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
- Does not add its own tone and behaves analytically
- Offers an honest and vivid sound without too much individuality
- Delivers excellent music in a wide listening zone
- Delivers a neutral-precise, holographic sound image with great resolution, which develops every detail from the whole and makes it audible
Product Considerations
- Pricey
Takeaway: The ADAM Audio S5V studio monitor provides a vivid sound and behaves analytically without adding its own tone. It delivers a neutral and precise sound image with excellent resolution, making every detail audible.
All
S5V
reviews
Manufacturer details
- Panel: Rear
- Max. Power Consumption: 650 W
- Weight: 114.5 lb (52 kg)
- Height x Width x Depth: 27.5" (698 mm) x 15.4" (390 mm) x 20.5" (520 mm)
- Input Impedance: 48 kOhm
- Max. Input Level: +24 dBu
- Woofer Amp Power RMS: 700 W
- Midrange Amp Power RMS: 300 W
- Tweeter Amp Power RMS: 100 W
- Frequency Response: 25 Hz – 50 kHz (-20 dB)
- THD > 100 Hz: ≤0.3 %
- Max. SPL per pair at 1 m: ≥128 dB
- Crossover Frequencies: 250 Hz, 3 kHz
- Woofer Diameter: 12"
- Woofer Voice Coil Diameter: 3" (76 mm)
- Woofer Cone Material: HexaCone
- Midrange Diameter: 4"
- Midrange Voice Coil Diameter: 2.4" (60 mm)
- Midrange Cone Material: Carbon Composite
The off-axis responses of the treble and mid drivers remain extremely accurate thanks to the addition of high- and mid-frequency waveguides milled from solid aluminum: ADAM Audio's newly developed Mid-range and High-frequency Propagation Systems (MPS and HPS). The resultant stable, wide-ranging dispersion ensures that teams of more than one person can work in the loudspeakers' sweet spot simultaneously, as is often necessary in larger control rooms.
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 d...
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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Product Strengths
- Wide soundstage with evident front-to-back depth
- Clear and detailed midrange response with good separation of instruments such as guitars and pianos
- Balanced low-end response allowing for clearer definitions in bass notes
- Precise time alignment contributes to accuracy, focus, and a uniform dispersion pattern
- Detailed and airy top-end combined with a reach-out-and-touch-it three-dimensional width and imaging in the midrange
Product Considerations
- Not an inexpensive monitor
- At 41kg, it is also very heavy
- At the large end of the nearfield monitoring spectrum—it's a midfield, really
- Lacks DSP (Digital Signal Processing) found in many modern monitors, relying on traditional electro-acoustic design
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs ATC SCM25A: Maintains a more balanced low-end response, while ATC SCM25A exhibited a slight bump in the lower mids
Takeaway: The Amphion One25A is an accurate and revealing mix tool with a perfect tonal balance, making it a good investment for professional use. Its low-end provides an utterly secure foundation for everything above, and it retains its dimension and punch at normal, moderate listening levels.
Video review
Our take on the brand
As with any PMC loudspeaker, thanks to its super-consistent dispersion and tonal balance, the PMC8-2 may be simply and seamlessly combined with smaller PMC speakers to create larger multi-channel or immersive systems. The twin bass drivers are partnered with the same PMC55 mid-range tweeter, DSP system and four channels of 400W Class-D amplification used in the PMC6-2. Again, the speaker is configurable directly via the rear panel or using the browser-based SoundAlign™ software from a computer or tablet.
Together with the precisely tuned ATL™ cabinet and hexagonal Laminair™ vents, the PMC8-2 delivers phenomenal performance that approaches that of our Main reference monitors, with smooth and consistent bass response down to 25Hz, a revealing mid-range and wide, stable sound-staging. As with the rest of the range, the PMC8-2's superb definition, fidelity, dynamics and bass accuracy allow mix decisions to be made quickly with complete confidence, and with no listening fatigue even after long sessions.
PMC8-2s can be upgraded through the addition of a PMC8-2 SUB to create an XBD system, enhancing the system's bass headroom by 6dB. Dedicated short and taller floor-stands are available for the PMC8-2 and PMC8-2 XBD systems which position them on the ideal listening axis.
