ADAM Audio D3V Review

The compact studio monitor market has proven to be a very successful category. As a result, new players are entering this lucrative space, with legendary German company ADAM Audio being the latest one to join the fray.

The ADAM Audio D3V takes the best of what ADAM Audio has to offer and condenses it into a compact set of desktop monitoring speakers that deliver incredible sound and an assortment of versatile features.

We’ve reviewed several compact studio monitors, in fact, every type of monitor out there, from budget choices to high-end studio-grade gear. This gives us unique insight into what to look for in monitors.

Going beyond our own testing is also an essential part of our reviews. We work hand in hand with a wide network of industry insiders and experts to gather more data. The result is an uncompromising look into the products we write about. Let’s dive into the review.

Features

When ADAM Audio releases a new product, people take notice. With a history of innovation and a unique X-ART tweeter, they are among the leaders in professional audio. The D3V maintains this tradition and is sure to disrupt the competitive compact monitor market.

Sound Quality

Reviewing the measurement data for the D3V from ADAM Audio got me very excited. On paper, these looked to provide an excellent listening experience. Once I conducted my own testing, I was left amazed at what ADAM Audio had managed to achieve in the context of this type of compact monitor.

The clarity, precision, and depth far exceeded my expectations. I found myself entranced at how something so compact could sound this good, and it challenged some of my preconceived notions about studio monitors.

The D3V is a new and unique addition to the ADAM Audio monitor range.

The most stark realization was how well-rounded and satisfying the bass response was from a meager 3.5-inch woofer. The dual-sided passive radiators enhance the low-end response, and with a reach down to 45Hz, these even leave many much larger monitors in the dust.

The mid-range was also outstanding, with excellent presence and, once again, supreme neutrality for critical listening applications. I loaded up my usual diverse playlist of songs to test, and the results were impressive across the board. From powerful vocal performances to complex instrumental masterpieces, the D3V tackled it all with finesse.

Excellent sound quality in a compact form.

I’ve already experienced the ribbon tweeters on ADAM Audio’s other studio monitors, and I was intensely curious how well that would translate to a compact form factor. It’s evident that the team at ADAM Audio is masters at their craft because the results were superb—crystal clear without a hint of fatigue.

Imaging and control within the near-field environment are exactly what I want from a compact set of desktop reference monitors. I’ll admit that after reviewing so many monitors, I thought I had seen it all, but the D3V got me giddy with excitement like I haven’t experienced in years.

If you want a powerful yet refined set of desktop reference monitors, the ADAM Audio D3V is one of the best options on the market.

Build Quality

ADAM Audio has a stellar reputation for quality, so I was expecting the same level of attention to detail with the D3V. As expected, the D3V met my expectations and joined a long line of high-quality products in the ADAM Audio family.

Premium quality components from a trusted brand.

The cabinet is made of ultra-tough PC-ABS plastic that can take some punishment, but what stands out more than anything are the drivers. The single-piece aluminum woofer is ultra-high-quality, and I could write an essay on the outstanding engineering that goes into the ribbon tweeters that ADAM Audio makes.

A long base warranty of 2 years is already fantastic, but this extends to 5 years if you register the product. I’d have a hard time imagining you’ll ever need it, but it also highlights that the company has your back if anything were to go awry.

Specifications

I’ve already touched on the impressive low-end rach of 45Hz but it’s worth highlighting again and putting it within context.

Many much larger monitors need help reaching this low, let alone the 3-4 inch options currently available in this price range. At the top end, the D3V can go as high as 23kHz, a product of the excellent tweeter.

Superb reach for a monitor this small.

The power configuration features 80 Watts per speaker for the woofer and 40 Watts per speaker for the D-ART tweeter. Combined, it’s 120 Watts Peak per speaker or 100 Watts RMS. This is ample power to deliver a Max SPL of 92dB, more than enough for any desktop application.

The dispersion is also wide, at 120 degrees horizontal by 120 degrees vertical. You’ll have no issue finding the ideal sweet spot, especially in a near-field environment.

Tuning Options

The ADAM Audio D3V also features a range of tuning controls to sculpt the sound and address any problematic sonic issues based on your studio space and working environment.

Three switches on the primary speakers’ rear cover Position, Desk, and Room settings. What I like about these switches is how straightforward and beginner-friendly they are. For many beginners, the range of tuning controls on some monitors can be overwhelming, but with the D3V, it couldn’t be simpler.

Easy to understand and effective tuning controls.

The Position switch gives you the choice between Stans, Wall, or Corner. All are self-explanatory based on where you have the monitors placed. Supporting this is the Desk switch with None, Small, and Large. Once again, it is very easy to understand. 

The final Room switch features Treated, Moderate, and Untreated options. Understanding the level of room treatment you have is perhaps the most complex element, but even here, it’s fairly straightforward and uses simple-to-understand language.

Between these three switches, you should easily tackle the most common issues you might encounter based on your space. I can foresee some wanting more granular control, but in the context of this target market and price point, I think ADAM Audio has nailed the execution of providing some flexibility while retaining simplicity.

