Jun 1, 1997 7:12 PM, By Chris Michie

A (NEAR) FIELD SURVEY

Choosing powered near-field studio monitors is quite different from selecting any other piece of audio gear. Of course, price, performance, availability, reliability, popularity and looks are all factors that a serious buyer should consider, along with recommendations from peers and clients. But the appearance of powered reference monitors as a distinct product category is relatively recent: When Mix surveyed studio monitors in 1990 and 1991, only a handful of manufacturers offered powered models. These days, it seems that new companies pop up and introduce a new powered monitor system every couple of weeks. So how to proceed?

Faced with the unfamiliar, technically minded buyers turn to specifications. But specs for audio gear (and transducers, in particular) often bear little relation to perceived reality, and most published loudspeaker specs should be viewed with some skepticism. More to the point, there is really no substitute for a thorough listening test.

At least dimensional specs (size and weight) tend to be accurate. If you are looking for speakers that sit comfortably on an 8-inch-deep meter bridge or surround speakers that weigh less than 30 pounds, then these specs may be helpful. Magnetic shielding may be necessary in some applications; many vendors provide this as an option. Most of the models described here accept a balanced line-level input on an XLR connector, though some only offer unbalanced 1/4-inch or RCA inputs.

Although all manufacturers presumably include clear and pleasing sound reproduction among their design criteria, it is reasonable to assume that certain trade-offs have been made to tailor products for different price points, applications and users. For example, the first powered monitors were designed for convenience as much as for audio quality. Ampex offered a powered speaker in a suitcase-like cabinet (complete with handle) as part of a portable recording system in the late 1950s. And product literature for Electro-Voice’s long-established Sentry® model emphasizes its suitability for rackmounting in confined spaces such as broadcast trucks.

More recently, several manufacturers have developed close-field speakers to complement an existing position in the large-scale installed monitor market; Genelec, Tannoy and JBL are obvious examples. And the ever-increasing sales figures for multimedia computers and surround sound-ready video playback equipment have prompted some consumer playback system manufacturers to market their better systems for recording applications. The smart buyer may want to investigate these newcomers. After all, the Realistic Optimus 7 has been popular for some time, despite its Radio Shack pedigree. Though “multimedia” systems are not included in this survey, some of these monitors may well prove to be as good or better than some of the smaller systems aimed exclusively at the studio market.

Listed here (in manufacturer’s alphabetical order) are all of the currently available powered monitors weighing less than 100 pounds, plus a selection of powered subwoofers.

ATC (www.transaudiogroup.com) has a range of powered monitors in its SCM Pro Series. The latest model is the ATC SCM 20A Pro, an active two-way design with a 6-inch woofer and 1-inch tweeter powered by 250-watt bass/mid and 50W HF amps. Each cast-aluminum cabinet weighs 66 pounds and measures 10.6x17.6x12.2 inches (WxHxD). Frequency response is 60 to 20k Hz, ±6 dB, and the maximum SPL at 1 meter is 108 dB. Super Linear magnet technology reportedly reduces the effects of Eddy currents. Input connectors are XLR; a rear panel selector provides five different LF boost settings, in addition to a flat reference setting. Price: $3,695 a pair.

Audix Corporation (www.audixusa.com) recently upgraded its PH15 and PH25 systems. The Audix PH15-VS has a 5.25-inch woofer and 3/4-inch tweeter, both driven by a 45W amplifier through a sixth-order Butterworth passive crossover, all in a compact, front-vented cabinet. Weight is 10 pounds, and dimensions are 6x9x9 inches. Frequency response is 50 to 20k Hz, ±6 dB; max SPL is 88 dB at 1 meter. The PH15-VS features thermal-protective circuitry and internal toroidal power supply, level control and an automatic on/off circuit, and magnetic shielding for workstation and video monitoring applications. Inputs are RCA. Price: $479 a pair.

The PH25-VS uses the same components and amp as the PH15-VS but has dual woofers. Weight is 25 pounds, and dimensions are 7.5x15x10 inches. Frequency response is 50 to 20k Hz, ±6 dB; max SPL is 90 dB at 1 meter. Like the PH15-VS, the PH25-VS features thermal protection, toroidal power supply, level control, automatic on/off and magnetic shielding. Inputs are RCA. Price: $649 a pair.

