Looks like you are the first to review these in English, thank you! I've only come across Japanese reviews previously. Despite the lack of professional opinion, I purchased them last weekend and liking what I hear thus far.
Great review, right on! Adam created some great competition for other brands to include built-in USB audio to their monitors as a standard now which is quite overdue haha
I thought the D3V's were a little thin in the mid range so I turned my crossover up to 145hz and that cleaned these up really nicely. Couldn't be happier.
@@gibson2623 and from where, my audio source is a wiim ultra (working as a DAC/audio interface for my PC, with extra features rather than as a streamer), it has sub-out and crossover, on a slider. The wiim amp (for passive speakers) also has sub-out (for an active sub). SMSL has devices with crossover, too, but Wiim has more features. Some desktops have sub-out so you can do it over software, but I haven't. I'm sure there are reddit threads and YT videos to explain it.
Great review! Thank you for being honest and transparent. I'm looking to get rid of my old Dynaudio BM-6A's (size has become an issue moving around in Europe). I met Klaus Heinz briefly at an LA AES show when he premiered his speakers...this was like 1998 or something. He basically just had a table and barely any marketing materials. Out of all the booths I visited, they were the best speakers I had heard that day, but out of my price range and went for my trusty Dynaudios. Now I can get a pair ADAMs within budget and the right size. No bass out is a bummer, but I can find other ways to reference that.
Just got a pair of the D3Vs at the studio and I will be sending them back. The build is great, very solid, practical, the features are nice but they sound very muffled. I'm not sure if I have a faulty unit or not but no matter the volume they lack clarity and the crossovers sound weird. I tried them in both my professional studio, fully treated, alongside genelec 8351s as well as the room where I wanted to use them that's furnished but not treated and they sound ever more muffled and unintelligible than my TV... Tried TRS, USB C, tried every tweaks but nope. I expected some clear, even harsh highs because that's how I usually feel with Adam ribbon tweeter, but nope. The low end is very powerful however, and the mids are ok.
Same thing here. I cannot get these things to sound good. The volume knob also acts weird as it doesn't drive the volume up until getting to the third dot. Makes no sense but I won't be waiting for a firmware update to maybe fix these speakers.
It's worth mentioning that if one wanted to use a sub with the D3Vs, something like the Adam Audio T10S would be ideal. Run your mains to the sub input and then the outputs from the sub to the D3Vs. Choose your sub's crossover and phase that sounds best, adjust level to taste. Sweetwater actually sells the D3V + T10S as a bundle.
@@Jasper_Tech Do you mean you can't use the USB if you go the sub route? What would be the purpose of needing the USB input if you are using the sub to port audio instead? New to this and considering picking these up, but I would need a sub since I like bass and these would be for content consumption.
The main benefit is USB is a digital signal, so there is no opportunity for interference. Apart from that, if you’re able to have your signal enter your sub via an analog source and then your sub can filter and output a signal to the D3V, then that’s fine. Many people use analogue inputs with no issues.
Hi Jasper, I came back to this video just because I got the Edifier M60 as a present to my father for christmas. You need to try them... I couldn't do a comparisson to my ORAS but I could say they are not far, having in mind the price. Pros:The built-in DAC is better than the ORAs and it got LDAC codec as well (something missing in the ORAs). Extremely similar size and very very recomendable as computer speaker. Cons: No sub out, the stands are stupidly silver and you can't swap sides (Issue in common with the iLouds and the ORAs) I'm not going to say that the sound is better than the ORAs, but by far more similar to them than to the iLouds micro. It is kind of natural sound. I think the bass is better (more defined) in the other two even more in the iLouds, but as I said I couldn't compare. If you put all this together knowing that the price is 160 Euros/pounds I think it is a no brainer. Merry Christmas and happy new year!!
Seen the adam d3v introduction video at the trade show before they hit the market, knew there were going to be. Great a bang for the buck product, even thought about doing a review on em .. You did a fantastic job you covered mostly everything on this monitor but didnt cover this one thing the multi function volume push switch for muting & for input source selection, it's a nice lil feature.. Great work jasper, i didnt know about kanto or vanatoo audio at all. truly liked how you described the diffrence in the ribbon performace over a dome tweeter performance in this video great work...
Great review! I'd love to see the speakers in action on a desk while you talk about them in future reviews. It would give an idea of the footprint and look :)
These Adams look perfect for my needs. For studio engineer but now do video editing and need good sounding speakers for mixing the video audio. I remember a pair of Adams sounding legit.
Thank you! That ORA video was pretty brutal with the lighting. Was trying to get it filmed before work at 6am and didn’t have the right equipment. I’m slowly figuring it out 💪
Thanks for reviewing these. Just subbed. I see you've improved your lighting and setup since the iLoud Pro video from just a month ago. Video looks professional! Nice work.
great video man! I love the way you deliver, very digestible and easy to understand. I just checked out the d3v at a music expo recently so I was curious to get other people's opinions!
I've had AudioEngine A2's for 6-7 years but the audio just started getting brief dropouts for the first time and I'm still investigating the cause. (It could be a cable or the computer, not sure yet.) But I've loved them. They seem most comparable to these Adams in price and perhaps sound, and I'm keeping an eye on reviews/comparisons in case I need to make a purchase soon.
Thank you! I’m trying to find the right balance when I talk about technical topics so it’s accessible to as many people as possible (while hopefully not putting off the experts). 🙏
I was skeptical about the whole "passive radiator" tech until I bought a JBL Charge 5. It has one on each end and the bass is outstanding on that speaker.
I just got my Adam Audio D3V's hooked up this afternoon, and with a little EQ, they are spectaculalr! The will replace the Adam Audio T5V's as my desktop solution.
@@brochg if these things werent a problem, which one would you prefer? which one sound best? Im afraid of them no sounding full enough as a bigger monitor
Interesting.. I have a pair of T5Vs at my desk that I love I'm actually looking at the D3Vs for a small, portable set of monitors at in the lounge room on the coffee table for when I'm sitting on the lounge with groove boxes.
