TAD CR1TX Compact Reference One

Description

The TAD CR1TX Compact Reference One is the standmount loudspeaker from TAD’s Reference Series — the range that also includes the floorstanding Reference One R1TX — and represents perhaps the most technically advanced two-way monitor in commercial production. Built around TAD’s most refined iteration of the Coherent Source Coaxial Driver, with beryllium tweeter and beryllium-magnesium mid-bass cone, the CR1TX achieves a point-source purity that rivals the spatial presentation of much larger multiway loudspeakers.

The CR1TX cabinet is machined from solid materials with compound-curved surfaces that eliminate diffraction from the listening axis while providing a structure of extraordinary mechanical rigidity. Internal acoustic treatment, crossover component selection, and terminal quality all reflect Reference Series standards — the same standards applied to the R1TX flagship. The result is a monitor that is both extraordinarily revealing of programme material and deeply forgiving of imperfect recordings, owing to its truthful but never analytical character.

Erin’s Audio Corner published a comprehensive review of the CR1TX in 2024, providing detailed measurements that confirmed the speaker’s vanishingly low distortion and exceptional off-axis behaviour. The Absolute Sound has described the CR1TX as a compelling alternative to the Reference One R1TX for those whose listening rooms or stand-mount preferences make the full floorstander impractical. Supplied with the matching ST-CR1TX dedicated stand, which is essential for optimal performance.