Adam Audio S3V Adam Audio

Adam Audio ADAM S3V

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 & Benefits

• S-ART tweeter, handmade in Berlin and manufactured to the tightest tolerances in ADAM Audio’s history    
• 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)
• The air velocity ratio of 4:1 during the sound generation by folded S-ART membrane    
• Direct, fast response in the high-range even with complex transients
• Newly designed HPS waveguide, milled from a solid block of aluminum    
• 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.
• New midrange driver with one-piece hybrid dome/cone (DCH) design    
• 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
• Custom-built Extended Linear Excursion (ELE) bass 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
• Custom-designed Symmetrical Magnet Assembly (SMA)    
•  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
• Vertical 3-way system with 1 x 9” woofer and 1 x 4″ DCH midrange    
• Very high resolution of the stereo image
• Spacious bass reflex ports on the front    
• Bass reproduction with very low compression
• Allows positioning close to walls
• Highly efficient PWM ICE Power amplifier for the woofer and midrange driver coupled with an A/B amplifier for S-ART tweeter    
• Low-distortion amplification at both low and high volume levels
• Linear frequency response of 32 Hz to 50 kHz    
• Unbiased reproduction in a wide frequency band
• Maximum peak sound pressure per pair in 1 m ≥ 124 dB    
• Powerful, compression-free sound reproduction even at very high sound levels
• Custom DSP engine    
• 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
• Analog XLR input    
• Optimized for balanced line signals
• Acoustically optimized and weightily constructed cabinets    
• Reduction of susceptibility to vibrations and unwanted edge-diffraction effect
• 2 years warranty with optional extension to 3 years with the registration of the product    
• Full repair service if required for 5 years

 Technical Data

• Woofer
• Number    1
• Basket Ø    9“ (223 mm)
• Voice Coil Ø    2″ (50 mm)
• Cone Material    HexaCone
• Mid-range
• Number    1
• Type    Dome / Cone Hybrid
• Basket Ø    4″ (100 mm)
• Voice Coil Ø    2.4″ (60 mm)
• Cone Material    Carbon Composite
• Tweeter
• Number    1
• Type    S-ART
• Diaphragm Area    4 inch² (2420 mm²)
• Equiv. Diaphragm Ø    2″ (56 mm)
• Velocity Transform Ratio    4:1
• Diaphragm Weight    0.17 g
• Waveguide    HPS
• Built-in Amplifiers
• Number    3
• Woofer    1
• Type    PWM
• Amp. Power RMS    500 W
• Mid-range    1
• Type    PWM
• Amp. Power RMS    300 W
• Tweeter    1
• Type    A/B
• Amp. Power RMS    50 W
• Control Options
• Input Sensitivity    Adjustable
• Parametric EQs    6
• Room Compensation High-Shelf EQ    1
• Room Compensation Low-Shelf EQ    1
• Preset Memories    5
• Delay    0 ms to 5 ms
• Input Connectors
• Analog    XLR
• Input Impedance    48 kOhm
• Max. Input Level    +24 dBu
• Digital    AES3
• General Data
• Panel    Rear
• Frequency Response    32 Hz – 50 kHz
• THD > 100 Hz    ≤0.4 %
• Max. SPL per pair at 1 m    ≥124 dB
• Crossover Frequencies    250 Hz / 3 kHz
• Max. Power Consumption    550 W
• Weight    55.0 lb (25.0 kg)
• Height x Width x Depth    21.1″ (536 mm) x 11.5″ (293 mm) x 15.0“ (380 mm)
• Warranty    5 years (2 years warranty plus 3 years optional with product registration)
• Delivery Contents    Power cord, Manual