Are you working in a studio and you can’t keep your pace up your music mixes with you regular speakers? Well, it’s quite normal. To do mixes and playing around with your tunes you’ll need monitor speakers. Monitor speakers are specialized speakers used for music production and these are called monitoring speakers because they are built for monitoring. Yamaha HS8 vs Adam Audio A7X, two excellent monitor speakers used for professional studio works.
These speakers are built dor critical listening during mixing, tuning, mastering, and recording. These specialized speakers are a great aid if you are having a hard time creating a great mix. These speakers aim to produce an accurate representation of audio production. These two speakers are considered to be the topmost monitor speakers. Ler’s have a quick comparison between Adam Audio A7X and Yamaha HS8 and see what makes them unique from one another.
Comparison Chart Adam A7X vs Yamaha HS8:
| Specifications | Adam Audio A7X | Yamaha HS8 |
|---|---|---|
| System Type | Bi-amped Powered Studio Monitor Speaker | Bi-amped Powered Studio Monitor Speaker |
| Frequency Response | 42Hz-50kHz | 38Hz-30kHz |
| Crossover Frequency | 2.5kHz | 2Hz |
| Crossover Channel Quantity | 2-way channel | 2-way channel |
| Amplification Type | Active | Active |
| RMS rated power | 100W | 120W |
| Input Sensitivity | 14dB | -10dB/10kΩ |
| Enclosure Type | Ported(Front) | MDF Bass Reflex |
| Woofer | 7” Carbon Fibre/Glass Fibre Mid woofer | 8” Cone |
| Tweeter | 2” X-Art | 1” Dome |
| Total Harmonic Distortion | <0.5% | - |
| Analog Input | XLR/RCA | 3Pin XLR, 6.3mm jack |
| LF Driver Power Amp | 100W | 75W |
| HF Driver Power Amp | 50W | 45W |
| Remote Control | No | Yes |
| Dimension | 13.5”x8”x11” | 9.8”x15.4”x13.1” |
| Weight | 20.3lbs | 22.5lbs |
| Controls | Volume, Hf level Adjust, Tweeter gain | Level Adjust, Room control switch, High Trim Switch |
| Price | Check price on Amazon | Check price on Amazon |
Frequency Response
As for the frequency response and clarity of the sound, everything is pretty balanced for both monitors.
Frequency response refers to how your system will respond to a particular stimulus, and it’s used to portray the dynamics of the framework. Almost all audio devices have their frequency response. The studio monitor speakers are manufactured to have a little flat effect on the audio signal.
The frequency response of Adam Audio A7x is 42Hz-50kHz and the frequency response of Yamaha HS8 is 38Hz-30kHz. The flat curve on the frequency curve indicates to the state that there would be no change in the way the studio monitor will be processing the input signals.
Amplification
The amplification of studio monitor speakers is mostly active. In the case of Adam Audio A7X and Yamaha HS8, the amplifications are active too. Monitor speakers use bi-amplification or have a separate amp for each driver respectively.
Both monitor speakers we are talking about have bi-amplification technology.
Bi-amplification allows the speakers to have a better crossover. This also facilitates separation between the frequency ranges of the tweeters and the woofers more definitive and reduces the chances of frequency doubling up.
Hence, the overall goal of reproducing more accurate audio is restored. The low-frequency driver power amp of A7x is 100W and HS8 is 75W. Whereas, the high-frequency driver power amp of A7x is 50W and HS8 is 45W.
Drive Type
The woofers are the biggest largest drive inside the studio monitor speakers. Woofers are in-charge of lower and mid-range frequency replicating. The size of the woofers is important for a purpose.
The purpose is the larger the woofer is in size the better the speaker can produce lower frequencies. The size of the woofers of Adam Audio A7x is 7-inch made of carbon fiber/glass fiber.
On the other hand, the size of the woofer of the Yamaha HS8 is an 8-inch cone.
Yamha HS8 has bigger drivers than Adam Audio A7x.
Generally, for studio monitor speakers at least a 5-inch woofer is a must-have. Keeping your acoustic spaces in mind, you should finalize your woofer size because bigger woofer covers wider distances.
