We have tested the Adam S2V studio monitor!

We have tested the Adam S2V studio monitor!

Adam (Advanced Dynamic Audio Monitors) was founded in Berlin in 1999. The S2V is a classic, two-way, close-up monitor that is best recommended for small to medium-sized studios.

“S” series

The S-Series Bass ELE (Extended Linear Excursion) driver is an absolutely unique conception designed for the S-Series speakers and bass reflex system. This technology reproduces sounds at extremely high resolutions, largely due to light weight, optimised internal attenuation, and a precise connection of the rigid cone. The basket developed to minimise resonance and distortion also provides perfect and clear, transparent sound, even at high sound pressure levels.

The S-Series bass reflex tubes have been redesigned with optimal rounding to minimise signal loss due to friction and turbulence at the front panel connections, and even additional resonant-free technology has been incorporated into the ports.

An important feature of these subwoofers is the mechanical suspension, which works absolutely optimally and evenly in both directions, thus enabling the transmission of bass frequencies without distortion even at high sound pressure. The dynamics of the original sound are preserved by this suspension system that is able to dampen the movement of the membrane under control at high peaks. The robust suspension guarantees sound without distortion in the entire frequency range. The material of the speaker basket is converted into a heat sink in a special process, which further helps to properly cool the device.

X-ART / S-ART tweeter

The Adam brand’s unique X-ART tweeter is handmade in Berlin. This state-of-the-art tweeter is capable of reproducing higher ranges with distortion-free, natural-sounding dynamics. For the S series, this was further developed and given the designation S-ART.

Let’s see the S2V monitor!

The 7-inch bass drive is specifically designed for the S Series. It covers frequencies between 35 Hz and 50,000 Hz, is powerful, distortion-free and offers a wide dynamic range with a low endpoint. The S2V studio monitor is the smallest member of the series.

The subwoofer is “D” class, the tweeter is class A / B. There are on-board DSP, and an OLED display on the back panel. Having the controls on the back panel is quite inconvenient.

There is also an XLR analog, digital connector and USB input on the speaker. The large, solid, aluminium waveguide further enhances the sound. There is no combined XLR socket required for analog inputs. The hexagon bass drive delivers unrestricted dynamics and low distortion, while the HPS, High Frequency Propagation System and S-ART tweeter, deliver flawless stereo sound.

HPS waveguide

The HPS waveguide has been specially developed for the S-ART series, closed tweeter, it provides smooth sound, minimal reflection even at high power, and the high-performance DSP motor equalises the frequencies.

The DSP engine optimises the crossings in order to generate linear responses over the entire frequency range. Room tuning can also be done courtesy of the DSP. Monitoring the protection of the high-frequency drive and facilitating various expansion options over time are also available. Software updates can be easily performed via the USB port, and DSP functions can also be controlled from a computer.

EQ setting options

The 6-band parametric EQ offers factory and user-editable presets. In our experience, the Pure Presets default setting or the Uniform Natural Response settings have changed the most. After downloading the S Control application, you can also make settings using the APP. The subwoofer has a power of 300 watts and the tweeter a power of 50 watts.

The exterior has a modern, sleek, rounded edges, two front bass reflex ports on the front of the panel, but the main controls and the LCD display are on the back panel, not very comfortable, as they are rather difficult to access.

Sound

The S2V was tested in a medium-sized studio, the acoustic handling of the studio was very thorough, and the sound-absorbing and diffuser panels on the walls and ceiling made the sound perfect. In the case of sound recording or mixing studios, perfect acoustics are even more important, as sound recordings or a musical mixes can only be flawless if acoustic issues resulting from reflections are remedied in the room.

We started the monitor test with Linkin Park’s What I’ve Done. We experienced linear sound, detail, precise frequency response, and heard intense and extremely powerful basses. We did not experience any distortion at high volume either, which is also due to Adam’s unique technology and the stable, rugged design of the speaker housing. EQ room correction settings are simple and easy to make, either via the OLED menu or via USB. Then, while listening to Twenty One Pilots’ hit My Blood, we witnessed a balanced and accurate sound, the accuracy and detail were also spectacular, the deep tones were muscular and percussive.

For ideal performance and sound of the speakers, it is important to place them at sitting height, especially because of the high and mid ranges, which can seem intrusive due to improper placing of the monitor.

Verdict

The 11kg compact Adam monitor has impressive power, with a combined output of up to 120 decibels of SPL per pair. S2V speakers that can be used as close-up monitors are recommended for small to medium-sized studios. It is very important to make sure that the speakers are at a sitting height when looking for the right place for them. The monitors reproduced a very balanced, clear, dynamic, precise and detailed sound with intense and definite depths. EQ settings were useful and did not cause any difficulty. Both the controls and the OLED menu are located on the back of the monitor, and that can be quite burdensome to access and therefore inconvenient to insure continuous control.

Although we missed the combined XLR and TV sockets, we didn’t find too much to complain about in the sound of the device.

G.H.

Written by Róbert Polgár