I plan to pair the Adam D3V’s with the IKmulti arc studio monitor calibration system which is the same tech used inside the iloud pros. This should give incredible results offering the best of both worlds! You should review the Arc Studio calibration system!
I have the ARC studio system sitting on my desk! I’m toying with the idea of doing a bunch of videos with it where I’d put all my studio monitors through it and show the before/after frequency response charts. What do you think?
The whole point of these is that they are portable though I suppose and can easily be set up on the go. They've also engineered in as much tech as possible to negate the need for subwoofer going down to 45hz. I use a subwoofer with every pair of monitors I own but these, I wouldn't use one because they aren't designed for that. If you want a subwoofer and a less portable setup, get some T5V and a T10S subwoofer, thats a solid 'budget-friendly' setup! Equally, using the balanced inputs on the back, you could pair up a studio subwoofer quite easily, the same way you would with any other monitors using 1/4" TRS leads to XLR in the Adam's and then XLR from your subwoofer to your interface.
Great video. I have a question. Iloud MTM MkII or ADAM D3V ? Wich do sound better? Forget about the price tag. I was about to buying the ilouds when i discovered this Adams and now i have doubts.
Hey Jasper, I did the exact same thing a few years back and just bought a tonne of nearfiled monitors to trial myself - it was a load of work; so thank you for these videos! I wanted to ask your thoughts on the ora, dv3, and i loud’s for at home production. I already have a pair of Adam’s that I love for their ribbon tweeter. So I am really interested in this new desktop version for a working room at home (music/film production). I thought the D3V’s would be what I’d get, but I really like the idea of having a reference pair of monitors that I can use for work that I just want to come back to for everything; the ora’s! The ora’s sound less like work (with listening fatigue) and more like fun, which might help with the creative space. That being said, I rent where I live and can’t really adapt the room to be fully treated, so the ilouds might be the way to go. Could you advise on what you think, as it sounds like you have a similar setup - (an audio heavy work room from your apartment). Thanks again, and you have a new subscriber!
This is a fair point. My thought is these are desktop monitors and USB-C will be most frequently used source. Under that configuration it will be a pain to use them with a sub. But you’re right, if you’re using the analogue inputs then using a sub with the appropriate filter/output config would get the job done.
Thanks. You beat everyone else to the punch in reviewing these. Getting mine on Friday in white. Is it possible to run an input into a sub that has outs to the speakers. I might be wrong, but I think Genelec has an F One sub where the signal can go first to the sub and then out to the speakers?
Nice job on the review. I have an old pair of Kano YU3's for desktop reference and am looking to replace them. I heard the Adam's at the recent AES show in NY and they really are incredible. Now I'm torn between the iLoud and the Adam's. Biggest problem for both is no way to add a sub (which I already have for the Kanto's). I guess you could use a cable splitter. Anyhow, good luck with the channel.
I have the Vanatoos as computer speakers, but got them on sale for like $325. I've been thinking about selling them just to try something new and hopefully better. How would you say the D3Vs compare in base, mid-range, treble and sound stage? Thanks!
Thanks for going over the ported vs radiator bass. I currently have Adam A3x and these D3V are not really an upgrade (4.5" vs 3.5" drivers), but they are certainly interesting! I wonder why D3V ribbon tweeters extend to 23kHz, while A3x extend to 50kHz though.
Pretty cool review! I totally agree, these compact speakers are INCREDIBLE!!! As a music producer on a tight budget, these are the most AFFORDABLE and impeccable sounding monitoring speakers thus far! Definitely agree about the legedary @adamaudio ribbon tweeters, they add that special sparkle and sweet high end, something you don't get with normal circular tweeters. As someone whom had been using the famous @jlbpro LR 305 MKII speakers, these are just as good and even better than those, especially in the size and BIG SOUND! Let me tell ya'll, those passive radiator are the game changing tech for speakers of this form factor. Most producers, audio engineers like to stay away from speakers that contain drivers smaller than 5"! Why? Because the smaller the driver, the less bass and impact you'll recieve. Well don't worry about that HERE..these bad boys have such a HUGE impact, despite these the chart showing a dip past 47-45hz? Is it SUBWOOFER CRAZY?!?, well NO..but dayum, the bass here is nothing to scoff at here. I am constantly blown away and suprised when watching YT music production videos and listening to the Hard Techno-Trance genre of Music! The bass is definitely TIGHT and PUNCHY! Oh how they are very impressive. I knew that as soon as I saw the announcement for these, and watched their introductory video, I had to have a pair! I've been without my JBL's for some time and was needing more compact monitors. I'm so so glad I was able to get them, as for me, they are LIFE changing speakers.
Hey, do you have any plans of reviewing the Edifier MR4? I would be really interested if the 4 times higher price of the Kanto Ora are worth it over these. Thansk for all this videos
Interesting that your video showed up on my feed as I was looking at these monitors for my new studio setup. Nice review of these small footprint monitors. I actually use the iLoud monitors at the moment and looking to upgrade. Is your channel music production or audio tech? Anyway, I just subscribed and good luck!
great video! i watched it because i just moved and i cannot use my passive speakers for djiing (too big, too loud) would the d3v be a good option or should i maybe consider something else price point is totally ok for my budget
A bit late response, but I want to make a little remark. I will replace my old studio monitors with this new D3V's. For me they are the "best of both worlds", because I already have the ARC Studio (that little metal box), so I now can combine the room correction from the iLoud monitor range, with the quality of the Adam 3DV. I think it will be a great combination. In short - the ARC room correction system that is build in in the iLoud series can be combined with any monitor by using the ARC Studio box. You don't need a plug in, and can switch between active and non-active with one push of a button. I can't wait until my new (white) 3DV's arrive to give it a good test run.
