When it comes to professional studio monitors, the HEDD Type 20 has been making waves in the audio production community. We’ve been excited to get our hands on these speakers and put them through their paces. Known for their exceptional sound quality and innovative design, these monitors have piqued the interest of producers and audio engineers alike.
In this review, we’ll dive deep into what makes the HEDD Type 20 stand out. We’ll explore its build quality and design, examine its sound performance including its transient response, and highlight some unique features that set it apart from the competition. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of whether these monitors are the right fit for your studio setup. Let’s jump in and see what the HEDD Type 20 has to offer!
Design and Build Quality
When we first laid eyes on the HEDD Type 20, we were immediately struck by its sophisticated appearance. The sleek design features gently curved edges on the top and bottom of the front panel, while the sides maintain a subtle 90-degree angle with a slightly rounded edge. This attention to detail whispers sheer class, giving the monitors an elegant and professional look that would enhance any studio environment.
Three-way speaker configuration
The HEDD Type 20 boasts a three-way active nearfield design, which sets it apart from many other studio monitors in its class. This configuration includes a 7-inch woofer, a 4-inch midrange driver, and a high-definition tweeter. The use of three separate drivers allows for a more precise reproduction of the entire frequency spectrum, from deep bass to crisp highs.
We found that this three-way system has a significant advantage over two-way designs. By dedicating a separate driver to the crucial midrange frequencies (around 500Hz to 3kHz), the Type 20 eliminates potential mix-up issues and enhances clarity in this critical range. It’s like having a specialist for each section of the audio spectrum, ensuring that every frequency is reproduced with utmost accuracy.
Air Motion Transformer tweeter
One of the standout features of the HEDD Type 20 is its Air Motion Transformer (AMT) tweeter. This innovative technology, originally invented by Dr. Oskar Heil, operates on a different principle than traditional dome tweeters. The AMT uses a folded diaphragm that moves air in a perpendicular motion, resulting in incredibly fast and precise high-frequency reproduction.
We were particularly impressed by the AMT’s ability to deliver quick dynamics and an ultra-clear high-frequency transient response. This translates to a wonderfully open sound with remarkable detail and air in the upper registers. The AMT tweeter extends the frequency response up to an impressive 40 kHz, well beyond the range of human hearing, which contributes to a sense of spaciousness and realism in the audio reproduction.
Premium materials and finish
HEDD has clearly prioritized quality in the construction of the Type 20. The cabinets are available in either a vibrant white or classic black, both featuring a slightly matte finish that exudes professionalism. We found the build quality to be exceptional, with every component feeling solid and well-engineered.
The woofers utilize a honeycomb design, which provides strength and rigidity while maintaining low mass. This construction helps to minimize distortion and ensures accurate bass response. The choice of materials throughout the monitor reflects HEDD’s commitment to delivering a premium product.
One unique feature that caught our attention is the Closed or Ported mode option. HEDD has designed an innovative system using a POM plug that allows users to switch between a closed or ported cabinet design. This flexibility is a game-changer, as it enables us to adapt the monitors to different acoustic environments or personal preferences. In the ported (open) configuration, we experienced a more pronounced bass response, while the closed mode offered increased bass precision and improved transient response.
All HEDD products, including the Type 20, are handmade in Berlin by skilled engineers and craftspeople. This dedication to quality control and attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the monitor’s construction. The result is a product that not only sounds exceptional but also feels built to last.
In conclusion, the HEDD Type 20’s design and build quality impressed us on multiple levels. From its elegant appearance to its innovative three-way configuration and state-of-the-art AMT tweeter, every aspect of this monitor has been carefully considered to deliver outstanding performance. The premium materials and finish, coupled with the flexibility of the Closed or Ported mode, make the Type 20 a versatile and high-quality option for discerning audio professionals.
Sound Performance
When it comes to the sound performance of the HEDD Type 20, we were thoroughly impressed. These monitors proved to be exceptional all-rounders, capable of handling a wide variety of audio tasks with ease. Let’s dive into the specifics of what makes these speakers stand out.
Frequency response and accuracy
The Type 20’s frequency response is remarkably flat, with only a slight hump around 40 to 50 Hz. This translates to an incredibly honest and accurate representation of the audio material. We found the midrange clarity to be particularly noteworthy, thanks to the three-way design that dedicates a separate driver to this crucial frequency range.
What really caught our attention was the HEDD Lineariser, a high-resolution, zero-phase filter designed to automatically eliminate time delays. This innovative feature significantly improved resolution, separation, and imaging accuracy. For our engineering and producing setups, this was a game-changer, allowing us to hear even the smallest EQ adjustments with incredible precision.
The Air Motion Transformer (AMT) tweeter deserves special mention. It delivered pristine high frequencies without any harshness, even with the rear high filter engaged at +4 dB. This resulted in an open and detailed top end that revealed nuances in reverb tails and background vocals that we hadn’t noticed before in familiar tracks.
Stereo imaging and soundstage
The Type 20’s stereo imaging and soundstage capabilities left us in awe. The monitors created a wide and precise soundstage, with excellent early window directivity. This translated to a smooth and close-to-ideal far-field room response in our listening tests.
Vocals seemed to materialize right in front of us, with a level of presence and detail that was truly delightful. We noticed improved separation in background vocals and a more lively presentation of percussion elements, all while maintaining proper placement within the mix.
