
Would you recommend them for audiophile listening (either the T or A series)? I am musician/guitarist living in a small studio apartment (25 square meters) looking for a small pair of monitors that can serve both my guitar jams and my audiophile purposes (listening to vinyl records). What are your thoughts?
@@gpapa31 Certainly. I bought them specifically for engineering and the clarity is impressive for either listening or working. Most places that sell them also have return policies for 30 days or so if they don't fit your use case. I'd definitely recommend trying them.
Steve, you weren't kidding about Indra Rios-Moore's vocal cover of PF's 'Money' ... Phenomenally Good Stuff. Indra via Qobuz + Meridian Explorer 2 DAQ + Arthur Loesch 6DJ8 preamp + Wavelength Mercury 20SL monoblocks + L Cao TQWT speakers = WoW. Thank you so much :)
Every time I watch Your videos I feel like I’m standing on the corner of 52nd and Broadway all the honking and sirens. Talk about hearing the space lol. Great video as always thanks Steve.
Heartily approve of your concept of tacking on an Audiophiliac-fan’s system to your review. As for Adam Audio products, I’ve been a happy user of their since-discontinued Artist-3 as a huge leap up from ‘computer speakers.” I no longer use the built-in DAC in the Artist, as it was limited to 44.1k and I now have a better DAC for the desktop iMac. In near field listening with desktop space at a premium, active speakers are the way to go and pro speakers beat any brand of “computer speaker” to a pulp (IMHO, not having heard them all, natch).
I purchased the Adam T7V speakers a few years ago and even with the treble set to its lowest setting, I found the tweeter to be extremely fatiguing within just a few minutes. It wasn't just "not smooth" - it was downright harsh. At that price point, I think their meant to be "shelf poppers" so when a prospective consumer-level buyer hears them on the shelf at a retailer they stand out more than the competition. The same way TV manufacturers will pump their colors and brightness to try and look more impressive than the next one. I was bummed that I couldn't dial the sound in, but I purposefully purchased them from an online retailer that had a great return policy as I was getting them without ever having heard them. YMMV
@@hotdog9262 I had the tweeters dialed back as much as possible and it was still a fatiguing. If my speakers require EQ for anything other than room optimization then that's a no-go for me. Ymmv
@@kilroy914 thank you. reason I ask is im considering t8v but ive never heard the hf driver in person. it just impressed me somewhat on youtube vs tests
Nice VFM OB Lii Audio system. Leon also did the crossovers for Pure Audio. Steve, you should consider reviewing Lii Audio and some Line Magnetic SET amps like their 211 or 845 valve based amps.
Steve, great review as always. I would like to put forth a "Cali" audio product as a suggestion for review. Similar to above, active, great VFM, made in the USA, etc.
It's "Kali Audio". I've been interested in them ever since "Audioholics" reviewed the LP-8, which are $200 each. And James Larson said no speaker he's ever measured could match it's performance even at twice the price.
Perhaps balance is better than bass extension; Especially if a subwoofer can be added to the system. I never listen to speakers without an accompanying subwoofer, though.
I enjoy the new format with users system at the end. It’s a nice way to get through the overwhelming amount you get lot knows your about to to get more photos from me this time from the nursery hi-Fi all about instilling the passion into the next generation 😄
i think you sould try to block the port sometimes helps a lot in small rooms... i think you have a lot of maket for any money, but studio monitors are amazing for the money
I have a great listening room, and would love to show it off. My system is based around a 2A3 SET amp. It's the room that makes it all shine. And the gear is not super expensive.
Serious Studio Monitors that have an audiophile following: ATC. They build their own drivers and amps in-house and that dome midrange is LEGEND. They do offer passive models.
ATC loudspeaker company was not founded by Ted Jordan at all. It was founded by Billy woodman, get your information correct, and giving incorrect information out. Billy woodman worked at goodmans. Goodmans was not interested in Billy woodman''s new design idea's for his new drive unit designs, including Billy's new own design for his new 3 inch midrange dome driver design, so in the end Billy woodman set up his own company ATC transducer company, and the rest is history. Ted Jordan had nothing to do with Billy woodman's new idea's for his own drive unit design creations back then, nor was Ted Jordan the founder of Billy woodman's new ATC transducer loudspeaker company that Billy woodman created and started up himself. I cannot understand how people give out their information as if it is truth and correct while it certainly is not true or correct. Also Ted Jordan passed away in 2016, but Billy woodman the founder of ATC transducer loudspeaker company is still alive and kicking, while taking more of a relaxed position in his company, in which Billy's son is in charge and head of his father's ATC transducer loudspeaker company.
@@ianjohnhorwood2605 - yeah there was so much fabricated heresay and flat out falsehoods in Kepler Mission’s post I wasn’t even going to begin with him. Just horrendous.
Maybe they advertise differently in the US, but in Europe (specifically the UK for me) these are specifically sold as near field studio monitors. I have the T5V's myself and auditioned the T8V's extensively. They are excellent near field monitors, but when you're more than a couple of yards away the details are nowhere near as sharp as right up close. If you have a small room I would absolutely recommend these for a listening system. This obviously contradicts Steve's advice but the sweet spot for a small room would be to get the T5v's or T7v's. The Adam T range are a lot better than most near fields I have tried at projecting, but I think you should have pointed out that they are specifically designed for studio monitoring. If you really want to rock out the T10S subwoofer helps a lot. Sitting at my desk, with monitors right in front of me the midrange sings. When I go across the room, like I said about details in general you lose some.
