TAD Labs Micro Evolution One Loudspeakers

TAD Micro Evolution One (ME1) Loudspeakers: Compact Excellence in High-Fidelity Sound

The TAD Micro Evolution One (ME1) loudspeakers exemplify Technical Audio Devices Laboratories' (TAD) commitment to high-fidelity sound within a compact, stand-mount design. As the most accessible entry in TAD's Evolution Series, the ME1 integrates advanced technologies and meticulous craftsmanship to deliver an exceptional audio experience.

Design and Construction

The ME1 is a three-way, bass-reflex loudspeaker measuring 16.2 inches in height, 9.9 inches in width, and 15.8 inches in depth, with each unit weighing approximately 44 pounds. Its robust cabinet combines Baltic birch plywood and medium-density fiberboard (MDF), reinforced with 4mm steel side panels to minimize unwanted resonances. This construction ensures structural rigidity and acoustic inertness, providing a solid foundation for the drivers.

Coherent Source Transducer (CST) Driver

At the heart of the ME1 is TAD's proprietary Coherent Source Transducer (CST) driver, a concentric design featuring a 1-inch beryllium tweeter nested within a 3.5-inch magnesium midrange cone. This configuration functions as a point source, ensuring precise imaging and uniform directivity across frequencies. The CST driver covers a wide bandwidth from 420Hz to 60kHz, facilitating seamless integration between the midrange and high frequencies.

Multi-layered Woofer Design

Complementing the CST driver is a 6.3-inch Multi-layered Aramid Composite Cone (MACC) woofer, engineered for strength and low internal loss. This woofer is designed to reproduce bass frequencies with accuracy and depth, adding weight and presence to the ME1's sound.

Bi-Directional Aero-Dynamic Slot Porting System

The ME1 employs a Bi-Directional Aero-Dynamic Slot (ADS) porting system, with flared openings on each side of the cabinet concealed beneath the steel side panels. This innovative design reduces port noise and internal standing waves, enabling the speaker to deliver deep, controlled bass without distortion, even at higher volumes.

Performance and Sound Quality

The TAD ME1 is renowned for its dynamic performance and tonal neutrality. Its midrange reproduction is exceptionally smooth, complemented by an open and airy treble, while the bass response is both punchy and well-defined. The ME1 has an ability to render low-level timbral details with naturalistic delicacy and realism, contributing to a highly engaging listening experience.

Imaging and Soundstage Precision

The TAD ME1 excels at creating a seamless and immersive soundstage that fills the room with music. Its carefully engineered design ensures linearity across the frequency spectrum, allowing the speakers to deliver a well-balanced and cohesive sound. This linearity results in a natural and enveloping listening experience, with the ME1 effortlessly projecting music that feels expansive and full, regardless of the room size or placement. The ability of these compact loudspeakers to saturate a space with rich, dynamic sound makes them an excellent choice for audiophiles who prioritize music over sound.

Adaptability to Various Room Sizes

The compact yet powerful design of the ME1 allows it to perform admirably in both modest and larger listening environments. Its engineering ensures consistent performance, making it suitable for various room sizes and acoustic setups.

Reviewer Accolades

The ME1 has garnered praise from numerous audio reviewers. Neil Gader of The Absolute Sound remarked, "The TAD ME1 is a speaker of uncommon balance... it retains a full-bodied, big-boned character that smoothly spans a wide frequency spectrum." Additionally, Thomas J. Norton of Stereophile noted, "The TAD ME1 is exceptionally revealing, yet never harsh, providing an inviting experience for even the most discerning audiophiles."

Is the TAD ME1 Right for You?

For audiophiles seeking reference-quality sound in a compact format, the TAD Micro Evolution One (ME1) loudspeakers offer unmatched value. Its innovative CST driver, advanced woofer technology, and meticulous cabinet design ensure an exceptional listening experience.

Conclusion

The TAD Micro Evolution One (ME1) loudspeakers are an outstanding choice for enthusiasts seeking unparalleled performance in a compact and elegant package. Whether paired with high-end electronics or used in smaller spaces, the ME1 delivers remarkable clarity, precision, and musical engagement that sets it apart in its class.