TEST: Quested V2108

 It is and will always remain questionable whether there is a "British sound" in the field of monitors, and if so, which protagonist stands out from the crowd. For all proponents of this thesis, the British manufacturer Quested Monitoring Systems will probably be one of the first names that spontaneously come to mind, as the manufacturer enjoys an excellent reputation worldwide, especially in the pro sector. The company, which was founded by Roger Quested, has actually managed to stay in the top quality segment until today, while maintaining complete independence. With the Quested V2108, the manufacturer now presents an improved new edition of its model to continue to compete in the Champions League of nearfield monitors.

Design and optics of the Quested V2108

I don't know if it's due to the isolation of an island for thousands of years, but the British have always had and continue to have a very, shall we say "unusual" relationship with colors as soon as one enters the field of audio technology. Those who remember the "Villa Kunterbunt" layout of old analog British consoles, e.g. from old Midas or Soundcraft, know what I'm talking about. Comparatively defensive is the appearance of the Quested V2108, although you can immediately recognize in which country the monitors are developed and manufactured. Only a British company will probably dare to combine a dark anthracite as a base with a dark blue metallic with a discreet hammered look in the amplifier area. United Kingdom, here we go!

The company looks back on a long history in loudspeaker manufacturing. Already in the mid-eighties the foundation stone for the career of the company was laid with the H108, at that time still in the usual, passive design. The basis for the V2108 available here for testing is the VS2108, which should develop until today as the cornerstone of the Quested portfolio. According to the press release, the current version should be characterized by higher dynamics and improved midrange reproduction. With an individual price of 2,509 euros, the speaker is also in a league where it must compete with several competitors for the crown of the top class. Let's see how the Briton does.

First impression

Oops, I had forgotten how "haptic" near field monitors can be. With the dimensions of 340 mm x 400 mm x 365 mm and a stately weight of 23 kg, placement on the desk is definitely out of the question, an official pair of stands is called for here, not only for space reasons, but also to not "water down" the massive cube in its foundation. Also in terms of performance, the Quested V2108 is not too far from the midfield, the system has a total of 400 watts, which are supplied from 2 Class A / B power amplifiers. However, the distribution of power is interesting, since both the high frequency range of the 2-way box, which is implemented by a comparatively large 28 mm soft dome, as well as the low frequency range, which is reproduced by means of an 8 inch driver, is supplied with 200 watts each in equal parts. This means a comparatively strong overabundance of power for the tweeter range, which, however, proves to be very helpful in a very relaxed reproduction even at higher volumes. As usual for Quested, the tweeter comes without a waveguide and sits open with a slight camber in front of the front wall. Therefore, be careful when transporting the box, the soft dome is dented faster than you would like.

Quested points out in its communications several times that especially the midrange, which is inevitably with 2-way systems always in the area of the crossover frequency (here 1.4 kHz) somewhat underexposed, should be significantly better positioned in the new system. Otherwise, the system has a frequency response of 45 Hz - 20 kHz ± 2dB / 38 Hz- 22 kHz -6 dB, which makes a subwoofer not absolutely necessary. Below 20 Hz, the frequency response is cut off with -3 dB at 24 dB/octave. In general, the speaker processing makes a very interesting impression. For a peak of 200 watts, the very stiff cone of the woofer is hung comparatively softly with a very elastic surround, which, in cooperation with the two bass reflex ports on the front bottom, suggests an interesting bass reproduction.

The back

As already mentioned, the rear of the monitor stands out in several respects from the standard layout of a nearfield monitor, on the one hand by its unusual color scheme and on the other hand by the three-dimensional milled, very bulky appearing heat sink for the running operation. Regarding the connection options, as usual in this performance class, the asymmetrical RCA section has been completely omitted and instead a single, locked XLR / TRS combo jack has been installed.

In terms of treble and bass compensation, it is once again quite "British" to the point, that is, 3 different control options equal three different layouts! The closer sense of this action does not really open up to me, but that's the way it is. While one needs a small slotted screwdriver for the recessed, ninefold lowerable input level control, the fourfold tuned bass control (40 Hz and below, -3 dB, -9 dB, + 1dB) requires a medium sized slotted screwdriver or at least a firm fingernail for the adjustment. The treble adjustment, in turn, is controlled by 3 DIP switches and allows, in addition to flat, + / - boost / cut above / below 2.5 kHz. Cold device plug, power switch, ready.

The Quested V2108 in practice

Well then, as sound material once again the usual suspects were used, i.e. uncompressed and unprocessed high-end stereo recordings for example of drum sets, single tracks of vocals, various test tones, several reference mixes and a few masters of my current productions, for which I am responsible myself. Completely from the gut, should one have to press the basic sound of the Quested V2108 together, I would spontaneously think of the adjective "analytical" with all its advantages and disadvantages.

First of all, let's start with the impulse reproduction and the spatial staggering. In both areas, the system can only be given top marks. All instruments are picked up very cleanly and reproduced in a detailed and punctuated manner even at high volumes. The excellent reproduction of vocals is particularly striking, revealing far more nuances than one would normally expect from a 2-way speaker. The spatial staggering allows the depth of the room not only to be guessed at, but also to be really grasped, which makes it much easier to reproduce depth in the reverb area, especially in the mix down.