Hi Ralph, another UK, London based potential buyer here. I am looking for the ADAMS as potential solution in my small studio apartment (25 square meters). I will use them for music production connected to my laptop and through DAW software (guitar playing) and if possible have them connected to my turntable for hifi listening. How do they fair as hifi speakers? And will they sound good at a 2 meter distance? Thank you kindly George
@@gpapa31 In a room of that size I would reckon they would work great. I use mine through my external sound card from my DAW or as booth monitors from a Pioneer DJ setup. They don't even sound bad from a distance, they just don't sound as good as up close.
@@ruk2023-- the DJ pioneer setup is it CDjs or turntables? Is it possible to connect turntables directly to them? I am thinking of connecting an SL-1200. And have another input for my computer.
@@gpapa31 The speakers only have XLR / RCA line level input, so you would need a phono preamp I think (I don't use vinyl so I'm not sure). The Pioneer setup I have is a DDJ-800 and has phono level inputs.
Audiophile = Old School (read old man) = separates. Love minute differences between cartridges and paying tons for phono preamps that make almost no difference, drooling over the unobtainable. Putting everything in one affordable box is a threat to the lifestyle!
Steve, I know that I can look it up, but it would be nice if you would mention the basic specs such as frequency response, sensitivity, crossover point and maybe even type of crossover? Also, though it's probably second nature to you and maybe easy to take for granted, I'd like to hear your impressions regarding imaging and soundstage. Do the speakers disappear and create a convincing 3D space? With good crossover components and the right baffle, an AMT tweeter can be quite delicate and airy. Any thoughts about this? Thanks, and hope future reviews will include these types of observations as well.
Hey Steve why don’t you monetize your channel!? Also can you check out the Kali Audio IN-8’s? Love your opinion on these. They are causing quite a stir in Pro sound
Steve, as they have adjustable crossovers you may have tried the two decibel defeat on the bass and treble to see if the midrange would pop. Certainly worth a mention.
These are the sort of things I would have bought say, 20+ years ago to go into a computer based edit suite, so the volume would have been controlled by the suites audio mixer.
All in one speakers like the Adam reminds me of tuner-amp-cd-cassette & speakers combo of days gone by. For pro applications, I've read that equipment needs to be clinical. If it's missing the mid range part, how can the engineer hear Robert Smith singing The Walk?
I've been using these with Chord Hugo for a while. Excellent, yet it is only near-field capable and strictly in the middle-listening position. Went to the Dali speakers that can fill the whole room with SOUND. Not saying anything bad about Adam, just a great for near-field table usage
In general, the 8-inch drivers suck at reproducing higher mid-range. Thus, this region is a common problem among all of the 2-way monitors with big woofers, so we barely see such a solution on the "audiophile" market, it's usually professional monitors where it is used because of permanent demand from audio engineers for cheap monitors that are able to cover maximum frequency range. But a complementary pair of "mid-focused" monitors is usually necessary for additional control, or mistakes will be made. It is not a good or bad thing, it's just something that should be kept in mind. Adam's tweeters are fine and lots of engineers like them because they do not make you tired or "HF deaf" during mixing sessions. I, personally, don't like them as a professional tool. No matter how you push the highs with them, they always sound pleasant, which is excellent for listening, but far from perfect for mixing.
@@keplermission4947 Full range drivers are another cup of tea with their own compromises. And this particular driver costs the price of two monitors. "Cheap" is a keyword in pro audio.
@@keplermission4947 It's funny. On the first page from Russian Google, some guy complains about problems with this woofer in his 2-way system, calling high mids "muddy" and "low detailed", but he is very happy about it in his 3-way project. I haven't used it or LYD 8 myself, though.
@@keplermission4947 Obviously, I know it. You challenge the authority of the person and I agree with you, it's just a random guy on the Internet. I'm just saying that his impression is the same as mine. But I'm just a random guy too. You could look at it from a different angle. Dynaudio has two 8-inch models in this series, LYD 8 and LYD 48. There is no need for LYD 48 if LYD 8 is an excellent monitor From some point in my life, I just stopped caring whether people believe me or not. I'm just presenting information out of my experience of being a professional audio engineer. If you don't believe me, I'm fine with it.
Hmmm, actually not at all (for that's not the words spoken by Steve). In fact of all Adam Audio speakers the T8V may be Adam Audio's least "Studio Monitor" speaker... The cheaper T5V would be more Studio Monitor like... Hmmm yeah, I do believe that the T8V just may be the least "Studio Monitor" of the bunch. Anyone else disagree? For I'm sure some of you have way more experience with the Adam Audio sound than I do...
@@keplermission4947 Stop spreading inaccurate info for the speakers price, as you also did in another commnet here, plus adding that Steve is stating an inflated retail price in the US bc he "include[(s) a little extra for the video show services" (your words exactly)
Have you tried studio monitors at home before? I use them myself, but for monitoring. Even the best ones are limited for a hi-fi system because they are optimised for people to be less than a yard from them.
@@ruk2023-- -- Actually, the new Kali IN-8 "2nd Wave" monitors are golden out to 2.5 meters, which is fine for the vast majority of home listening spaces.
@@editorjuno All I'm saying is test before buying, because I have never found a studio monitor that is as good at hifi as monitoring. The Kali's would be considered mid-field monitors, the T series from ADAM are near-field. I'll check out the Kali's myself, because I need some mid-field monitors.
