Set Your Own Price for a Teenage Engineering OP-1 Field. Why? “Why not?”

In a world where prices are usually set in stone, one bold idea dares to break the mold: "Set your own price for a Teenage Engineering OP-1 Field." The catchphrase? “Why not?” It’s not just a rhetorical question — it’s a challenge to rethink value, creativity, and what the market truly reflects. The OP-1 Field is a piece of musical hardware that has inspired an entire generation of producers, sound designers, and experimental artists. And now, the idea of paying what you believe it's worth is both provocative and oddly fitting.

Let’s unpack why this concept makes sense — and more importantly — why it needs to be considered.

The OP-1 Field: A Creative Icon

Before diving into the philosophy behind "set your own price," let’s give the OP-1 Field its flowers.

Teenage Engineering’s OP-1 Field is more than just a synthesizer. It's a sampler, a multi-track recorder, an effects unit, and a creative playground all in one slim, ultra-portable device. With a stunning aluminum body, a vibrant high-res display, and unique tactile controls, the OP-1 Field isn’t just a piece of gear — it’s an experience. Its minimalist design masks a deep, intricate system capable of incredibly rich and layered music-making.

But it comes with a hefty price tag: $1,999 USD. That figure alone has sparked debate in forums, Reddit threads, and YouTube comments for years.

And now — someone suggests setting your own price?

Why This Idea Resonates: Challenging the Gatekeepers

Music gear has long had gatekeepers. High-end synths, mixers, and recording equipment often cater to those with disposable income or access to industry resources. This naturally sidelines independent artists, bedroom producers, and young talents just starting out.

By allowing users to set their own price for the OP-1 Field, the model does something radical: it removes the gate.

This isn’t just about affordability — it's about democratizing creativity. If someone believes the OP-1 Field is worth $1,999 and can afford it, they’ll pay it. But if a 17-year-old producer in Jakarta wants to pay $400 because that's all they can manage, they should have the chance to offer it. And perhaps, just perhaps, that producer will go on to create the next sound that shapes our future.

The message here is: Art shouldn’t be boxed in by price barriers.

What Is Value, Really?

The next question becomes: What is value?

To some, value is dictated by rarity, craftsmanship, and brand prestige. For others, it’s measured in what the product empowers them to do. The OP-1 Field is priced high due to its design, engineering, and niche appeal. But what if value was determined by the user’s experience with it?

• A touring producer might make their next album entirely on the OP-1 Field.

• A teacher might use it to inspire students to explore sound design.

• A hobbyist might only ever make a few tracks — but those few could change their life.

Letting people set their own price isn't devaluing the product — it’s letting them define what it means to them. In this model, price becomes a conversation, not a command.

Why Not? It’s a Philosophy

The phrase “Why not?” is deceptively simple — but it’s a powerful statement when tied to a product like the OP-1 Field.

• Why not let the market speak?

• Why not trust your community?

• Why not support those who can’t pay full price but might give back tenfold in creativity, loyalty, and innovation?

It’s an anti-corporate stance in a way, a rejection of rigid pricing structures that often exclude and exploit. It’s also a bold experiment in human trust. Are people honest enough to pay what something is truly worth to them? If history has taught us anything from the likes of Radiohead’s In Rainbows (which launched with a "pay what you want" model), the answer is yes — and then some.

Pay-What-You-Can Models Have Precedent

While it may sound outlandish in the world of high-end music gear, the pay-what-you-can (PWYC) model isn’t new:

• Radiohead’s "In Rainbows" (2007): Fans paid between $0 and $100 for the album. The result? Millions in revenue and a fanbase that felt respected and involved.

• Software platforms like Reaper and Bandcamp: These allow flexible pricing or tip-based support models, and they thrive.

• Patreon and Ko-fi: These platforms have proven that creators can earn a sustainable living when fans are given control over what they contribute.

So, why not apply that same principle to music gear — especially a device as uniquely beloved as the OP-1 Field?

The Counter-Argument: “But It’s Too Expensive to Make!”

