Review of the HEDD MK2 Series Studio Monitors

Review of the HEDD MK2 Series Studio Monitors

In the world of professional audio, accuracy and precision are paramount. Audio engineers and producers rely on high-quality studio monitors to capture the true essence of sound. The HEDD MK2 Series has garnered considerable attention for its exceptional performance and innovative design. In this article, we delve into the four outstanding models in this series: the TYPE 05 MK2, TYPE 07 MK2, TYPE 20 MK2, and TYPE 30 MK2. Let's explore their features, capabilities, and how they contribute to an immersive audio experience.

​HEDD TYPE 05 MK2: Precision in a Compact Form

The TYPE 05 MK2 is the entry-level model in the HEDD MK2 Series, but it delivers impressive performance despite its compact size. With a two-way design and a 5-inch woofer, it offers a frequency response of 45 Hz to 50 kHz, ensuring accurate representation of the audio spectrum. The Air Motion Transformer (AMT) tweeter provides excellent transient response and high-frequency clarity.
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The MK2 iteration of the TYPE 05 introduces several enhancements over its predecessor, including an improved waveguide for more controlled dispersion, refined cabinet construction for reduced resonance, and advanced digital signal processing (DSP) algorithms. These improvements contribute to an incredibly detailed and accurate sound reproduction, making the TYPE 05 MK2 an ideal choice for small control rooms or desktop setups.

​HEDD TYPE 07 MK2: Power and Precision for Mid-sized Studios

Stepping up in size, the HEDD TYPE 07 MK2 offers a larger soundstage and extended low-frequency response, making it suitable for mid-sized studios or as nearfield monitors in larger control rooms. It features a 7-inch woofer and an AMT tweeter, providing a frequency response of 38 Hz to 50 kHz.
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The TYPE 07 MK2 benefits from the same refinements found in the TYPE 05 MK2, resulting in improved transient response, reduced distortion, and enhanced imaging. It also incorporates a modular input system, allowing for flexible connectivity options. Whether used for music production, audio post-production, or broadcast applications, the TYPE 07 MK2 delivers pristine audio reproduction and exceptional accuracy.

​HEDD TYPE 20 MK2: Immersive Soundscapes with Extended Bass

The TYPE 20 MK2 takes a leap forward in terms of size and power, catering to larger studios or professional applications that demand extended bass response. Equipped with a 7-inch woofer, a 4-inch midrange driver, and an AMT tweeter, it delivers a frequency response of 30 Hz to 50 kHz.

The addition of a dedicated midrange driver in the TYPE 20 MK2 ensures a more detailed and precise midrange reproduction, resulting in greater clarity and accuracy in vocal and instrument recordings. The speaker's larger cabinet and enhanced low-frequency extension create an immersive listening experience, making it suitable for critical music production, film scoring, and mastering applications.

​HEDD TYPE 30 MK2: Unleashing Studio Powerhouse

At the top of the HEDD MK2 Series stands the TYPE 30 MK2, a flagship studio monitor that pushes the boundaries of sonic excellence. Boasting a three-way design with two 7-inch woofers, a 4-inch midrange driver, and an AMT tweeter, it delivers a frequency response of 30 Hz to 50 kHz.

The TYPE 30 MK2 is engineered to reproduce audio with remarkable precision and dynamics, making it an indispensable tool for mastering engineers, large control rooms, and high-end recording studios. The three-way design ensures accurate representation across the entire frequency spectrum, while the dual woofers provide extended low-frequency response with exceptional clarity.

The TYPE 30 MK2 incorporates advanced DSP algorithms and refined cabinet construction, resulting in reduced resonance and improved transient response. This translates into a highly accurate soundstage with precise imaging and a wide sweet spot, allowing engineers to make critical mixing decisions with confidence.
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Additionally, the TYPE 30 MK2 features HEDD's unique Lineariser® technology, which compensates for the inherent nonlinearities of speaker drivers, ensuring a more linear frequency response. This technology further enhances the accuracy and transparency of the monitor, allowing for a faithful reproduction of the source material.

​HEDD MK2 Series: Shared Features and Design Philosophy

While each model in the HEDD MK2 Series has its own distinct characteristics and intended applications, they share several common features and design philosophies that contribute to their exceptional performance.

a) Air Motion Transformer (AMT) Tweeter: The HEDD MK2 Series utilizes a high-resolution AMT tweeter, renowned for its ability to reproduce high frequencies with remarkable accuracy, low distortion, and wide dispersion. This tweeter technology ensures detailed transient response and a natural, open sound.

b) Advanced Digital Signal Processing (DSP): All the MK2 models benefit from HEDD's advanced DSP algorithms, which optimize the crossover points and provide precise control over the frequency response. This results in improved phase coherence, reduced distortion, and enhanced overall performance.

c) Modular Input System: The MK2 series introduces a modular input system, allowing users to choose between analog, digital, and networked connectivity options. This flexibility ensures seamless integration into various studio setups and simplifies future upgrades or adaptations.
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d) HEDD Bridge System: Another notable feature across the HEDD MK2 Series is the HEDD Bridge system. This technology enables users to expand their monitoring setup by integrating HEDD's Series ONE Studio Monitors, creating a comprehensive and scalable monitoring solution tailored to specific needs.

