The BEST Home Studio Monitors I've Ever Owned - Adam Audio A7V

[@JacobDarkOfficial]

I don't talk about it much but I live with an incurable illness that's forced me to rely on my KZbin channel as my only source of income to survive. That said PLEASE consider using my links in the description - it not only helps the channel but helps keep my life afloat. BIG THANK YOU to those that do.

[@termaineromellgrant5476]

Hey, When you put your ear close to the A7V tweeter, do you hear a constant low level hiss? I have that on my A7V, and just want to make sure it's not just my pair. They're brand new and I burned them in already.

[@JacobDarkOfficial]

I don’t have them anymore but yes there was some low hiss up close

[@termaineromellgrant5476]

@@JacobDarkOfficial Thanks for your reply. Gonna order the barefoot Footprint 03 and decide which one I will return.

[@JacobDarkOfficial]

Nice! Let me know which you prefer

[@termaineromellgrant5476]

@@JacobDarkOfficial Will do!

[@ADAMAudioBerlin]

Lovely review, Jacob! So happy you're enjoying them 🙏

[@Mad.Maxx.77]

I bought a pair of the A7V + Sub8 for my PC audio. I'm not a music producer. I just love listening to great music and playing great games. I'm hearing details I never knew were there. I'm sure my neighbors are tired of hearing my daily Nine Inch Nails jam sessions, but guess who couldn't care less? This is so much better than the passive speaker setups I used for years. Great video, mate!

[@director2bob]

I was wondering how these speakers sound just for playing music and not necessarily recording. Happy to hear you are digging them. I am going to get a pair once I find a good used price.

[@Mad.Maxx.77]

@@director2bob Hellz yeah!

[@OmarJano]

Just ordered a pair of these, can’t wait!

[@JacobDarkOfficial]

They're pretty awesome, grats!

[@kylekolanowski23]

Loved this review - enjoyed the presentation, pace, sound quality a lot!

[@Jody-6]

Thanks for the nice review. I bought the A7V monitors, partly based from your review, and they are fantastic! I love the sound, and how they look.

[@nomad1517]

Adam's are in my opinion also one of the nicest looking monitors as well. Even their cheap models look high quality. If you are serious about music, Adam's are the gold standard in my humble opinion.

[@Musician_Robert]

They sound nice and clear IMO. Thanks for the review. :)

[@JacobDarkOfficial]

Absolutely!

[@robfulco4739]

Should put the woofers to the inside when set horizontally. Put's the tweeters on the outside for wider imaging and keeps the low end towards the center for better phantom center instruments, like bass...

[@JacobDarkOfficial]

I'll give it a try but have spent considerable time putting them on stands and getting their positioning just right and with the tweeters on the inside, they sound pretty amazing as is

[@nbeebe24]

I was going to say the same. The tweeters need to face out when on their sides.

[@JacobDarkOfficial]

I reached out to Adam Audio to see what they'd say. "The most important part is that the tweeters are configured in an equilateral triangle to dial in the center image and mix position. From there, variables like how wide the room is, how big the monitors are, what low end issues are going on, all play roles into whether you need to have the tweeter inside or out." This was followed by his agreement that the tweeters sound better inside vs out which makes the imaging feel too wide. Of course it's all personal preference but I'm more than happy with how I have them setup. (Different now than in this video but still inside)

[@atacamabeatsindierecording8406]

What would be the difference in sound with the a44h, ?’’’…

[@dentboxhero1717]

I got the chance to audition both the A4V and the A7V. I opted for the A4V for it's overall tonal ability with in it's range. Running it in 2.1 a long a Focal Sub One dual 8" with a foot switch to enable/disable the sub.

[@JacobDarkOfficial]

Nice setup! A sub would be great should I ever get a house

[@dentboxhero1717]

@@JacobDarkOfficial I too am an apartment dweller. The Sub One being 8 are not foundation shaking, they just fill the bottom end of the spectrum in a very musical way as they are crossed higher with the A4V.

[@tuneunleashed]

I went with the A4V as well tbh. I wish it was 5 inch but hey it is what it is.

[@ftlaud911]

How are you liking the A4v's (same question to Tuneworld below)? I was debating about the 5x vs 7x since they are cheaper, but the new DSP gives me better flexibility. Like most I would rather have a larger cone size if space/budget allows. The list is so far includes KH80/120/150, HEED Type 5/7, A5x/7x, A4v/7v, EC205/7, and last old/new Solo 6. I would rather not spend that much on the Solo 6/KH150, but if they are worth it I would splurge (buy once/cry once). Plan to add a small sub with any of them. I want to have these for a long long time and not chase the dragon wanting more. Did that with my headphone journey which was fun, but not cheap. Same question goes to Jacob if he reads this. Why A7v?