Total Harmonic Distortion
All audio devices have additional noise due to various reasons and limitations. Monitor speakers add distortion through their amplifiers known as total harmonic distortion. The total harmonic distortion of Adam Audio A7x is <0.5%, which is ideal. Whereas, the total harmonic distortion of Yamaha hs8 is not disclosed by the manufacturers.
Input Sensitivity
The powered monitor speakers usually have a knob or switch at the back of the speaker which allows them to adjust the input sensitivity. Input sensitivity refers to the maximum voltage strength of an input signal that the amplifier can handle and still be able to produce undivided full output.
There might be a distorted representation of your mix if the input impedance isn’t adjusted to the right point. The input sensitivity of Adam A7x is 14dB and Yamaha hs8 is -10dB/10kΩ. Whenever you are working on these monitor speakers or any other make sure your monitor’s input sensitivity is set to handle critical and balanced signals by setting them to +4dBu.
Studio monitors are of immense importance if you are looking for a tool to mix your jams. There are a lot of potential contenders in these cases. But Adam Audio A7x and Yamaha Hs8 still standouts among all of the abundant speakers we are talking about. Let’s know about these speakers in brief before knowing where to place it and which one to buy.
Adam Audio A7X:
A7x is Adam’s best-selling nearfield monitor speaker. It is the upgraded version of Adam Audio A7 speakers. The ability of these speakers to accurately produce every detail of sound on different levels, transparent sound imaging, timbre depth is amazing.
These speakers inspire the music producers and professionals around the world with its accuracy. The basic configuration of these speakers allows these to increase or decrease the level of frequencies to 4dB.
Adam Audio A7x also enables you to adjust the right acoustics for your room. The affluent design of the tweeters of Adam Audio A7x ensured its success. The crystal clear sound these speakers have in it with fine consistency is worth praise. The sound produced by A7x is cleaner and incredible according to many users.
Pros:
- Wide frequency response range.
- Cabinet structure is optimized
- Control panel and heat sink at the front of the speakers
- Doesn’t cause fatigue in case of prolonged usage
- Perfect for small rooms
Cons:
- Powering the speakers themselves is a kind of hefty job to do. Sometimes the cables might get loosened.
- Bit costly
CHeck out this JBL 305p MK II to know more about studio monitors, if you’re actually looking for one.
Yamaha HS8
Yamaha HS8 comes in elegant packaging and weighs 23.6 pounds. Yamaha HS8 is designed uniquely with advanced noise reduction technology that also includes reduced vortex. This feature decreases the number of air vibrations that are generated.
Because of the MDF bass-reflex, the sound is more precise. Yamaha HS8 will give you a premium experience and you’ll not go back to your old system after you’ve used this monitor.
Since it’s manufactured from a renowned brand there is no doubt in its capability to standout. It’s optimum for critical listening and anyone who uses it can tailor their lows and highs to enhance them.
There is a three-way switch at the back of the monitor which allows adjustment of 0,-2, and -4 dB contracting below 500Hz. Besides, we have remote controls with features like- room control, high trim switch, level control.
Yamaha Hs8 will never disappoint in terms of sound-producing. Because the sound that it produces is tight and focused on bass. It delivers accurate highs and mids and is not harsh to your ears.
Pros:
- Elegant in looks
- Affordable in price
- Neutral and clear sound
- Wide frequency response range for a mid-range
- Easy to setup
- Excellent room control options
Cons:
- No shutdown option
Where do I place my monitor speakers?
While setting any sound system it’s very necessary to consider some tips beforehand. The place you intend to place your monitors can make up your system or break it effectively.
- The tweeters should be placed at ear level height.
- It is good to form a triangular shape between the user and the monitor speakers. In this case, the equilateral shape is recommended.
- You need to make sure that the speakers are in symmetrical order i.e. equidistant from the wall and the user and each other as well.
- Monitor speakers must fire directly in the direction of the listener’s head.
- You can use isolating stands or acoustics foam to separate the monitor speakers from the surface.