In Germany it’s about 400€ / 473$… So it Giant Killer… I thought of something like elac reference / b52 / b53 … with an s.m.s.l d9 … As a little system for my dad.. but seeing those it maybe the right choice
I recently bought a used pair of A7s from Adam Audio. The accuracy is great but what really stands out is the tweeters for me. The T series is not as good as the A series. It's more of a desktop speaker than a studio monitor.
wish you had included specs *of the reviewed speaker* instead of specs of some guy's system. i dont mind the latter if it doesnt cost me loss of the former. intriguing review....these speakers seem to have a volume sweet spot, and in general im curious for reviews of 3-way monitors.
Look up reviews on"Kali Audio IN-8". They're 3-way, tri-amped studio monitors. The 2nd gen(which were just released) has some minor improvements over the 1st gen. The mid and tweeter are coaxial. They measure very flat, with very low distortion.
I guess it not "centered" at 300Hz or 5kHz. It is a kind of starting point - the frequency-amplitute curve starts to go up or go down from that frequency -, I guess. Of course, the meaning of "starting point" should be defined somehow such is 1/10 or 1/2 in dB compared to max boost or cut.
Missing Pieces - I don't have a lot of money to spend on Equipment. So listening to reviews which cover the strength and weakness of under $1,000 buck Speakers (etc.) with a clear balanced subjective coverage is essential. The cost of Transporting low cost equipment is almost impossible to return as diminishing cost sending it back means losing 1/2 your original value of the purchase ultimately. In addition, missing pcs of the sound was how I came by deciding to build a solid home sounds system (albeit I have no home) and would remind me of WHY I loved to play music, create music, and jam. I guess what I'm saying here (subjective or not) is that reducing the number of 'missing pcs' in your sound is far more important than what a system offers in style and use of what are some equipment's high points. I can tell you that my focus playing music doesn't create a full sound, but I'm just a part of the sound, and my equipment is about the sound limits of making music via guitar or voice. I don't buy equipment based on all of the Sound, but of part of the sound and it means missing a LOT of the sound (not that that can't be good,) but certainly listening to a variety of music needing to hear all the sound was impossible until recently when I re-introduced myself to an Audiophiliac approach. I would have to say that if you can achieve a larger part of a balanced speaker (or other equipment) covering the entire sonic experience for recorded music, the better. I realize that this rubs against 'you hear this and I hear this notion' of what is good. I know that some hearing and taste and cultures (etc.) can alter how we define good sound. Listening though requires hearing all of the sound and having any equipment that covers multiple bases I think is a better purchase. Does that mean there aren't other concerns as important? Room Limits. Sound from the City and neighborhoods. Maybe you can't use equipment that is HIGH POWER and needs a bank of plugs to run your gear, but your living on 15 amps including the electric heater, stove, etc..., that's a problem I have. So a speaker like the Adams T8V might be perfect.... that's why STEVE is important. My personal experience on my Journey (2 years old) is to suggest when you are listening to music to avail yourself with as much of the full spectrum audibly as possible. What you are Missing is important and though taste is subjective, what is audibly left out is not irrelevant. - m.
Hi Steve! Speaking of active speakers, would it be possible to compare these Adam Audio pro speakers to the Klipsch The Sixes? Thank you, Eric from Tahiti.
Thank you@@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac, I finally found a review of the Sixes from you 4 years ago! www.cnet.com/news/at-last-a-wireless-speaker-with-a-rock-and-roll-heart/
@@AlexKamenski I listen with exactly this combination. The sub relieves the T5V speakers in the bass, so the mids sound excellent. I use the Adam Sub7, which comes with remote control and adjustable crossover frequencies. And the Adam tweeter is unbelievably good. You won't get anything better for the price!
Can I ask you I used to help out in a hi fgi studio in the 70s 80s in UK I have just brought a pair of Philips m f b fuly restored what are the best speakers have you have ever herd
Listen to the Dutch and Dutch active speakers. First time I ever heard any criticism of Gilmore’s vocals on Money as not being sharp enough. The mordant criticism of our money worshipping culture is more apparent in the original IMO.
Yes, it's the newer ribbon tweeter design / Air Motion Transformer. Ribbon: "a long, narrow strip of material..., used for tying something or for decoration". So in fact one could say that the AMT Tweeter is more of a Ribbon tweeter than Ribbon tweeters of yesterday. But of course for Marketing reasons a whole new catchphrase was in order :)
Incidentally, I was just considering buying a *single* Adam T5V monitor and putting it on my fridge in the kitchen for everyday listening. I was wondering if like studio monitors in general it would be too directional for that purpose. I have a pair of Yamaha HS8 studio monitors elsewhere for professional purposes and I hate how they sound off-axis. Would the T8V do a better job in this respect?
Anyone here using the ADAMs both for guitar playing and Audiophile purposes? I am a musician/guitarist/audiophile, living in a small studio apartment looking to get one system that will serve both my guitar playing through my computer and out to the ADAMS and having them connected to a turntable (Pro Ject Classic or SL-1210GR) to play my records. Will vinyl and high res music streaming sound good through it? I would love to hear your thoughts.
I have ordered one pair of Adam T8V from thomann and one of them is louder both gain knobs being at 0 db. Poor quality monitos, I will return them! 😂😂😂
I heard Steve talk about "hearing the space" or studio for years but never heard it irl until I put First Watt and vintage JBL together.
It can literally sound like you are no longer in the listening room but that you're physically in the room it was recorded. It's basically a teleporter
I use these as near-field monitors, as they were designed. They pump, but have a very audible hiss coming from the tweeter and woofer at idle. Z reviews called these 'Frat Party' speakers. Surprisingly, these work as music studio monitors, AND thumping party speakers. I really enjoy them.