Bag End (www.bagend.com) offers the Infrasub 18 powered subwoofer, a front-firing unit containing a single 18-inch woofer driven by a 400W power amp. Weighing 92 pounds, the unit measures 21.25x23.5x18.25 inches. Electronic control is achieved by an ELF Integrator, and frequency response is 8 to 95 Hz, ±3 dB. The Infrasub 18 is available in several wood finishes. Price: $1,895.

Bryston Ltd. in association with UK manufacturer PMC (www.pmcloudspeaker.com) offers three powered close-field monitors (the TB1SP, the LB1P, and the IB1S) and a powered subwoofer: the XB1A ($1,250). All of the near-field systems are transmission-line systems, which reportedly provide one more full octave of bass response than equivalent ported loudspeaker designs.

The PMC/Bryston TB1SP includes one 150W amplifier that drives a 7-inch woofer and an aluminum-alloy, Ferrofluid-treated HF tweeter via a second-order six-element crossover. Cabinet weight is 26 pounds, and dimensions are 8x16x14 inches. Frequency response is 40 to 25k Hz, ±3 dB; max SPL is 113 dB. Options include speaker stands and magnetic shielding. Connectors are XLR, RCA and 1/4-inch. Price: $2,390 a pair.

The LB1P offers a 5-inch woofer and double-chamber soft-dome silk tweeter. The crossover is a passive 12-element, fourth-order design. The cabinet weighs 26 pounds and measures 7x20x14 inches. Frequency response: 35 to 25k Hz, ±3 dB; maximum SPL: 114 dB. Options include speaker stands and magnetic shielding. Connectors are XLR, RCA and 1/4-inch. Price: $3,650 a pair.

The IB1S is a three-way system featuring a 10-inch Nomex/carbon-fiber flat woofer, a soft-dome midrange unit and a double-chamber sof-dome silk tweeter. One amplifier drives all units via a passive 25-element fourth-order crossover. The 65-pound cabinet measures 13x31x22 inches. Frequency response: 25 to 25k Hz, ±3 dB; max SPL: 116 dB. Options include speaker stands, magnetic shielding and a “film curve” filter. Connectors are XLR, RCA and 1/4-inch. Price: $5,700 a pair.

Diamond Audio Technology Inc. offers two satellite/subwoofer systems, the S2 Pro-Media 4060 and the S2 Pro-Media 4100 systems, and two powered subwoofers, the S2 Pro-Media 1060 and S2 Pro-Media 1100. In the satellite/subwoofer systems, a single 3-channel amplifier in the subwoofer cabinet drives both subwoofer and satellite near-fields. A remote-control unit (sized to insert in an empty PC disk drive slot) features level, input select, bass treble, balance and loudness controls, and a 3DSP™ enhancement process selector switch.

Diamond’s S2 PM-4060 system satellite speakers feature a 4-inch midrange woofer and a 1/2-inch poly-aluminum dome tweeter in a die-cast aluminum cabinet weighing about four pounds and measuring 4.75x8.5x5.5 inches. The subwoofer has a single 6.5-inch neodymium dual-voice coil woofer. Weight of the subwoofer is about 20 pounds, and dimensions are 8x11.5x14.5 inches. One 30W and two 15W amps provide power; crossover is active 12dB/octave high- and lowpass at 120 Hz, asymmetrical 12/6dB octave passive at 4 kHz. System frequency response is 60 to 20k Hz, ±3 dB; max SPL at 1 meter is 103 dB (<10% THD). Input connectors are RCA and 1/4-inch. Price for the complete S2 PM-4060 system is $499; satellite speaker floor stands are optional.

The S2 PM-4100 system is similar to the 4060 system and shares the same satellite speakers and control unit, though mid/high amps are 250W. The subwoofer, which uses an 8-inch neodymium dual-voice coil woofer driven by a 50W amp, weighs about 30 pounds and measures 8x16.5x17 inches. Frequency response for the system is 50 to 20k Hz, ±3 dB; max SPL at 1 meter is 106 dB (<10% THD). Price for the complete S2 PM-4100 system is $659.

The S2 PM-1060 subwoofer uses the same cabinet and woofer as the PM-4060 system subwoofer but has a single-channel 60W amp. Frequency response: 50 to 140 Hz, ±3 dB (depending on adjustable filter settings); max SPL: 103 dB. Input to the subwoofer may be either speaker-level (from a 250W maximum amplifier) or line-level. In the case of speaker-level input, the signal is divided into a low-frequency component (crossover is fixed at 120 Hz, 6dB/octave) that drives the sub and high-frequency signals, which are passed to the user’s satellite speakers. Price: $289.