Of course, the skeptics have a point: The OP-1 Field is an expensive product to manufacture. High-quality materials, specialized components, and a niche market mean the margins aren’t enormous. But setting your own price doesn’t mean everyone pays $100. It means opening a window for community-based pricing tiers.

Here’s how it could work:

1. Suggested Retail: $1,999

2. Sliding Scale Options: $999 / $1,299 / $1,599

3. Name Your Price (with a minimum): $499 minimum, with optional justification required.

By structuring the model smartly, Teenage Engineering could:

• Maintain brand integrity.

• Encourage accessibility.

• Gather data on what people are actually willing to pay.

• Build massive goodwill — and long-term customers.

The Psychological Twist: What Happens When People Choose?

When given the power to choose a price, people often pay more than you think.

That’s because the transaction becomes emotional, not just financial. The buyer is now a participant in the story. They feel trusted, respected, and valued — and in return, they value the product more.

It also shifts the mindset from consumerism to contribution. You're no longer just buying a synthesizer — you're supporting an ethos, a movement, a creative revolution.

What It Means for Teenage Engineering

Teenage Engineering has always danced to its own beat. From quirky pocket operators to the modular OB-4 and the now-iconic OP-1, their design language and product philosophy are unlike anyone else’s.

By embracing a “set your own price” model, even if temporarily or in limited batches, Teenage Engineering would:

• Cement their role as industry rebels.

• Attract new, younger audiences.

• Create a cultural ripple effect across the music tech industry.

• Turn buying into storytelling.

Imagine the Instagram stories: “I paid $300 for an OP-1 Field and made my first EP.” Or, “I paid full price because it changed how I think about sound forever.”

That kind of word-of-mouth? Priceless.

Is It Sustainable?

Let’s be honest: no business model survives without a backbone. So is this model sustainable?

Yes — with smart guardrails. Here’s how it could work:

• Time-Limited Campaigns: Offer this pricing model for 30 days a year.

• Creative Grants or Subsidies: Partner with organizations to support purchases by low-income artists.

• Verified Artist Applications: Let artists submit a use case to access a discount.

• Tiered Community Pricing: Let fans choose from three set prices based on what they can afford.

Each version preserves brand value while opening new doors for users across the globe.

A Revolution in Music-Making Access

This model isn’t just about economics. It’s about values. It asks:

• Do we believe creativity should be reserved for the wealthy?

• Can we trust people to honor quality with fair payment?

• Should gear companies serve only their most affluent fans — or the entire spectrum of the creative community?

By saying “Why not?”, we give room for possibilities. For a high school student in Nigeria. For a noise artist in Berlin. For a hip-hop producer in Detroit.

They deserve the chance to touch greatness. To explore the sonic universe. To fall in love with the tactile joy of knobs, buttons, and endless potential.

And what better device to carry that revolution than the Teenage Engineering OP-1 Field?

Final Thoughts

The idea of setting your own price for a piece of premium hardware like the OP-1 Field might seem wild. Risky. Idealistic, even. But it’s also the kind of thinking that pushes industries forward.

It’s not about lowering the value of the OP-1 Field. It’s about amplifying the value of creativity. It's about recognizing that the tools we give artists can shape the future of music, culture, and connection.

So next time someone says, “Set your own price for a Teenage Engineering OP-1 Field?” — don’t ask “Why?”

Ask, “Why not?”

Arturia’s AstroLab 88 is not just another stage keyboard—it’s a bold statement about the future of performance instruments. Marketed as “future-proof,” the AstroLab 88 is designed to evolve continuously through regular firmware updates, ensuring it remains at the forefront of musical innovation. With a major firmware update, version 1.5, scheduled for release by July 17, 2025, Arturia is set to enhance the AstroLab 88's capabilities significantly, solidifying its position as a premier choice for live performers and studio musicians alike.