Thanks Steve for not only reviewing audio gear but also introducing us to new artists like Indra Rios Moore, I didn't know about her until today, I checked few of her songs on RUclips, she has a beautiful voice, I'm going to buy her cd for sure, thanks again.
Never heard of Anna von Hausswolff before. So just had a search on RUclips and she makes absolute wonderful music & voice. Most valuable tip that outweighs any speaker
I have loved active speakers for the past 8 years after buying the M-Audio BX5s as they had clarity I had never heard. I added the Klipsch R41PMs ($175 open box) which are even better and they have an internal DAC and control a sub crossover and volume. I can also send analog from my Sanskrit 2 and Asgard 3.
You cant beat the insane value of pro market active speakers. They compete on specs and performance pr. dollar, because there is much less snake-oil and targets engineers. The problem is that they also compromising the look and aesthetic for better performance, which can be a deal-breaker for casual listener. But the value is through the roof, pretty much always the conclusion on every review i have seen.
I have a pair of t5v's that I've mounted on the wall over my computer setup, I am continually surprised by how good the low end response is even with the 5 inch cone. And so, so crisp in the high end
I like the way you emphasize the warranty even though it's an active speaker.
Pro audio Way to go Steve! I love my Adam A77X, clean, tight customizable and those wonderful highs from the heil tweeter!
Steve, loved the albums mentioned. Especially the Anna von Hausswolff album. Sounded great on my JBLs and 4 Dayton subs (yup, I'm that guy)! Lol!
Their founder and designer, Klaus Heinz, left and formed HEDD.
Yeah...seems to be a great company!
I have Adam A3X in my bedroom studio and they are fantastic speakers for both making and listening to music
@@n_dawson it’s honestly lacking but mainly the really low end stuff. It’s fine for listening to music but when making music you pop some headphones on and realise what your missing. They do make a sub which would fix that but I have a neighbours kids bedroom on the other side so I just work between the monitors and headphones.
@@n_dawson basically the same here I couldn’t really fit larger monitors in the space I had and the A3X is front ported so you can get them up against walls and although they do have bass it’s not so low as to rattle through the walls too much. With guitars you’ll love them the only time the bass really causes an issue is when I’m using really low notes with synth sequences making bleep bloop music or mixing say drums and without headphones I could have too much thump ha ha. My guitar sounds great through them with Logic or Live though I would recommend them entirely 👍🏻
You do a video telling us not to buy new speakers, and then the next day you do a speaker review. You crack me up Steve!
Life is full of contradictions!
Love me a well-integrated AMT. A more well-heeled acquaintance of mine has Goldenear Triton Ones, which I love, and that inspired me to give Emotiva a try, and now I have their T1+, which I'm loving. If/when the powered speakers on my desk give up the ghost (I do like them, so I'm not in a hurry), I will almost certainly give Adam Audio a look.
Not everyone can wear that shirt. You can and look great doing it!
The T8V has received excellent reviews from many pro audio reviewers, well choice dear Steve👍 these active monitors present a real challenge to traditional HiFi / “audiophile” systems in terms of performance price ratio
@Douglas Blake
Many great points.
You're right, pre-loudspeaker signal non-linearities are largely inconsequential compared to those of the loudspeaker.
Next, the acoustic distortions the transfer function the room imparts may be even higher.
Big fan of active, dsp contoured mains, I've got a house full.
(btw; I can't think of any active loudspeakers that utilize passive crossover networks)
@Douglas Blake
Very cool,
Still, can't remember any that fit that category.
Somewhat different, however I know of studio mains, ie., Westlake multiways, ATC, Genelec etc, that may fit that description... but not even certain of that.
Oooh an 8 inch bookshelf baby, my favorites.
Your description reminds me of my non-active Golden Ear Aon 3's….. It’s definitely a different sound….from dome tweeters.
Once again, thanks for all the music for me to listen to this afternoon! YAY! 👍🏼
Your Studio is looking better & better !
I recently picked up a pair of the smaller T5V's for use on my desktop out of my headphone amp's Pre out. Absolutely love them.
Joe, do you recommend them for audiophile listening? I want to get the T5Vs + subwoofer for guitar playing through my computer and at the same time have it plugged in on a turntable to listen to my vinyl records. Now guitar performance wise I know what the ADAMS can do, they were built to record and produce pro instruments. I am hesitant to pull the trigger cause I don’t know how they will sound as hifi speakers, listening to records. Any thoughts?
@@gpapa31 That's exactly what I'm using them for. Lost of rock and metal, some orchestral stuff, as well as PC gaming.
I actually just got a T10S today to go with them. Seems plenty powerful enough for my purposes so far.
So I went to a pro audio retailer today and listened to the Yamaha HS8 and Adam T8V. The Adams had a bit more lively highs due to the AMTs but the yammys had a warmer smoother mid range. Adam had it on bass quality and impact but the yammys had better speed and cleaner bass. I’m split as the T8V is $299 per speaker and HS8 was $350. I could buy both and pay a restocking fee of 15% to keep the ones I liked but not sure.
Been there, and I went with T7V instead (that's 7, not 8). No regrets whatsoever. Yamaha's do reveal an extra layer of information in the mids, but overall they can be fatiguing on a long-term listen whereas TxV keep you mixing (or listening to pre-recorded stuff) for hours on end. ;)
I've said it before and I will say it again. Fidelity is in the ear of the beholder!!!
