TEST: Alto TS 310

 Ever smaller, ever more powerful, ever lighter, with the current active full-range loudspeakers there is actually only one direction with the maxim: how can I illuminate a maximum area acoustically with a minimum of transport effort. Another contender comes from Alto, is an offspring of the current TS series and also goes by the name Alto TS 310 and once again follows the principle “Designed in the USA, Made in China”. This test will show to what extent the box can hold its own in practice with a retail price of only €233

The scope of application of the Alto TS 310

The times of specialists seem to be receding more and more into the background and can actually only assert themselves on large, professional stages. The entire consumer sector is firmly in the hands of multifunctional boxes, which also include the Alto TS 310, although Alto is in this regard. put a few more spins on it. In addition to the standards such as high stand operation and floor monitor, the Alto TS 310 is also equipped with M10 flight points, which greatly increases flexibility in stationary operation.

What's interesting is that Alto puts a lot of focus on DJ operation with their product, so that a commercially available DJ mixer actually serves as a reference in the manual as an application example for 2 speakers. To what extent the speakers, especially in the bass range, The practical test will show that the requirements are met.

The construction of the Alto TS 310

The Alto TS 310 is an active two-way speaker, which is rated at 1,000 watts RMS and a peak of 2,000 watts, a value that is definitely in the upper range in this class. In the RMS range, the breakdown is 650 watts for the 10-inch woofer and 350 watts for the 1.4-inch neodymium driver, which represents an unusually strong focus on the tweeter in terms of power output. We will discuss later to what extent these values correspond to practical suitability. The separation is at 2.5 kHz, with the beam angle once again being 90 degrees horizontally and 60 degrees vertically. The frequency response is given as 54 Hz - 20 kHz at a sound pressure of 126 dB (SPL @ 1m)

With dimensions of 524 mm x 320 mm x 300 mm, the box is extremely handy and, with a weight of 11.8 kg, is also comparatively easy to transport. The housing made of polypropylene is impeccably crafted and protects the two speakers with a solid, black metal grille. The system has two handles on the sides, which in this size are usually sufficient for transport and balancing on high stands. If you want to keep the look of the boxes for a little longer, we recommend purchasing the optional protective cover TS210, which costs €28.

Both in the upright position and in wedge operation, the Alto TS 310 is held in place by 4 shaped feet (upright operation) or a small grooved surface (wedge operation), which are machined from the polypropylene. The stability ranges from good (upright operation) to sufficient (wedge operation), but the slip resistance can only be described as moderate due to the non-rubberized surface. All controls are located on the back of the housing and have been provisionally secured with two protruding edges to prevent them from breaking off. In addition to the box, the scope of delivery also includes a power cable and a multilingual, simple manual.

The connection options on the back of the housing have been kept very simple and include the management of 2 input sources, each of which can accommodate a jack, TRS and XLR with a combination socket. A gain control with 0 dB raster allows you to adjust the level between the line and microphone signals, and a red Peal LED helps with overloading. There is no sound control at all, only a contour switch provides a bit of a scoop/loudness feeling with an increase in the treble and bass range of 3 dB. For daisy chain operation, the Alto TS 310 also has an Since the system is passively cooled, the Alto TS 310 operates at a very low noise level, which offers great advantages, especially at small events.

In practice

As elegant as the surface of the Alto TS 310 may appear when delivered from the factory, it is also susceptible to scratches, so I definitely recommend factoring the costs for the protective cover into your budget. A worn-out box may still have some charm with the local punk combo, but it seems completely out of place when it comes to a presentation. Despite the stated values in the four-digit watt range, you should not ignore the practical key data of the box. A pair of speakers will be able to adequately provide sound for a small gathering of 50 - 60 people, but no more is possible.

I tested the system in three different areas. On the one hand as a wedge in a rehearsal studio, in high stand operation in a small hall and in high stand operation in a large open outdoor area.

The first sound impression with the Contour switch deactivated and the neutral tone control is decent. The bass range is surprisingly present, significantly more than I would have expected from a 10-inch device. The highs sound a bit busy, the midrange sounds comparatively balanced. You immediately notice that the tweeter, which is slightly larger than the standard 1-inch drivers, extends nicely into the high-mids and covers a significantly better mid-range content than what is normally offered in this performance class. A good start.

Pressing the contour switch changes the sound characteristics significantly. The treble range clearly gains in presence and character and the bass range is also pushed strongly, but stops just before the drone and holds the volume surprisingly well without tipping over. In this setting, the system will already be able to cover a large part of its range of application without having to use another EQ from the console or similar. However, restrictions must be made in the area of the “physicality” of the sound. It is truly impressive what bass the Alto TS 310 gets out of the 10 inch speaker and housing construction, but of course it cannot replace an additional subwoofer. As expected, the 10-inch device has physical limits that cannot be overcome even with the best design.