@@VamIy I can say that the Arc Studio works perfectly with those Adam 3DV. It's difficult to describe without actually hearing of course, but he sound is far more open and more detailed. The lows are surprisingly good, and not muffled like with other combinations. Al in all I am very pleased with the setup. What it would do in your case I cannot tell. It all depends on the room, the placing and the treatment (or non-treatment) that is already been done. So - Sadly you have to make your own decision. The only thing that is really annoying about the Adam's is that they go in stand-by if they not longer receive a signal within 20 minutes. That time is in my experience far too short. If you go away to make some coffee and read some post, the monitors are silent when you got back. Lucky enough the guy's at Adam have said there is a firmware update around the corner that will let you set that stand-by to after a hour or even disable stand-by completely. They also seem to address some weird frequency response at very low levels. I have not encountered that one, but it's nice to see they tackle more than one problem at a time.
@@jclosed2516 In my case I have the regular Micro version without Arc room correction so I can't use it on Adam. I don't know if it's worth it. Sometimes I think we take this hobby too far ha-ha I had a lot of headphones before and I was chasing better and better sound until I realized that beyond 200-300$ there is nothing normal for my money, let's say headphones for 1000$ will not sound 3 times better than headphones for 300$ unfortunately the difference between them will probably not be more than 30-40%.
@@VamIy Yeah - Only you can decide what level of hobby can still be called hobby. In my case I actually have several hobby's and music/sound creation is only one of them (I also do electronics, 3D design and 3D printing and Holograpy, using special film and Laser technology). So I made my setup not too complicated. As said I now have the Adam 3DV White, Arc Studio, Motu M4 soundcard, a KRK KNS-8402 for headphones, and a Arturia Keystep 37 for input. That's enough for my needs to be honest.
If you had a sub on either these or the Kanto Ora, which would be better for just listening to music? Currently have the ADAM Audio D3V but not sure if I should have gotten the Kanto Ora instead.
@@phillip3330 I hear you. It’s definitely possible, but if you want to use the USB-C input (like I think many will) then it’s just going to be a bit more annoying to set up the filters etc.
@@taytaymadethebeat I would get something like the Presonus Sub8BT, which has passthrough and a HPF. So instead of sending audio directly to the Adams, you'll send it to the subwoofer either via bluetooth or analog through your USB audiointerface (if you have one). And then via TRS cables to the Adams. Then enable the HPF on the sub, so the Adams only have to deal with +80Hz.
How about directionality? I found the MTMs are only good if your sitting within a sweet spot compared the micros which seem to have a wider sound dispersion, and therefore more suitable as a general purpose speaker system for guitar modellers and synths .
fantastic review! subscribed to your channel...very interesting reviews already! ... in terms of sound (not price) do you prefer the iloud mtm or these ADAM Audio D3V? I know the ilouds are considerably more expensive but I would be willing to invest on those if the clarity and neutrality is better. would be using them when Not in my studio, for mixing jazz and classical music. Thanks in advance if you can share your input!
If price is not a factor, I’d go with the MTM’s. The main reason is if you’re really looking for a neutral response, the active room correction (ARC) in the iLoud products is really impressive. ILoud makes quality products and I’m impressed by their software in addition to their hardware. amzn.to/4eyKmEV
I'm so curious how all your speakers compare to the Genelec 8010A - I've heard so much about those and I'm very close to buying them. Will you test them anytime soon?
Those are very different speakers. The LSX are for filling a room and are not intended to be studio monitors; they have nearly every connectivity option possible. The D3V are for near field listening and are intended to have a neutral sound response and only have two input options. They are both excellent, but both very different.
I would hope KEF sound better for being more than 4x the price. BUT if you have a subwoofer and can do crossover to pass everything under 145hz to the subwoofer, then the D3V's will give you an experience good enough you won't be able to tell the difference. You could get D3V's new, a Wiim Ultra streamer as a DAC/amp with crossover and an app, and an subwoofer (I have an audio engine S8 for 350), and get MUCH better sound than you would buying just KEF LSX speakers.
I have a quick question since I am heavily considering getting the Adam Audio, there were another pair of speakers that I was interested in and I was wondering if you ever had a chance to check them out. I was wondering how this would fare with the Tannoy gold 7. Thank you.
Hey man, just looking through your videos regarding kanto speakers and wondered if you could help advise/opinion? Was original looking at the audioengines, but then I read about the kanto Oras (I want something small, so it can’t be the Ora 4’s) Now….i am fully apply ecosystem, but I want a speaker or speaker(s) for my desk setup (MacBook and dual monitors) The big question, are the ora’s way better sound wise than the HomePod? (The big HomePod, ie £300) With the oras I’d obviously have these either side of my desk, HomePod would be bang in the middle There’s currently an offer on the oras which makes them £50 cheaper than the HomePod. Please help me out 🤣 be much appreciated. From someone who has tested both, is there a noticeable performance increase from the ora’s? Thanks a lot :)
Great review! I haven't heard of these before. I have the iLoud Micros and love them, but am always looking for the next best thing, it's a sickness lol. Any idea of the approximate length of the speaker-to-speaker cable? The iLoud's are 6 ft. I think, and it get's frustrating in certain setups like my dual monitor setup. Had to put one in-between the two monitors because of the cable length.
Hi, I emailed Adam audio about cable lengths, here’s their reply:- The power cable is 2,5 meters long and can be extended just like any other power cable. The loudspeaker link cable has the length of 2 meters. It cannot be extended. The USB-C cable is 1,5 meters long. USB-C max length is specified as 2 m and the D3V can support that. HTH 🔊
@ Hey, thanks for doing that, and the information! I didn’t see the cable lengths in any of the spec sheets. Great idea to email them directly 👍. It’s too bad about the proprietary speaker interconnect cable, but good information to have. Although it makes sense, as these are ultra near field speakers and not ment to be spread out so wide. Thanks again..
Great review. I will consider these for my next purchase. The aesthetics of the Adam could use a little improvement though. Also it would be cool to have a compact 3 way speaker. Don't you think? Like the Kef LSX with an additional woofer, a mini Kef R3 Meta if you will.