The S2 PM-1100 subwoofer is the same size as the PM-4100 system sub and contains a single-channel 100W amp. Other specs are the same as for the PM-1060. Price: $399.

Dynaudio Acoustics (www.dynaudioacoustics.com) offers two new bi-amplified monitors, the BM15A and the BM6A. The BM15A contains a 9.5-inch woofer powered by a 150W and a 1-inch Esotec tweeter driven by an 80W. The electronic crossover is fourth-order, phase-aligned at 1.5 kHz. The 42-pound cabinet measures 11.6x18.2x14 inches. Frequency response: 40 to 20k Hz, ±3 dB; max SPL at 1 meter is 119 dB (both cabinets driven). Controls include variable LF and HF level trim and input sensitivity. Input connector is XLR. Price: $3,399 per pair.

The Dynaudio Acoustics BM6A has a 6.7-inch woofer and a 1-inch soft-dome tweeter, two 100W MOSFET amplifiers and a sixth-order, phase-aligned electronic crossover (2.2 kHz). The cabinet weighs 34 pounds and measures 8.6x3.5x11.4 inches. Frequency response: 45 to 20k Hz, ±3 dB, and maximum SPL at 1 meter is 116 dB (both cabinets driven). Controls include variable LF and HF level trim and input sensitivity. The unit includes clip-protection circuitry and an overload indicator. Input connector is XLR. Price: $2,199 a pair.

The recommended subwoofer for both BM15A and BM6A is Dynaudio’s ABES (Active Bass Extension System), a dual-woofer powered unit that extends frequency response to 35 Hz. Weighing 150 pounds and measuring 39.5x15.75x25.2 inches, the ABES includes its own 305W amplifier and 24dB/octave Linkwitz-Reilly crossover at 95 Hz (adjustable). Frequency response: 35 to 95 Hz; max SPL is 126 dB. In typical applications, the unit provides a highpass filtered line signal for one or two associated near-field monitors; an optional surround sound extender unit provides facilities for sub-bass monitoring in LCRS configurations. Price: $5,750.

The Electro-Voice (www.electrovoice.com) Sentry® 100EL includes a single 50W amplifier that drives an 8-inch woofer and a Super-Dome™ tweeter via a fourth-order Butterworth crossover filter. (Crossover frequency is 2 kHz.) A sharp cut-off highpass filter ensures that subsonic information does not reach the amp or woofer. Front panel controls include a system level control (30dB range) and a continuously variable HF shelf control that varies HF response from +2 dB to -4 dB relative to a nominal flat reference. The 33-pound vented enclosure measures 12x17.25x11.5 inches, dimensions that allow for rackmounting in space-constricted environments such as broadcast trucks. (Optional rackmount/wall-mount kit available separately.) Frequency response: 45 to 18k Hz; max SPL: 108 dB. Connectors include XLR and unbalanced 1/4-inch. Price: $909 each ($1,818 a pair).

The 20/20-bas™ near-field studio system from Event Electronics (www.event1.com) is a bi-amped design and combines an 8-inch woofer and 1-inch Ferrofluid-cooled, silk-dome tweeter with 130- and 70W Class–A/B amps. Drivers are magnetically shielded. Each front-ported 5/8-inch laminated MDF cabinet weighs 28 pounds and measures 10.25x14.75x11.75 inches. The active fourth-order crossover is at 2.6 kHz. Frequency response: 45 to 20k Hz (±2 dB). Maximum SPL is 110 dB. Features include continuously variable input over a 20dB range, power/clipping LEDs, variable ±3dB HF/LF trims and circuit breaker. Input connector is a Neutrik Combo 1/4-inch/XLR connector for balanced/unbalanced inputs at -10 or +4dB levels. Price: $999 a pair.

The 20/20-p™ powered direct-field monitor is also bi-amped and features an 8-inch woofer and 1-inch Ferrofluid-cooled, silk-dome tweeter. Amps are both 100W, and drivers are magnetically shielded for multimedia and video post applications. Cabinet is made of 5/8-inch laminated MDF and weighs 33 pounds. Dimensions are 10.25x14.75x11.75 inches. Crossover is second-order asymmetrical. Frequency response: 35 to 20k Hz (±2.5 dB). Maximum SPL is 108 dB. Controls and input connector are the same as for the 20/20-bas. Price: $599 a pair.