- Place the speakers 3-5 feet away from the walls.
- If your room is rectangular which is quite obvious, place the speakers along with one of the shorter walls.
The positioning of the monitor speakers is crucial. Nearfield monitors are crafted to set the speakers close to the listener’s ear, in a classic studio setup. Midfield speakers, on the other hand, are composed to station away at a distance in a big room. On the contrary, professional studios feature giant, full-range speakers referred to as the main unit. Also, as stated early the woofer size of the monitor speaker has a great impact on the sound system.
How do I connect my monitor speakers?
Since both the speakers, we are talking about is active we will be discussing how to connect these. Active monitors usually offer jack, XLR, and digital connections. These connections are made so that you can easily connect these jacks with the audio interface or computer or any other system.
If your audio interface generates a balanced output you can opt for XLR or jack input. Adam Audio A7x provides XLR and RCA connections. Yamaha HS8 provides XLR and jack input. Also, these monitor speakers have level control and room compensation EQ control which makes it easier to set it up. If you want to use Studio monitors for regular speakers, click this link.
Alternative Product
ADAM Audio T7V
The ADAM Audio T7V Active Speakers ($500/pair) are nearfield monitors. The sound quality is the most noticeable distinction between the speakers, with the AX being cleaner and more accurate in any way than the T7V. T7V, on the other hand, is unquestionably the finest entry-level near-field studio display on the market at a lower price.
Yamaha HS7
The Yamaha HS7 has superior sound quality and is best used in close proximity. In a medium/larger space, the HS8 is possibly the best overall balance. If you’re in a tight space, the HS7 is likely to do better. The woofer in the HS7 is 6.5 inches, while the woofer in the HS8 is a good 8 inches. Aside from that, they’re both very alike. Check out this link if you want to know more about Yamaha HS7.
Final Thoughts:
Adam Audio A7X and Yamaha HS8 are professional-level monitor speakers. While working with sound, your comfort of the ear is the utmost important factor. The sound system you’re using shouldn’t create fatigue while you’re working. You’ll need ear-friendly comforting monitors for this purpose. If the monitor speakers are user friendly you can do recording, mixing, editing, also casual listening at ease.
Adam’s audio A7x
In this case, Adam’s audio A7x monitor is a wise choice. These monitors give you definitive high and low frequencies along with a front-to-back perspective. The clarity of the monitors along with balanced acoustics is worth mentioning. You can easily listen to every detail at low volume as well. The high volumes are more 3-d and clean. Although the bass is adjustable if you are a fan of booming bass these monitors are the ones.A7x produces powerful and compact bass which is preferred by most of the users.
Yamaha HS8
However, if your preference of music is on the side of the electronic genre like- hip-hop, EDM music, and many more then Yamaha HS8 is your ultimate choice. Since the woofer size is bigger it produces deep low-end sound. It’s also quite affordable. These monitors are also designed very nicely and are elegant. You can get a polished and brisk sound of these monitors.
However, if you are planning to play around with rock, jazz, indie type of music and you also have a flexible budget Adam’s audio A7x should be your ultimate choice. Although these monitors are costly they won’t disappoint you. It will prove it’s worth every single time you play it.
Editor’s Pick: Adam’s audio A7x
With all of these being said, the ultimate choice is yours. For me, Adam A7x seems like a great investment if you don’t mind spending a penny or two. It’s better for professional use. That doesn’t mean Yamaha HS8 is any less. They are also pretty decent. At the end of the day, it’s your musical choice and mode of work depending on which you’ll buy your monitors. But to me, if you are opting to buy a monitor speaker you should choose between these two because they are best collectively as well.
FAQs
This FAQ section is here to enhance your knowledge and provide some solutions to your curiosity regarding this matter. Let’s find out more!
Where are Adam A7X made?
How can I clean my audio monitor?
What’s Required to Run The Yamaha HS8 From a PC?
Usually, an audio screen and fitting cords are required. You can also explore Uaudio, Apogee, Focusrite, etc. for audio interfaces based on what you are doing, get the XLR / TRS cables. (2x).(2x).
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