In terms of volume, a somewhat more ambitious level brings out the strengths of the monitors better, although the system also cuts a good figure at low volumes. I placed a special focus on the midrange, which, according to the manufacturer, has improved significantly compared to the predecessor. And indeed, the monitor convinces with a significantly improved midrange reproduction, which is particularly noticeable in the instrument genre of distorted guitars. The important range between approx. 1 kHz to approx. 2.5 kHz is picked up well despite the crossover frequency, which is probably due in particular to the fast response of the woofer.

Only light or also some shadow? Well, as we all know, you can only evaluate the sound of a monitor very subjectively, so any description should always be taken with a grain of salt, but I personally was not convinced by the bass response of the Quested V2108. I have the impression that Quested has sacrificed some bass volume in favor of the admittedly very good midrange reproduction. The bass range is comparatively "bony", euphemistically also to be called "neutral", and does not convey the low end that the product's physical features would suggest. Even when activating the bass compensation by +1 dB, the basic sound did not generally become "bigger", but merely conveyed a more stable sound reproduction.

I didn't want to let this statement stand in the room quite so simply, however, and created a cabling that I hadn't considered necessary shortly before. And lo and behold, in cooperation with an Eve Audio subwoofer, the monitors blossomed after a short tuning. Now the speakers could completely show their strengths and gained immensely in volume and linearity. To what extent a corresponding subwoofer use makes sense, everyone must ultimately decide for themselves, for me personally it was the decisive point that the Quested V2108 still lacked to the upper class area.

Conclusion

With the Quested V2108, the British manufacturer has a worthy successor to the VS2108 in the program. The monitor has an outstanding impulse fidelity, high power reserves, a very good depth gradation and an excessively good midrange reproduction for a 2-way system.



On the other hand, those who focus on a voluminous bass reproduction should consider the additional purchase of a subwoofer despite the 8-inch woofer, but this ultimately remains a matter of taste.


Additional Informations:

Quested Audio: Precision Engineering for Audiophile Delight
Introduction:

Quested Audio, a prominent name in the professional audio industry, has been synonymous with precision engineering and exceptional sound quality since its inception. Established in 1985 by Roger Quested, the company has remained committed to delivering high-end studio monitors and audio solutions that cater to the discerning needs of recording studios, post-production facilities, and audiophiles worldwide. With a focus on accuracy, transparency, and reliability, Quested Audio has earned a reputation as a leading manufacturer of reference-grade studio monitoring systems.
Founding and Vision:

Roger Quested, a renowned audio engineer, founded Quested Audio with a vision to create studio monitors that would reproduce sound with utmost accuracy and honesty. Drawing on his extensive experience in the industry, Quested aimed to bridge the gap between the audio engineer's intention and the end listener's experience. This led to the development of the company's core philosophy: "Hear the truth."
Innovative Technology and Design:

Quested Audio's commitment to innovation and engineering excellence is evident in its product line. The company's engineers use cutting-edge technology and premium materials to craft precision monitors that provide unparalleled sonic transparency. Each monitor is meticulously designed to minimize coloration and distortion, offering audio professionals an unadulterated listening experience.

a. Active Monitor Systems: Quested Audio specializes in active monitor systems, where each speaker is powered by built-in amplifiers. This design ensures optimal synergy between components, precise power distribution, and eliminates the need for external amplifiers.

b. Coaxial Driver Technology: Many Quested monitors utilize coaxial driver technology, where the high-frequency driver is mounted concentrically within the low-frequency driver's voice coil. This design results in a point-source sound dispersion, reducing phase cancellation and offering improved imaging and accuracy.

c. Advanced Crossover Designs: Quested Audio employs sophisticated crossover designs to seamlessly blend frequencies between drivers, ensuring a smooth and natural transition across the frequency spectrum.
Product Range:

Quested Audio offers a diverse range of studio monitors tailored to meet various audio production needs. Some notable product lines include:

a. V-Series: The V-Series monitors are acclaimed for their accuracy and transparency, making them popular choices for music production, broadcast, and post-production facilities.

b. S-Series: Designed for near-field monitoring, the S-Series combines compact form factors with uncompromising sound quality, making them ideal for smaller studios and editing suites.

c. HM-Series: The HM-Series includes precision reference monitors, widely used in mastering studios and high-end audiophile setups, where absolute sonic precision is paramount.
High-profile Clientele:

Quested Audio's commitment to delivering uncompromising audio quality has attracted a roster of high-profile clientele. Renowned recording studios, music producers, sound engineers, and post-production facilities worldwide rely on Quested monitors to ensure their work is accurately represented. The brand's monitors have been utilized in the creation of countless hit records, blockbuster films, and television productions.

Customization and Bespoke Solutions:
In addition to its standard product offerings, Quested Audio also provides custom solutions tailored to the specific needs of clients. The company collaborates with audio professionals to develop bespoke studio monitor systems that cater to unique studio environments and acoustic requirements.

Conclusion:
Quested Audio stands as a testament to the pursuit of perfection in audio engineering. Since its founding, the company has remained dedicated to providing audiophile-quality studio monitors that "hear the truth" and faithfully reproduce sound as intended by audio professionals. With an unwavering commitment to precision engineering, innovation, and customization, Quested Audio continues to be a trusted choice for those seeking uncompromising audio quality in the world of professional audio production and high-end audiophile setups. As the industry continues to evolve, Quested Audio's legacy of excellence and commitment to sonic accuracy position the company as a leader in the pursuit of sonic perfection.