(January 30, 2024) Technical Audio Devices Laboratories (TADL) has unveiled the TAD-ME1TX bookshelf speaker system, the latest addition to its Evolution Series. A refined successor to its TAD-ME1, which debuted in 2016, the ME1TX introduces a series of engineering advancements designed to push audio performance even further. Built for those who demand high-fidelity sound in a compact form, this new model offers a balance of technical precision and aesthetic appeal.
At the heart of the ME1TX is TAD’s proprietary Coherent Source Transducer (CST) driver, featuring a newly developed 9 cm midrange and 25 mm tweeter. The CST design aligns phase and directivity between the midrange and tweeter for a cohesive and natural soundstage across frequencies from 420 Hz to 60 kHz. The tweeter employs a beryllium diaphragm crafted with TAD’s vapor-deposition technique, which TAD says optimizes piston motion and reduces distortion for clear high-frequency reproduction.
The midrange has also been upgraded with a magnesium diaphragm, providing a lightweight yet rigid structure with high internal loss to minimize unwanted resonances. Surface treatments, including anodization and a specialized coating, further refine its response, contributing to distortion-free clarity. TAD has also redesigned the frame structure, improving strength and allowing sound waves to propagate more smoothly behind the diaphragm.
Handling the low frequencies, the ME1TX features a 16 cm Multi-layered Aramid Composite Cone (MACC) woofer. This diaphragm combines layers of woven and non-woven aramid fabric to enhance bass response while maintaining transparency in the midrange. Paired with TAD’s Linear Drive Magnet Circuit (LDMC) and a newly reinforced woofer basket, the design is intended to improve linearity for controlled bass.
Housed in a structurally reinforced SILENT (Structurally Inert Laminated Enclosure Technology) cabinet, the ME1TX is said to achieve superior vibration damping. The enclosure integrates birch plywood bracing and MDF panels with high internal loss to minimize resonance. Additionally, 5 mm-thick steel panels on the cabinet’s sides reduce unwanted vibrations, while carefully placed internal acoustic absorbents mitigate standing waves for accurate imaging.
The speaker retains the Bidirectional Aero-Dynamic Slot (ADS) port system, a design carried over from its predecessor. Slit-shaped ports on the left and right sides of the enclosure, with flared openings to the front and rear, regulate airflow and reduce turbulence. This ensures a natural bass response while preventing internal standing waves from interfering with output.
TAD is offering the ME1TX in two finishes: classic black and a newly introduced silver-white. Each unit undergoes an extensive finishing process, including multiple layers of high-grade clear coating, polishing, and final surface refinement by skilled artisans. Included with each speaker are non-slip pads, a woofer grille, a cleaning cloth, and a shorting cable.
For those seeking a dedicated stand, TAD has introduced the TAD-ST3TX series, available in matching black or silver-white finishes. Designed to optimize performance, these stands feature a slanted structure to reduce diffraction and enhance stability. They are available for purchase separately.
The TAD-ME1TX will be available worldwide starting in late April 2025 through select dealers across the U.S. Pricing begins at $18,200 for the Black version (corresponding stands are $2,800) and $19,200 for the white version (stands $2,900).
TAD-ME1TX Specifications:
- Type: 3-way, bass-reflex bookshelf
- Woofer: 16 cm cone
- Midrange and Tweeter: 9 cm midrange and 2.5 cm dome tweeter (concentric)
- Frequency Response: 36 Hz to 60 kHz
- Crossover Frequencies: 420 Hz, 2.5 kHz
- Sensitivity: 85 dB (2.83 V @ 1 m)
- Maximum Input Power: 150 W
- Rated Impedance: 4 Ω
- Dimensions: 254 mm (W) x 411 mm (H) x 402 mm (D)
- Weight: 21 kg
- Dimensions: 376 mm (W) x 642 mm (H) x 437 mm (D) (without spikes)
- Weight: 16 kg
- Included Accessories: Cone-shaped spikes, spike holders, cork sheets, mounting screws, owner’s manual
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