Congratulations!
Congratulations on the purchase of your new ADAM Audio T Series monitors. These monitors are the result of two decades of research into advanced transducer, waveguide, amplification, DSP, and loudspeaker cabinet technologies. They offer professional reference sound with rock-solid imaging, a wide sweet spot, superior transient response, extended frequency response, and unmasked clarity and detail. Their compact size allows placement in virtually any room, making them reliable for music production, video post-production, and radio broadcast studios, promising many years of dependable performance.
This manual will guide you through connecting, installing, and operating your speakers, including adjustments for your specific environment and troubleshooting common issues. Manufacturer contact information and full technical specifications are also provided.
If you encounter problems not covered in this manual or have questions, please contact your local dealer or email the ADAM Audio support team at support@adam-audio.de. ADAM Audio prides itself on being approachable and helpful. We wish you many years of happy listening with your new T Series monitors.
The Team at ADAM Audio
1. Important Safety Instructions
Please read the following safety instructions carefully before setting up your system and keep them for future reference. Heed all warnings and follow all instructions.
Caution: To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not open the loudspeaker. There are no user-serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified service personnel.
This product, along with any attached extension cords, must be connected to an earth ground three-conductor AC mains power cord. Ensure all three components are used to prevent shock hazards.
Never replace a fuse with a different value or type, and never bypass a fuse.
Verify that the specified voltage matches your power supply. If not, do not connect the loudspeakers to a power source. Contact your local dealer or national distributor.
Always switch off your entire system before connecting or disconnecting cables, or when cleaning components.
To disconnect from AC mains, unplug the power supply from the power socket. The monitor should be installed near the mains connection for easy access.
Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched, especially at plugs, sockets, and where it exits the apparatus.
Unplug the apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for extended periods. Keep electrical equipment out of reach of children.
Do not expose this product to rain or moisture. Never wet the inside with any liquid, and never pour or spill liquids directly onto the unit. Do not place liquid-filled objects (e.g., vases) onto the speaker.
Use only manufacturer-specified stands, tripods, or brackets. When moving loudspeakers on a trolley, exercise caution to avoid injuries and do not over-balance the trolley.
Speakers must be positioned on a solid surface or a stand.
Always use checked cables. Defective cables can harm your speakers and are a common source of noise, hum, or crackling.
Never use flammable or combustible chemicals for cleaning audio components.
Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
Never expose this product to extreme temperatures or operate it in an explosive atmosphere.
High SPLs can damage your hearing! Do not get close to the loudspeakers when using them at high volumes.
Note that the speaker diaphragms emit a magnetic field. Keep magnetically sensitive items at least 0.5 meters (20 inches) away from the speaker.
Ensure adequate airflow behind the speakers for cooling by maintaining a distance of at least 100 mm (4 inches) to the wall.
Do not place naked flame sources, such as lit candles, on the speaker.
Do not use this apparatus near water.
Use a dry cloth for cleaning.
Do not install near heat sources like radiators, hot air vents, stoves, or other equipment (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
Do not disconnect the earth wire from an earthed plug. If the provided plug does not fit your socket, consult an electrician.
Only use manufacturer-specified attachments/accessories.
Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required if the apparatus is damaged (e.g., power cord, plug, liquid spillage, dropped objects, exposure to rain/moisture, abnormal operation, or dropping).
2. Introducing T Series
Revolutionary Tweeter Design
Since its 1999 launch, Berlin-based ADAM Audio has earned international recognition as a manufacturer of reliable and accurate reference monitors, used in top recording studios worldwide. A key component of their performance is the proprietary X-ART tweeter, including the T Series' new U-ART 1.9" tweeter. Made from a high-tech polyimide film used in spacecraft thermal blankets, the U-ART diaphragm provides pristine, extended high-frequency response up to 25 kHz. Its revolutionary folded design is crucial to the T Series' superior performance compared to other monitors in its class.
Unlike conventional dome or cone tweeters that use a piston action, the U-ART tweeter uses a pleated membrane that moves air by alternately expanding and contracting its folds in response to audio signals. This design moves four times more air than a piston-based design, producing higher sound pressure levels (SPLs) with lower distortion. This allows for hearing pristine details with greater clarity and superior off-axis performance, aiding better creative decisions that translate to other playback systems. You can also listen at louder levels without fatigue.
