TEST: Eve audio SC 408

When a shipment of monitors is delivered by a shipping company, you know as a tester that something special is about to happen before you even hear the first sound. Theoretically, the 30 kilogram bolides could have been shipped as 2 individual packages, but strapped to a Euro pallet, the two Eve audio SC408 monitors look more than just impressive in their massive outer packaging. To what extent the touch of the monstrous is also reflected in the sound of the construction and how a single person manages to maneuver 30 kg onto a high stand without scratching it will be shown in the upcoming test.


The construction of the Eve audio SC408 test

That the Eve audio SC408s are not the usual near-field suspects in terms of sound and performance, one realizes already during the "unboxing" so popular on the Internet. If I had created a video of the process, you could have a good laugh at how I try to free the 30 kg Wämmser from their high-quality, tight-fitting outer packaging by attempting to lift them out. This attempt can be saved, since the foam persistently remains between the monitor and the box, especially since lifting 30 kg is a very manly department in itself. The only variant that works, as long as you don't want to destroy the outer packaging, was to carefully pull the product out from the side. So far, so good.

Already the pure performance data (2 x 250 watt woofer + 250 watt midrange + 50 watt tweeter) together with the dimensions (W x H x D): 710 mm x 330 mm x 440 mm indicate that the target audience of the Eve audio SC408 in this case is not the ambitious home recording studio, but rather one is in the professional field, which is further supported by a retail price of just under 3,000 € per box. Along with that, you should also check your rooms to see if they are at all up to a 1600 watt duo. After all, the Eve audio SC408 is not a nearfield but a midfield monitor. A perfect spatial alignment along with appropriate damping, especially of the low frequencies of the control room, are just as much a basic requirement for the system as a minimum size of the room. Otherwise, there is a risk that the Eve audio SC408 will literally "smash" the acoustics due to its performance. You don't build a Tesla drive into a Mercedes A-Class.

In order to place the monitors optimally in the room, I chose Fame monitor stands this time, which are the only ones in my collection that have a flat, partly foam-covered support surface and place the speakers at a height of about 1 meter. The distance to the monitoring position is 180 cm, the distance to the wall behind it is 200 cm. A Palmer Monicon acts as the master volume control, and all the cabling is from Cordial. The control room is moderately damped with Basotect panels and was covered with a short-pile carpet.

The concept of Eve audio SC408

Interestingly, the Eve audio company was created by Roland Stenz, who used to be the CEO of the Adam Audio company. Although it has only been on the market for a few years, the company already has an extensive catalog, starting with budget nearfield monitors in the 300 euro league, with the tested version being the top dog at the other end of the scale.

The Eve audio SC408 is an active, 4-way midfield monitor that features two 8-inch "Silvertone" fiberglass woofers rated at 250 watts each, a 5-inch midrange driver rated at 250 watts and a 1-inch AMT tweeter rated at 50 watts, and according to the manufacturer, has a frequency response of 30 Hz - 21 kHz. The sound pressure of the system is stated at 118 dB SPL. Considering the installed components, one also takes these values from the manufacturer without hesitation, i.e. an additional subwoofer is not needed. Eve audio calls the system a 4-way system, since 4 different drivers are used. The internal DSPs operate at 192 kHz and control the volume, crossover frequencies and equalizer functions. All speakers are secured with limiters, separating at 250 Hz and 3 kHz. The system was developed in Berlin, where the final acceptance of the system also takes place. The system is built in China.

Front and rear of the Eve audio SC408

On the back, the connection panel welcomes us next to the standard XLR an unexpected RCA input, which I would not have expected here. Via 4 mini switches (one is not assigned) you can lock the DSP functions and select the input level between +7 dBu and +22 dBu. Although in most cases one is well advised with +7 dBu, there are very high levels in some studios, which can then also be compensated in the +22 dBu setting. There is also a ribbed element on the rear panel, which serves to cool the system. It gets warm during operation, but not hot.

Regarding the front, you should first decide whether you want to operate the system horizontally or vertically. From the factory, the system is configured for horizontal operation. However, if you want to position the Eve audio SC408 vertically, you have to rotate the tweeter / midrange array by 90 degrees. This can easily be done in a few minutes. To protect the sensitive tweeter from external influences, you can also attach a protective grille, which adheres magnetically.

The system's control center is located on the top right, as seen from the midrange. Via a push-poti you get to the respective menu, which, if you have enabled editing on the back of the case, edits both the volume and the corresponding filter settings. The control is gridded, i.e. the annoying adjustment of the volume balance between the boxes, which is unfortunately still found especially in the budget class, is fortunately omitted.

In addition to a special desk mode, which defuses the low-mid range, the frequencies can be raised or lowered in 0.5 dB steps via 2 shelving filters (> 300 Hz, < 3 kHz). The optical control is done via a LED ring, which can also be edited in its brightness. If the potentiometer is pressed for longer than 3 seconds, the system goes into standby mode. All settings are automatically saved and automatically loaded at the next activation.

The Eve audio SC408 in practice

While powering on and booting up the system is completely silent, there is a very quiet "discharge pop" when deactivating, but it is so quiet that it is hardly noticed and does not stress the speakers in any way. If you look at the construction of the Eve audio SC408, the two 8-inch woofers naturally catch the eye first, which encourages the expectation of a voluminous bass reproduction. In fact, "what you see is what you get" applies here, meaning that the bass reproduction of the system is beyond criticism.

