New TAD Integrated Amplifier and Loudspeakers at AV Designs

Posted by Tan

AV Designs recently hosted the launch of TAD’s latest offerings: the TAD-A1000 integrated amplifier and the TAD-E1AX floorstanding loudspeakers.

The TAD-A1000 joins the Evolution Series as the first-ever integrated amplifier in the lineup, inheriting its signature design language of robust build quality paired with understated refinement. The chassis is deeper than it is wide and it is also taller than the other components in the Series. Its dimension together with its substantial 29kg weight give it a commanding presence on any audio rack. Delivering 250W into 4 ohms, the A1000 is listed at RM111,300.

The TAD-E1AX represents the third generation of the Evolution One model (following the E1 and E1TX). Effectively a "younger brother" to the Evolution Series' flagship the TAD-GE1 (Grand Evolution One), the E1AX features a beryllium diaphragm tweeter crafted via TAD’s proprietary vapor deposition technique—a technology shared with the Reference Series. In a significant design shift, the bass reflex port has moved from the side to the bottom of the front baffle, mirroring the GE1. This 3-way system utilizes a concentric midrange-tweeter driver and dual 6.5-inch bass drivers, and comes in with a list price of RM112,800.

The demonstration featured an Innuos streamer and TAD-DA1000 DAC as the frontend, feeding the TAD-A1000, which in turn drove the TAD-E1AX loudspeakers. 

True to my expectation, this system demonstrated the TAD ethos in spades.The system delivered a wide frequency response with bass extension that would knock many listeners’ socks off. It had effortless dynamics and impact that belied its size, the soundstage was huge. The sound was clean even when playing at very high volume level. Compared to its predecessor, the TAD-E1AX is a significant leap forward—offering a larger, more transparent sound that inches closer to the RM200,000 GE1. 

Of course, the contribution of the TAD-A1000 must not be discounted. Throughout the demo session, the integrated amplifier was simply unfazed, exerting control on the loudspeakers over the entire proceeding, regardless of the demand from the music.

TAD-E1AX (left) and TAD-GE1 (right)

Together, the pairing of TAD-A1000 and TAD-E1AX proved remarkably versatile, it is a combo that is comfortable with all music genres—handling delicate vocals with finesse, then unleashing full power on more bombastic tracks without hesitation. Most importantly, the system stayed true to the musical message, delivering high-resolution sound that was consistently engaging and enjoyable.

Here are 2 videos I captured of the system during the event:

Queen Mary by Francine Thirteen

Cantique de Noel (O Holy Night) from the album "Cantate Domino"

Contact AV Designs (03-6241 1237) to schedule your personal audition.