Event’s Tria™ tri-amplified monitor system is a complete subwoofer/satellite system. Each satellite mid/high cabinet contains a 5.25-inch polypropylene cone driver and a 1-inch neodymium soft-dome tweeter, each driven by its own 75W amp. The 11-pound monitors are 7.5x10.5x9 inches. The very low-frequency driver/amp station contains a mag-shielded, 8-inch floor-loaded woofer driven by a single 75W amp. Weight is 34 pounds, and size is 12x18.5x11 inches. System frequency response is 35 to 20k Hz, ±2.5 dB; max SPL: 110 dB. System price is $849.

Genelec Inc. (www.genelec.com) offers an exhaustively comprehensive range of active monitors, ranging from compact near-field models to full-size mains for studio and film sound post applications, plus active subwoofers. Described here are only those systems that could serve as close-field monitors (they weigh less than 100 pounds and might possibly fit on a meter bridge) and associated subwoofers.

Genelec’s newest model, the bi-amplified 1029A, sports a 5-inch woofer and a 3/4-inch tweeter powered by identical 40W amp modules in a 12.5-pound cabinet measuring 6x10x7.5 inches. Frequency response: 68 to 18k Hz, ±2.5 dB; max SPL: 110 dB/pair. Inputs are XLR and 1/4-inch TRS. Front panel controls include AC switch, status LED and a volume pot that can also control the level of associated subwoofers. (Recommended subwoofers are 1091A or 1092A models, which extend LF performance to 38 Hz.) Bass roll-off, bass tilt and treble tilt controls are placed on the cabinet rear. Other features include mag-shielding and threading for Omnimount™ wall brackets. Price: $535 each ($1,070 a pair).

Introduced in 1994, the bi-amplified 1030AP contains a 6.5-inch woofer (80W amp) and a 3/4-inch aluminum-dome tweeter (50W amp). The cabinet weight is 15 pounds and measures 7.12x12.25x9.5 inches. Frequency response: 55 to 18k Hz, ±2.5 dB; max SPL: 115 dB/pair. Inputs are XLR. Controls include input sensitivity, bass roll-off, bass tilt and treble tilt, and protection circuitry is integral. Recommended subwoofer is the 1092A, and a magnetic-shielded version is available as the 1030AM. The 1030AP is $2,196 per pair.

First introduced in 1991 as the 1031A (which is still available in black-birch veneer), the 1031AP contains an 8-inch woofer (120W amp) and a 1-inch aluminum-dome tweeter (120W amp). The cabinet is constructed from 5/8-inch MDF, weighs 26 pounds and measures 10x15.5x11.5 inches. Frequency response: 48 to 22k Hz, ±2.5dB; max SPL: 120 dB/pair. Inputs are XLR. Controls include input sensitivity, bass roll-off, bass tilt and treble tilt; protection circuitry is integral. A magnetic-shielding kit is available. Recommended subwoofer is the 1092A or 1094A. The 1031APs cost $3,996 per pair.

The 1032A has a 10-inch woofer (180W amp) and a 1-inch aluminum-dome tweeter (120W amp). The black-birch veneer finish MDF cabinet weighs 44 pounds and measures 12.5x19.5x11.5 inches. Frequency response: 42 to 21k Hz, ±2.5 dB; max SPL: 124 dB/pair. Inputs are XLR. Controls include input sensitivity, bass roll-off, bass tilt and treble tilt; protection circuitry is integral. Options include a magnetic-shielding kit, wall-mount hardware and a floor stand. Recommended subwoofer is the 1094A. The 1032AP cost $4,998 per pair.

Back in 1978, the S30 was Genelec’s first near-field monitor; acceptance by European broadcasters led the company to expand into the music recording market. Today’s S30C integrates an 8-inch woofer, 4-inch midrange unit and ribbon tweeter, each powered by a 120W amp via a three-way electronic crossover. The black-birch veneer finish MDF cabinet weighs 44 pounds and measures 12.5x19.5x11.5 inches—same as the 1032AP. Frequency response: 43 to 25k Hzm ±2.5 dB; max SPL: 122 dB/pair. Inputs are XLR. Controls include input sensitivity, bass roll-off, bass tilt and treble tilt; amp/driver protection circuitry is integral. Options include magnetic shielding, horizontal and vertical cabinet types and a floor stand. Recommended subwoofer is the 1094A. Price of the S30C is $5,600 per pair.

