Updated BX8 Near-Field Model Added to M-Audio's Monitor Lineup
 June 21, 2005
M-Audio has announced the Studiophile
BX8a, an updated version of the company's BX8 near-field
reference monitor. Like the recently released BX5a, the upgrade centers on
improved driver materials and a new industrial design.
The 8" low-frequency driver cone of the BX8a is crafted from Kevlar in
contrast to the polypropylene used in the original BX8. Kevlar is the same
material used in bulletproof vests, and its high resilience makes it ideal
for use in speaker cones according to the company. Curved conical design improves room
dispersion, and high-damping rubber surrounds insure that the cone reaches
exactly its optimal excursion for accurate reproduction.
The high-frequency dome of the BX8a is made from natural silk to counter the
ringing that is inherent in the stiffer metallic materials common to other
monitors, says M-Audio. M-Audio's use of ferrofluid liquid cooling
dissipates heat for efficiency and extended usage.
The cabinet of the BX8a is integrally designed with its other components for
optimal performance. Rounded corners reduce edge diffraction and provide
superior imaging. The custom rear-port design delivers extended bass and
eliminates the turbulence and resulting distortion caused when front ports
project low frequency waves in the same path as the speakers' direct signal.
Bi-amplified design features 70 watts for low frequencies, 60 watts for high
frequencies, and expertly tuned crossovers to insure that only the optimal
frequencies are fed to each driver. Magnetic shielding also makes the BX8a
ideal for desktop use. Each unit has a power indicator and volume control.
Specifications for the BX8a includes 40Hz-22kHz frequency response, 2.2kHz
crossover frequency, greater than 100dB signal-to-noise (typical,
A-weighted), input impedance of 20k ohms balanced (10k ohms unbalanced) and
input sensitivity of 85 mV pink noise input producing 90dBA output SPL at 1
meter (with volume control at maximum). The BX8a is factory programmed for
either 115V ~50/60Hz or 230V ~50/60Hz. Protective features include RF
interference, output current limiting, over temperature, turn-on/off
transient, subsonic filter, and external mains fuse. Size is 12" x 10" x
15"; 30.48cm x 25.4cm x 38.1cm. Weight is 26.4 lbs./unit; 11.97 kg.
The BX8a is currently shipping at an MSRP of USD $599.95 per pair.
For more information, visit their web site at www.m-audio.com. | 
