· Source: Fluid Audio
Fluid Audio Image 2 is a new release by an American pro audio manufacturer who’s selling surprisingly good gear for the money. I tested its Focus studio headphones + frequency correction software bundle and they punched my balls off! I didn’t expect that for, like, EUR 69.
Anyway, Fluid Audio is showcasing a new studio monitor at NAMM 2022 – the Image 2. It’s a high-end monitor that’s deservedly pricy at EUR 1799. That’s still a lot less than one’d expect given the performance and features. Here it goes…
The Image 2 is a near and mid-field monitor with an impressive spec sheet. It boasts 2x 203mm bass drivers, 1x 130mm mid-range driver, and 1x AMT tweeter (28x43mm). Between them, its frequency response extends from 28Hz all the way to 30kHz. The drivers and tweeter are driven by Class-D amplifers (2 x 225W bass, 1x 150W mid-range, 1x 75W treble).
On-board DSP runs room correction software and goes all in with an USB port on the monitor’s rear for firmware and feature updates. Audio connections include 1 x XLR Analog Input, 1 x TRS Balanced Input, 1 x XLR AES/EBU Input, and 1 x SPDIF Output/Input. It all makes for a nice and girthy 14.3kg speaker which can be mounted on floor stands and ceilings.
Further along, the Image 2 can be used as a full-range or mixcube monitor. Nothing helps dial in low-end and prevent mixes from collapsing on mono quite like a mixcube.
Fluid Audio claims both the AMT tweeter and custom aluminum cone mid-range driver are both in-house developments. The latter uses shorting rings to help reduce harmonic and intermodulation distortion generated by voice coil displacement. This also reduces the modulation of magnetic flux cause by the voice coil movement. Both decisions add up to linear audio reproduction.
The Class-D amplifier is also a proprietary creation promising very low distortion, lower output noise, and broad headroom. The monitor uses a closed cabinet design which produces a natural bass cut and makes the monitors less sensitive to room positioning. I’d take that over bass ports any day of the year.
The Image 2 will start shipping in September 2022, priced USD 1899 / EUR 1799 each. It will be available from Fluid Audio dealers, such as our affiliate partner Thomann *.
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