TAD REFERENCE ONE TAD-R1TX Floorstanding Speakers

Since its inception, the TAD Reference One has become the established reference for speaker systems in the new era of high definition audio. This ultra high end speaker system based on highly advanced technology developed by TAD (Technical Audio Devices), is used by creators of studio monitors in several leading recording studios around the world.

It employs carefully selected materials and parts, benefits from relentless attention to detail and engineering, and is backed by unmatched design theory and testing ability.
The result is a sound field of flawless purity that achieves unprecedented professional audio artistry.
The TAD Reference One realizes richly resonant sound that has no equal.

CST Technology

To produce unprecedented wide frequency range with controlled dispersion.

The CST (Coherent Source Transducer) enables the goal for the TAD Reference One: reproduction with controlled directivity over a wide frequency range from a single point with uniform phase. The design of the midrange cone is based on detailed calculations that result in a unique shape that produces superior acoustic characteristics and precise control of the directivity of the concentric mounted tweeter.
This configuration unifies the acoustic centre of the tweeter and midrange and reconciles phase and directional characteristics through the crossover range. The CST Driver is a major step forward for coaxial speakers, enabling ultra wide range reproduction from 250 Hz to 100 kHz, accompanied by a directivity pattern that dampens smoothly without disruption across all bands. The result is extremely clear and stable imaging, wide frequency response, and natural reproduction. CST technology enables wide-range reproduction and directivity control.

Beryllium – Unique Vapour Deposition Technique

To realize unmatched quality and precision.

The tweeter dome and midrange cone are made of beryllium, the lightest and most rigid of metals, making it a superior diaphragm material with over 40 years of TAD development. The diaphragm is produced using a vapour deposition technique developed and refined over decades. This provides strength and uniformity combined with high internal loss, resulting in smooth performance. The tweeter diaphragm shape is derived using an optimisation method based on HSDOM (Harmonised Synthetic Diaphragm Optimum Method) computer analysis. It controls differential vibration and shifts it out of the audible band, providing uniform response up to 100 kHz. The midrange cone features a direct radiation vapour deposition beryllium diaphragm, producing transparent and precise sound.

The beryllium used in Reference One is manufactured using vapour deposition, a unique TAD technology. The advantage is that particles are bonded while maintaining molecular composition, achieving both high rigidity and internal loss. It is a process considered unique in the world.

ISO Drive Technology

To maximise the potential of the CST Driver.

The CST Driver is mounted into a highly rigid enclosure shaped to minimise diffraction. ISO (isolation) drive technology prevents vibration from entering the enclosure by structurally separating the driver from the cabinet. This reduces secondary radiation and limits the influence of energy from the bass drivers. By ensuring only diaphragm-radiated sound is delivered, resolution is improved and fine tonal differences are revealed with clarity.

OFGMS Magnetic Circuit

To realize extremely accurate linear motion.

To match the speed and linearity of the beryllium CST Driver, low-bass linearity was improved using a short voice coil OFGMS (Optimised Field Geometry Magnet Structure). A slit in the top plate equalises flux distribution along a 33 mm gap, improving linearity. The 25 cm woofer achieves strong drive capability and linear motion across its full 26 mm range.

Advanced Computer Analysis

To achieve an optimally shaped suspension.

Suspension components in the bass driver are designed using advanced computer simulation. Dual spiders ensure stable operation with low distortion under high amplitude input. The corrugated surround supports cone motion during large excursions, improving stability and linearity. This results in deep, clear bass with strong scale and impact.

Tri-Laminate Construction

To prevent deformation of the TLCC diaphragm, even during high amplitude bass output.

The bass driver uses a 100 mm voice coil and large neodymium magnet. The TLCC (Tri-Laminate Composite Cone) diaphragm uses a triple-layer construction: foamed acrylamide core sandwiched by aramid fibres. The dust cap uses the same material, and the cone, dust cap, and voice coil are joined at a single point for direct transmission. The result is fast response, clear bass, and low coloration into the midrange.

Silent Enclosure – Unique Structure

To raise strength to the ultimate level.

The SILENT (Structurally Inert Laminated Enclosure Technology) cabinet uses a rigid curved structure designed to minimise resonance. Inspired by aircraft and ship structural theory, it uses a 21 mm birch plywood transverse bulkhead and hybrid side panels up to 50 mm thick, bonded to CNC-machined plywood up to 137 mm thick. The teardrop form reduces diffraction. ABD technology positions bass drivers to reduce internal standing waves, improving sound quality.

Slant Design

To ensure exceptional stability.

The enclosure is inclined backwards by four degrees to improve time alignment and position bass driver force over the centre of gravity. Combined with a 150 kg mass and aluminium–birch hybrid base, this improves bass reproduction and stability. Dual spike types provide three-point support for vibration control.

Aerodynamic Port System

Inherited TAD horn fluid design technology.

The bass reflex port uses aerodynamic principles derived from compression driver horn systems. It is designed to eliminate air noise even at high excursion, improving airflow control and enabling deep, clean bass reproduction.

Beautifully Finished

Vivid colours further enhance the craftwork of structural beauty.

The enclosure uses natural Pommele Sapele wood with a wavy grain pattern. Skilled artisans apply multiple finishing stages. Two finishes are available: Emerald Black and Beryl Red, inspired by beryl ore used in the beryllium diaphragm. The result is a deep gloss and refined natural texture.

TAD x Tendo Mokko

“Tendo Mokko” is a Japanese luxury furniture manufacturer established in Tendo, Yamagata in 1940. Known for collaborations with designers such as Sori Yanagi and Kenzo Tange, it contributes artisan craftsmanship to the SILENT Enclosure, enhancing functional beauty.

Materials

Carefully selected acoustic parts reflect traditional craftsmanship.

• Isolated bass, midrange, and treble crossover networks eliminate electrical and magnetic interaction
• Rear panel is made of 27 mm aluminium acting as a heat sink
• Custom air-core coils, non-inductive resistors, and PP film capacitors are used
• Gold-plated custom speaker terminals ensure reliable connections
• Wiring is routed away from magnetic components to reduce distortion
• Each system and driver is quality controlled using serial numbers

Specifications