ADAM Audio Sub8 PRO - active subwoofer for studio monitoring systems

The ADAM Audio Sub8 PRO is an advanced active subwoofer that combines state-of-the-art DSP technology with excellent acoustic performance. It forms the ideal foundation for compact studio monitoring systems, providing precise and deep reproduction of low frequencies. Thanks to its Ethernet network connection and dedicated ADAM Control software, users gain full control over subwoofer calibration and management.

Product Features

Integration with Sonarworks SoundID Reference - the first subwoofer integration with the Sonarworks calibration system on the market. Ethernet network connection (AES70/TCP protocol) enables remote management using ADAM Control software. 8-inch bass driver with a fiber-reinforced paper cone designed for high excursion amplitude. 200 W RMS Class D amplifier with an efficient PWM modulator. 4-band parametric equalizer (QEQ) and manual time alignment. Three operating modes: Stereo, LFE, and Wide. Optimized bass port designed using FEA methods.

Professional capabilities for your creativity

The Sub8 PRO is a subwoofer designed with the most demanding professionals in sound production and mixing in mind. At its heart is a powerful Class D PWM amplifier delivering 200 W RMS power at 3 Ohm impedance and up to 325 W peak power. The 8-inch bass driver, equipped with a fiber-reinforced paper cone, guarantees precise and dynamic reproduction of low frequencies in the range of 30 Hz to 228 Hz (-3 dB).

What sets the Sub8 PRO apart from the competition is primarily its Ethernet network connectivity based on the AES70/TCP protocol. This gives users access to ADAM Control software (available for Windows and MacOS), which offers a range of tools for calibration and management. Manual time alignment of the subwoofer is possible, as is the application of a 4-band parametric equalizer, and uploading Sonarworks SoundID Reference calibration profiles. Firmware updates are also managed through the app, allowing for new functionalities to be added in the future.

The subwoofer offers three operating modes tailored to different applications: Stereo - for conventional two-channel systems, LFE (below 120 Hz) - for immersive and multi-channel applications, and Wide - for full-range applications. Crossover frequency adjustment is possible in the range of 70, 85, 100, and 115 Hz via ADAM Control software. Additionally, the subwoofer supports phase adjustment in eight positions (from 0° to -315°), enabling precise matching to any monitoring system.

Regarding connections, the Sub8 PRO features two analog XLR/TRS combo inputs, an AES3 digital XLR input, two analog XLR outputs, and an AES3 digital XLR output. The analog inputs are processed by a 24-bit ADC converter with an internal sampling rate of 96 kHz. The maximum input level is +19 dBu, and the analog input impedance is 25 kOhm. Built-in protections include independent peak and thermal limiters, overload protection, overheating protection, and under-voltage protection.

The acoustic performance of the Sub8 PRO is impressive: the maximum sound pressure level in the full space at a distance of 1 meter is 105 dB SPL (RMS) in the 50-100 Hz band and 110 dB SPL (peak). In the 25-50 Hz band, it reaches 101 dB SPL (RMS) and 104 dB SPL (peak). The maximum peak SPL with IEC weighted noise is 112 dB SPL in the full range and 113 dB SPL with bass management at 85 Hz. The subwoofer also meets Dolby DARDT requirements (112 dB SPL).

Applications

• Compact studio monitoring systems
• Conventional two-channel systems (Stereo mode)
• Immersive and multi-channel audio (LFE mode)
• Full-range applications (Wide mode)
• Professional recording and post-production studios
• Mixing and mastering in small rooms

Detailed Technical Specifications

• Type: Active subwoofer
• Bass driver diameter: 8 inches
• Voice coil diameter: 35 mm (1 3/8″)
• Amplifier type: PWM (Class D)
• RMS Power: 200 W @ 3 Ohm (1% THD)
• Peak Power: 325 W (10% THD)
• Frequency range (-3 dB): 30 – 228 Hz
• Frequency range (-6 dB): 26 – 300 Hz
• Crossover frequencies: 70, 85, 100, 115 Hz (variable)
• Max SPL (50-100 Hz, RMS): 105 dB SPL
• Max SPL (50-100 Hz, peak): 110 dB SPL
• Max peak SPL (IEC, bass managed 85 Hz): 113 dB SPL
• Analog inputs: 2 x XLR/TRS combo
• Digital input: XLR AES3
• Analog outputs: 2 x XLR
• Digital output: XLR AES3
• Max input level: +19 dBu
• Analog input impedance: 25 kOhm
• Digital input impedance: 110 Ohm
• ADC converter: 24-bit
• Internal sampling rate: 96 kHz
• Network connectivity: RJ45 (Ethernet, AES70/TCP)
• Software: ADAM Control (Windows, MacOS)
• Calibration: 4-band QEQ + Sonarworks SoundID Reference
• Operating modes: Remote Control, Local/Stereo, LFE (<120 Hz), Wide
• Phase: 0°, -45°, -90°, 135°, 180°, -225°, -270°, -315°
• Delay: 0 – 10 ms (32-bit resolution)
• Level: -18 dB to +6 dB
• Power supply: 100 – 240 V, 50/60 Hz
• Power consumption (max): 400 W
• Power consumption (standby): 2.5 W
• Dimensions (H x W x D): 385 x 300 x 365 mm
• Weight: 15.3 kg
• Operating temperature range: -10°C to +40°C
• Humidity: below 75% RH, non-condensing
• Protections: peak and thermal limiters, overload, overheating, and under-voltage protection
• Bypass: yes, via pedal (not included) and TRS connection

Materials and Construction

The Sub8 PRO enclosure is made of MDF board covered with vinyl, with a painted front panel. The front-firing construction with a front bass port ensures effective and precise reproduction of low frequencies. The bass driver cone is fiber-reinforced paper, combining lightness with durability and excellent acoustic properties. A sturdy metal protective grille safeguards the driver against mechanical damage. The whole assembly creates a durable and aesthetically pleasing structure, suited for intensive use in professional studios.

Package Contents

• ADAM Audio Sub8 PRO active subwoofer
• Power cable
• Quick Start Guide

Summary

If you are looking for a subwoofer that will bring precision and depth to your studio monitoring system, the ADAM Audio Sub8 PRO is an excellent choice. Advanced DSP technology, Ethernet connectivity, Sonarworks integration, and a powerful Class D amplifier create a tool that will meet the expectations of even the most demanding audio engineers. Whether you are working in a stereo, immersive, or full-range configuration, this subwoofer will provide you with the control and quality you can rely on for every project.