KDS C55 Reference Debuts Coaxial 2.5-Way Design & 350W Power for Pro Studio Monitoring
Making waves among nearfield monitoring setups, the KDS C55 Reference introduces a coaxial 2.5-way design that seems equally at home in both horizontal and vertical configurations. The heart of this system consists of a dedicated 5.5-inch woofer for the lows, coupled with another 5.5-inch driver and a 1-inch tweeter sharing the same axis for mid and high frequency reproduction. From a listening perspective, this approach can foster more consistent imaging across varying positions, offering a point source clarity that plenty have been seeking for intricate mix decisions.
Behind the scenes, the C55 Reference sports 350 W of power, enabling a maximum of 108 dB SPL while covering frequencies from 35 Hz up to 22 kHz. These technical attributes are intended to handle critical tasks in small to medium-sized production spaces, whether placed on stands or nestled into studio desktops. Some appreciate how this power rating fits scenarios that call for precise transient responses and a strong low-end definition without overextending the sweet spot.
To further refine performance, the built-in FIRTEC DSP is designed with 24-bit/192 kHz AD/DA conversion, allowing options to adjust crossover points, gain, driver delay, and high or low filters. This design aims to accommodate different acoustic settings without guesswork, aided by parametric EQ capabilities for precise calibration. Taking advantage of the coaxial alignment, the DSP can help mitigate phase concerns, laying the groundwork for reliable monitoring even in more challenging spaces.
In practical use cases, the versatile orientation can prove beneficial for post-production tasks, immersive audio setups, or straightforward music mixing. The coaxial approach, combined with carefully honed DSP parameters, suggests a balanced performance that caters to both sonic detail and creative workflow. For those seeking a scalable system that handles everyday mixing needs and beyond, the C55 Reference offers a notable entry into the professional studio monitor lineup.
