Tablette Reference 8
From the moment of its launch in 1979 the ProAc Tablette has been acclaimed
as one of the greatest mini-monitors of all time. Many thousands of pairs
have been sold over the last twenty-three years and this stunning little
loudspeaker has become a firm favourite with music lovers worldwide.
The original Tablette cabinet was just 101/2"(266mm) high and 6"(152mm)
wide and 9" (228mm) deep. However the limitations of drive unit
technology in those days meant that this pioneering design was not able
to offer the scale of soundstage, extended bass and increased power handling
common in larger designs. Over succeeding years therefore, through seven
more incarnations, the size of the Tablette cabinet was increased to
meet this demand, culminating in the current Tablette 2000 model.
But that was then. Now, with the advent of far more technically refined
and powerful drive units, the eighth version of the Tablette is reborn
in its original cabinet configuration but with a scale of sound to rival
much larger high quality loudspeakers.
These two new drive units represent the cutting edge of audio technology.
The all-new 41/2" bass/midrange driver is a marvel, producing tremendous
bass power and a clean, open midrange. With a special round magnesium
chassis housing a long-throw cone, raised suspension and an extremely
linear motor system, the driver generates highly controlled and extended
bass frequencies. Loading is by small twin reflex ports which reduce
unwanted colouration.
A high quality crossover network is coupled directly to the terminals
to eradicate any deterioration in the signal paths. This redesigned board
incorporates a larger bass inductor than the original Tablette and gives
higher output with lower distortion. The crossover knits the midrange
seamlessly to the output of the completely
new tweeter, a sophisticated 1" soft dome unit with a large surround
which produces an exceptionally flat response, outstanding smoothness
and fine detail.
The cabinet itself is made from a high quality Birch ply which is critically
damped and tuned with bitumen. As ever with ProAc loudspeakers, the Reference
Eights are finished with exquisite real wood veneer.
The Tablette Reference Eight is a true monitor level design. The remarkably
flat frequency response is characterised by a smooth, natural and detailed
output delivered with a surprising level of weight and scale. This diminutive
powerhouse can be placed on shelves or ledges, but for true high-end
listening is best mounted on heavy rigid stands.
