TAD ME1TX is the evolution of its ME1 Loudspeaker

The press release from TAD is brimming with acronyms describing the evolution of this model—just to keep us all on our toes! The upgrades begin with a refined Coherent Source Transducer (CST) driver featuring a beryllium tweeter and a newly developed magnesium midrange diaphragm designed for wide-frequency reproduction from 420 Hz to 60 kHz.

The midrange cone is engineered to align the phase and directivity of the concentrically mounted tweeter, which, according to TAD, results in precise imaging and a more natural sound field. Meanwhile, the 25 mm beryllium tweeter, produced using TAD’s proprietary vapour deposition process, incorporates the (deep breath) Harmonized Synthetic Diaphragm Optimum Method (HSDOM) to optimise vibration control and extend high-frequency performance.

The magnesium alloy midrange diaphragm is a key update. TAD states that magnesium was chosen for its high internal loss properties, helping to minimise resonance. Treated with anodisation and additional coatings, it enhances rigidity while maintaining damping. Structural reinforcements in the frame and basket have also been introduced to further reduce distortion.

Bass is handled by a 16 cm woofer featuring a Multi-layered Aramid Composite Cone (MACC) diaphragm. TAD aims to balance rigidity and damping for controlled bass response by combining woven and non-woven aramid fabric. The Linear Drive Magnet Circuit (LDMC) and corrugated foamed polycarbonate surround contribute to linear movement. At the same time, a reinforced woofer basket is designed to reduce vibrations and improve performance in the mid-to-low frequencies.

TAD has also retained its (brace yourself) SILENT (Structurally Inert Laminated Enclosure Technology) cabinet design, incorporating birch-plywood bracing and MDF panels to control resonance. The addition of 5 mm-thick steel panels to the sidewalls is meant to dampen vibrations further, while strategically placed acoustic absorbent materials help combat standing waves that could otherwise impact imaging and tonal balance.

The Bidirectional Aerodynamic Slot (ADS) port design—initially introduced in the TAD-ME1—also returns. This system utilises slit-shaped ports on both side panels, with flared openings to the front and rear. TAD says this helps reduce port noise while keeping internal standing waves from affecting the sound. The symmetrical port placement also counteracts vibrations, contributing to a natural-sounding low-frequency response.

On the design front, the TAD-ME1TX has two finishes: a classic black and a new silver-white option. TAD states that each enclosure undergoes a meticulous finishing process, including multiple layers of high-grade coating, buffing, and polishing. TAD is also offering dedicated stands for those seeking an optimised setup.

Acronyms aside, the refinements in the TAD-ME1TX appear to be evolutionary rather than revolutionary. However, the new diaphragm materials, structural reinforcements, and refined crossover integration suggest a thoughtful step forward in performance. As always, real-world listening impressions (or RWLI, if we’re making acronyms of everything) will test how far these improvements go.

The TAD-ME1TX-K/SW speakers and ST3TX-K/SW stands are expected to start shipping in Q2 2025, priced from £14,600/€17,300/US$18,200/A$28,999 and £2,400/€2,800/US$2,800/A$3,599 respectively.

For more information visit TAD