Advanced Waveguide, Woofer, Amplifiers, Crossovers and Cabinets
The U-ART tweeter is integrated with a new, precision waveguide for highly uniform high-frequency dispersion, creating an incredibly wide sweet spot. The T Series' polypropylene woofer and rear-firing bass-reflex port deliver ultra-smooth, accurate midrange and extended bass response. Custom-matched Class D amplifiers and power supplies ensure optimal performance: the U-ART tweeter is powered by a 20W amp, and the woofer by a 50W amp. The Class D amps, combined with the U-ART's 4:1 velocity transfer ratio, allow loud listening without fatigue. DSP-controlled crossovers ensure seamless driver integration. The beveled cabinets minimize diffraction for superior imaging and precise stereo field placement.
Versatile Connections and Controls
Each T Series monitor features a metal backplate with controls and analog input connections for professional systems. It accepts balanced XLR and unbalanced RCA inputs for +4 dBu or -10 dBV nominal levels. Each monitor has an individual level control for balancing output between left and right monitors. Two 3-way switches adjust high- and low-frequency responses by ±2 dB or select a flat response, adapting to room acoustics. The T5V, T7V, and T8V automatically accept AC voltages from 100 to 240 V (50/60 Hz) via the power switch.
Refer to Section 3 for an illustrated key to rear-panel features and Sections 4 and 5 for detailed explanations of connections and controls.
3. Optimal Placement of Your Monitors
The T Series monitors' compact size allows placement anywhere. For optimal sound, position them at ideal locations. As nearfield monitors, they should be placed on speaker stands, a console bridge, or a desktop close to your mix position (ideally about three feet away). This ensures direct sound from the monitors is louder than reflected sound, providing an accurate mix reference free from room coloration and phase cancellations.
Room symmetry is important. If your control room is asymmetrical (e.g., has an alcove), place the monitors at the symmetrical end of the room for the most balanced frequency response [See Fig. 1].
Ideally, position monitors pointing down the length of the room, with the rear wall as far as possible from your mix position [See Fig. 2]. This makes direct sound louder than reflected sound, minimizing comb filtering and preserving imaging.
To avoid unwanted bass boosts and dips, do not place each monitor equidistant from two or more boundaries (e.g., front and side walls, or wall and floor). For consistent bass response, place monitors in mirror images relative to nearby walls: the left monitor should be the same distance from the left wall as the right monitor is from the right wall, and both should be the same distance from the front wall. For the flattest bass response, place each monitor at least 16 inches from the nearest wall [See Fig. 3].
Monitor tweeters should be at ear level when you are at your mix position. If this is not feasible, angle the monitors up or down so the tweeters aim at your ears [See Fig. 4]. Using isolated speaker stands that allow tilt adjustment is recommended. These stands should "decouple" or acoustically isolate the cabinets from surfaces, preventing muddy upper-bass resonances.
To aim tweeters at your ears, toe-in the monitors to form an equilateral triangle with your ears when seated at your mix position [See Figs. 1, 2, and 3]. This setup, with the centerline between monitors facing you, provides a solid phantom center image, pinpoint track localization, excellent high-frequency detail, clear midrange, and even bass response.
4. Rear-Panel Features
The rear panel of each T Series monitor contains controls and input connections:
- [1] BASS-REFLEX PORT: Works with the woofer for flat and extended bass response.
- [2] HF SWITCH: Boosts or cuts high-frequency response by 2 dB. The "0" setting provides flat response.
- [3] LF SWITCH: Boosts or cuts low-frequency response by 2 dB. The "0" setting provides flat response.
- [4] LEVEL KNOB: Adjusts monitor volume. Clockwise increases, counterclockwise decreases. The "0dB" setting is optimal for most situations.
- [5] BAL. IN CONNECTOR: XLR connector for balanced audio input at nominal +4 dBu level. Pin 1 is ground, Pin 2 is positive (+), and Pin 3 is negative (-).
- [6] UNBAL. IN CONNECTOR: RCA connector for unbalanced audio input at nominal -10 dBV level.
- [7] +4dBu/-10dBV SWITCH: Selects input level. Use "+4dBu" for balanced XLR input and "-10dBV" for unbalanced RCA input.
- [8] POWER SWITCH: Turns the monitor on/off. A green LED indicates power is on.
- [9] POWER CONNECTOR: Standard three-prong IEC AC power receptacle for the detachable AC cord.
5. Audio Connections and Level Settings
T Series monitors have built-in amplifiers and require no external amplification. They can connect directly to mixing consoles and balanced/unbalanced I/O boxes for DAWs. They accept AC voltages from 100 to 240 V (50/60 Hz) automatically.