[@dentboxhero1717]

@@ftlaud911 the A4Vs have been doing really great. The A Control DSP software hasn't been released yet and September is almost done. If it comes down to choosing between the old and new Adam A series, get the new V's. The 4v can play down to 52Hz and the 7v down to 40Hz but both use the same amplifiers rated at 130W. Both can play and reproduce music really well but the 4v, at least for me. is tonally better and get even way better after pairing it with 8" subs (Focal Sub One). While a pair of A4v + Focal Sub One will cost you $200-$300 more versus a pair of A7V... the A7V will never come close to how an A4V + sub will and can sound. A standalone pair of A7v will do it's job and do it very well regardless.

[@2dboo11]

I have the A7X's . I've been thinking about buying the A7V's cause Adam never disappoint. I think with Adams and the Focal together you can't go wrong. keep both

[@JacobDarkOfficial]

I just might, again I just got these so they're all shiny and brand new, once the dust has settled I'll decide what to do

[@2dboo11]

@@JacobDarkOfficial don't forget to burn them in for 24 hrs. play music threw them at 70db for 24 hrs.you will really hear a different they have videos on how to burn them in.

[@JacobDarkOfficial]

@@2dboo11 No doubt! Already burned in, my neighbors hate me

[@Miki-od8st]

Awesome video i have a question is the waveguide metal or plastic?

[@seekyeefirstforsound]

I've got the Adam A3x at home, also floating on the isoacoustics. Found the iLoud Micros really helping my mixes especially when I can bring them around for shows. Do let me know if you've tried them. =]

[@director2bob]

did you consider testing out the A77V? I am torn between the two different models. Thanks

[@che7777]

What size are the iso acoustics stands that you’re using with them?

[@MilanTermix]

The model is Adam audio A7V the V stands for Vertical ;-)

[@kickflip1799]

I thought the "V" in the A7V stand for vertical?

[@BingBoing652]

damn im sold. so hyped.

[@JacobDarkOfficial]

Bonus points if you use my links!

[@gulchugani8686]

Great video! Congrats on your setup. Which speakers stands you using at your desk with the AV7V? Also the ones you showed your HS5? Thanks!

[@JacobDarkOfficial]

Iso Acoustics! Stay tuned, my setup has changed a lot, you'll love the new room!

[@tombudde154]

Great video, man. If you don't mind answering, how wide is your desk?

[@JacobDarkOfficial]

The desk I'm now using is 70" wide, if you check out my recent Dream Setup video it shows everything I'm working with

[@atomicasounds]

As someone who has had both Focal Evo 65 and these Adam A7V's, I'm really interested in your comparison views? How do they compare? I'm trying to decide between Focal Twin Evo's and these Adams. Thanks great channel!

[@JacobDarkOfficial]

Man that's tough, they're both amazing, if you want amazing mojo go Focal, if you want more clarity go Adam, that's the best way I can put it into words without having someone hear them in person to compare

[@OMPTraxxs]

I compare the Yamaha HS 7 against the focal alpha 65 evo. HS7 is much more clear and detailed sound. It sounds realistic. You think the instrument is really in your room. The focal sounds more like a Hifi speaker. But have little bit more bass.

[@atomicasounds]

@@OMPTraxxs Thanks, but I already owned the HS7's and I wasn't impressed. I bought the Focal Alpha Evo's which were a step up, especially in the low-end, but I now own some Dynaudio LWD48's which are fantastic IMO! =)

[@erkydi]

thanks for the review! Whats your desk from? !

[@m-zurowski]

great video man!

[@JacobDarkOfficial]

Thanks!

[@rafaelmatosdasilva]

when placing the monitors horizontally, shouldn't the tweeter be outside so that the woofer is inside and the lower freq response is more centered?

[@JacobDarkOfficial]

I haven't used them on their sides in quite a while but back then I did confirm with Adam Audio that they were designed so you could place them either way and at the time having the tweeters inside sounded better to my ears. I've been using an ultrawide monitor for some time so don't have the space to have them sideways anymore.

[@EvanOlsonChannel]

Jacob, please tell me what kind of mic stand you use in your videos. I'm looking for a new mounted boom stand or regular boom stand for my home studio.

[@JacobDarkOfficial]

Check the description under My Favorite Microphone Boom Arm

[@legervoile]

I been using T7V for mixing music. Would you consider A7V for mixing music? I would like to upgrade my monitors to a better sound quality and i guess this model is perfect. Thank you

[@harrisarp3841]

Thanks for the great review Jacob!!I am between them and Focal shape twin!!!