Let’s now come to the “eye-catchers” of the Alto TS 310, the performance specifications. I am still of the opinion that no company does itself a favor by using the last physically determined values as a hook and selling these to the customer as a standard. For every hobby speaker who basks in the number “2,000”, there are around 10 disappointed customers who expected more from the number. The fact is that the box is loud, even very loud for its size, but in the last performance range the previously good sound of the construction turns into an unpleasantly harsh, sometimes distorted sound, which significantly reduces the quality of the product.

Not only is the “2,000 watt” peak not reached in practice, you also don’t want to push the box to its limits in the power range below that, unless you want to turn to the experimental area of music. A targeted peak power of 1 KW with a reduction of approx. 600 watts would suit the system very well and leave a really good sound impression right up to the performance limit. In this way, however, you run the risk of burdening the listener more than pleasing the listener if you use the right amount of power.

Conclusion

With the Alto TS 310, the American manufacturer has an inexpensive full-range box with good sound and high flexibility in its range. The system sounds much more mature than what the dimensions suggest and offers a wide range of possible uses with a high stand, floor monitor and flight operation.

If the manufacturer were not, like many of its colleagues, to peddle unrealistic performance specifications and thus create expectations that cannot be met in practice, the box would leave an all-round successful impression. This leaves you with a very decent sounding box, where you have to be very careful with the control path in the last quarter of the volume controls.

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Additional Informations:

Alto Professional, a prominent and distinguished name in the realm of professional audio equipment, has been at the forefront of the industry for several decades. With an unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality sound reinforcement solutions, the company has not only set the standard for excellence but has also significantly influenced the way music is experienced and presented. In this comprehensive article, we will take an in-depth look at Alto Professional's remarkable journey, its extensive and diverse range of products, its technological innovations, global impact, educational initiatives, and the lasting legacy it has created in the world of professional audio.

### **A Legacy of Excellence**

Founded in 2000, Alto Professional emerged with a visionary mission: to redefine the audio experience. From its inception, the company demonstrated a relentless dedication to combining cutting-edge technology with practicality, aiming to meet the diverse needs of audio professionals, musicians, and enthusiasts. This commitment to excellence has been a driving force behind Alto Professional's growth and influence in the industry.

### **Expansive and Versatile Product Portfolio**

One of Alto Professional's standout attributes is its comprehensive product catalog, which encompasses a wide array of equipment tailored to meet the demands of various audio environments and applications. Let's delve into some of the key product categories that have solidified the company's reputation:

#### 1. **Loudspeakers and PA Systems**

Alto Professional's loudspeakers and PA systems have become synonymous with clarity, power, and versatility. The product lineup includes everything from compact portable PA systems ideal for intimate venues to high-output line arrays that can fill vast concert halls. Notable series like the Truesonic and the Black Series have earned acclaim for their reliability and exceptional sound quality.

#### 2. **Mixers and Mixing Consoles**

The company's mixing consoles and audio mixers are celebrated for their intuitive design and exceptional audio fidelity. Whether it's a compact mixer for small live performances or a feature-rich digital console for professional sound reinforcement in larger venues, Alto Professional's lineup caters to a broad spectrum of mixing requirements.

#### 3. **Amplifiers and Signal Processors**

Alto Professional's amplifiers and signal processors play a pivotal role in enhancing audio performance. These products are engineered to provide precise audio control and ensure that the signal remains clear and powerful throughout the entire sound chain, from source to output.

#### 4. **Wireless Microphone Systems**

In the realm of wireless audio, Alto Professional offers state-of-the-art wireless microphone systems known for their clarity and reliability. These systems are invaluable for live performances, presentations, and various applications where mobility and freedom of movement are essential.

#### 5. **Studio Monitors and Recording Gear**

For recording and studio environments, Alto Professional provides studio monitors and recording gear that meet the exacting demands of audio professionals. These studio monitors offer accurate sound reproduction, making them indispensable tools for producers and engineers striving for precision in their work.

### **Innovations Pioneering Sound Technology**

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### **Global Reach and Enduring Influence**

Alto Professional's influence on the global audio industry is profound. With a presence in numerous countries and an extensive network of dealers and distributors, the company has effectively reached and served a diverse range of customers. Its products can be found in music venues, recording studios, houses of worship, educational institutions, and countless other settings where premium sound quality is paramount.

### **Educational Initiatives and Unwavering Support**

Beyond its commitment to delivering outstanding audio equipment, Alto Professional places a strong emphasis on education and support for its users. The company offers a wealth of resources, tutorials, and training programs to empower musicians, sound engineers, and audio professionals to maximize the potential of their equipment. This dedication to customer support and education has further solidified Alto Professional's reputation as a trusted partner in the audio industry.

### **Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy**

In conclusion, Alto Professional stands as a pillar of excellence in the domain of professional audio equipment. With a storied history, an extensive and diverse product catalog, a relentless pursuit of innovation, a global presence, and a strong commitment to education and support, the company has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is achievable in the world of sound reinforcement. Alto Professional's enduring legacy is not only one of technological achievement but also one of profound influence, shaping the standards for audio quality and performance in professional settings. It is a legacy that continues to inspire and empower audio professionals and enthusiasts around the world, reaffirming Alto Professional's position as an enduring icon in the pursuit of audio excellence.