Highlights 

Highlights and Takeaways:

1. The HEDD MK2 Series comprises four exceptional studio monitors: the TYPE 05 MK2, TYPE 07 MK2, TYPE 20 MK2, and TYPE 30 MK2.
2. The TYPE 05 MK2 offers impressive performance in a compact size, making it ideal for small control rooms and desktop setups.
3. The TYPE 07 MK2 provides a larger soundstage and extended low-frequency response, suitable for mid-sized studios or nearfield monitoring in larger control rooms.
4. The TYPE 20 MK2 delivers immersive soundscapes with its dedicated midrange driver, making it a great choice for critical music production, film scoring, and mastering applications.
5. The flagship TYPE 30 MK2 is a studio powerhouse, featuring a three-way design, advanced DSP algorithms, and HEDD's Lineariser® technology for unparalleled accuracy and dynamics.
6. All models in the MK2 series incorporate an Air Motion Transformer (AMT) tweeter for high-frequency clarity, advanced DSP for precise control over the frequency response, and a modular input system for flexible connectivity options.
7. The HEDD Bridge system allows for integration with the Series ONE Studio Monitors, expanding the monitoring capabilities and scalability of the MK2 series.
8. The MK2 series represents the culmination of HEDD's commitment to sonic excellence, offering remarkable accuracy, transparency, and a wide sweet spot for critical listening and decision-making.
9. The MK2 monitors are engineered with refinements in cabinet construction, waveguide design, and transient response, resulting in reduced resonance, enhanced imaging, and improved phase coherence.
10. The HEDD MK2 Series empowers audio professionals to capture the true essence of sound, making it a preferred choice for music production, audio post-production, broadcast applications, mastering, and high-end recording studios.

Conclusion

The HEDD MK2 Series, comprising the TYPE 05 MK2, TYPE 07 MK2, TYPE 20 MK2, and TYPE 30 MK2, represents a pinnacle of excellence in professional studio monitoring. Whether in small project studios or large-scale recording facilities, these monitors deliver unparalleled accuracy, precision, and sonic transparency.

From the compact yet mighty TYPE 05 MK2 to the flagship power of the TYPE 30 MK2, each model in the series offers unique features and capabilities to cater to a range of studio environments and professional applications. With innovations such as the AMT tweeter, advanced DSP algorithms, modular input system, and the HEDD Bridge system, the HEDD MK2 Series empowers audio professionals to create and reproduce sound with utmost fidelity and artistic integrity.
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If you seek a truly immersive and transparent monitoring experience, the HEDD MK2 Series stands as a testament to the pursuit of sonic excellence, elevating your audio production to new heights.

FAQ's

What is the main difference between the HEDD MK2 Series and the previous MK1 Series?The MK2 Series introduces several enhancements over the MK1 Series, including improved waveguide design, refined cabinet construction, advanced DSP algorithms, and the incorporation of HEDD's unique Lineariser® technology. These improvements result in better transient response, reduced distortion, enhanced imaging, and overall improved performance.
Can I use the HEDD MK2 monitors for both music production and mixing/mastering applications?Yes, absolutely! The HEDD MK2 Series is designed to cater to a wide range of professional applications, including music production, mixing, mastering, audio post-production, and broadcast. The accuracy, transparency, and wide frequency response of these monitors make them suitable for critical listening and decision-making in various studio environments.
Can I connect the HEDD MK2 monitors to my existing studio setup?Yes, the HEDD MK2 monitors feature a modular input system that allows for flexible connectivity options. You can choose between analog, digital, and networked connectivity to seamlessly integrate the monitors into your existing studio setup. This flexibility ensures compatibility and easy integration with different audio interfaces and systems.
Are the HEDD MK2 monitors suitable for smaller studios or only large control rooms?The HEDD MK2 Series offers models in different sizes and power configurations to cater to various studio environments. The TYPE 05 MK2 and TYPE 07 MK2 are well-suited for smaller studios and desktop setups, while the TYPE 20 MK2 and TYPE 30 MK2 are designed for mid-sized studios, larger control rooms, and professional applications that demand extended bass response. So, whether you have a small project studio or a large-scale recording facility, there is a suitable option within the MK2 Series.
Can I expand my monitoring setup with the HEDD MK2 monitors?Yes, the HEDD MK2 Series features the HEDD Bridge system, which allows for integration with the Series ONE Studio Monitors. This means you can expand your monitoring setup by combining different models from the MK2 Series and the Series ONE, creating a comprehensive and scalable monitoring solution tailored to your specific needs.
What advantages does the Air Motion Transformer (AMT) tweeter offer?The AMT tweeter technology used in the HEDD MK2 Series offers several advantages. It provides exceptional transient response, high-frequency clarity, and wide dispersion, resulting in a natural and open sound reproduction. The AMT tweeter contributes to the accuracy and detail in high-frequency reproduction, allowing you to hear subtle nuances and intricacies in your audio.
Does the HEDD MK2 Series come with any warranty?Yes, HEDD offers a standard warranty for the MK2 Series monitors. The warranty terms and duration may vary depending on the region and the specific model. It is advisable to check with your authorized HEDD dealer or refer to the manufacturer's website for detailed warranty information.
Can I use the HEDD MK2 monitors for professional audio applications beyond music production?Absolutely! The HEDD MK2 monitors are versatile and suitable for a wide range of professional audio applications. They are commonly used not only in music production but also in audio post-production for film, television, and gaming, broadcast studios, mastering facilities, and high-end recording studios. The exceptional accuracy and transparency of the MK2 monitors make them a reliable tool for professionals across various industries.
Remember to consult with authorized HEDD dealers or visit the manufacturer's website for detailed specifications, compatibility, and warranty information specific to the HEDD MK2 monitors.

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