Design

The ADAM Audio D3V offers a sleek, compact form factor that is both attractive and practical. The D-ART ribbon tweeter also distinguishes this set of compact monitors from other options.

The ADAM Audio D3V also features an angular stand that allows you to direct the drivers at your ears even if they sit at the desktop level. However, the flexibility continues. You can remove the built-in stands, opt to utilize the 3/8″ threaded insert and attach them to microphone stands.

The D3V is available in Black and White.

The D3V is also available in an all-white version. I’m partial to the black, but I can certainly imagine that the white version would look amazing in the right studio setting.

Beyond appearance, the D3V is a technical showcase of what the ADAM Audio engineers are capable of. Outstanding drivers, power configuration, and features. An expertly designed set of monitors that look great and perform at a very high level.

Dimensions

One of the most appealing aspects of the ADAM Audio D3V is its ultra-compact form factor compared to traditional studio monitors. This is ideal if you have limited desk space or if you want a set of high-quality monitors to take on the road.

Ultra compact and lightweight reference monitors.

Speaking of taking these on the road, the set weighs just 7.9 lbs. (3.58kg). This makes it ideal for slotting into your backpack or luggage. Additionally, it ensures easy integration with microphone stands.

Inputs

The ADAM Audio D3V offers a simple set of connection options. You’ll have access to an analog TRS connection point on the back of the primary speaker. A combo jack would have been ideal for those that want to use an XLR cable but it’s also not a dealbreaker.

You can connect the D3V directly to your laptop or PC.

The other connection point is a USB-C plug. This is superb as it allows you to plug this set of speakers into your laptop without needing an audio interface. The cable also offers a USB-A adapter for maximum compatibility.

The 4-pin connection cable, which offers a decent length, also makes connecting the two speakers simple. Finally, the front of the primary speaker features a headphone jack.

Value

With so much technical expertise on display, you would imagine that the ADAM Audio D3V would be expensive, especially when you consider some of the primary competitors in the compact reference monitor market.

However, the D3V is surprisingly very affordable compared to the competition. This aggressively priced set of small monitors packs a powerful punch and offers premium sound quality—outstanding value for money.

Customer Reviews

The ADAM Audio D3V is receiving positive reviews from customers and industry experts. After testing these out over the past week, it comes as no surprise. Based on the reviews so far,I can see these compact monitors becoming a leading choice in this space.

Space Saving Tips

Smaller studio spaces can rapidly become cluttered and messy, which can be distracting, hamper creativity, and bad for your overall health.

Compact studio monitors can help greatly, but that is just the start. Below are some quick tips on maximizing your studio’s space.

Small studio can easily become cluttered.

Utilize Vertical Space: Install wall-mounted shelves or pegboards to store instruments, cables, and accessories. Hang guitars or string instruments to free up floor space while keeping them easily accessible.

Invest in Multi-Functional Furniture: To maximize functionality, use a desk with built-in storage or a foldable table. Consider storage ottomans or chairs with compartments for organizing smaller items like picks, tuners, or sheet music.

Organize Cables and Accessories: Use cable management solutions like hooks, velcro straps, or cord organizers to reduce tangles and save space. Store accessories like pedals or mics in labeled bins or drawers to keep your workspace tidy and efficient.

A cluttered studio leads to a cluttered mind. Take time to organize, and you’ll become more motivated to spend time in your studio.

Alternatives

Exploring all your options is always a wise move before deciding which monitor to buy. Below, I look at some other compact monitors you might consider.

IK Multimedia iLoud Micro Monitor Pro

The IK Multimedia iLoud Micro Monitor Pro is a direct alternative to the D3V. This compact set of monitors offers similar features and is a highly capable choice for studio applications.

• Superb sound quality with ample clarity and punch.
• Offers built-in room calibration features.
• Not as budget-friendly as the ADAM Audio D3V.

Mackie CR5BT

If you are working with a smaller budget and have more room on your desk, the entry-level Mackie CR5BT is worth considering. It won’t compare to the D3V sound-wise, but it’s still a solid pair of monitors at a cheap price.

• Wide range of connection options, including Bluetooth.
• The low price point is perfect for budget-conscious buyers.
• The sound profile is not as neutral or as polished as the D3V.

PreSonus Eris Studio 4

The PreSonus Eris Studio 4 is another excellent option for keeping costs down. At this price level, it offers impressive sound quality, making it a viable option for studio applications.

• Great value monitor with an attractive appearance.
• Wide selection of input options.
• The D3V offers better sound quality.

Our Verdict

The ADAM Audio D3V is one of the most impressive compact monitors I’ve ever had the chance to test and review. I’m also amazed at how aggressively priced this monitor pair is.

Considering its outstanding sound quality, robust construction, and innovative design, the ADAM Audio D3V rapidly rises to the top of my list of most recommended monitors in the compact studio monitor space. ADAM Audio continues to impress with each new release, and I can see the D3V becoming a huge success.