The beamwidth of the Type 20 is generally wider than other pro monitors, which contributed to a more expansive listening sweet spot. However, we found that for optimal performance, it’s best to position yourself at or slightly below the bottom of the tweeter vertically.
Low-end performance
The low-end performance of the Type 20 is where HEDD’s innovative design really shines. These monitors offer a unique Closed or Ported mode option, allowing us to adapt the bass response to our specific needs and acoustic environment.
In the ported (open) configuration, we experienced a more pronounced bass response that let us feel the music. This setup was particularly effective for bass-heavy genres and soundtrack work. However, when we switched to the closed mode by inserting the POM plugs, we noticed an increase in bass precision, texture resolution, and transient response.
This flexibility proved invaluable when working on different projects. For instance, while mixing a hip-hop track, we initially struggled to get the low end to speak as defined as we wanted. Removing the port closures helped, but we felt that adding one of HEDD’s subwoofers might have been beneficial for that particular genre.
Overall, the low-end performance was impressive, with the Type 20 managing to deliver a full frequency response without the need for a separate subwoofer in most cases. The closed port configuration, in particular, resulted in a more polite and accurate bass response that proved crucial for getting the low-end under control in our mixes.
In conclusion, the HEDD Type 20’s sound performance is nothing short of exceptional. From its accurate frequency response and precise stereo imaging to its versatile low-end capabilities, these monitors have proven themselves to be reliable tools for a wide range of audio tasks. Whether we were working on bass-heavy beats, jazz recordings, or intricate soundtrack compositions, the Type 20 consistently delivered honest, detailed, and revealing sound that helped us make informed mixing decisions.
Unique Features
HEDD Lineariser technology
We were particularly impressed by the HEDD Lineariser, a standout feature of the Type 20 MK2. This innovative technology is a high-resolution, zero-phase filter designed to eliminate time delays in sound reproduction. The Lineariser addresses one of the most challenging problems in loudspeaker design: the natural occurrence of phase differences during multi-component sound reproduction.
When we engaged the Lineariser, we noticed a significant improvement in resolution, separation, and imaging accuracy. It’s like the speakers suddenly became “right in time,” enhancing the overall listening experience. The Lineariser offers three phase correction options, each with different latency levels:
- Linear (phase) full range: Provides time-domain compensation across the full bandwidth (20Hz to 20kHz) with 100ms latency.
- Linear >500Hz: Limits time-domain compensation to above 500Hz with 5ms latency.
- Minimum Phase: Switches off time-domain compensation, leaving only frequency-domain equalization with 2ms latency.
We found this flexibility incredibly useful, allowing us to adjust the settings based on our specific recording or mixing needs.
Closed or Ported (CoP) functionality
Another unique feature that caught our attention is the Closed or Ported (CoP) functionality. This HEDD innovation allows the Type 20 MK2 to function as either a closed or ported cabinet using a POM plug. We were amazed by the versatility this feature offers, as it essentially gives us two monitoring systems in one.
In the ported (open) mode, which is the default setting, we experienced a more powerful low-end reproduction. This configuration allowed for higher efficiency while maintaining access to lower bass regions. It was perfect for feeling the music, especially in bass-heavy genres.
Switching to the closed mode transformed the Type 20 MK2 into an infinite baffle speaker. We noticed a cleaner sound with increased resolution in this mode. However, it’s worth noting that this comes at the cost of a 6-10 dB reduction in maximum sound pressure level for low frequencies, depending on the audio material.
DSP-enabled customization
The Type 20 MK2 features a high-end 32-bit SHARC Digital Signal Processor (DSP) that allows for extensive customization. We were impressed by the range of adjustments available, which helped us fine-tune the monitors to our specific needs and acoustic environment.
One standout feature is the adjustable low-frequency range. When set to extended, the low-frequency response is extended by approximately 20%. For the Type 20 MK2, this means the -3dB point goes from 32 Hz down to an impressive 26 Hz. This extension adds extra depth and punch to the low end, which we found particularly useful when working on bass-heavy tracks.
We also appreciated the “Desk Filter,” a 3-position Parametric Equalizer (PEQ) that minimizes the effect of early reflections from the desk surface. This feature helped us achieve a clearer, more accurate sound by reducing potential blurring caused by our studio setup.
The DSP also enables digital AES input and pass-through, adding to the monitor’s connectivity options. We found this particularly useful in professional studio setups where digital signal chains are common.
Lastly, the ongoing feature support via the HEDD Access tool (downloadable separately) ensures that these monitors can stay up-to-date with potential future improvements or additional features. This forward-thinking approach gives us confidence in the longevity and adaptability of our investment in the Type 20 MK2.
Conclusion
The HEDD Type 20 has proven itself to be a top-tier studio monitor with a range of impressive features. Its three-way design, innovative Air Motion Transformer tweeter, and unique Closed or Ported functionality offer exceptional sound quality and versatility. The monitor’s ability to adapt to different acoustic environments and personal preferences makes it a valuable tool for audio professionals across various genres and applications.
What’s more, the inclusion of the HEDD Lineariser technology and extensive DSP-enabled customization options further enhance the Type 20’s appeal. These features allow for precise fine-tuning and improved accuracy in sound reproduction. All in all, the HEDD Type 20 stands out as a well-crafted, forward-thinking monitor that delivers on its promise of high-quality audio reproduction, making it a strong contender for those looking to upgrade their studio setup.
