Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Forensic-level detail is provided without ear fatigue, and imaging is precise
- Effortless transients and headroom
- Sound is well-balanced across the entire spectrum
- DSP allows for a lot of flexibility to fit any environment
- Extremely well-built with high-quality hardware
- DSP is controlled via a knob on the back panel unless opting for direct computer control via USB
Product Considerations
- The high cost can be a barrier to entry
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- ADAM S3H provides more detail, imaging, soundstage, and separation of elements within a mix, compared to ATC
Takeaway: The ADAM Audio S3H is a top-notch monitor that delivers incredible detail and accuracy, making it easier to create great mixes. It's a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about audio production because it helps one hear everything that's going on in their music.
All
S3H
reviews
Manufacturer details
- Panel: Rear
- Max. Power Consumption: 550 W
- Weight: 58.6 lb (26.6 kg)
- Height x Width x Depth: 11.0" (280 mm) x 23.0" (585 mm) x 15.0" (380 mm)
- Input Impedance: 48 kOhm
- Max. Input Level: +24 dBu
- Woofer Amp Power: 2 x 500 W RMS
- Midrange Amp Power: 300 W RMS
- Tweeter Amp Power: 50 W RMS
- Frequency Response: 30 Hz – 50 kHz (-20 dB)
- THD > 100 Hz: ≤0.4 %
- Max. SPL per pair at 1 m: ≥126 dB
- Crossover Frequencies: 250 Hz, 3 kHz
- Woofer: 2 x 7" with 1.5" (39 mm) Voice Coil
- Midrange: 4" Dome/Cone Hybrid with 2.4" (60 mm) Voice Coil
- Tweeter: S-ART with 4 inch² (2420 mm²) Diaphragm Area
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. A unique feature of the S3H's DSP options is a built-in factory EQ preset that emulates the response of ADAM Audio's legendary S3A monitor. 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 c...
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- ADAM Audio monitors are recognized for their proprietary folded-ribbon ART tweeter, which contributes to a smooth, clear high-frequency response and a wide sweet spot, a distinct characteristic setting them apart from other monitor brands.
- They offer above-average flexibility through DSP-supported room-dependent EQ adjustment with several EQ preset options, allowing users to tailor the sound to their specific room acoustics, and often incorporate a legacy mode that emulates the sound of previous X-Series monitors.
- ADAM Audio monitors, especially the S Series, have a design focused on minimizing resonance and coloration even at high listening levels, indicating a dedication to accurate sound reproduction over simply sounding "good."
- The brand is not just focused on high-end performance but also provides a compelling value proposition with their T Series, bringing their signature sound to a more budget-conscious market, making high-quality monitoring accessible to budding engineers and home studios.
Select products
T5V
- Positioning: Entry-level line, designed for affordability and compactness.
- Description: Offers excellent acoustic characteristics with its U-ART tweeter and HPS waveguide, providing a wide sweet spot for small control rooms. Unlike the A8H and S5H, it is optimized for budget-conscious users who need reliable performance in limited spaces, making it ideal for home studios or small professional setups.
T10S
- Positioning: Compact subwoofer designed to complement nearfield monitors.
- Description: Enhances low-frequency response with its down-firing 10" woofer and 130 W amplifier, making it a powerful addition to the T5V and T7V monitors. While it lacks the advanced DSP features of the A8H and S5H, its compact design and adjustable crossover make it suitable for users seeking to extend bass in smaller studio environments.
A8H
- Positioning: High-performance midfield monitor for detailed audio representation.
- Description: Stands out with its X-ART tweeter and rotatable HPS waveguide, offering precise sound for critical listening in mid-sized spaces. Unlike the T5V, it includes DSP-based tuning and Sonarworks integration.
S5H
- Positioning: Flagship main monitor for expansive studio environments.
- Description: Features dual 10" ELE bass drivers and a DCH midrange driver, delivering exceptional low-frequency control and midrange clarity. It surpasses the A8H with its extensive DSP capabilities and high SPL output.
Our take on the brand
Look inside the brand
Our interview with the brand
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
Air Motion Transformers
ADAM Audio has been refining Air Motion Transformer technology for more than 25 years, and we employ it in every tweeter we manufacture. This sustained focus has led to a series of innovations which trickle down to every series in our portfolio. We have an expert team in Berlin that hand-folds these tweeters, and they are subject to rigorous QA before they are fitted to the loudspeakers.
Industrial Design
ADAM Audio loudspeakers have a strong and unique design language that stems from Berlin and the design team here. Every choice centers around acoustic performance, but the beveled edges, bespoke waveguides, and rounded ports combine to form striking products. For decades, the loudspeakers have been the focal point of studios worldwide, and in recent years they have been catching eyes in home audio systems.
What's your approach to customer support?
Our Berlin-based customer support team handles hundreds of queries each month, ranging from pre-sales questions, troubleshooting and best practices, to repairs. They pride themselves on their response and success rate, and our customer feedback is overwhelmingly positive. ADAM Audio offers an industry-leading warranty of up to 5 years, and beyond that, our service team is always happy to repair products when possible. We have a wonderful dealer and distributor network who will always be happy to help if they can.
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
Max Cooper – Inanimate to Animate (highly recommended to listen in Dolby Atmos where possible!)
Gui Boratto – Mr. Decay (bass extension)
Pixies – Hey (dynamic range)
What other products pair best with yours?
The resolution and conversion offered by Focusrite interfaces is second to none!
Used
ADAM Audio
What if you spend more?
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers a powerful, smooth and detailed sound with flexible voicing options
- High frequency reproduction balances accuracy without being harsh
- Ability to resolve fine details
- Excellent build quality, back panel controls, and layout
- Room correction presets can be saved via the partnered Sonarworks Sound ID software
Product Considerations
- Non-stepped volume controls travel a little too easily
- On/off switch and input sensitivity controls are located on the cabinet rear panel
- Network router and ethernet cables required for computer control
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The A7V has a more premium sound and can be tweaked further thanks to the free A-Control software, but the ADAM Audio T7V is hard to beat due to its price-to-performance ratio
- For users coming from a set of KRK Systems Rokit 8 speakers, the A7V will be a massive improvement
Takeaway: The ADAM Audio A7V is a great-sounding monitor with multiple voicings, software integration and excellent build quality. These monitors offer a detailed audio performance, allowing users to make well informed mixing decisions.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
Questions? Ask the brand's dealers.
How to buy
Speakers
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