[@JacobDarkOfficial]

Double the price for those Focals but Focal is amazing so worth it I'm sure

[@harrisarp3841]

@@JacobDarkOfficial actually the prices in europe are different its about the same price with Adam, 1400 $ for the Adams and 1500$ for the Focals.Thanks for the reply!!!

[@dominikperkovic3058]

@@harrisarp3841 he is not thinking of the same monitors as you i thinj

[@danielebellezza8699]

Great video!! I found an offer for a pair of used A7Vs just under 1 year old for 800€ in total, but I was told that the Evo Alpha twins are far better, have you ever tried them? What do you think?

[@JacobDarkOfficial]

I've only used the Alpha 65 Evo which are really good but if you already have the A7Vs these are also just as good in their own way, I'd call it a day be happy and move on

[@danielebellezza8699]

@@JacobDarkOfficial I see! I don't currently have A7Vs but I am deciding whether to buy them, do you think focal is ahead?

[@sjoerdw2]

Nice review, what desk stands are you using? Is that Iso Acoustics? 🙂

[@JacobDarkOfficial]

Iso Acoustics, check the links in my description

[@richau9058]

I would like to see a comparison with "hifi" active speakers like the DALI RUBICON 2 C (4.000,- usd +) somehow i think the adam would sound "as good" when it comes to music listening... i might be wrong, but i would like to see such comparisons anyhoo.

[@itsalistairjames]

Hey man, great review! I’m currently looking to upgrade my krk rokit 5 g4s and not sure whether to go with the Focal Alpha Evo 65 or spend a bit more and get the A7vs (I’ll be producing house and techno music mainly. Would love your thoughts as you’ve had both! Cheers

[@JacobDarkOfficial]

The Alpha Evos are great so even if you saved some money I have no doubt you'd be happy. That said the A7Vs have become my favorite and are still the only pair I used to this day.

[@itsalistairjames]

@@JacobDarkOfficial thanks for your response! Much appreciated. Noted when it comes to purchasing :)

[@almir0079]

are this better or the dynaudio lyd7?

[@ajn2747]

how long did it take for you to burn these in? And what did you do to do so?

[@JacobDarkOfficial]

I did the old 24 hour burn in playback when I first got them and have used them so much now that my ears are fully adjusted.

[@Cody_OConnell]

Great review. Any experience with using studio subwoofers?

[@JacobDarkOfficial]

I've reviewed a KRK sub and had a Yamaha sub for a while with my HS5s, but since I live in an apartment I can't really use them effectively so sold them off. The KRK S10.4 was a serious monster though

[@Cody_OConnell]

@@JacobDarkOfficial Nice I guess I should have searched your channel first lol, just checked out that vid. Thanks! I actually just got a Yamaha HS8S sub yesterday for my HS8 monitors and it sounds great but the lack of bypass switch might be a deal breaker because it does kind of shake the house a lot. The KRK subs all have bypass switch connections so I might have to switch to KRK. My room is tiny though so it might be too cramped with a bigger sub. We'll see

[@BojanBojovic]

Thanks. I am thinking about replacing my KRK VXT8 with these A7V. Any thoughts?

[@JacobDarkOfficial]

You're going to notice a huge upgrade. Be sure to have them on solid stands to decouple them. I'd super appreciate you using my link as well

[@grzelakmichael]

Are they appropriate for EDM? Which SUB you would recommend getting more bass?

[@legervoile]

I been using the T7V for mixing electronic music with TS10 and they match perfect. You can get that extra bass needed for the T7V. I´m looking to upgrade to A7V for a better sound experience but i´m still wondering if they are good for mixing music.

[@danielebellezza8699]

@@legervoile What did you choose in the end? I would need some advice as I am about to change my monitors!

[@legervoile]

​@@danielebellezza8699I went analog. Got a pair of JBLs 4311b and a Marantz 2270 Amp. The sound is warm and flat in comparision with the t7v wich are more bright. Despite the sound is flat, you can control mid and high freq in the monitors, you can also adjust bass, mid and treble levels in the amp. The amp is powerful and provides an amazing sound. I can say i miss a bit the brightness of the t7v monitors but the sound you get from Marantz and JBLs is fantastic. I still keep the T10S with my current configuration, since the JBLs are 12", i would like to upgrade to a 12" subwoofer, im just curious about the bass response. Sorry if translation is not accurate.

