TAD Introduces ME1TX Standmount Loudspeaker with Hundreds of Enhancements
When TAD (Technical Audio Devices) dropped news about the ME1TX standmount loudspeaker, it certainly got the audiophile community buzzing. Building on the legacy of the well-regarded ME1 from 2016, TAD claims the ME1TX brings "hundreds of improvements" after "countless hours spent in the listening room." Naturally, curiosity peaked about what this successor brings to the table.
At first glance, the ME1TX sticks to a three-way design with an 85dB sensitivity, 4 Ohm nominal impedance, and weighing in at a hefty 21kg. But the magic lies in its Coherent Source Transducer (CST), where the tweeter and midrange driver are coaxially aligned. This isn't just a gimmick; the 2.5cm beryllium tweeter sits smack at the acoustic center of the 9cm midrange driver. This alignment aims for better-controlled directivity and more accurate phase alignment, which should, in theory, lead to a more cohesive soundstage.
The CST driver alone handles a wide frequency range from 420 Hz up to a staggering 60 kHz. TAD has put effort into ensuring the phase and directivity outputs of the tweeter and midrange are in sync, especially in the crossover region. This is supposed to achieve natural attenuation characteristics and a consistent directivity pattern across all bands.
Speaking of the tweeter, it's crafted from a "light yet rigid" 2.5cm beryllium diaphragm, made using TAD's proprietary vapor deposition technique. They've also applied their Harmonized Synthetic Diaphragm Optimum Method (HSDOM) in designing its shape. This method is about precisely controlling the diaphragm's vibrations, both divided and piston motions, to extend the frequency response cleanly up to 60 kHz.
The midrange driver isn't left out either. It's a newly developed magnesium alloy diaphragm boasting high internal loss characteristics. The combination of anodization and a special coating on its surface adds both hardness and damping. TAD mentions they've also suppressed even the tiniest resonances from the voice coil lead-out wiring, aiming for clear and distortion-free mids. Plus, they've beefed up the frame basket's arm design for greater structural strength and smoother sound wave propagation behind the diaphragm.
Down low, the 16cm woofer utilizes a Multi-layered Aramid Composite Cone (MACC) diaphragm. This setup layers woven aramid fabric with non-woven fabric of different materials, aiming for rich, clear bass without coloration bleeding into the midrange. The Linear Drive Magnet Circuit (LDMC) coupled with a corrugated surround made of foamed polycarbonate contributes to enhanced linearity and deeper bass response. Again, TAD has redesigned the woofer basket's arm for increased strength to handle the woofer's powerful movements and to facilitate smoother airflow behind the diaphragm.
Another notable feature is TAD's bidirectional ADS (Aero-Dynamic Slot) port. They’ve cleverly integrated slit-shaped ports on both side panels of the enclosure with flared openings to the front and rear. This design is said to allow smoother airflow, reducing port noise during large amplitudes and suppressing internal standing waves from leaking out. In terms of the cabinet itself, TAD employs their Structurally Inert Laminated Enclosure Technology (SILENT). This involves using birch-plywood braces to reinforce the medium-density fiberboard (MDF) enclosure. Additionally, they've bolstered the side panels with 5mm-thick internal steel plates for extra rigidity and resonance control.
For those considering aesthetics, the ME1TX comes in both black and a new silver white finish. The price points are €17,300 for black and €17,500 for silver white. If you're wondering about stands, TAD offers the optional ST3TX stands at €2,800 in black and €2,900 in silver white. Shipping is slated to begin in May 2025.
All in all, the ME1TX seems like a serious contender for those seeking high-end bookshelf speakers. With TAD's reputation and the wealth of technical advancements poured into this model, it's definitely one to keep an eye (and ear) on.
