TEST: Prodipe TDC8

 If you're interested in near-field monitors, you might frown a little at a pair of Prodipe TDC 8 monitors. Prodipe? France? I don't know it at all. I felt the same way when I recently received two medium-sized packages. However, a look at the price of just under 400 Euros for two (!) loudspeakers aroused my interest, especially since some specifications don't seem to fit into the aforementioned price segment at first glance.

In addition, the product, which belongs to the French company IPE Music, comes up with an interesting housing format, which allows an alternative installation variant to the classic stand solution. All in all, a debut that makes us want more. Let's see what else we can elicit from the monitor, especially since the competition in the budget league is anything but low. Whoever wants to acquire a firm place in the consumer's favor has to shine with a few independent detail solutions, or else lay out the blueprint for an impressive number of copyists.

Prodipe's TDC group includes the 5, 6 and 8 versions, which are named after the size of the respective woofer. We have the most powerful version with the designation 8 for testing.



Construction

A single TDC 8 box comes with a weight of 10 kilograms and the dimensions (HxWxD): 350 mm x 250 mm x 280 mm, which is easy to handle and place accordingly in practice. If you want to place the speakers in front of you on the work surface, you also have the option of placing the monitor in either a straight or upwardly slanted version by turning the case. This has the advantage that you don't know the sweet spot in the chest area when the work surface is comparatively low, but it actually radiates in the direction of the hearing. In order to be able to operate the speakers close to a monitor, the construction has been magnetically shielded.

In terms of speakers, the Prodipe TDC 8 has a classic setup, meaning it has a two-way solution with a 30-watt 1-inch tweeter and an 8-inch woofer, which has an output of 80 watts, all figures as RMS. According to the manufacturer, the system has a frequency response of 40 Hz - 20 kHz with a 98dB S/N ratio. XLR balanced, 6.3 mm jack balanced/unbalanced and RCA are available as inputs, whereby the high frequency range can be varied by -2dB, -1dB, 0dB, +1dB using a rotary control. Finally, there is the power or IEC IEC connector with fuse and voltage selector switch.

In general, the boxes, which were developed in France and manufactured in China from MDF, are very cleanly finished and leave a solid impression. The entire construction is covered by black foil and shines with flawless implementation and the non-existent smell of the infamous hardware store formaldehyde flair.

In terms of circuitry, the Prodipe TDC 8 is an active solution, which includes the placement of the crossover before the respective power amplifiers. The advantages are mostly a better impulse behavior and the optimized control of the individual speakers. The final volume of the speakers can be adjusted continuously via a non-gridded rotary control. Personally, I prefer a grid on the volume control, as this is the only way to set both speakers to exactly the same output volume.

However, it gets really interesting when placing the speakers, since this is the coaxial principle, where tweeter and woofer radiate the sound from a common point. This can only be implemented by placing the tweeter in the center or, as in this case, in the middle of the woofer (the dome of the bass speaker was removed in favor of the tweeter driver) and is usually reserved for higher priced products. The advantages are, in addition to a higher phase fidelity, mostly a more authentic reproduction of the stereo image, and in addition, one can significantly reduce the cabinet volume in terms of width.

Another advantage of this design is the flexible alignment of the system. Since there is no "top" or "bottom" of the system apart from the arrangement of the bass reflex port, you can turn the monitor as you like, the radiation of the sound is not affected.


Practice

Although the slope of the cabinet invites placement on the work surface, I first position the speakers in my studio on the appropriate stands in the back of the room to better assess the stereo image. As a starting position, we first select the linear setting in the high frequency range without any cut or boost. Already with the first sounds coming out of the speakers, a strong bass presence around 100 Hz becomes apparent, which makes the speaker sound comparatively voluminous, but also very quickly, almost too quickly a feeling of satisfaction in the mix. It is important to keep this in mind during production.

The impulse behavior of the speaker is good, the stereo image is balanced and the phase fidelity is exemplary due to the coaxial principle. The system's depth staggering is fun and conveys a relaxed working feeling. Among other things, the comparatively deformation-resistant plastic material of the woofers, which are responsible for a discreetly hard basic sound, is striking. Especially at low listening volumes, subtleties in the low-mid range become a bit stiff, but this decreases with increasing volume.