The rear panel features an XLR connector for balanced +4 dBu input and an RCA jack for unbalanced -10 dBV input. A switch selects which connector receives the input signal.
To begin using your T Series monitors:
- Ensure the power switch for each monitor is off and the Level control knob is set to "0dB". Also, turn off connected equipment and set their output levels down.
- For balanced +4 dBu audio from a mixer or I/O box, use the XLR connectors and set the +4dBu/-10dBV switches to "+4dBu".
- For unbalanced -10 dBV audio, use the RCA connectors and set the +4dBu/-10dBV switches to "-10dBV".
- After making all connections, turn on the equipment feeding the monitors.
- Turn on the power switch for each T Series monitor.
- Set the output level controls on the feeding equipment to their nominal level or your preferred setting.
- While playing audio, fine-tune the Level control knob on each monitor to achieve your desired listening volume. In a symmetrical room, the Level controls on both monitors should be set the same for equal playback volume and balanced imaging.
- All pro audio monitors require a burn-in period for optimal performance. Play complex material for at least eight hours before critical use.
- At the end of each session, turn off your T Series monitors before powering down connected equipment.
6. Using the HF and LF Switches on the Rear Panel
Two 3-way switches, "LF" and "HF," on the rear panel allow you to boost or cut the monitor's low- and high-frequency responses by 2 dB. The "0" position provides flat response. With optimal placement (see Section 2), both switches set to "0" will likely yield the most balanced sound.
Room acoustics affect loudspeaker performance. Sound reflections from walls and ceilings can cause echoes that distort imaging and phase response. Acoustic treatment (foam or fiberglass panels) absorbs sound, reducing these issues. However, these materials primarily absorb high and midrange frequencies. Heavily treated rooms might sound muffled in the treble range. The HF switch can boost high-frequency response by 2 dB to restore clarity and detail.
The "boundary effect" boosts bass frequencies when a loudspeaker is placed close to a boundary (wall, floor, ceiling). To maintain flat frequency response, place monitors at least 16 inches from any wall. This also prevents interference with the rear bass reflex ports. If placement requires being close to a wall, setting the LF switch to "-2dB" can compensate for the boosted bass and restore spectral balance.
LF Switch Guidelines:
- If placing monitors closer than 16 inches from a wall, set the LF switch to "-2dB" to compensate for naturally boosted bass frequencies.
- For exaggerated bass response, set the LF switch to "+2dB".
HF Switch Guidelines:
- In rooms heavily treated with absorptive materials, high frequencies might sound attenuated (dull). Set the HF switch to "+2dB" to restore high-frequency detail.
- In live, bright-sounding rooms, set the HF switch to "-2dB" to compensate for the room's acoustics.
7. Troubleshooting
If you experience issues like loss of signal, interference, or noise, perform these basic checks before contacting ADAM Audio or a representative:
No Signal or Distorted Signal:
- Problem Location: If all speakers are affected, the issue is likely with the audio source. If only one speaker is affected, the problem is likely with that speaker.
- Cables: Check and swap cables with known working ones. If the fault moves with the cables, a cable is likely the issue.
- Signal Source: Connect speakers directly to the source. Consider if another component (mixer, processor) in the signal path might be faulty.
Signal Present, but with Unwanted Noise (Buzzing, Humming, Crackling):
- Cables: Check and swap cables as described above.
- Electromagnetic Interference (EMI): Ensure no sources of EMI (mobile phones, wireless routers, power supplies, electrical motors, heaters) are near the speakers.
If problems persist, your speakers may be defective. Contact ADAM Audio or your local representative/distributor (see www.adam-audio.com for a list).
8. Maintenance
- Switch off monitors before cleaning.
- Be aware that speaker drivers generate a significant electromagnetic field. Keep magnetically sensitive items at least 0.5 meters (20 inches) away.
- Ensure no liquids enter the cabinet. Do not use wet cloths or spray cleaning fluids near the loudspeakers.
- Do not use flammable or acidic chemicals for cleaning.
- Avoid touching the loudspeaker cones; dust them lightly with a very soft brush if necessary.
- Use a lint-free, damp (not wet) cloth for general cleaning.
9. Shipping
Keep the original loudspeaker packaging if possible, for potential future repairs. Shipping without original packaging makes protecting the loudspeakers difficult and can lead to damage. ADAM Audio is not responsible for damages incurred due to improper packaging during transit.