The 1037B is another three-way system. Components are a 12-inch woofer, 5-inch midrange unit and 1-inch metal-dome tweeter. Internal amps are 180W, 120W and 120W, respectively. Weighing 82 pounds, the black-birch veneer-finish MDF cabinet measures 15.75x26.75x15 inches. Frequency response: 37 to 21k Hz, ±2.5 dB; max SPL: 128 dB/pair. Inputs are XLR. Controls include input sensitivity, bass roll-off, bass tilt, bass, midrange and treble level; amp/driver protection circuitry is integral. Options include magnetic shielding and floor stands. Recommended subwoofer is the 1094A. Price of the 1037B is $9,498 per pair.

The 1091A subwoofer (recommended for the 1029A) contains a single 8-inch woofer driven by a 70W amp. The 22-pound MDF cabinet measures 9x20x10 inches. Frequency response: 38 to 85 Hz, ±2.5 dB; max SPL: 103 dB. Inputs are XLR and 1/4-inch TRS. An internal DIP switch on the amp module engages bass roll-off EQ. Price: $680.

The 1092A subwoofer (designed for use with the 1029A, 1030A and 1031A bi-amped monitors) contains two 8-inch woofers driven by a single amp. The 66-pound MDF cabinet measures 12.5x24x20 inches. Frequency response: 33 to 85 Hz, ±2.5 dB; max SPL: 115 dB. Three XLR inputs/outputs are provided for LCR applications. Features include input sensitivity, phase compensation and bass roll-off EQ controls, and bypass; magnetic shielding is optional. Price: $2,150.

The 1094A subwoofer is designed for use with the 1031A through 1037A active monitors in LCR monitoring environments. The 1094A contains one 15-inch woofer in a 110-pound cabinet measuring 18.5x29x24.5 inches. Frequency response: 29 to 80 Hz, ±2.5 dB; max SPL: 120 dB. Three XLR inputs/outputs are provided. Features include input sensitivity, phase compensation and bass roll-off EQ controls. Price: $3,699.

Hot House Professional Audio (www.hothousepro.com) offers five models in its Active Sub-Bass (ASB) line of powered subwoofers. The single 12-inch ASB112 and double 12-inch ASB212 are available now; three more models will be introduced this month and custom configurations are available.

The smallest model, the new ASB110, contains a single 10-inch woofer and a 450W amp in a 90-pound cabinet measuring 18x18x20 inches. The stereo crossover is 24dB/octave; frequency response: 16 to 110 Hz, ±3 dB (custom cabinet tuning to tailor LF frequency response from 16 to 30 Hz is an option); max SPL: 118 dB. Controls include independent high- and lowpass filters, adjustable from 50 to 110 Hz, LF phase invert, bass EQ boost and LF level. Input and output connectors are XLR and RCA. Price: $2,999.

The ASB112 contains a proprietary Hot House 12-inch woofer and a 450W amp and offers the same control electronics and connectors as the ASB110. The 105-pound cabinet measures 18x24x20 inches. Frequency response: 16 to 110 Hz, ±3 dB (custom cabinet tuning is an option); max SPL: 120 dB. Price: $3,499.

The ASB115 contains a Hot House 15-inch woofer, a 450W amp and is electronically similar to the ASB110 and ASB112. However, the 145-pound cabinet is designed to serve as a pedestal for near-field monitors and measures 18x35x20 inches. Frequency response: 16 to 110 Hz, ±2 dB (custom cabinet tuning is an option); max SPL: 122 dB. Price: $3,999.

The 6208 bi-amplified reference monitor from JBL Professional (www.jblpro.com) includes an 8-inch woofer and a 1-inch gold/titanium-hybrid tweeter mounted on a Multi-Radial™ baffle designed to acoustically align the transducers and optimize dispersion. Two amplifiers derive input signal from a 24dB/octave crossover at 2.6 kHz. Weight is 30 pounds, and dimensions are 11.25x17.75x9.5 inches. Frequency response: 60 to 20k Hz, ±2 dB; max SPL: 109. Balanced inputs include XLR and 1/4-inch, and the unit accepts both -10dBV and +4dBu levels. Price: $998 per pair.