That would be cool! Barefoot Sound make some really cool speakers that have a tweeter, woofer, and sub all in one cabinet. Check out the Barefoot Sound Footprint03
looking at these D3V for a ps5 setup would they work ? i dont mind how they sound aslong as its clear sound i have big subs already so dont mind if theres not so much bass, never heard studio speakers in person so just wondering would these be alright to plug and go on a ps5.... i have pc so i can always set them up to that if they dont work on ps5
I just got these and I like most things about them but there's one big CON that you didn't mention. These speakers go to sleep after 20 minutes of no sound and they do not wake up automatically. You need to press the volume knob to wake them. If you use them as computer speakers you'll miss any audio notifications unless you have something constantly playing in the background. I checked the manually and this is the expected behavior. I hope Adam is able to fix this via firmware otherwise I'll need to return them.
Hi @ronalcasid3844, We’ve heard your feedback about the sleep mode on the D3V, and we’re happy to share that the next firmware update will address this. The standby activation time will be extended from 20 to 60 minutes, and you’ll also have the option to completely deactivate the automatic standby. We’re always working to improve our products, so thank you for helping us enhance your experience with the D3V. All the best from Berlin! Daniel
@@ronalcasid3844 Thanks for your feedback, and great to hear that you appreciate the solution. An auto wake function is not possible without a hardware redesign, but we'll keep your suggestion in mind. All the best, and thanks for choosing ADAMs!
Hi, i think you should check out the new Edifier M60. It has a similar pleasing aesthetic as the a2+ or YU2. Sounded similar or even superior to both and cost just a fraction of the price
I have a pair of Edifier 1580. Could you please tell me, what kind of improvement could I expect from these? Edifier 1580 is a little big for my on my desk too. + what is generally better for PC desktop listening experience. 1+1 stereo or 2 + 1 sub set up ?
Thanks for the great review Jasper. I already ordered the D3V since Ora4 are not available in Japan, where I live. Since you said they sound very neutral, I am bit worried they would not be ideal for me as I would use them to listen to music at audiophile level ( hi res audio from Qobuz/Apple Music) using usb-c. Do you think I can still use something like an external streamer, like WiiM mini/pro to adjust the eq of the speakers?
What fixed these speakers for me was using the crossover function on my Wiim Ultra to send everything under 145hz to the subwoofer. The mids are much fuller and more detailed, they match the top end.
After trying the big brothers with ribbon tweeters I will never use anything else than Adam speakers with ribbon tweeters. They are perfect, especially for rock music.
▶ ADAM Audio D3V
amzn.to/4fDLisK
▶ Kanto ORA
amzn.to/3YAA2GI
▶ Kanto ORA4
amzn.to/4fHuvoM
▶ iLoud Micro Monitor
amzn.to/3YFxN4Z
▶ iLoud Micro Monitor Pro
amzn.to/3O18vcv
▶ iLoud MTM MKII
amzn.to/4hT1sAy
▶ Vanatoo Transparent Zero Plus
amzn.to/3UJhEdD
Looks like you are the first to review these in English, thank you! I've only come across Japanese reviews previously. Despite the lack of professional opinion, I purchased them last weekend and liking what I hear thus far.
Same here…blind buy…was looking for the iLoud mk2, but these might be better for a hobbits
A pair of D3V's just arrived today. Really impressed so far. Nice review.
I've been waiting for these to become available. Thanks to your link, I just ordered them for 2-day delivery. Yahoo!
Great review, right on! Adam created some great competition for other brands to include built-in USB audio to their monitors as a standard now which is quite overdue haha
Just got my D3V and it sounds amazing man specially the switches at the back is a very useful feature to get a decent sound in an untreated room.
Love to hear it!!
@@Jasper_Tech Thoughts on Yahama HS3 and HS4?
RARELY do you find audio-related reviews that are 100% informative + entertaining and 0% bs. Subscribed !!
Thank you 🙏🙏
Found your channel about two days before these were announced on instagram and been waiting for your review since. Thanks!
I thought the D3V's were a little thin in the mid range so I turned my crossover up to 145hz and that cleaned these up really nicely. Couldn't be happier.
Which crossover? From where? You mean you EQed the sound before going into the speakers?
@@gibson2623 Yeah, the D3V's don't play any frequency under 162 now and my subwoofer takes over from there. 10/10 experience.
@@jjoohhhnn Oh, nice one mate. Thanks for the explanation :)
@@gibson2623 and from where, my audio source is a wiim ultra (working as a DAC/audio interface for my PC, with extra features rather than as a streamer), it has sub-out and crossover, on a slider. The wiim amp (for passive speakers) also has sub-out (for an active sub). SMSL has devices with crossover, too, but Wiim has more features. Some desktops have sub-out so you can do it over software, but I haven't. I'm sure there are reddit threads and YT videos to explain it.
Good luck with the channel 👏👏👏
Great review! Thank you for being honest and transparent. I'm looking to get rid of my old Dynaudio BM-6A's (size has become an issue moving around in Europe). I met Klaus Heinz briefly at an LA AES show when he premiered his speakers...this was like 1998 or something. He basically just had a table and barely any marketing materials. Out of all the booths I visited, they were the best speakers I had heard that day, but out of my price range and went for my trusty Dynaudios. Now I can get a pair ADAMs within budget and the right size. No bass out is a bummer, but I can find other ways to reference that.
Been waiting for a review of these! Exactly what I want from a pair of monitors
Agreed - they did an AMAZING JOB with these.
Hvala!
This is so kind - thank you 🙏
Thank you Jasper. Best review. Subscribed.
Just got a pair of the D3Vs at the studio and I will be sending them back. The build is great, very solid, practical, the features are nice but they sound very muffled. I'm not sure if I have a faulty unit or not but no matter the volume they lack clarity and the crossovers sound weird. I tried them in both my professional studio, fully treated, alongside genelec 8351s as well as the room where I wanted to use them that's furnished but not treated and they sound ever more muffled and unintelligible than my TV... Tried TRS, USB C, tried every tweaks but nope. I expected some clear, even harsh highs because that's how I usually feel with Adam ribbon tweeter, but nope.