New to pro audio and as a mix engineer I was recently able to acquire a set of ADAM A7X Monitors which are thoroughly impressive. They're slightly more expensive than the T8V but well worth it for anyone considering them.
Would you recommend them for audiophile listening (either the T or A series)?
I am musician/guitarist living in a small studio apartment (25 square meters) looking for a small pair of monitors that can serve both my guitar jams and my audiophile purposes (listening to vinyl records). What are your thoughts?
@@gpapa31 Certainly. I bought them specifically for engineering and the clarity is impressive for either listening or working. Most places that sell them also have return policies for 30 days or so if they don't fit your use case. I'd definitely recommend trying them.
Steve, you weren't kidding about Indra Rios-Moore's vocal cover of PF's 'Money' ... Phenomenally Good Stuff.
Indra via Qobuz + Meridian Explorer 2 DAQ + Arthur Loesch 6DJ8 preamp + Wavelength Mercury 20SL monoblocks + L Cao TQWT speakers = WoW.
Thank you so much :)
Every time I watch Your videos I feel like I’m standing on the corner of 52nd and Broadway all the honking and sirens. Talk about hearing the space lol. Great video as always thanks Steve.
Come for the gear reviews, stay for the music recommendations.
Thank you for a wonderfully thorough review! Cheers from Berlin 👍
Great review as always. Thank you!
I want this shirt !
Love that shirt, I really want one. Happy Sunday Steve!
Heartily approve of your concept of tacking on an Audiophiliac-fan’s system to your review. As for Adam Audio products, I’ve been a happy user of their since-discontinued Artist-3 as a huge leap up from ‘computer speakers.” I no longer use the built-in DAC in the Artist, as it was limited to 44.1k and I now have a better DAC for the desktop iMac. In near field listening with desktop space at a premium, active speakers are the way to go and pro speakers beat any brand of “computer speaker” to a pulp (IMHO, not having heard them all, natch).
It uses an active digital crossover and DSP to filter the driver response. This is a very interesting speaker.
Thanks Steve for sharing your ‘test’ tracks.
Viewers systems. Genius. 😸🎱🏴
Just checked out your channel, the music is going to take me a while to get through.
Stay safe ☺ 🏴
I like the viewer's system.
Love the Tube T-shirt, all you're missing is Doc Browns Mind Reading Helmet w/ all the tubes sticking out!
I like the system a day concept!
I purchased the Adam T7V speakers a few years ago and even with the treble set to its lowest setting, I found the tweeter to be extremely fatiguing within just a few minutes. It wasn't just "not smooth" - it was downright harsh. At that price point, I think their meant to be "shelf poppers" so when a prospective consumer-level buyer hears them on the shelf at a retailer they stand out more than the competition. The same way TV manufacturers will pump their colors and brightness to try and look more impressive than the next one. I was bummed that I couldn't dial the sound in, but I purposefully purchased them from an online retailer that had a great return policy as I was getting them without ever having heard them.
YMMV
I wanted to add that I think it's very likely that their higher end, pro gear is much more balanced sounding.
@@kilroy914 did you try balancing the sound a bit out. lowering the treble on the speaker, using software, positioning etc
@@hotdog9262 I had the tweeters dialed back as much as possible and it was still a fatiguing. If my speakers require EQ for anything other than room optimization then that's a no-go for me. Ymmv
@@kilroy914 thank you. reason I ask is im considering t8v but ive never heard the hf driver in person. it just impressed me somewhat on youtube vs tests
the 118db at 1m claim sound a bit too good to be true though
Nice VFM OB Lii Audio system. Leon also did the crossovers for Pure Audio. Steve, you should consider reviewing Lii Audio and some Line Magnetic SET amps like their 211 or 845 valve based amps.
Thanks very thoughtful review.
I sold my Adam S2a monitors and appreciate your thoughts on these.
Another consideration; many listeners want a smaller equipment footprint.
Are you Turntable Treasures just off 6th? If so, I love your shop.
@@buffal0bilious thank you.
Thanks Steve...quite interesting
Another show. another cd to my collection. ;>)
Finally, a bookshelf with 8" drivers! I just realized the ribbon tweeter which I love!
Check out the JBL 308P... giant killers... for pennies on the dollar.
Truly amazing capabilities for the money.
Check out the KSDigital c88 - compact, also 8‘ - 3way and Coaxial
Steve, great review as always. I would like to put forth a "Cali" audio product as a suggestion for review. Similar to above, active, great VFM, made in the USA, etc.
It's "Kali Audio". I've been interested in them ever since "Audioholics" reviewed the LP-8, which are $200 each. And James Larson said no speaker he's ever measured could match it's performance even at twice the price.
@@chrisclanton4430 yes. Those. And they have some newer models too which are dope.
@@yuckysamson yeah I'm thinking I'll be getting the "IN-8 Second Wave". They've made some improvements from the original.
Ive used and was thoroughly impressed by decwares preamp. Paired with the 2 watt amp was a crazy good combination!
Hi Steve, is it possible to include your record selections in each equipment review?
Think he already does,a bit of padding I suspect.
Thanks for the great listening tips!
Been using my old studio monitors for years, Event TR8 prob not as nice as these. But its my second system.
Pro audio way to go Steve ! Love my Adam A77x ! Clean, tight and wonderful highs!
Perhaps balance is better than bass extension; Especially if a subwoofer can be added to the system. I never listen to speakers without an accompanying subwoofer, though.
