The Tablette Reference Eight, launched in 2001, has proved a hugely
successful restatement of the original Tablette design of 1979. Reborn
in its earliest cabinet configuration but housing far more technically
refined and powerful drive units, it produces a scale and quality
of sound unimaginable over two decades ago. Now however, this enduring
design scales new heights with the Reference Eight Signature.
At the heart of this major leap forward is a remarkable new bass/midrange
driver. Four times as expensive as the standard unit used in the
Reference Eight, this new driver incorporates a neodymium bar magnet,
copper rings and a copper phase plug. These components add up to
vastly improved performance, with even greater linearity and lower
distortion. The bass is more excitingly dynamic and the midrange
considerably more open. 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 costly marine birch ply which is
critically damped and tuned with high grade acoustic material. As
ever with ProAc loudspeakers, the Reference Eight Signatures are
completed by exquisite real wood veneer, but in keeping with their
exclusivity are only available in the most exotic finishes.
The Tablette Reference Eight Signature is a definitive monitor
level design. The remarkably flat frequency response is characterised
by a smooth, natural and detailed output delivered with a surprising
level of power, weight and scale. This diminutive powerhouse can
be placed on shelves or ledges, but for true highend listening is
best mounted on heavy rigid stands.