By far one of the most difficult reproductions for a speaker system are distorted electric guitars. The conglomeration of a strong midrange presence with countless overtones regularly causes even constellations from the high price range to capitulate and transforms guitars that were just recorded in a high quality into scratchy buzz saws or muddy/muffy wool blanket representatives in no time. Especially the range between 1 - 4 kHz decides about woe and weal of a guitar recording and wants to be considered accordingly. Here the Prodipe TDC 8 does comparatively well, which is due to a slight overpresence at 3 kHz.

On the other hand, the system has a discreet hang between 200 - 800 Hz, which leads to a loss of warmth in the basic sound. If one wants to trim the monitor to linearity, one would be inclined to lower the tweeter by -1dB, which would bring about an equalization of the sound at a crossover frequency of 1.8 kHz, but would also affect the entire high frequency range beyond the 3 kilohertz mark. Ultimately, everyone has to personally find their preferences and adjust their hearing accordingly.

Due to the strong bass presence between 80 and 120 Hz, an optional additional bass reduction would have been very nice in my opinion, so you unfortunately only have the option to intervene in its basic sound via a placement of the monitor. You should therefore make sure that the speakers are placed far enough away from the nearest wall, as otherwise unpleasant overlaps can quickly occur.



Conclusion

With the Prodipe TDC 8 you get a good sounding and very well manufactured monitor, which earns many plus points due to its construction. The basic sound is unobtrusive, the stereo image is good, the price is excellent and the flexibility due to the optional angled positioning, coupled with the coaxial principle, is very good.


Additional Informations:

Prodipe Audio: Revolutionizing the World of Professional Audio Equipment

Introduction: Prodipe Audio is a leading company in the field of professional audio equipment, catering to musicians, sound engineers, and audiophiles worldwide. Founded in 2000 by Ludovic Lanen, a renowned French sound engineer and musician, the company has rapidly established itself as a reliable and innovative brand in the audio industry. Prodipe Audio's commitment to delivering high-quality products at affordable prices has made it a favorite among professionals and amateurs alike.
Vision and Mission: Prodipe Audio's vision is to democratize access to top-notch audio equipment by offering cutting-edge technology at competitive prices. The company's mission is to empower musicians, producers, and sound engineers with the tools they need to achieve their creative visions and elevate the quality of their work.
Product Range: Prodipe Audio boasts an extensive range of products designed to meet the diverse needs of its customers. The company's offerings include:

Studio Monitors: Prodipe Audio's studio monitors are renowned for their accuracy and fidelity, providing precise sound reproduction essential for critical listening and audio mixing.
b. Microphones: The company's microphones are engineered to capture every nuance of sound with exceptional clarity. From condenser mics to dynamic ones, Prodipe Audio's microphone range caters to a wide array of recording applications.
c. Headphones: Prodipe Audio offers professional-grade headphones that deliver a balanced and accurate sound, making them a popular choice among musicians and music producers.
d. Musical Instruments: The company also manufactures musical instruments, such as electronic drum kits and MIDI controllers, that blend cutting-edge technology with ergonomic designs.
e. Wireless Systems: Prodipe Audio's wireless systems enable performers and presenters to move freely while maintaining excellent audio transmission quality.

Innovative Technology: Prodipe Audio places a strong emphasis on research and development to continually innovate and refine their products. The company collaborates with expert sound engineers, musicians, and technicians to ensure that each product undergoes rigorous testing and improvement. Additionally, Prodipe Audio invests in cutting-edge technology to stay at the forefront of audio equipment advancements.
Artist Endorsements: Prodipe Audio's commitment to quality has garnered support from numerous prominent artists and sound professionals. Many musicians and producers, including Ludovic Lanen himself, endorse Prodipe Audio products, serving as a testament to the brand's credibility and performance.
Global Presence: With its headquarters located in France, Prodipe Audio has expanded its presence globally through a network of authorized dealers and distributors. Its products are available in music stores and online retailers across Europe, Asia, the Americas, and other regions.

Community Engagement: Prodipe Audio actively engages with its user community through online forums, social media platforms, and events. The company values customer feedback and incorporates it into product improvements and future developments.
Commitment to Sustainability: Prodipe Audio demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental sustainability by adhering to eco-friendly manufacturing practices, using recyclable materials in packaging, and complying with relevant regulations.
Awards and Recognition: Over the years, Prodipe Audio has received several industry accolades and awards for its exceptional product performance and innovation, further solidifying its position as a market leader.