I enjoy the new format with users system at the end. It’s a nice way to get through the overwhelming amount you get lot knows your about to to get more photos from me this time from the nursery hi-Fi all about instilling the passion into the next generation 😄
i think you sould try to block the port sometimes helps a lot in small rooms... i think you have a lot of maket for any money, but studio monitors are amazing for the money
I'm listening to the Indra Rios-Moore version of "Money' now ... goddam this is good!
I have a great listening room, and would love to show it off. My system is based around a 2A3 SET amp. It's the room that makes it all shine. And the gear is not super expensive.
Active speakers can be truly great!
Thanks for sharing Indra Rios-Moore album! Just bough it.
Serious Studio Monitors that have an audiophile following: ATC. They build their own drivers and amps in-house and that dome midrange is LEGEND. They do offer passive models.
@@keplermission4947 - they certainly don’t need your “recommendation”. 😂🤣
ATC loudspeaker company was not founded by Ted Jordan at all. It was founded by Billy woodman, get your information correct, and giving incorrect information out. Billy woodman worked at goodmans. Goodmans was not interested in Billy woodman''s new design idea's for his new drive unit designs, including Billy's new own design for his new 3 inch midrange dome driver design, so in the end Billy woodman set up his own company ATC transducer company, and the rest is history. Ted Jordan had nothing to do with Billy woodman's new idea's for his own drive unit design creations back then, nor was Ted Jordan the founder of Billy woodman's new ATC transducer loudspeaker company that Billy woodman created and started up himself. I cannot understand how people give out their information as if it is truth and correct while it certainly is not true or correct. Also Ted Jordan passed away in 2016, but Billy woodman the founder of ATC transducer loudspeaker company is still alive and kicking, while taking more of a relaxed position in his company, in which Billy's son is in charge and head of his father's ATC transducer loudspeaker company.
@@ianjohnhorwood2605 - yeah there was so much fabricated heresay and flat out falsehoods in Kepler Mission’s post I wasn’t even going to begin with him. Just horrendous.
@@keplermission4947 - decent WiFi over at Bedford-Atlantic Armory?
The Walk by the Cure? Careful, audiophiles may flame you. 😂 Love the choice.
Maybe they advertise differently in the US, but in Europe (specifically the UK for me) these are specifically sold as near field studio monitors. I have the T5V's myself and auditioned the T8V's extensively. They are excellent near field monitors, but when you're more than a couple of yards away the details are nowhere near as sharp as right up close.
If you have a small room I would absolutely recommend these for a listening system. This obviously contradicts Steve's advice but the sweet spot for a small room would be to get the T5v's or T7v's.
The Adam T range are a lot better than most near fields I have tried at projecting, but I think you should have pointed out that they are specifically designed for studio monitoring. If you really want to rock out the T10S subwoofer helps a lot.
Sitting at my desk, with monitors right in front of me the midrange sings. When I go across the room, like I said about details in general you lose some.
Hi Ralph, another UK, London based potential buyer here.
I am looking for the ADAMS as potential solution in my small studio apartment (25 square meters). I will use them for music production connected to my laptop and through DAW software (guitar playing) and if possible have them connected to my turntable for hifi listening. How do they fair as hifi speakers? And will they sound good at a 2 meter distance?
Thank you kindly
George
@@gpapa31 In a room of that size I would reckon they would work great. I use mine through my external sound card from my DAW or as booth monitors from a Pioneer DJ setup.
They don't even sound bad from a distance, they just don't sound as good as up close.
@@ruk2023-- the DJ pioneer setup is it CDjs or turntables?
Is it possible to connect turntables directly to them? I am thinking of connecting an SL-1200. And have another input for my computer.
@@gpapa31 The speakers only have XLR / RCA line level input, so you would need a phono preamp I think (I don't use vinyl so I'm not sure).
The Pioneer setup I have is a DDJ-800 and has phono level inputs.
I don’t get all the audiophile hate for active monitors. Yamaha HS8, Adam a8x, focal shape 6, and event 20/20 bas v3 are all solid options for the $
Swan M3a and m5a are also great options
Audiophile = Old School (read old man) = separates. Love minute differences between cartridges and paying tons for phono preamps that make almost no difference, drooling over the unobtainable. Putting everything in one affordable box is a threat to the lifestyle!
I have actives in two of four systems and love them. (The other two are dac/preamp/amp separates which proves I'm an audiophile.)
Steve, I know that I can look it up, but it would be nice if you would mention the basic specs such as frequency response, sensitivity, crossover point and maybe even type of crossover?
Also, though it's probably second nature to you and maybe easy to take for granted, I'd like to hear your impressions regarding imaging and soundstage. Do the speakers disappear and create a convincing 3D space? With good crossover components and the right baffle, an AMT tweeter can be quite delicate and airy. Any thoughts about this? Thanks, and hope future reviews will include these types of observations as well.
Hey Steve why don’t you monetize your channel!? Also can you check out the Kali Audio IN-8’s? Love your opinion on these. They are causing quite a stir in Pro sound
+1
I want a review of the Walmart equipment rack!
Kali Audio IN-8 v2 is also real good.
Steve, as they have adjustable crossovers you may have tried the two decibel defeat on the bass and treble to see if the midrange would pop. Certainly worth a mention.
I did mention I used them in -2 dB positions, but sure I tried the other positions too. Very subtle differences.
@@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac sorry I must have missed it in your video. Great review Thanks
The question is the Adam T5V
These are the sort of things I would have bought say, 20+ years ago to go into a computer based edit suite, so the volume would have been controlled by the suites audio mixer.