The low end is very powerful however, and the mids are ok.
Same thing here. I cannot get these things to sound good. The volume knob also acts weird as it doesn't drive the volume up until getting to the third dot. Makes no sense but I won't be waiting for a firmware update to maybe fix these speakers.
great review well done am a Kanto Ora fan and look forward to you reviewing the new Kanto REN speaker cheers from Canada
It's worth mentioning that if one wanted to use a sub with the D3Vs, something like the Adam Audio T10S would be ideal. Run your mains to the sub input and then the outputs from the sub to the D3Vs. Choose your sub's crossover and phase that sounds best, adjust level to taste. Sweetwater actually sells the D3V + T10S as a bundle.
Good call out! My issue with this is approach is now you can’t use the digital input, which I suspect many will be using.
@@Jasper_Tech True enough. I'm more interested in using balanced mains out from my audio interface.
Fair! In that case, what you’re proposing makes sense
@@Jasper_Tech Do you mean you can't use the USB if you go the sub route? What would be the purpose of needing the USB input if you are using the sub to port audio instead? New to this and considering picking these up, but I would need a sub since I like bass and these would be for content consumption.
The main benefit is USB is a digital signal, so there is no opportunity for interference. Apart from that, if you’re able to have your signal enter your sub via an analog source and then your sub can filter and output a signal to the D3V, then that’s fine. Many people use analogue inputs with no issues.
Hi Jasper,
I came back to this video just because I got the Edifier M60 as a present to my father for christmas. You need to try them... I couldn't do a comparisson to my ORAS but I could say they are not far, having in mind the price.
Pros:The built-in DAC is better than the ORAs and it got LDAC codec as well (something missing in the ORAs). Extremely similar size and very very recomendable as computer speaker.
Cons: No sub out, the stands are stupidly silver and you can't swap sides (Issue in common with the iLouds and the ORAs)
I'm not going to say that the sound is better than the ORAs, but by far more similar to them than to the iLouds micro. It is kind of natural sound. I think the bass is better (more defined) in the other two even more in the iLouds, but as I said I couldn't compare.
If you put all this together knowing that the price is 160 Euros/pounds I think it is a no brainer.
Merry Christmas and happy new year!!
I'm trying to choose between D3V and Kanto Ora4. Which one do you think I should choose? Thank you.
Definitely one of the best reviews out there. 👍
Thank you!
Dope. Was hoping you'd review these!
Seen the adam d3v introduction video at the trade show before they hit the market, knew there were going to be. Great a bang for the buck product, even thought about doing a review on em .. You did a fantastic job you covered mostly everything on this monitor but didnt cover this one thing the multi function volume push switch for muting & for input source selection, it's a nice lil feature.. Great work jasper, i didnt know about kanto or vanatoo audio at all. truly liked how you described the diffrence in the ribbon performace over a dome tweeter performance in this video great work...
Haven't clicked on a video this fast in a while! - Thanks for the review
Great review! I'd love to see the speakers in action on a desk while you talk about them in future reviews. It would give an idea of the footprint and look :)
Sweet review. Definitely appreciated you saying you’re not just a hype beast. May it last!
I’m a music listener and your point about who really needs studio monitors did make me think
These Adams look perfect for my needs. For studio engineer but now do video editing and need good sounding speakers for mixing the video audio. I remember a pair of Adams sounding legit.
I can't wait for them! Helpful vid thanks JT 👊
Great review, Jasper! Subscribed!
Kali Audio LP-UNF seems like good competition for these! Dayton audio also has a new line of powered monitors that i'd like to know more about...
Love the new setup in your latest videos. Lighting is better too - congrats!
Thank you! That ORA video was pretty brutal with the lighting. Was trying to get it filmed before work at 6am and didn’t have the right equipment. I’m slowly figuring it out 💪
Had not heard of these. Very compelling. Love my iloud micro and really want the Mtm as well. Add this to the list haha
Thanks for reviewing these. Just subbed. I see you've improved your lighting and setup since the iLoud Pro video from just a month ago. Video looks professional! Nice work.
Thx for the video. I'm between iLoud Pro and Adam (for traveling).
one iLoud MTM then? Quality sound in single, this price range and portability
@@AchtungNow just one speaker?
@@ProfessorSaibertin yes, they are a separate units, you can buy just one 🙂
Nice review! Thanks for mentioning the bias towards "pro" equipment, even when that's actually not the best fit for everyone!
I like your reviews (and the amount of speakers you have 😅)
Nice job I like the style of your Channel keep up the good work I just subscribed
great video man! I love the way you deliver, very digestible and easy to understand. I just checked out the d3v at a music expo recently so I was curious to get other people's opinions!
Thank you for the kind words 🙏🙏
Great content and detail! Subbed!
Great video, well-explained
Great video as i was wondering about this product versus the IK Multimedia ones
I've had AudioEngine A2's for 6-7 years but the audio just started getting brief dropouts for the first time and I'm still investigating the cause. (It could be a cable or the computer, not sure yet.) But I've loved them. They seem most comparable to these Adams in price and perhaps sound, and I'm keeping an eye on reviews/comparisons in case I need to make a purchase soon.
thank you for the quick review
Really like your way of talking about speakers! Coming from a person who dosen't basically understand anything about speakers lol :)
Thank you! I’m trying to find the right balance when I talk about technical topics so it’s accessible to as many people as possible (while hopefully not putting off the experts). 🙏
I was skeptical about the whole "passive radiator" tech until I bought a JBL Charge 5. It has one on each end and the bass is outstanding on that speaker.
Desktop TUK - I dig it. Loved your explanations.
Thank you, Jasper.
Fantastic video, thanks for the knowledge!
Very good review style. You got yourself a sub.
Thank you for the video! really helpful
which have the better bass? the ora original or the d3v? Thanks for the video btw! you're awesome
Is there a pair of speakers which have an optional subwoofer out? i have a spare sub lying around ide like to make use of.
