The Meyer Sound HM-1S is a full-range powered monitor loudspeaker that provides high-definition, point-source performance in a very compact enclosure.

The HM-1S is a two-way system comprising a 7" graphite cone low-frequency driver, and concentric 1" soft-dome high frequency driver with constant-directivity horn, housed in a vented cabinet. Built-in electronics include bridged complementary MOSFET class A/B biamplifiers with 400 watts total power output, an active crossover, driver protection voltage limiters, and factory-calibrated frequency and phase response alignment circuitry.

The HM-1S features ±2.5 dB response from 42 Hz to 20 kHz (half space, or free field with optional subwoofer) and 116 dB peak SPL at 1 meter, with symmetrical 100° constant-directivity coverage. Power for the system is provided by an accessory AC adapter, the PS-1, which accommodates a stereo pair of HM-1s with subwoofers. Compact and very lightweight, the PS-1 may be installed in proximity with the monitors or placed in a remote equipment room.

Combining very compact size with true full-range reproduction and significant peak output capability, the HM-1S can be used anywhere that clear, coherent sound quality and smooth coverage are desired. In music recording, the HM-1S provides excellent fidelity, accurate bass reproduction and pinpoint imaging while maintaining an unobtrusive profile on the console top. In large recording studios, its wide coverage allows engineers maximum freedom of movement across very wide consoles. Audio postproduction for video, foley and SFX applications benefit from its extraordinary clarity, which reveals every nuance of the sound and facilitates clear, crisp productions. By virtue of its small size and magnetically shielded enclosure, the HM-1S is also especially well suited as a workstation monitor for media production.

The HM-1S incorporates a number of design innovations that separate it from the competition and afford substantial practical advantages.

In contrast to most small monitors, the HM-1S cabinet venting is tuned at 40 Hz to provide excellent low-frequency response. The concentric tweeter mounting structure is optimized to minimize back-wave interference and IM distortion, both of which are significant problems with other coaxial designs. And sophisticated phase-correction circuitry assures true point-source performance while minimizing the off-axis cancellations that plague many conventional dual-concentrics. The result is extraordinary fidelity and imaging, with the ability to deliver a very broad "sweet spot."

Remote, direct-current power greatly reduces the potential for 50/60 Hz noise coupling by keeping AC power conductors and transformers well away from sensitive signal-handling circuits in consoles and recording devices. Removing the power supply components from the loudspeaker cabinet also reduces the monitor's size and weight, facilitating its application with small consoles, remote recording trucks and audio workstations.

Each HM-1S electronics package is individually burned-in and tested, ensuring far greater reliability than most off-the-shelf amplifiers can provide. But should an amplifier fail, there is no need to return the unit for expensive service. All you need to stay up and running is a phillips screwdriver and a spare amp package. Connections within the cabinet are made with a multi-pin snap-on connector, so changing an amplifier is as easy as replacing a driver. And the HM-1S is backed by a limited three-year warranty, so you're covered by the factory in the unlikely event that problems arise.

Because of its compact size, the HM-1S is naturally sensitive to loading and its low-frequency performance benefits substantially from adjacent boundaries. With half-space loading (such as on a console meter bridge or a desktop), the low-frequency response is -3 dB at 42 Hz. Placement at a wall-to-ceiling junction or in a corner will yield an increase in low-frequency energy.

Where substantial low-frequency output is required, an optional subwoofer can be used to achieve increased acoustic power. The subwoofer uses a passive crossover network and is driven directly from a low-frequency amplifier output connector on the HM-1S rear panel. With subwoofer, the HM-1S' maximum SPL output increases to 120 dB at one meter.

The best imaging and smoothest response through the crossover is achieved when the HM-1S sits directly atop the subwoofer. This can be accomplished in many studios by using speaker stands placed behind the console. In small control rooms, however, it may be necessary to place the subwoofers on the floor, beside or beneath the console. In all cases, minimizing the physical separation between the HM-1S and its subwoofer will help preserve performance.