All in one speakers like the Adam reminds me of tuner-amp-cd-cassette & speakers combo of days gone by. For pro applications, I've read that equipment needs to be clinical. If it's missing the mid range part, how can the engineer hear Robert Smith singing The Walk?
I've been using these with Chord Hugo for a while. Excellent, yet it is only near-field capable and strictly in the middle-listening position.
Went to the Dali speakers that can fill the whole room with SOUND.
Not saying anything bad about Adam, just a great for near-field table usage
That’s actually what they are made for since these are more oriented to home studios
In general, the 8-inch drivers suck at reproducing higher mid-range. Thus, this region is a common problem among all of the 2-way monitors with big woofers, so we barely see such a solution on the "audiophile" market, it's usually professional monitors where it is used because of permanent demand from audio engineers for cheap monitors that are able to cover maximum frequency range. But a complementary pair of "mid-focused" monitors is usually necessary for additional control, or mistakes will be made. It is not a good or bad thing, it's just something that should be kept in mind.
Adam's tweeters are fine and lots of engineers like them because they do not make you tired or "HF deaf" during mixing sessions. I, personally, don't like them as a professional tool. No matter how you push the highs with them, they always sound pleasant, which is excellent for listening, but far from perfect for mixing.
@@keplermission4947 Full range drivers are another cup of tea with their own compromises. And this particular driver costs the price of two monitors. "Cheap" is a keyword in pro audio.
@@keplermission4947 It's funny. On the first page from Russian Google, some guy complains about problems with this woofer in his 2-way system, calling high mids "muddy" and "low detailed", but he is very happy about it in his 3-way project. I haven't used it or LYD 8 myself, though.
@@keplermission4947 Obviously, I know it. You challenge the authority of the person and I agree with you, it's just a random guy on the Internet. I'm just saying that his impression is the same as mine. But I'm just a random guy too.
You could look at it from a different angle. Dynaudio has two 8-inch models in this series, LYD 8 and LYD 48. There is no need for LYD 48 if LYD 8 is an excellent monitor
From some point in my life, I just stopped caring whether people believe me or not. I'm just presenting information out of my experience of being a professional audio engineer. If you don't believe me, I'm fine with it.
Your review translates into a sentence.
It sounds like a a studio monitor
LOL
Hmmm, actually not at all (for that's not the words spoken by Steve). In fact of all Adam Audio speakers the T8V may be Adam Audio's least "Studio Monitor" speaker... The cheaper T5V would be more Studio Monitor like... Hmmm yeah, I do believe that the T8V just may be the least "Studio Monitor" of the bunch. Anyone else disagree? For I'm sure some of you have way more experience with the Adam Audio sound than I do...
@@keplermission4947 That price is not for a pair. Stop trolling.
@@keplermission4947 Stop spreading inaccurate info for the speakers price, as you also did in another commnet here, plus adding that Steve is stating an inflated retail price in the US bc he "include[(s) a little extra for the video show services" (your words exactly)
"Kepler Mission" isn't a troll. He's a reporter.
I think my next speakers will be either Kali Audio's IN-8 version 2 or Yamaha HS8
Have you tried studio monitors at home before? I use them myself, but for monitoring. Even the best ones are limited for a hi-fi system because they are optimised for people to be less than a yard from them.
@@ruk2023-- No I haven't. I'll give it a try though.
@@ruk2023-- -- Actually, the new Kali IN-8 "2nd Wave" monitors are golden out to 2.5 meters, which is fine for the vast majority of home listening spaces.
Go for those (three-way/tri-amped!) "2nd Wave" Kalis -- I'm using mine with a (very modest old 10") subwoofer and IMO they're downright glorious.
@@editorjuno All I'm saying is test before buying, because I have never found a studio monitor that is as good at hifi as monitoring. The Kali's would be considered mid-field monitors, the T series from ADAM are near-field. I'll check out the Kali's myself, because I need some mid-field monitors.
Can you do a review of the HIVI Swans D 1090? Not a lot of reviews available other than from Z Reviews. Thanks. :)
system of the day looks like an altar for the worship of music
Check out Adam Audio's top speaker. The S5H three way with two 10 inch woofers. *Only $7,999.99 each!*
In Germany it’s about 400€ / 473$… So it Giant Killer…
I thought of something like elac reference / b52 / b53 … with an s.m.s.l d9 … As a little system for my dad.. but seeing those it maybe the right choice
This compares more to Emotiva B1+ with similar tweeter and front baffle design.
I recently bought a used pair of A7s from Adam Audio. The accuracy is great but what really stands out is the tweeters for me. The T series is not as good as the A series. It's more of a desktop speaker than a studio monitor.
wish you had included specs *of the reviewed speaker* instead of specs of some guy's system.
i dont mind the latter if it doesnt cost me loss of the former.
intriguing review....these speakers seem to have a volume sweet spot, and in general im curious for reviews of 3-way monitors.
Look up reviews on"Kali Audio IN-8". They're 3-way, tri-amped studio monitors. The 2nd gen(which were just released) has some minor improvements over the 1st gen. The mid and tweeter are coaxial. They measure very flat, with very low distortion.
@@chrisclanton4430 thanks kindly!
Please review the new Adam A7V powered monitor with DSP.
I guess it not "centered" at 300Hz or 5kHz. It is a kind of starting point - the frequency-amplitute curve starts to go up or go down from that frequency -, I guess. Of course, the meaning of "starting point" should be defined somehow such is 1/10 or 1/2 in dB compared to max boost or cut.
Looks quite similar to Emotiva
I have smaller ones T5V and also ATM tweeter Elac's. similar sound but elac much much more better, also price.