10. Environmental Information
ADAM Audio products comply with international directives on RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) and WEEE (Waste Electrical/Electronic Equipment) disposal. For information on safe disposal, consult your local authorities.
11. EU Declaration of Conformity
ADAM Audio GmbH, Berlin, Germany, declares that the T5V, T7V, and T8V products comply with the EU Electro-Magnetic Compatibility (EMC) Directive 89/336/EEC, applying standards EN 55032, EN 61000-3-2/3, and EN 55103-2. They also comply with the EU General Product Safety 2001/95/EC, applying standard DIN EN60065 7th.ED/A1/A2. This declaration attests that manufacturing quality control and product documentation ensure continued compliance. Users are advised to consult the owner's manual for any special usage measures.
Christian Hellinger
Managing Director ADAM Audio GmbH
12. Warranty Terms
This warranty complements national/regional laws and does not affect statutory customer rights. It does not cover transportation, removal, installation costs, or risks. Products with altered or illegible serial numbers are excluded.
The regular warranty is two years from the date of purchase. Registering the product at www.adam-audio.com/en/my-adam grants an additional three-year guarantee (36 months).
The warranty does not cover damages caused by:
- Incorrect installation, connection, or packing.
- Use other than described in the user manual.
- Faulty or unsuitable ancillary equipment.
- Repairs or modifications by unauthorized persons.
- Accidents, lightning, water, fire, heat, public disturbances, or other causes beyond ADAM Audio's reasonable control.
How To Claim Repairs Under Warranty
Contact the ADAM Audio dealer where the product was purchased. If used outside the country of purchase, the owner is responsible for international shipping costs. Service may be provided by the national distributor, with the owner covering service costs but not parts costs. Visit www.adam-audio.com for distributor contact details.
To validate the warranty, a copy of the original sales invoice with the purchase date is required. Register your products to get the 5-year warranty!
13. Technical Data
| Feature | T5V | T7V | T8V |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tweeter | U-ART | U-ART | U-ART |
| Velocity transfer ratio | 4:1 | 4:1 | 4:1 |
| Equivalent diaphragm ø | 48 mm / 1.9" | 48 mm / 1.9" | 48 mm / 1.9" |
| Woofer | Polypropylene cone | Polypropylene cone | Polypropylene cone |
| Woofer diaphragm ø | 127 mm / 5" | 178 mm / 7" | 203 mm / 8" |
| Built-in amplifiers | 2 [Class D] | 2 [Class D] | 2 [Class D] |
| Tweeter channel | 20 W | 20 W | 20 W |
| Woofer channel | 50 W | 50 W | 70 W |
| Input Sensitivity | Switchable +4dBu / -10dBV | Switchable +4 dBu / -10 dBV | Switchable +4dBu / -10dBV |
| Frequency range | 45 Hz - 25 kHz | 39 Hz - 25 kHz | 33 Hz - 25 kHz |
| Max. peak SPL at 1 m per pair | 106 dB SPL | 110 dB SPL | 118 dB SPL |
| Crossover frequency | 3 kHz | 2.6 kHz | 2.6 kHz |
| User controls | Gain, Room EQ | Gain, Room EQ | Gain, Room EQ |
| Inputs | XLR, RCA | XLR, RCA | XLR, RCA |
| Weight | 5.7 kg / 12.6 lb | 7.1 kg / 15.7 lbs | 9.8 kg / 21.6 lb |
| Height x Width x Depth | 298 x 179 x 297 mm [11.7 x 7 x 11.7"] | 347 x 210 x 293 mm [13.7 x 8.3 x 11.5"] | 400 x 250 x 335 mm [15.8 x 9.8 x 13.2"] |
| AC Input Voltage | 100-240 VAC +/- 10% 50/60 Hz 132 W max | 100-240 VAC +/- 10% 50/60 Hz 132W max | 100-240 VAC +/- 10% 50/60 Hz 150W max |
Contact Information
ADAM Audio GmbH
Berlin, Germany
T: +49 30-863 00 97-0
F: +49 30-863 00 97-7
Email: info@adam-audio.com
ADAM Audio UK
Email: uk-info@adam-audio.com
ADAM Audio USA Inc.
Email: usa-info@adam-audio.com
Website: www.adam-audio.com
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T Series Manual © ADAM Audio GmbH 2020. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, ADAM Audio GmbH cannot be held responsible for errors or omissions.