KRK Systems (www.krksys.com) offers two bi-amplified, phase-aligned powered monitors: the E8 and the E7. The E8 contains an 8-inch Kevlar woofer and a 1-inch Kevlar tweeter in a six-sided cabinet. Weight is 54 pounds; size is 14.75x17x4.5 inches. Frequency response: 45 to 20k Hz, ±2 dB; maximum SPL at 1 meter is 112 dB. Controls include input sensitivity and HF level. Input connector is XLR. Price: $4,295 per pair.

The KRK E7 features a 7-inch Kevlar woofer and a 1-inch Kevlar tweeter in a polygonal cabinet similar to the E8’s. Weight is 44 pounds; dimensions are 13.25x15x12 inches. Frequency response of 54 to 20k Hz, ±2 dB, and maximum SPL at 1 meter is 108 dB. For extended frequency response, KRK recommends the Rok Bottom/KRK subwoofer ($1,495). The E7 system is $3,495 per pair.

Mackie (www.mackie.com) entered the powered monitor arena with the Mackie HR824 studio reference monitor, an active two-way design with two 6.5-inch passive radiators in addition to the 8.75-inch polypropylene cone LF driver and 1-inch metal-alloy dome tweeter. Each cabinet also contains a 150W LF amp and a 100W HF amp; electronic crossover is a Linkwitz-Riley 24dB/octave model. Weight is 32 pounds and dimensions are 10x15.75x11.92 inches. Frequency response: 45 to 20k Hz, ±0.5 dB, with -3dB points of 38 Hz and 22.5k Hz. Peak SPL per pair (music on console at 1 meter) is 121 dB. Rear panel controls modify bass roll-off and HF shelving, and switchable settings compensate for full, half and quarter-space placement. An auto turn-on feature allows the monitor to enter Standby mode when no signal has been detected for some minutes. Connectors include balanced XLR and 1/4-inch. Price: $1,498 per pair.

Meyer Sound Laboratories (www.meyersound.com) first introduced its HD-1 High-Definition audio monitor in 1989. Containing an 8-inch woofer and a 1-inch dome tweeter driven by 150W and 75W amps, respectively, the cabinet weighs 51 pounds and measures 12x16x16.5 inches (including clearance for amp chassis and tweeter dome). Frequency response: 32 to 22k Hz, ±3 dB (40 to 20k Hz, ±1 dB); max SPL: 125 dB. Features include protection circuitry and dual-mode amplification; the complementary MOSFET output stage amps operate as Class-A at lower levels and as Class-A/B at high levels. Though not shielded, the monitor design minimizes magnetic leakage. The unit accepts either +4dBu/-10dBV inputs (switchable) on a balanced XLR connector. Price: $5,200 per pair.

The HD-2 High-Definition Mid-Field monitor contains a 10-inch woofer (2-inch voice coil) and a 1-inch dome tweeter driven by 200W and 100W amps, respectively. The system is available in two configurations, offering a choice of wide (90-degree) or narrow (60-degree) horizontal coverage. The cabinet weighs 70 pounds and measures 14x20.75x16.5 inches, including clearance for amp chassis. Frequency response: 50 to 20k Hz, ±1.5 dB, with 3dB down points at 32 Hz and 22k Hz. Maximum SPL is 124 dB. As in the HD-1, features include protection circuitry and dual-mode amplification. A magnetically shielded version is available. Input is XLR, either +4dBu or -10dBV. Price: $6,800 per pair.

Quested (www.quested.com) offers two fully shielded powered reference monitors (VS2108 and VS2205) and a companion powered subwoofer (VS1112/VA1112). The VS2108 contains a single 8-inch woofer and a 1-inch Ferrofluid-damped soft-dome tweeter with two 100W amps driving each component; crossover is 24 dB/octave at 1.25 kHz. Weight is 48.5 pounds, and the unit measures 13.5x16x13.5 inches. Frequency response: 55 to 18k Hz, ±2 dB; max SPL: 108 dB (C-weighted). Input connector is XLR and a rear panel switch selects between +4dBv and -10dBv input levels; controls include switchable LF and HF contouring filters. The unit includes thermal-protection circuitry, and a front panel LED indicates power on and clip conditions. A grille is optional. Price: $4,590 per pair.

The Quested VS2205 is electronically similar to the VS2108 but contains two 5-inch woofers and a 1-inch Ferrofluid-damped soft-dome tweeter, and is powered by a 100W LF amp and a 50W HF amp. Weight is 29 pounds, and the unit measures 13.5x10.5x11.25 inches. Frequency response: 75 to 19k Hz, ±2 dB; max SPL: 108 dB (C-weighted). Price: $3,398 per pair.