[@Purrrelll]

Ribbon tweeters are not reliable for recording (especially vocals) and mixing. They sweteen the sound. Ribbon technology was first used for microphones. A7V is the budget version of AX Series and was redesigned using front ports, after Focusrite acquired Adam Audio. My suggestion to you is to listen Genelec, Dynaudio and Neumann (Klein & Hummel) for pro-solution active nearfield monitoring that if you want "The BEST" Studio Monitors. I still would not do any mixing applications with any of these monitors before getting a proper education (sound engineering) . Greetings from Istanbul.

[@legervoile]

I been using T7V for mixing music. Would you consider A7V for mixing music? I would like to upgrade my monitors to a better sound quality and i guess this model could be a good option. Thank you

[@Purrrelll]

@@legervoileI don’t have the answer, your ears do. Take your own recording to a store where has the most selection of monitors. Listen your demo and decide which monitor reveals the problems in your mix, then buy them. Don’t buy big monitors if you have small room. And get a decent pair of monitor stands so you can have the sweet spot, like isoacoustics.

[@masocre]

co-sign this sentiment

[@lukemeno]

intro song ?

[@mechimoto0]

@JacobDarkOfficial what are the stands IsoAcoustics ISO-155 or ISO-200 ?

[@JacobDarkOfficial]

155

[@mechimoto0]

Thanks! @@JacobDarkOfficial

[@kamilo369]

Are they any better than Focal Alpha 65 evos?

[@JacobDarkOfficial]

65 Evos will always be among my top 3 all time, right up there with these. I can't say either one is "better", if you want rich 3D vibey sound go Evo, if you want a cleaner sound, not as rich but very transparent these are great

[@qwertandrew8720]

I love mine A7X’s

[@edisonpep8404]

They look amating 🤩

[@TrapBoiFuse561]

1:46 hedd made them from Germany 🇩🇪

[@LaidbackSounds]

Never liked the Adam sound, but these ones are tempting (hated the t7v and the a7x which sounded very artifical) , I would be curious to hear if they are better than my kh120 neumann

[@malibustacy3606]

My home speakers back in 1978 were second generation Heil air motion transformer designs, articulation and detail were second to no ones but not everyone was as impressed with them as I was and Adam's monitors are very similar in that respect.

[@ronedwards8239]

I found them to be very 2D sounding. No depth and the stereo image and depth was better on my Focal Evo 50’s. Pure mode revealed more detail vs UNR. The top end has definitely been tamed. They are very well balanced and the tweeter does not shout at you. Overall I preferred the Focal’s.

[@kamilo369]

Thanks for this comment! I've got 65evos and almost thought I got a bad purchase against this new cone in Adams, but I had a feeling Adams can't beat Focals😅

[@ronedwards8239]

Each have their strength and weaknesses. The fact is the Adam’s sound flat in terms of image. Look at the price difference between the A7V & Evo’s. It’s not an issue of better. But at the price point I would look at the Focal Shape 65. Yes, the Evo tweeter is rather harsh. It depends on what you are using them for. If you want a monitor for casual music listening or a monitor that’s going to dig deep and reveal problems with your mix. Some of the most loved studio monitors in the best studios have monitors known to sound pretty bad. "They're brutally unflattering to mixes, but that's their job.

[@MankooMusic141]

Cool ❤

[@HOLLASOUNDS]

Intresting.

[@HOLLASOUNDS]

@Delicious Don Turbulento Dyslexic

[@peterpulpitpounder]

Too bad the "adjustments" can't be made from the front.

[@peterpulpitpounder]

@OMGIDestroyedMatter Got it. Thank you. Right now I have the KRK 5 G3. Not sure I love them enough to keep long term. I have been looking at the A7V's.

[@kiisseli1337]

I switched my Adam's to Genelec (cheaper actually) and these are so much better.

[@pablochavez7481]

When you rotate the speaker you lose punch because Ribbon twitters are much more directional than dome twitters. Never been a fan of Adam, i like Unity audio ribbon twitter monitors best.

[@JacobDarkOfficial]

I've since completely overhauled my setup and found the sweet spot with having them horizontal and yea, they're replacing my Focals and my Yams

[@frattuncbas]

I m thinking A4V.

[@TheSpeedyr6]

Are these better than hs7

[@JacobDarkOfficial]

Absolutely in every way, bonus points if you use my link to purchase

[@kamilo369]

​@@JacobDarkOfficial 😂😂😂😂

[@OMPTraxxs]

You only have the HS5 so you can not say the HS7 is worse. I have directly Compared hs7 against focal and the hs7 is much more detailed and clear and realistisch. Focal sounds more like Hifi Speaker. To the Adam A7v i cannot see anything. I only hear that Twitter cannot play smart schlau Elsa