Conclusion: Prodipe Audio's journey from a modest start-up to an internationally recognized brand has been fueled by its unwavering dedication to delivering high-quality audio equipment at accessible prices. With its relentless pursuit of innovation and customer satisfaction, Prodipe Audio continues to inspire and equip musicians, sound engineers, and audio enthusiasts worldwide, setting new standards for excellence in the professional audio industry.


Nearfield Monitors: Unveiling Precision in Professional Audio Monitoring
Introduction: Nearfield monitors, also known as studio monitors or reference monitors, play a pivotal role in professional audio production, providing accurate and reliable sound reproduction. These specialized speakers are designed for close-range listening, making them an indispensable tool for music producers, sound engineers, and recording studios. This report delves into the fascinating world of nearfield monitors, exploring their history, technology, features, and applications.
Historical Background: The concept of nearfield monitoring dates back to the mid-20th century when the need for accurate audio monitoring arose in recording studios. Early studio monitors were large, far-field systems that were challenging to calibrate and often resulted in inaccuracies due to room reflections. As recording techniques advanced, engineers sought a more precise solution, leading to the development of nearfield monitors. The first commercially available nearfield monitor, the Yamaha NS-10, revolutionized the industry and set the standard for reference monitoring in studios.
Key Features and Technology: Nearfield monitors are meticulously engineered to provide a flat frequency response and an unbiased representation of audio content. Key features and technologies that contribute to their accuracy include:

a. Tweeter and Woofer: Nearfield monitors typically consist of a high-frequency tweeter and a low-frequency woofer, with separate amplification for each driver. This two-way or three-way design allows for better control over the frequency range.

b. Enclosure Design: Nearfield monitors come in various enclosure types, such as ported, sealed, or bass-reflex designs. The choice of enclosure affects the speaker's low-frequency response and bass extension.

c. Crossover Network: The crossover network in nearfield monitors divides the audio signal into appropriate frequency bands and sends them to the corresponding drivers, ensuring seamless integration between tweeter and woofer.

d. Bi-Amping or Tri-Amping: Many high-end nearfield monitors offer bi-amping or tri-amping configurations, where each driver is powered by a dedicated amplifier channel. This setup enhances precision and reduces intermodulation distortion.

e. Room Calibration: Some nearfield monitors feature advanced room calibration technologies, using built-in microphones and DSP processing to compensate for room acoustics and optimize audio performance.

f. Magnetic Shielding: Magnetic shielding is employed to prevent electromagnetic interference, making nearfield monitors suitable for use near sensitive equipment like computer monitors.
Advantages of Nearfield Monitoring: The use of nearfield monitors offers several advantages to audio professionals:

a. Accurate Audio Representation: Nearfield monitors deliver a flat frequency response, allowing producers and engineers to make critical decisions with confidence and accuracy.

b. Reduced Room Interference: Due to their close listening proximity, nearfield monitors minimize the impact of room reflections, resulting in clearer and more precise audio monitoring.

c. Enhanced Stereo Imaging: The focused sound dispersion of nearfield monitors facilitates a detailed stereo image, aiding in the localization of sound sources.

d. Low Listening Fatigue: Nearfield monitors are designed for extended listening sessions with minimal listener fatigue, making them ideal for long studio sessions.

e. Portability and Versatility: Nearfield monitors come in various sizes, making them suitable for different studio setups and even home recording environments.
Applications: Nearfield monitors find extensive applications in various fields of audio production:

a. Music Production: Producers use nearfield monitors to mix and master music tracks, ensuring precise tonal balance and optimal dynamic range.

b. Film and Television Post-Production: Audio post-production professionals rely on nearfield monitors to edit and mix sound for films, television shows, and commercials.

c. Broadcasting: Radio and television broadcasters use nearfield monitors for monitoring audio content during live broadcasts and post-production tasks.

d. Gaming and VR Audio: In gaming and virtual reality environments, nearfield monitors are employed to create immersive soundscapes and realistic spatial audio.
Notable Brands and Models: Several renowned brands dominate the nearfield monitor market, offering a wide range of models tailored to different needs and budgets. Some popular brands include Genelec, KRK Systems, Yamaha, Focal, Neumann, and Adam Audio, each known for its commitment to audio quality and innovation.

Conclusion: Nearfield monitors have become an indispensable tool in the professional audio industry, empowering musicians, sound engineers, and content creators with accurate and reliable sound reproduction. Through advancements in technology and constant innovation, these specialized speakers continue to shape the landscape of audio monitoring, driving creative excellence and setting new standards for precision in audio production.