"Active 3-way nearfield reference monitor with ATL™ bass loading Frequency response: 25Hz - 25kHz (- 3dB @1m full space, on-axis) Max. cont. SPL: 113dB @1m (half space value calculated as +3dB from full space measurement. Unweighted input, 20-20kHz Pink Noise (IEC) with 12dB CF for 2 hours AES2-1984 duration) State-of-the-art Class-D amplifiers: HF 400W, MF 400W, LF 2x 400W Analogue / AES3 digital input (16/24-bit, 18 -192kHz sample rate) Digital 'through' output (AES3 24-bit 96kHz SoundAlign™ network control interface for single or group EQ & settings Sophisticated DSP crossover, driver protection, EQ, and delay/polarity options PMC8-2 + PMC8-2 SUB creates PMC8-2 XBD, with up to 6dB of additional headroom Optional dedicated floor stands for PMC8-2 (40") and PMC8-2 XBD (19")"
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Unparalleled clarity, definition, and utmost accuracy
- Excellent bass extension and clarity, as well as proper tonal balance at every volume
- Super wide dispersion, and thus a bigger sweet spot
Product Considerations
- It would be overkill in smaller rooms
- A pair is a significant investment, so it makes sense that it's geared toward large, professional recording environments
- They weigh nearly 100 pounds apiece
Takeaway: The PMC 8-2 is a wise investment for professional studios that delivers detailed and accurate monitoring, so it could very well be the only monitor needed It uses proprietary technology to deliver its signature sound
Video review
Our take on the brand
ATC 25mm/1” Dual Suspension ‘S-Spec’ Tweeter. Full “SL” spec 12˝/314mm bass driver. ATC 3″/75mm “Super Dome” mid driver. On board grounded source 350W Tri-amp pack. LF contour control. Clip indication. 6 year warranty.
Product Strengths
- Outstanding resolution and big dynamic range
- Phenomenal build quality and a gorgeous veneer finish, looking like fine furniture
- The active design connects the listener to the music in a deeper, more immediate way, revealing transients and drawing the listener into the music
- The mid-range driver is a unique piece of engineering with a large motor system and short coil long gap topology, leading to better linearity and reduced third harmonic distortion and improved clarity
- ATC has complete control over the speaker's production and design, from voice coil winding to cabinet manufacturing, which allows for consistency across the product range
Product Considerations
- Some people may not want to give up their amplifiers or cabling for active speakers, preferring to mix and match components
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The goal with the SCM100ASL is not to do anything different than the SCM-50, focusing on being faithful to the original recording, with the 100 offering more extended low-frequency response and bigger scale reproduction
Takeaway: The SCM100ASL is a high-performance loudspeaker that delivers clear and dynamic sound, making music sound clear as day. With exceptional build quality and attention to detail, it is designed to fill the room with sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Extremely clear sound, making them better for mixing and mastering than many other monitors
- Sound like main monitors, offering a large sound footprint not typically found in near-field or mid-field monitors
- Wide bandwidth accuracy and dependability at any volume level
- Midrange performance is particularly notable for realistic, unhyped accuracy, especially on naturally recorded human voices
- Bass performance combines extended bandwidth with great dynamic, pitch, and temporal accuracy
Product Considerations
- Require a significant break-in period
- To get the most out of them, an interface that can connect via AES is needed, as the conversion when using analog is not as transparent
- Correct placement is crucial; at least four and a half feet of distance is needed between the listener and the monitor to be able to get all of the sound that it's trying to give
- SoundAlign software, while useful for EQ adjustments, may introduce unwanted digital artifacts to the sound
- Expensive, these monitors are at the higher end of this sector and share that space with some well-respected designs
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs ATC SCM25a: The reviewer finds an absence of 'not hearing the box' evident in the 6-2 compared to the ATCs
- Vs Neumann KH310s: The 6-2s outperform them in every respect, sounding much better, with other monitors sounding colored by comparison
- Vs ATC 150s: The reviewer prefers these PMC6-2s over the ATC 150s
Takeaway: The PMC6-2 is a high-performance studio monitor that delivers exceptional clarity and detail. For those seeking accurate and dependable sound at all volumes, these monitors are worth consideration.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Detailed and accurate sound reproduction
- Extended bass response due to PMC's Advanced Transmission Line (ATL) technology
- Exceptional stereo imaging allowing for precise mixing and monitoring
