Has anyone else had issues with Adam Audio studio monitors buzzing/rattling at low frequencies (from around 80 Hz)?
One of my A5X monitors is really misbehaving when trying to mix bass frequencies. I sent the monitors to an Adam Audio Repair Centre a few years ago. Apparently, there was a loose cable somewhere, but the issue returned pretty quickly. They’re no longer under warranty, so I’m hesitant about paying for a repair if the problem is going to reoccur a few months later.
Here’s some more info:
- I’ve calibrated the monitors (-18 dBFS = 74 dB SPL)
- I’m mixing at -18dBFS and I’m using a high-pass at 75 Hz
- The monitors are on ISO stands, but I’ve also tried isolating them from my desk entirely (still buzzing)
- Only one of the monitors is buzzing. This monitor also pops when my central heating thermostat clicks on and off.
Any input would be really appreciated.
Adam Audio Repair Centre UK wanted a £40 admin fee just to take a look at them. When I asked if they thought they’d be able to repair them this time, after two prior attempts under warranty, they declined to respond.
I ended up taking them to a local electronics repair shop, who charged about the same to investigate and service them. He was able to compare to other A5Xs in his shop and noted air rattle in all of them below 100 Hz, particularly notable around 40–70 Hz. That matches my experience of needing a steep high-pass at 80 Hz to avoid rattle from the low end.
This seems like a design flaw to me, and not one that was hinted at in the glowing reviews I read before purchasing these monitors. I’d stay clear unless you’re planing to use a subwoofer or can live with high-passing the low end at around 80 Hz.
If anyone is using A7X monitors, I’d be interested to hear your experiences of mixing the low end.