Please note: This review was written by Martin Colloms and appeared in Hi-Fi Choice in 1981. Please be aware that I haven't been able to contact the holders of the original copyright. If you are the owner of the original copyright, please contact me, and if necessary, I'll remove it from this site.
Now in its second year, the Studio has undergone a few minor changes which make it worth another look. None of the alterations obsolete the original, and comprise slight modifications to the crossover, a revision of the detail construction of the main bass/mid driver, and a flaring of the reflex port exit. The cabinet tuning has also been shifted to a slightly lower frequency to account for the running-in of the bass driver resonance. Historically this design has evolved from the Rogers Export Monitor, a highly competent if unexceptional speaker, itself a relative of the original BBC LS3/6 which Rogers manufactured for some years.
Representing a classic two-way wide range system, the main driver is Rogers own die-cast frame 200mm unit using a light bextrene cone. It is related in general design to the original BBC unit, but large increases in the mechanical damage limit and the thermal power handling have been made, plus a reduction in distortion. The treble unit comprises the renowned Celestion HF1300, augmented over the final audible half-octave by a version of the KEF T27 (which has a well extended response to 30kHz).
A very high quality complex crossover integrates the drivers, and electrical connection is via a professional XLR connector which may not be too convenient for domestic use. The well-damped cabinet is finely veneered with the carcase made of Medite resin composite board. The 43 litre enclosure is tuned to approximately 40Hz by a large diameter, flared ducted port of high volume velocity. (The flaring served to reduce the odd chuffing noise caused by the 'wind' at the port exit.) It is perhaps almost unnecessary to note that the drivers are mounted vertically in line to give the maximum lateral stereo image symmetry.
Labs performance
Updated by new response measurements for the reference curve, sensitivity, the room characteristic and distortion, the remainder of the data is carried over from the previous issue. The sensitivity shows a 2dB reduction in the latest samples, and is now a little below average at 84B/W. As a result, the bass register has lifted a little in relative terms to make the system more bass heavy than before, the -6dB point extended to a fairly low 42Hz and the overall ⅓-octave response from 46Hz-20kHz at +/-3.0dB.
Incidentally both the Spendor and the Rogers show a characteristic irregularity between 14kHz and 17kHz. This limited effect is due to the awkward transition between the steeply falling rolloff of the HF1300 and the entry of the supertweeter. In practice it can be heard, but it is only a minor factor.
Comparing the new 96dB distortion curves with the previous ones, there has been no significant change at low frequencies, for example, 1.0% of 2nd harmonic distortion at 200Hz is now 1.2%, but below this region 3rd harmonic has been noticeably improved. At 90dB (not plotted) the distortion was particularly good in the mid and treble bands. A wide dynamic range is illustrated by the competent handling of the 100W pulsed inputs, these showing only slight compression and negligible additional distortion.
The forward response at 2m showed fine integration and off-axis control, and the 300W estimated power handling allowed high sound levels of up to 104dBA for a pair. The system has become slightly 'richer' in balance over the years, as the reprinted ⅓-octave 2m response shows when its overall trend is compared with the new reference sinewave response.
Assessed by multiple room response averaging, the Studio shows a reasonably good characteristic from 100Hz to 10kHz, albeit with some emphasis between 600Hz and 800Hz. The treble fell quickly above 12kHz before recovering a little. While good output was present to 40Hz, the 60-80Hz region of the bass was rather prominent, suggesting some bass excess in the room.
Sound quality
Fully re-auditioned, the Studio sounded a little 'richer' and 'sweeter' than before, with an improved tonal balance in the mid register. However the bass was on the full side, and the system would be improved by a 'dryer' 'sharper' balance here.
Surveying the overall results, the Studio has comfortably equalled the exceptional ratings achieved last time, so there can be no doubt concerning its overall sound quality. The bass can be driven to high levels, and although a little 'oppressive', had great power and was free from distortion. When compared with live sounds it appeared very smooth and relaxed, with mild 'chestiness' and slight 'boxiness' on speech. A bit on the 'dim' side, the occasional 'chirp' or 'fizz' could be heard in the extreme treble, though the main treble was considered very good.
On commercial programme it was felt to be subtle, clear, transparent and well-focussed, with a fine stereo image depth. Slight 'heaviness' was noted in the bass but it was not considered too damaging, and in fact there was more praise than criticism - a rare event in listening tests!
Summary
Despite or perhaps because of the minor changes, the Studio has kept the promise shown by the original samples. It is an exceptional performer by Choice standards, and if the bass balance is deemed acceptable, then there is little else to criticise. If offers a wide and smooth response, a high power capacity and dynamic range, plus a level of coloration and neutrality in the genuine monitor class. It was very well finished and engineered, and continues to be confidently recommended, the overall performance meriting Best Buy status.
GENERAL DATA
Size (h x w x d)............................63.5 x 30.5 x 30.5cm
Weight......................................................14kg
Recommended amplifier power per channel
(for 96dBA per pair at 2 metres minimum).................300W
Recommended placement................................open stands
Frequency response within ± 3dB (2m)..............64Hz to 20kHz*
Low frequency rolloff (-6dB) at 1m..........................42Hz
Voltage sensitivity
(ref 2.83V, ie: 1 watt in 8 ohms) at 1m................84dB/W
Approximate maximum sound level (pair at 2m)..............104dBA
Impedance characteristic (ease of drive)....................good
Forward response uniformity............................very good
Typical price per pair inc VAT..............................£340
*depends on precise mike axis