The bass is tight, well articulated and doesn't tend to be undifferentiated at any volume. Especially at higher volumes, the low frequency range shines, which is not to be neglected, especially in a midfield system. After all, it is important to ensure a clean localization of the signal even at a distance of 4 meters and more, which the Eve audio SC408 succeeds excellently. However, as already mentioned, it is important to pay special attention to the room acoustics and to address the issue of bass traps if necessary. With their massive air movement, the 4 woofers immediately punish any spatial inadequacy with a standing wave, which must be avoided at all costs.

Next, we'll take a look at the high frequency range. All users who have the facial expression of a freshly cut and to be eaten lemon because of the sometimes harsh reproduction can lean back and relax. In contrast to some representatives of the cheaper guild, the trebles in this case almost blend softly, but in any case very restrainedly into the sound picture. There is no trace of harsh or even biting highs, but instead a very fine resolution, which also reproduces the slightest flickering beyond 14 kHz sovereignly.

Now we come to the absolute highlight of the Eve audio SC408, the midrange reproduction. Rarely have I heard a system that generates such a well-structured resolution between 1 - 2 kHz, precisely the range that must be covered by the woofer in a 2-way system. However, this is exactly where the crucial guitar frequencies are, especially when it comes to distorted or high-gain variants. One could even go out on a limb and speak of a system within a system. It is almost frightening what the midrange driver of the Eve audio SC408 reveals in terms of subtleties that are downright swallowed up in comparable systems. Simply outstanding!

In terms of spatial resolution and depth, the Eve audio SC408 also leaves a very good impression, provided you take into account the dimensions of the system. The phantom center is cleanly punctuated, but a minimum distance between the speakers is required for perfect spatial staggering. As already described in detail, we are dealing with a midfield system. It's not that the speakers wouldn't sound adequate at a smaller distance, but you're depriving yourself of a large spatial component that the system generates when perfectly aligned.

The system also has a very good impulse fidelity, whereby the comparatively high weight of the individual speakers certainly has a share in this. Percussive elements or even the quick succession of kick drum beats are easily handled by the system, which manages a clean reproduction even at high to very high volumes. In general, it seems as if the system really "breathes" at a certain volume. This does not mean that the system is not convincing at moderate volumes, but 800 watts per side want to be "tickled" a bit before they can show their full sound.

Conclusion

With the Eve audio SC408, the Berlin company has a product of the absolute top class in the midfield area at the start. Basic sound, processing and concept leave an excellent impression, whereby except for a detaching serial number sticker on the back of the case, not a single minus point could be found.

A special highlight is the midrange reproduction that outshines everything else, which is a clear added value compared to the competition, especially in guitar-heavy productions.

As a rating remains only the highest score, for every professional user, the Eve audio SC408 is a clear enrichment in the studio!

Additional informations:

Eve Audio is a prominent company specializing in the design and manufacturing of high-quality professional studio monitors. Founded in 2011, the company has gained recognition for its commitment to delivering exceptional audio reproduction solutions to the audio industry. This report provides a detailed overview of Eve Audio, covering various aspects such as history, product range, technologies, reputation, and future prospects.

History and Background Eve Audio was established by Roland Stenz, a well-respected audio engineer and speaker designer with extensive experience in the pro audio industry. With a vision to create studio monitors that accurately represent the artist's intentions, Stenz assembled a team of audio professionals and engineers to develop innovative and cutting-edge solutions. Over the years, the company has become synonymous with excellence in speaker design and has earned a reputation for its meticulous attention to detail.

Product Range Eve Audio offers a diverse range of studio monitors tailored to meet the needs of audio professionals, producers, engineers, and musicians. Their product line includes nearfield, midfield, and main studio monitors, as well as subwoofers and accessories. Each monitor is crafted with precision and utilizes advanced technologies to deliver an accurate, transparent, and detailed sound reproduction.

Technologies and Innovation Eve Audio prides itself on employing state-of-the-art technologies in their studio monitors. One of their notable innovations is the Air Motion Transformer (AMT) technology, which is integrated into many of their models. The AMT technology provides a higher sound resolution, extended frequency response, and reduced distortion compared to traditional dome tweeters. This innovation has positioned Eve Audio as a leader in the field of studio monitor design.

Additionally, Eve Audio incorporates other advanced technologies such as proprietary DSP (Digital Signal Processing) algorithms, high-quality woofers, and amplifiers to ensure optimal performance and accuracy across their product range.

Reputation and Industry Recognition Eve Audio has earned an excellent reputation within the audio industry due to the superior quality and performance of their studio monitors. Their products have garnered widespread acclaim from professional audio engineers, producers, and musicians worldwide. Numerous industry experts have praised Eve Audio for their attention to detail, accurate sound reproduction, and exceptional build quality. The company's commitment to customer satisfaction has contributed significantly to their positive reputation.

Customer Support and Warranty Eve Audio places a strong emphasis on customer support and satisfaction. They provide comprehensive technical support to assist users in setting up and optimizing their studio monitor systems. Additionally, the company offers a generous warranty on their products, ensuring that customers receive reliable and long-lasting equipment.
Future Outlook As Eve Audio continues to innovate and refine their studio monitor designs, their future prospects appear promising. The company has shown a commitment to staying at the forefront of audio technology, consistently introducing new models and incorporating the latest advancements into their product range. With a growing customer base and increasing recognition in the industry, Eve Audio is well-positioned to continue its success and expand its presence in the global market.

Conclusion
Eve Audio has established itself as a leading provider of high-quality studio monitors, admired for their commitment to precision, innovation, and customer satisfaction. With a strong history, a diverse product range, cutting-edge technologies, and a solid reputation in the industry, Eve Audio is poised to shape the future of professional audio reproduction.