I just got my Adam Audio D3V's hooked up this afternoon, and with a little EQ, they are spectaculalr! The will replace the Adam Audio T5V's as my desktop solution.
why are u replacing the t5v?
@ The extra equipment needed, alongside the much larger size of the T5V’s are why they are going to go.
@@brochg if these things werent a problem, which one would you prefer? which one sound best? Im afraid of them no sounding full enough as a bigger monitor
Interesting.. I have a pair of T5Vs at my desk that I love
I'm actually looking at the D3Vs for a small, portable set of monitors at in the lounge room on the coffee table for when I'm sitting on the lounge with groove boxes.
@@iluvj00 If space and the extra gear wasn’t an issue, the T5V’s are better.
I plan to pair the Adam D3V’s with the IKmulti arc studio monitor calibration system which is the same tech used inside the iloud pros. This should give incredible results offering the best of both worlds! You should review the Arc Studio calibration system!
I have the ARC studio system sitting on my desk!
I’m toying with the idea of doing a bunch of videos with it where I’d put all my studio monitors through it and show the before/after frequency response charts. What do you think?
Can you add Edifier M60 in your review also?
Another great video. No sub out? I was really considering these until seeing that.
The whole point of these is that they are portable though I suppose and can easily be set up on the go. They've also engineered in as much tech as possible to negate the need for subwoofer going down to 45hz. I use a subwoofer with every pair of monitors I own but these, I wouldn't use one because they aren't designed for that. If you want a subwoofer and a less portable setup, get some T5V and a T10S subwoofer, thats a solid 'budget-friendly' setup!
Equally, using the balanced inputs on the back, you could pair up a studio subwoofer quite easily, the same way you would with any other monitors using 1/4" TRS leads to XLR in the Adam's and then XLR from your subwoofer to your interface.
@@GizmoNETwork Thanks for the helpful response. I already had a Kanto 8Sub so I went with the new Kanto ORA4s. Really impressed with the setup so far.
Great video J...
THANKS< BEEN WAITING FOR THIS VIDEO!
great video!
I am so ready to trade in my krks for these. Trying to make my setup super compact and these check all the boxes
Just a correction subwoofer out is a consumer feature. With studio monitors the inputs are recieved from the subwoofer. You dont need a SW out
Great video. I have a question. Iloud MTM MkII or ADAM D3V ? Wich do sound better? Forget about the price tag. I was about to buying the ilouds when i discovered this Adams and now i have doubts.
I am currently in the same position right now. I just discovered them a few minutes ago after comparing the iloud MTM MK II
Cool vid, keep it up!
Hey Jasper, I did the exact same thing a few years back and just bought a tonne of nearfiled monitors to trial myself - it was a load of work; so thank you for these videos!
I wanted to ask your thoughts on the ora, dv3, and i loud’s for at home production. I already have a pair of Adam’s that I love for their ribbon tweeter. So I am really interested in this new desktop version for a working room at home (music/film production). I thought the D3V’s would be what I’d get, but I really like the idea of having a reference pair of monitors that I can use for work that I just want to come back to for everything; the ora’s! The ora’s sound less like work (with listening fatigue) and more like fun, which might help with the creative space. That being said, I rent where I live and can’t really adapt the room to be fully treated, so the ilouds might be the way to go.
Could you advise on what you think, as it sounds like you have a similar setup - (an audio heavy work room from your apartment).
Thanks again, and you have a new subscriber!
The Adam Audio T10s sub can easily be added. The source goes to the sub first, then out to the monitors.
This is a fair point. My thought is these are desktop monitors and USB-C will be most frequently used source. Under that configuration it will be a pain to use them with a sub.
But you’re right, if you’re using the analogue inputs then using a sub with the appropriate filter/output config would get the job done.
@ I agree! I have Adam T5V’s and have them connected this way. For these, I will use usb-c
@@Jasper_Tech Thanks to your mini-review, I just ordered a pair.
@brochg amazing! Let me know how you like them (seriously!). 👍👍
Would love to see these compared to Edifier MR4s, different price bracket I know, but it's what I got so 😂
What is your recommend speaker for a laptop.😀
Thanks. You beat everyone else to the punch in reviewing these. Getting mine on Friday in white. Is it possible to run an input into a sub that has outs to the speakers. I might be wrong, but I think Genelec has an F One sub where the signal can go first to the sub and then out to the speakers?
Nice video good luck on your Channel
Nice job on the review. I have an old pair of Kano YU3's for desktop reference and am looking to replace them. I heard the Adam's at the recent AES show in NY and they really are incredible. Now I'm torn between the iLoud and the Adam's. Biggest problem for both is no way to add a sub (which I already have for the Kanto's). I guess you could use a cable splitter. Anyhow, good luck with the channel.
Great review. I know you must have a long list of speakers to acquire & review but I'd love to see a review of the Monoprice MM-5R.
G'day. 5 minutes in... Subscribed! Good luck.
I have the Vanatoos as computer speakers, but got them on sale for like $325. I've been thinking about selling them just to try something new and hopefully better. How would you say the D3Vs compare in base, mid-range, treble and sound stage? Thanks!
Thanks for going over the ported vs radiator bass. I currently have Adam A3x and these D3V are not really an upgrade (4.5" vs 3.5" drivers), but they are certainly interesting! I wonder why D3V ribbon tweeters extend to 23kHz, while A3x extend to 50kHz though.
Pretty cool review! I totally agree, these compact speakers are INCREDIBLE!!! As a music producer on a tight budget, these are the most AFFORDABLE and impeccable sounding monitoring speakers thus far! Definitely agree about the legedary @adamaudio ribbon tweeters, they add that special sparkle and sweet high end, something you don't get with normal circular tweeters. As someone whom had been using the famous @jlbpro LR 305 MKII speakers, these are just as good and even better than those, especially in the size and BIG SOUND! Let me tell ya'll, those passive radiator are the game changing tech for speakers of this form factor.
