ATC SCM7 - PAIR

ATC SCM7 – the mini desktop speaker

SCM7 by ATC are the most compact desktop model of the Entry Series, capable of providing a top-level experience even for the smallest listening spaces thanks to the proprietary technologies of the English brand. ATC's forward line also includes the SCM11 and SCM19 bookshelf models, the SCM40 floorstanding model, the SCM19A and SCM40A active loudspeakers, as well as center channels and subwoofers.

Drivers, crossovers, cabinets… Everything is made in house by ATC and finished by hand. The SCM7 has a declared very low sensitivity (84 dB), for this reason a generous amplification is recommended, with a power output between 75 W and 300 W.

With an impedance of 8 Ohm – relatively easy to drive – it has an extremely linear frequency response, between 60 Hz and 22 kHz; The SCM7 offers a very transparent reproduction, with excellent dynamics and the best low-frequency performance in the mini-monitor category. To complete the listening experience, we recommend the active subwoofer from the same C1S line, available in the same finishes.

The end result is crisp, detailed sound that is ideal for close-up listening in desktop setups and no matter where the listener is located. The small cabinet is solid and robust, internally reinforced to dampen any unwanted vibrations and uses the closed case principle, in air suspension, with a total weight of 7.5 kg per piece. The available finishes are Satin Black, Satin White, Black Ash and Cherry.

Technologies

From the outside, it looks like a traditional 2-way speaker, but integrates ATC-designed and custom-built drivers. The tweeter is a 25mm soft dome with a neodymium magnet and precision alloy waveguide. Interestingly, the company avoids the use of ferrofluid damping found in most tweeters, using proprietary technology.

The coils use only flat high-density OFHC ribbon copper wire wound around the edge, to increase the section – and therefore the mass – of the conductor, and work in very high-precision magnetic spaces. Front and rear venting not only reduces airflow noise, but also increases power handling capability and, therefore, long-term reliability.

The 125mm mid-bass driver kicks in below 2.5kHz and features a powerful SC – Short Coil – motor with a large 45mm short stroke voice coil.

The mid-woofer has a powerful drive unit to provide magnetic linearity and low distortion. This driver significantly reduces harmonic distortion by extending the on-axis frequency response of the cone while improving off-axis dispersion, without loss of the attack transient.

Pairings

SCM7 loudspeakers require good power delivery with at least 75W amplification per channel. In line with the characteristics of sonic transparency, Hegel integrated amplifiers represent an ideal solution, in particular we recommend the H120 capable of great dynamics and detail.

At Cyrus, the integrated Classic AMP and i7-XR return a winning combination in terms of rhythmic and dynamic reactivity, for a setup entirely Made in UK. In addition, the classic Cyrus half-width chassis allows positioning even in extremely small spaces.

Lovers of separate components will surely point their eye to Chord Electronics, whose DACs, preamplifiers and amplifiers are capable of astounding for the level of detail and sharpness - thanks to proprietary technologies.

For those who opt for a solution with an excellent quality-price ratio, they can take a look at the famous Cambridge Audio electronics, combining the integrated amplifiers of the EVO Series or with the celebrated CX A81. Thanks to the Room Perfect patent, Lyngdorf's TDAI-1120 integrated amplifier offers digital signal calibration to optimize the sound performance based on the real acoustic response of the listening room.

Accessories

To make the SCM7 loudspeakers express themselves at their best, we recommend the use of high quality cables in order to make the most of the power supplied by the amplifier to which they are connected. For this reason we recommend Chord Company speaker cables, which guarantee extraordinary sonic clarity and transparency, a philosophy fully shared by ATC. We recommend ClearwayX or ShawlineX power cables in this case.

SCM7 are the classic desktop speakers but they can also be positioned on stands in small listening contexts. This is why we recommend the Norstone Stands which offer solutions with truly elegant and absolutely non-invasive design. 

The ideal solution is a 60 cm stand, such as the Stylum 3, suitably made deaf to vibrations thanks to the damping material.

To improve sonic definition and spatiality, especially if they are used as bookshelf or desk speakers, we recommend using IsoAcoustics solutions, in particular the Aperta stands or alternatively a set of 3 Orea Bronze per speaker.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Drivers: HF ATC 25mm Neodymium Soft Dome, Mid/LF ATC 125mm SC

Matched Response: ±0.5dB

Frequency Response (-6dB): 60Hz-22kHz

Dispersion: ±80° Coherent Horizontal, ±10° Coherent Vertical

Sensitivity: 84dB @ 1W @ 1metre

Max SPL: 103dB

Recommended Power Amplifier: 75 to 300 Watts

Nominal Impedance: 8 ohms

Crossover Frequency: 2.5kHz

Connectors: Binding Posts/4mm Plugs, bi-wire

Cabinet Dimensions (HxWxD): 300 x 174 x 215 mm (grill adds 28mm depth)

Weight: 7.5kg