Missing Pieces - I don't have a lot of money to spend on Equipment. So listening to reviews which cover the strength and weakness of under $1,000 buck Speakers (etc.) with a clear balanced subjective coverage is essential. The cost of Transporting low cost equipment is almost impossible to return as diminishing cost sending it back means losing 1/2 your original value of the purchase ultimately.
In addition, missing pcs of the sound was how I came by deciding to build a solid home sounds system (albeit I have no home) and would remind me of WHY I loved to play music, create music, and jam. I guess what I'm saying here (subjective or not) is that reducing the number of 'missing pcs' in your sound is far more important than what a system offers in style and use of what are some equipment's high points.
I can tell you that my focus playing music doesn't create a full sound, but I'm just a part of the sound, and my equipment is about the sound limits of making music via guitar or voice. I don't buy equipment based on all of the Sound, but of part of the sound and it means missing a LOT of the sound (not that that can't be good,) but certainly listening to a variety of music needing to hear all the sound was impossible until recently when I re-introduced myself to an Audiophiliac approach.
I would have to say that if you can achieve a larger part of a balanced speaker (or other equipment) covering the entire sonic experience for recorded music, the better. I realize that this rubs against 'you hear this and I hear this notion' of what is good. I know that some hearing and taste and cultures (etc.) can alter how we define good sound. Listening though requires hearing all of the sound and having any equipment that covers multiple bases I think is a better purchase.
Does that mean there aren't other concerns as important? Room Limits. Sound from the City and neighborhoods. Maybe you can't use equipment that is HIGH POWER and needs a bank of plugs to run your gear, but your living on 15 amps including the electric heater, stove, etc..., that's a problem I have.
So a speaker like the Adams T8V might be perfect.... that's why STEVE is important.
My personal experience on my Journey (2 years old) is to suggest when you are listening to music to avail yourself with as much of the full spectrum audibly as possible.
What you are Missing is important and though taste is subjective, what is audibly left out is not irrelevant.
- m.
My x-Sister said I have a problem that if I don't write things down then I don't really feel they are real.... I know I feel better anyway when I do?
Nice T shirt
Hi Steve! Speaking of active speakers, would it be possible to compare these Adam Audio pro speakers to the Klipsch The Sixes? Thank you, Eric from Tahiti.
Sorry no, The Adam review was a one off, no other active reviews are in the works. Not my area of interest.
@@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac allright, I was just asking thinking you like Klipsch sound. Thank you.
Thank you@@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac, I finally found a review of the Sixes from you 4 years ago!
www.cnet.com/news/at-last-a-wireless-speaker-with-a-rock-and-roll-heart/
I wonder if the t5v with a sub would be a better option for more warmth.
100% t5v has great midrange!
@@AlexKamenski I listen with exactly this combination. The sub relieves the T5V speakers in the bass, so the mids sound excellent. I use the Adam Sub7, which comes with remote control and adjustable crossover frequencies. And the Adam tweeter is unbelievably good. You won't get anything better for the price!
These are fine, but find some Emotiva Stealth 8 monitors. They are amazing.
Or JBL 308P
Steve Guttenberg Audiophiliac: "Active speakers have a lot of problems, watch this video before you buy one": ruclips.net/video/oU774SsDem4/видео.html
Can I ask you I used to help out in a hi fgi studio in the 70s 80s in UK I have just brought a pair of Philips m f b fuly restored what are the best speakers have you have ever herd
Listen to the Dutch and Dutch active speakers. First time I ever heard any criticism of Gilmore’s vocals on Money as not being sharp enough. The mordant criticism of our money worshipping culture is more apparent in the original IMO.
Looks more like AMT rather than a ribbon.
Yes, it's the newer ribbon tweeter design / Air Motion Transformer. Ribbon: "a long, narrow strip of material..., used for tying something or for decoration". So in fact one could say that the AMT Tweeter is more of a Ribbon tweeter than Ribbon tweeters of yesterday. But of course for Marketing reasons a whole new catchphrase was in order :)
Hi:
where do I order your T-shirt which you wear today? Thanks
Sorry, I’ve had this T-shirt for a very long time and it was a gift. I have no idea where it came from.
Incidentally, I was just considering buying a *single* Adam T5V monitor and putting it on my fridge in the kitchen for everyday listening. I was wondering if like studio monitors in general it would be too directional for that purpose. I have a pair of Yamaha HS8 studio monitors elsewhere for professional purposes and I hate how they sound off-axis. Would the T8V do a better job in this respect?
No, not going to work
What artist is that first one? “The Walk” by who? Unreadable album cover for sure!
The Cure. Generally not a fan of remix albums, but this is a classic!
Probably sounds basic but I wanna know what you think of the krk rokit 5s. Great vid btw.
I have experience with these. The T8V is quite a bit better in all categories.
@@tycheesey nice. Might scoop some
Is it my imagination or this looks like an Emotiva Stealth 8?
You are right but I believe the Adam Audio design came first.
Anyone here using the ADAMs both for guitar playing and Audiophile purposes? I am a musician/guitarist/audiophile, living in a small studio apartment looking to get one system that will serve both my guitar playing through my computer and out to the ADAMS and having them connected to a turntable (Pro Ject Classic or SL-1210GR) to play my records. Will vinyl and high res music streaming sound good through it?
I would love to hear your thoughts.
I have ordered one pair of Adam T8V from thomann and one of them is louder both gain knobs being at 0 db. Poor quality monitos, I will return them! 😂😂😂