Most producers, audio engineers like to stay away from speakers that contain drivers smaller than 5"! Why? Because the smaller the driver, the less bass and impact you'll recieve. Well don't worry about that HERE..these bad boys have such a HUGE impact, despite these the chart showing a dip past 47-45hz? Is it SUBWOOFER CRAZY?!?, well NO..but dayum, the bass here is nothing to scoff at here. I am constantly blown away and suprised when watching YT music production videos and listening to the Hard Techno-Trance genre of Music! The bass is definitely TIGHT and PUNCHY! Oh how they are very impressive.
I knew that as soon as I saw the announcement for these, and watched their introductory video, I had to have a pair! I've been without my JBL's for some time and was needing more compact monitors. I'm so so glad I was able to get them, as for me, they are LIFE changing speakers.
it would be nice if you compared Genelec 8030C vs iLoud MTM
Hey, do you have any plans of reviewing the Edifier MR4? I would be really interested if the 4 times higher price of the Kanto Ora are worth it over these. Thansk for all this videos
Yes! I’ll be doing a review that had both of those in it in the next month or two :)
Interesting that your video showed up on my feed as I was looking at these monitors for my new studio setup. Nice review of these small footprint monitors. I actually use the iLoud monitors at the moment and looking to upgrade. Is your channel music production or audio tech? Anyway, I just subscribed and good luck!
Nice! Glad you liked the review. Right now it’s audio tech, but may expand into some other tech in the future. We shall see!
Google is listening 😂
What did you end up buying?
great video!
i watched it because i just moved and i cannot use my passive speakers for djiing (too big, too loud) would the d3v be a good option or should i maybe consider something else price point is totally ok for my budget
A bit late response, but I want to make a little remark. I will replace my old studio monitors with this new D3V's. For me they are the "best of both worlds", because I already have the ARC Studio (that little metal box), so I now can combine the room correction from the iLoud monitor range, with the quality of the Adam 3DV. I think it will be a great combination.
In short - the ARC room correction system that is build in in the iLoud series can be combined with any monitor by using the ARC Studio box. You don't need a plug in, and can switch between active and non-active with one push of a button. I can't wait until my new (white) 3DV's arrive to give it a good test run.
Are you satisfied in the end? I have an iLoud Micro and I doubt that spending an extra $400 is worth the upgrade.
@@VamIy I can say that the Arc Studio works perfectly with those Adam 3DV. It's difficult to describe without actually hearing of course, but he sound is far more open and more detailed. The lows are surprisingly good, and not muffled like with other combinations. Al in all I am very pleased with the setup. What it would do in your case I cannot tell. It all depends on the room, the placing and the treatment (or non-treatment) that is already been done. So - Sadly you have to make your own decision.
The only thing that is really annoying about the Adam's is that they go in stand-by if they not longer receive a signal within 20 minutes. That time is in my experience far too short. If you go away to make some coffee and read some post, the monitors are silent when you got back. Lucky enough the guy's at Adam have said there is a firmware update around the corner that will let you set that stand-by to after a hour or even disable stand-by completely. They also seem to address some weird frequency response at very low levels. I have not encountered that one, but it's nice to see they tackle more than one problem at a time.
@@jclosed2516 In my case I have the regular Micro version without Arc room correction so I can't use it on Adam. I don't know if it's worth it. Sometimes I think we take this hobby too far ha-ha I had a lot of headphones before and I was chasing better and better sound until I realized that beyond 200-300$ there is nothing normal for my money, let's say headphones for 1000$ will not sound 3 times better than headphones for 300$ unfortunately the difference between them will probably not be more than 30-40%.
@@VamIy Yeah - Only you can decide what level of hobby can still be called hobby. In my case I actually have several hobby's and music/sound creation is only one of them (I also do electronics, 3D design and 3D printing and Holograpy, using special film and Laser technology).
So I made my setup not too complicated. As said I now have the Adam 3DV White, Arc Studio, Motu M4 soundcard, a KRK KNS-8402 for headphones, and a Arturia Keystep 37 for input. That's enough for my needs to be honest.
cool
youtube cut a passage of the video, too bad we can't listen to the sound of its speakers, very good review
If you had a sub on either these or the Kanto Ora, which would be better for just listening to music? Currently have the ADAM Audio D3V but not sure if I should have gotten the Kanto Ora instead.
Adding a sub to the D3V's can be done, somewhat easily.
Presonus makes their newest Sub 8BT, which has TRS output, a HPF and BT.
@@phillip3330 I hear you. It’s definitely possible, but if you want to use the USB-C input (like I think many will) then it’s just going to be a bit more annoying to set up the filters etc.
How do I add a sub to them ? I have them and have been trying to
@@taytaymadethebeat I would get something like the Presonus Sub8BT, which has passthrough and a HPF.
So instead of sending audio directly to the Adams, you'll send it to the subwoofer either via bluetooth or analog through your USB audiointerface (if you have one). And then via TRS cables to the Adams.
Then enable the HPF on the sub, so the Adams only have to deal with +80Hz.
How about directionality? I found the MTMs are only good if your sitting within a sweet spot compared the micros which seem to have a wider sound dispersion, and therefore more suitable as a general purpose speaker system for guitar modellers and synths .
Right on point!
fantastic review! subscribed to your channel...very interesting reviews already! ... in terms of sound (not price) do you prefer the iloud mtm or these ADAM Audio D3V? I know the ilouds are considerably more expensive but I would be willing to invest on those if the clarity and neutrality is better. would be using them when Not in my studio, for mixing jazz and classical music. Thanks in advance if you can share your input!
If price is not a factor, I’d go with the MTM’s. The main reason is if you’re really looking for a neutral response, the active room correction (ARC) in the iLoud products is really impressive. ILoud makes quality products and I’m impressed by their software in addition to their hardware.
amzn.to/4eyKmEV
These? Or the Krk gen5 5” monitors?
I'm so curious how all your speakers compare to the Genelec 8010A - I've heard so much about those and I'm very close to buying them. Will you test them anytime soon?
Hi there, love your content and approach, wanted to ask a small question!
How do the Adam Audio D3V compare to the KEF LSX LT 2?
