Adam Audio Classic Mk3 Series Tower Loudspeaker - First Look

Adam Audio announced a revamp to their tower speaker - the Classic Mk3 Series  is said to offer significant enhancements in sound reproduction along with a slim, elegant new look.

Available in a range of passive and active models, Classic Mk3’s are easily adaptable to all room sizes for both stereo and multi-channel applications.  Technical improvements in the top-line Column Mk3 Tower include ADAM’s new proprietary X-ART (Accelerating Ribbon Technology) tweeters that ensure extended frequency response with maximum efficiency. In the active version, ADAM’s new A/B amplifier drives the high frequency section. The Column also features ADAM’s new high-quality X-ART lower midrange driver and two new Hexacone™ 7” woofers are employed for full range reproduction from 28 Hz to 50 kHz.

Using many of the same drivers as the Column and also driven by ADAM’s A/B linear amplifier, the new Pencil Mk3 is said to reveal even the subtlest details of the higher frequency range. The Pencil’s powerful, accurate low range reproduction results from the high quality materials and drivers combined with two woofers to distribute the lower frequencies. One woofer acts as a full range driver while the other reproduces frequencies below 150 Hz, effectively doubling the area and power of the bass reproduction.

The Compact Mk3 uses the same components as the larger Classic Mk3 speakers to provide incomparable sound quality in a compact size. The Center Mk3 and SW260 Mk3 subwoofer also feature matching Classic Series components to achieve sonic homogeneity and the same sophisticated level of reproduction for multichannel systems. 

The subwoofer expands the frequency of any system down to 25Hz while a level control, phase switch (±180°), variable upper frequency (50-150Hz), and a switchable 85Hz high pass filter for satellite output allow it to be adapted to any system and its particular needs.

All standing models are equipped with new base plates and spikes to improve decoupling from the floor and finishes are in high gloss black. New wood veneers will be introduced later this year. 

Pricing for this series ranges from $2500 a pair for the passive Compact Mk3 to $10,000 a pair for the active Column Mk3 Tower speakers.

Initial Impressions

Until the 2009 CEDIA expo, I was unfamiliar with the Adam Audio brand but I've come to learn they are widely used in recording studios.  The workmanship I’ve seen from their products at their booth have me thirsting for more.  While they aren’t inexpensive, I recall an expression one of my good friends once said to me “its never cheap to be hip and trendy”.   I'm a big fan of ribbon tweeters for their ability to convey detail and pinpoint imaging when properly designed.  These look to be an impressive design in all aspects.  I plan on reviewing a set of these speakers in the near future to see what its’ like hanging with the high rollers who expect nothing less than top quality with price being no object.

For more info, visit: www.adam-audio.de.

Unless otherwise indicated, this is a preview article for the featured product. A formal review may or may not follow in the future.