The Quested VS1112 powered subwoofer is designed to complement the VS2108 and VS2205 full-range monitors and is equipped to be integrated in any surround sound monitoring environment. Containing a single 12-inch woofer driven by a 400W amp, the slope-fronted cabinet measures 17x19.7x23.6 inches. The unit will reproduce a summed mono bass signal from stereo, 3- or 4-channel inputs. A comprehensive array of rear panel XLR connectors provides inputs and highpass filtered outputs for left, center and right channel signals, plus a discrete effects input and a summed mono sub output, allowing for multiple monitoring configurations. Magnetic shielding and a front panel grille are optional. A simplified version of the subwoofer, the VA1112, is amplified but offers only one input and output. Price of the VS1112 is $3,337.

REL by Sumiko offers six powered subwoofer models at prices ranging from $995 to $8,000. Most include Linkwitz-Riley alignment and all feature REL’s proprietary Active Bass Controller (ABC), which is designed to tune the speaker’s output to match the characteristics of any system in any room. Other features common to all models include Neutrik Speakon and RCA input connectors. (Storm, Stadium II, Stentor II and Studio II models all have balanced 600-ohm balanced inputs.)

The Q100 features a single 12-inch woofer driven by a 100W amp, all in a 44-pound cabinet measuring 16x16.5x17 inches. Frequency response: 20 to 120 Hz (6 dB down at 20 Hz). Features include an acoustic suspension system. Controls include gain, phase and crossover adjustment. Price: $995.

The Strata II conmprises a single 10-inch woofer, down-firing in a 46-pound cabinet measuring 17x21x12 inches. Amplifier power is 60W, and frequency response is 20 to 120 Hz (6 dB down at 20 Hz). Controls include gain, phase, and coarse and fine crossover adjustment. Price: $1,195.

The Storm sub-bass system also has a single 10-inch woofer, down-firing in a 66-pound bass-reflex cabinet, which measures 17x23x12 inches. Amplifier power is 100W, and frequency response is 18 to 120 Hz (6dB down at 18 Hz). Controls include gain, phase, and coarse and fine crossover adjustment. Price: $1,595.

The Stadium II sub-bass system has a single 10-inch woofer, down-firing in an 88-pound cabinet. Dimensions are 21x22x17 inches. Amplifier power is 100W; frequency response: 18 to 120 Hz (6 dB down at 18 Hz). Controls include gain, phase, and coarse and fine crossover adjustment. The unit is available in black or walnut finishes. Price: $2,500.

Spendor offers four powered reference monitors (all feature XLR input connectors). The QT 100 includes a 7.5-inch elliptical polymer cone woofer and a 3-inch soft-dome tweeter in a reflex cabinet, powered by a single 60W amp. Cabinet weight is 16.5 pounds, and dimensions are 8x7.5x12 inches. Crossover is active, 24 dB/octave. Frequency response: 70 to 20k Hz, ±2.5 dB; max SPL: 103dB short term, 110dB peaks with music. Pairs are matched to within 0.75dB sensitivity. Price: $1,395 per pair. The SA200 is a bi-amp system with a 6-inch woofer powered by a 130W amp and a 3-inch silk-diaphragm tweeter powered by a 60W amp. Cabinet weight is 26 pounds; dimensions: 8.5x15x10 inches. Crossover is active, 24 dB/octave. Frequency response is 55 to 23k Hz, ±3 dB; max SPL: 106dB short term, 114dB peaks with music. Features include HF and LF equalization switchable in 1dB steps, and pairs are matched to within 0.75dB sensitivity. Price: $2,395 per pair.

The SA500 is a tri-amp system with a 10-inch woofer powered by a 240W amp, a 6-inch midrange woofer powered by a 130W amp and a 3-inch silk-diaphragm tweeter powered by a 60W amp. Cabinet weight is 97 pounds, and dimensions are 12.5x25x16 inches. Features include HF and LF equalization switchable in 1dB steps, preset input gain control (-6 dB to 18 dB) and active filters. Crossover is active, 24 dB/octave; frequency response: 35 to 23k Hz, ±2.5 dB; max SPL: 115dB short term, 123dB peaks with music. Pairs are matched to within 0.75dB sensitivity. Price: $6,995 per pair.

