Bookshelf Speaker Reviews

Connections
Inputs:
Video: Component video (8), S-video (8), composite video (8)
Audio: Coaxial digital (5), optical digital (3), 7.1-channel analog (1), stereo analog (8)
Outputs:
Video: Component video (2), S-video (2), composite video (4)
Audio: Coaxial digital (1), stereo analog (1), preamp (7.1)
Speaker Terminals: Banana-plug receptacles
Additional: Ethernet (1), 12-volt trigger (4), ADA bus (4)
Features
Processing Modes: Dolby: Digital 5.1, EX, Pro Logic II, IIx
DTS: DTS, ES Matrix, ES Discrete, Neo:6
Other: stereo downmix, mono downmix, direct,
discrete, discrete + THX, discrete + EX/ES, THX + EX/ES, THX Ultra2, THX Music
Proprietary: Quad bypass, stereo enhance, mono enhance
"Fun Modes": Stereo 5, Mono 5, Stadium, Theater, Hall, Club, Church
THX Certification: Yes
Audio D/A Converter: 24-bit/192-kilohertz
Dimensions
(H x W x D, inches): 3.5 x 19 x 6.5
Weight (pounds): 23
Price: $5,699

These listings are based on the manufacturer's stated specs; the HT Labs box below indicates the gear's performance on our test bench.

At A Glance: ADA PTM-8150 Amplifier

Feature
Number of Channels: 8
Power Rating
(watts per channel): 140–150 into 8 ohms, 250 into 4 ohms
Frequency Response: +/– 0.1 dB from 20 Hz to 20 kHz
Dimensions
(H x W x D, inches): 5.25 x 19 x 17.25
Weight (pounds): 58
Price: $4,699

These listings are based on the manufacturer's stated specs; the HT Labs box below indicates the gear's performance on our test bench.

Connections
Inputs: RCA (8)
Outputs: Banana jacks (8)
Additional: 12-volt trigger, RS-232 in/out

Ratings: ADA Cinema Rhapsody Mach III Controller and PTM-8150 Amplifier

Build Quality: 95
• ADA uses exhaust fans in both the amp and the controller to dissipate heat
• Lordy, that seemingly skinny amp weighs a full 58 pounds

Value: 95
• Compared with reputable big rigs, pricing is reasonable
• You could easily pay a lot more for elephantine competitors that lack this system's finesse

Features: 95
• Set up by PC or front panel, but not by OSD
• It never hurts to have THX certification
• No HDMI

Performance: 99
• Midrange notably clean and transparent
• Soundstage both big and detailed—a rare combo
• Reliable neutrality

Ergonomics: 88
• Has unflinchingly flashy LEDs (they can be turned off)
• Amp uses banana jacks for the speaker terminals
• Lack of OSD is a serious omission

Overall Rating: 96
ADA is one of the most credible names in home theater, combining truly high-end performance with an unerring instinct for the special needs of custom installation. The PTM-8150 and the Cinema Rhapsody Mach III are reference-quality components. Highly recommended.

General Information
Cinema Rhapsody Mach III Controller, $5,699
PTM-8150 Amplifier, $4,699
Audio Design Associates
(800) HD-AUDIO
www.ada-usa.com
Dealer Locator Code ADA