- Easy configuration through the SoundAlign web interface, offering versatile adjustments
- Attractive and versatile design suitable for both portrait and landscape orientations
Product Considerations
- Minor dip in the frequency response around 300Hz, potentially due to transmission line harmonics, though it doesn't affect the overall performance
- High mids may be revealing and fatiguing to some users
- Users need to ensure proper network connectivity for using the SoundAlign app
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs ATC SCM20ASL Pro Mk2, the PMC6 has a stronger low-end, while the ATC offers unmatched clarity and articulation in smaller rooms
- Vs PSI Audio A21-M, the PMC6 is more powerful
- Vs Genelec 8341A, the Genelec has a wider frequency response
Takeaway: The PMC6 is an impressive nearfield monitor that provides trustworthy sound to work on your audio and mixes. It's a valuable studio tool because it allows users to make mix choices with confidence.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- All three of the A25 speaker drivers are designed and handmade in-house in Switzerland to ensure low distortion, high precision, and the finest quality control
- Every A25 is sonically identical, meaning any two of the same model at any point in their production history will be a matched pair
- The A25M offers higher SPL at lower distortion
- Initial listening tests were very favorable, and the first things that stood out were the tight and controlled low end and super precise stereo imaging, leading to a huge sense of depth and space
- Mixes translated incredibly well to other systems, and when using them for mastering, the bass end was spot on, and the highs were incredibly detailed but not at all hyped or fatiguing
Product Considerations
- The A25Ms are very heavy, at 28.4kg each, and have the kind of proportions that make a one-person lift of such a weight risky
- The size and weight of the A25Ms mean they probably will not be considered for nearfield duties by the majority of potential users
- The overall tonal balance is a little prominent in the upper-mid band, and this sometimes adds a slight edge to some mix elements
- If considering a move to mid-field monitoring, room acoustics should probably be considered at the same time
- Enclosure color is an acquired taste
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs ATC SCM45s, the ATCs just had that extra tiny level of detail in the mids—it comes down to personal choice
Takeaway: The A25M is genuinely revealing monitors that can provide great insight into the components of a mix and how they fit together. These are spectacular monitors with a tight, controlled low end and super precise stereo imaging, making them an excellent mid-field monitor for mixing and mastering.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Broad dynamic range with extended high frequencies and low distortion
- Precise and detailed high end that is clean and dimensional
- Highly dimensional, reach-out-and-touch-it midrange representation
- Full, firm, and punchy low end
- Tonal consistency is good no matter where you are in the room
Product Considerations
- Requires the purchase of a left and right model
- Low mids may be more forward than some users are accustomed to
- Needs a robust speaker stand due to its weight
- The sweet spot seemed a bit shallower in depth than other monitors produce
Takeaway: The SCM25A is a studio monitor with great clarity that can help make better mixing decisions and identify problem areas in tracks. It's built to provide accurate and trusted counsel, making the technical parts of tone-building quicker.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Achieves THX-certified bass, stemming from a 'balanced dual drive' principle similar to the isobaric principle
- Clever setup with multiple drivers reduces diaphragm stroke while retaining sound pressure, resulting in less distortion
- Sound dispersion characteristics can be adjusted with precision using the crossover, focusing sound vertically to minimize reflections
- Consistent sound quality across the M&K Sound portfolio ('timbre matching') makes setting up multichannel systems easier
- Demonstrates a mind-blowing dynamic spectrum, performing 'very quiet' and 'very loud' with ease
Product Considerations
- Requires a warm-up period of around 10 to 20 minutes
- Functions as satellites with a built-in fixed 80-hertz, 24-decibel high-pass filter, designed for use with subwoofers
- Elaborate tweeters like ribbons can achieve slightly more detailed differentiation in the highest realms
Takeaway:
The M&K Sound MPS 2520P is a professional tool that delivers precise and sophisticated sound, suitable for both studio and home cinema setups. Its ability to handle a wide dynamic range and maintain clarity makes it a great choice for immersive audio experiences.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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