The Absolute 4P active near-field speaker from Spirit by Soundcraft (www.soundcraft.com) is a bi-amplified design, with separate 100W amps for both the 6.5-inch long-throw woofer and the 1-inch Ferrofluid-cooled soft-dome tweeter. Cabinet weight is about 16 pounds, and dimensions are 10x16.25x12.25 inches. Crossover is a fourth-order constant-voltage Bessel type at 2 kHz and includes time compensation for driver alignment. Frequency response: 40 to 20k Hz. Maximum SPL is 115 dB. The system features stepped input-level control, a 40Hz highpass filter and full thermal protection. Price: $999.95 per pair.

Tannoy AMS10A

Tannoy (www.tannoy.com) has offered two passive two-way powered monitors available since 1995 (the PBM 8 LM and the PBM 6.5 LM) and recently introduced three new bi-amplified models: the AMS12A, the AMS10A and the AMS8A. Tannoy also offers two powered studio subwoofers: the PS115 and the AMS210A.

The PBM 8 LM features an 8-inch woofer and 1-inch tweeter in a rectangular cabinet weighing 23.5 pounds. (The attached Limpet amplifier weighs an additional eight pounds.) Dimensions are 10.86x15.75x14.25 inches, including the amp. Frequency response: 45 to 25k Hz, ±3 dB; max SPL: 115 dB. Input is via a Neutrik 1/4-inch, unbalanced/balanced XLR combo connector. The system operates on either 110V or 220V AC supplies. Price: $1,395 per pair. A shielded version is also available for $1,585 per pair.

The PBM 6.5 LM features the same Limpet amplifier as the larger PBM 8 LM but offers a 6.5-inch woofer and 3/4-inch tweeter in a cabinet weighing 20 pounds, including the attached Limpet. Dimensions are 8.5x12.56x11.86 inches. Frequency response: 55 to 20k Hz, ±3 dB; max SPL: 113 dB. Input is a Neutrik 1/4-inch unbalanced/balanced XLR combo. The system will operate on either 110V or 220V AC supplies. Price: $1,075 per pair. A shielded version is also available ($1,275 per pair).

Recommended subwoofer for both PBM systems is the PS115 powered subwoofer, which extends the PBM systems’ frequency response down to 33 Hz. Containing a single 15-inch woofer, the almost-square PS115 cabinet weighs 53 pounds and measures 20x18x20 inches. Frequency response: 33 to 130 Hz, ±3 dB; max SPL: 114 dB. Inputs are unbalanced RCA. Controls are provided for level and lowpass adjustment; highpass is fixed. Price: $1,095. A shielded version is available for $1,245.

The smallest member of Tannoy’s AMS Series is the AMS8A. Featuring a Dual Concentric™ 8-inch woofer with integral 1-inch compression driver, the unit contains an active crossover and two 145W amplifiers. Weight is 38 pounds, and dimensions are 12.75x18.38x12.38 inches. Frequency response: 40 to 25k Hz, ±2 dB; max SPL: 121 dB. LF and HF contour controls are provided. Input connector type is a Neutrik XLR/TRS combo. Price: $3,995 per pair. A shielded version is available.

The AMS10A features a 10-inch Dual Concentric™ woofer/1-inch compression driver. Weight of the bi-amped system is 62 pounds, and dimensions are 15x21.5x13 inches. Frequency response: 35 to 25k Hz, ±2.5 dB; max SPL: 126 dB. LF and HF contour controls are provided. Input connector is a Neutrik XLR/TRS. Price: $5,995 per pair; a shielded version is available for $6,835 per pair.

The AMS12A features a 12-inch Dual Concentric™ woofer with a 1.25-inch compression driver. Weight of the bi-amped system is 85 pounds, and dimensions are 17.75x25.5x16.25 inches. Frequency response: 25 to 25k Hz, ±2.5 dB; max SPL: 129 dB. LF and HF contour controls are provided. Input connector is a Neutrik XLR/TRS. Price: $7,495 per pair; a shielded version is available for $7,885 per pair.

Recommended subwoofer for the AMS systems is the AMS210A powered subwoofer, which extends frequency response down to 29 Hz. Containing two 10-inch woofers, the AMS210A cabinet weighs 113 pounds and measures 25.5x15x27 inches. Frequency response: 29 to 110 Hz, ±3.5 dB; max SPL: 118 dB. An active crossover network offers variable adjustment of high- and lowpass signals. Inputs are XLR and RCA. Price: $2,495; a shielded version is available for $2,885.

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