Those are very different speakers. The LSX are for filling a room and are not intended to be studio monitors; they have nearly every connectivity option possible. The D3V are for near field listening and are intended to have a neutral sound response and only have two input options. They are both excellent, but both very different.
Nice review! How do these compare to the Kef LSX that you love? In terms of sound quality?
I would hope KEF sound better for being more than 4x the price. BUT if you have a subwoofer and can do crossover to pass everything under 145hz to the subwoofer, then the D3V's will give you an experience good enough you won't be able to tell the difference. You could get D3V's new, a Wiim Ultra streamer as a DAC/amp with crossover and an app, and an subwoofer (I have an audio engine S8 for 350), and get MUCH better sound than you would buying just KEF LSX speakers.
@@jjoohhhnn Do you have any other crossover recommendations? It's connected to my computer so don't need a streamer.
Well done!
I have a quick question since I am heavily considering getting the Adam Audio, there were another pair of speakers that I was interested in and I was wondering if you ever had a chance to check them out. I was wondering how this would fare with the Tannoy gold 7. Thank you.
Hey man, just looking through your videos regarding kanto speakers and wondered if you could help advise/opinion?
Was original looking at the audioengines, but then I read about the kanto Oras (I want something small, so it can’t be the Ora 4’s)
Now….i am fully apply ecosystem, but I want a speaker or speaker(s) for my desk setup (MacBook and dual monitors)
The big question, are the ora’s way better sound wise than the HomePod? (The big HomePod, ie £300)
With the oras I’d obviously have these either side of my desk, HomePod would be bang in the middle
There’s currently an offer on the oras which makes them £50 cheaper than the HomePod.
Please help me out 🤣 be much appreciated. From someone who has tested both, is there a noticeable performance increase from the ora’s?
Thanks a lot :)
Great review! I haven't heard of these before. I have the iLoud Micros and love them, but am always looking for the next best thing, it's a sickness lol. Any idea of the approximate length of the speaker-to-speaker cable? The iLoud's are 6 ft. I think, and it get's frustrating in certain setups like my dual monitor setup. Had to put one in-between the two monitors because of the cable length.
Hi, I emailed Adam audio about cable lengths, here’s their reply:-
The power cable is 2,5 meters long and can be extended just like any other power cable.
The loudspeaker link cable has the length of 2 meters. It cannot be extended.
The USB-C cable is 1,5 meters long. USB-C max length is specified as 2 m and the D3V can support that.
HTH 🔊
@ Hey, thanks for doing that, and the information! I didn’t see the cable lengths in any of the spec sheets. Great idea to email them directly 👍. It’s too bad about the proprietary speaker interconnect cable, but good information to have. Although it makes sense, as these are ultra near field speakers and not ment to be spread out so wide. Thanks again..
Did you end up buying an Adam to compare to the iLoud Micro?
@ I didn’t, I’ve had the iLouds for 4+ years, and am very happy with them. Minus the cord length, which the Adams don’t solve.. so I passed.
Great review. I will consider these for my next purchase. The aesthetics of the Adam could use a little improvement though.
Also it would be cool to have a compact 3 way speaker. Don't you think? Like the Kef LSX with an additional woofer, a mini Kef R3 Meta if you will.
That would be cool! Barefoot Sound make some really cool speakers that have a tweeter, woofer, and sub all in one cabinet. Check out the Barefoot Sound Footprint03
looking at these D3V for a ps5 setup would they work ? i dont mind how they sound aslong as its clear sound i have big subs already so dont mind if theres not so much bass, never heard studio speakers in person so just wondering would these be alright to plug and go on a ps5.... i have pc so i can always set them up to that if they dont work on ps5
I just got these and I like most things about them but there's one big CON that you didn't mention. These speakers go to sleep after 20 minutes of no sound and they do not wake up automatically. You need to press the volume knob to wake them. If you use them as computer speakers you'll miss any audio notifications unless you have something constantly playing in the background. I checked the manually and this is the expected behavior. I hope Adam is able to fix this via firmware otherwise I'll need to return them.
Wow, that's a massive oversight
Hi @ronalcasid3844,
We’ve heard your feedback about the sleep mode on the D3V, and we’re happy to share that the next firmware update will address this. The standby activation time will be extended from 20 to 60 minutes, and you’ll also have the option to completely deactivate the automatic standby.
We’re always working to improve our products, so thank you for helping us enhance your experience with the D3V. All the best from Berlin!
Daniel
@@ADAMAudioBerlin That is great to hear! Ideally when using the USB input the speakers should wake and sleep with the computer. Is that possible?
@@ronalcasid3844 Thanks for your feedback, and great to hear that you appreciate the solution. An auto wake function is not possible without a hardware redesign, but we'll keep your suggestion in mind. All the best, and thanks for choosing ADAMs!
@@ADAMAudioBerlin I strongly appreciate Adam Audio addressing customer concerns. Thank You!
Hi, i think you should check out the new Edifier M60. It has a similar pleasing aesthetic as the a2+ or YU2. Sounded similar or even superior to both and cost just a fraction of the price
I have a pair of Edifier 1580. Could you please tell me, what kind of improvement could I expect from these? Edifier 1580 is a little big for my on my desk too.
+ what is generally better for PC desktop listening experience. 1+1 stereo or 2 + 1 sub set up ?
Thanks for the great review Jasper. I already ordered the D3V since Ora4 are not available in Japan, where I live. Since you said they sound very neutral, I am bit worried they would not be ideal for me as I would use them to listen to music at audiophile level ( hi res audio from Qobuz/Apple Music) using usb-c. Do you think I can still use something like an external streamer, like WiiM mini/pro to adjust the eq of the speakers?
What fixed these speakers for me was using the crossover function on my Wiim Ultra to send everything under 145hz to the subwoofer. The mids are much fuller and more detailed, they match the top end.
After trying the big brothers with ribbon tweeters I will never use anything else than Adam speakers with ribbon tweeters. They are perfect, especially for rock music.