I own the ATC SCM50ASL model. This is the latest varient with the super linear drivers. These are not speakers that impress on first listening or in a comparision with other speakers in a store. At first audition they can sound rather understated, a little 'flat' and uninvolving. But once set up in the home, or studio, with a suitably capable preamp and source, these speakers start to impress. When first listening, care should also be taken with the quality of the recordings, because these speakers sound like no other. Or to confuse further, they have no sound of their own. If the CD is recorded in such a way, that's all you're going to hear. No more, and no less. I was initially caught out with this ATC trait. If however, the recording is of a high standard, then the ATC's can blow you away with their ability to reproduce EVERYTHING on the disc. Their ability to reproduce dynamics is nothing short of amazing. Even older recordings like Creedance Clearwater Rival's Proud Mary can astound - the bass in this recording feels like someone is punching you in stomach. On the other hand, listening to well recorded classical and jazz is equally impressive. These speakers don't care what genre you may like. They are are always faithful to the recording. No wonder the ATC's are so popular in the recording industry. I could say a lot more, but I think you get the picture. The final comment I would like to make is about the SCM50's ability to go loud. I mean really loud. I just cannot believe it. There's no compression, blare, rattles, bangs or any signs they want you to back off. In fact these things are scary. If you can afford it, buy a pair.

Accurate in all aspects that brings out the original music and intend. Full resolution of music dynamics which many speakers cannot even touch.

Nothing, perhaps the square look and the filmsy included speaker stand (hey, but at least they come free and works sufficiently)

Even the US$ list price of $12K, SCM50ASL is incredible value. Just think about it as a pair of great speakers that throws in 6 free amplifiers with active crossover for $12K. Bought it used, making it even greated value. SL has better low end transparency vs. non-SL, but they are equally good from mid-range and up.

Compared with my previous SCM20, the 50 offers greater ease, a more majestic presentation, and seductive midrange. Unlike Dynaudio and some other speakers utilizing passive crossover, the 50 can play soft yet retaining the full detail. At low volumes, the 50 outperforms the $20K speakers with passive crossovers. At loud volumes, the 50 still outperforms with its 350W of build-in amps and active crossover bring un-compressed, powerful dynamics.

Couple tricks to setup the 50:

1. Use Blu Tak between the factory stand and the speaker. The supplied rubber tape damps the sound dulling the midrange and treble.

2. Getting a pair of Totem Beak and place on top of 50 (find the best spot by experimenting) brings high frequency air, delicacy and projects the soundstage higher and real.

3. Use the best audiophile power cord.

4. Check the polarity of the XLR connection. Some XLR preamps reverse the polarity (so called European and American standards are different).

5. I also like the Audio Physic's speaker placement method for the 50.

Most ATC sellers/dealers skimmed on upstream electronics and cables, so they rarely sound at the best. I am still finding that any upstream improvement brings further refinements to the 50. I still have not reached the full potential of these great speakers.

Similar Products Used:

ATC SCM20. Heard everything from $5K to $20K, including JM Lab Utopia series, B&W Nautilus, Dynaudio, Wilson.

Dynamic range, lack of coloration

Women do not like these speakers (They are not little cubes that you hide behind the curtains). Some find the sound a little 'in your face' & anyone using these monitors with poor source components will not appreciate the accuracy in which they expose their failings.

Not that cheap either!

These speakers have a fantastic dynamic range making them ideal for home theater the sound is uncolored and it is no surprise that ATC monitors are used in recording studios around the world.

In 1991 I bought my first ATCs, trading up through the range I currently have Active 100s in the front and 50s at the back. If I could fit larger ATCs in my house I would.

Similar Products Used:

ATC SCM 10 - Too small for me, I blew them up!
ATC SCM 20 - These were Passive and had irresistable Yew enclosures, but were sold in favour of Active ATC SCM 100s (currently used) less focused than the 50s but add heaps of low end to my home theater set up.