Avi ADM vs Yamaha HS50m speakers

[Anonymous]

On the theme of reducing "box count" I recently picked up at modest cost a pair of the now discontinued Roland DS5 active monitors more as an experiment than anything else and have to say I'm very pleased with them. In-built DAC (24/192 capable) balanced analog inputs/outputs on XLR and 1/4" TRS.

Digital inputs can be optical or co-ax including AES. So an Apple Airport Express and some form of remote (I use an iPod Touch) to control Itunes Spotify or whatever and as low a box count as you're likely to get.

Volume control is a bit of a faff using the input sensitivity adjusters on the rear of each speaker (why I'm currently using the EMU) but carefully used digital volume control isn't the anathema some might have you believe. The EMU 0404 USB audio interface is a new addition I'm really pleased with. Usually connected to one of my PC's it can also be used stand alone and very nice it sounds.

Even the headphone amp is pretty good. It currently sits between the AEX and feeds the Rolands using short home made balanced TRS connectors one more box but additional useability/functionality. Pro Audio gear certainly makes sense to me.

 

[idc]

I would like to see a picture or two of that set up.

 

[Anonymous]

well once I've tidied the "spare bedroom/study/junk/storage room" it resides in I'll see what I can do.

 

[westerniser]

Thanks for the responses guys. I have to confess, I sold the 9.1s and bought another pair of HS50m. One set in the studio and one in the lounge.

I'm sure the 9.1s would excel on certain types of music (Possibly something quite vocal, like the band I am Kloot, who seem to have good recordings) Apart from that, the HS50s just seem to have more stealth, a bit more sparkle and are generally more versatile. They work as well in a 16sqm lounge with highish ceilings as the 9.1s did (I actually thought the 9.1s performed better on the desktop and close by, to them being on stands at the other end of the room, whereas the HS50m seem to work well anywhere)

I have used the HS80 a lot too, but they are just too big for a residential situation, they are loud, have loads of bass and could power a small party.

Not having a remote isn't a problem. I usually just set them to 50% volume and adjust via the laptop, or apple remote. It works just fine. Finish wise, they are solid and robust, and I personally love the small white cones.

I bet the matching sub would be amazing but I will have to stay well clear as I live in a period conversion with wooden floors!

Would love to hear your views having tried them.