The AstroLab 88: A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation

At its core, the AstroLab 88 combines the tactile satisfaction of a premium hammer-action keybed with the versatility of modern digital technology. Featuring a Fatar TP-40L keybed, it offers a piano-like response that appeals to traditional pianists while catering to the expressive needs of contemporary performers. The instrument comes preloaded with 40 reference instruments and over 1,600 presets, encompassing a wide range of sounds from classical pianos to cutting-edge synthesizers

Firmware 1.5: Elevating the AstroLab Experience

The upcoming firmware update 1.5 is a testament to Arturia's commitment to continuous improvement. This update will introduce support for several new instruments from Arturia’s V Collection 11, including:

• MiniBrute V

• Augmented YANGTZE

• Augmented MALLETS

• Synthx V

• SEM V3

• JP-8000 V

• Pure LoFi

These additions will expand the AstroLab 88's sonic palette, offering musicians an even broader array of sounds to explore.

Beyond new instruments, firmware 1.5 will enhance the user experience with features such as:

• Quicker preset loading times

• Seamless playlist synchronization with Analog Lab

• On-the-fly program changes for external gear

• Direct FX and MIDI editing from Analog Lab

These improvements aim to streamline live performances and studio workflows, allowing musicians to focus more on creativity and less on technicalities.

A Seamless Studio-to-Stage Transition

One of the AstroLab 88's standout features is its ability to bridge the gap between studio production and live performance. With Analog Lab Pro integration and the AstroLab Connect app, users can craft and organize their sounds in the studio and then effortlessly transition to live settings without the need for a laptop.

The instrument's navigation wheel and screen provide intuitive control, enabling performers to browse presets, switch sounds, and monitor parameters in real-time. This design minimizes distractions during performances, allowing musicians to stay immersed in their music.

Connectivity and Control

The AstroLab 88 is equipped with a comprehensive suite of connectivity options to accommodate various performance setups:

• MIDI DIN I/O

• USB-C and USB-A ports

• Audio input

• Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities

• Four pedal inputs for sustain, expression, and more

These features ensure that the AstroLab 88 can integrate seamlessly with other gear, whether in a studio environment or on stage.

User Feedback and Community Engagement

The AstroLab 88 has garnered positive responses from the music community. Musicians appreciate its blend of traditional feel and modern functionality. For instance, a user on Reddit noted the instrument's suitability for live looping setups, highlighting its quick access to essential parameters and effects.

However, some users have pointed out areas for improvement. One such feedback pertains to the expression pedal parameters, which, according to a user, are not editable on most sounds. This kind of community engagement is invaluable, as it provides Arturia with insights to refine and enhance the AstroLab 88 further.

Looking Ahead: A Commitment to Evolution

Arturia's approach to the AstroLab 88 underscores a broader commitment to creating instruments that evolve with the needs of musicians. By delivering regular firmware updates, the company ensures that the AstroLab 88 remains a relevant and powerful tool in a rapidly changing musical landscape.

The upcoming firmware 1.5 is more than just an update; it's a reflection of Arturia's dedication to innovation and user satisfaction. As the AstroLab 88 continues to grow and adapt, it stands as a compelling choice for musicians seeking a versatile, future-ready stage keyboard.

In conclusion, the Arturia AstroLab 88 represents a harmonious blend of classic keyboard craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology. Its design philosophy, centered around continuous evolution through firmware updates, positions it as a forward-thinking instrument ready to meet the demands of modern musicians. With the anticipated release of firmware 1.5, the AstroLab 88 is poised to offer even greater creative possibilities, reinforcing its status as a mainstay in both studio and live performance settings.

“It’s Hard to Clear Samples”: Zeds Dead and the Sample Clearance Struggle Behind Their New Album

In the realm of electronic music, sampling has long been a vital creative tool—one that allows artists to recontextualize sounds, pay homage to influences, and build entirely new sonic landscapes. For Zeds Dead, the Canadian electronic duo known for their genre-bending productions, sampling has always played a pivotal role in their sound. But in a recent revelation surrounding their latest album, the duo shared a harsh reality that many artists face in today’s music industry: clearing samples is not just difficult—it’s sometimes devastating.

“It’s hard to clear samples,” they admitted. “We’d have something in the track, and then we would have to take it out, and it wouldn’t sound as good.”

This simple statement carries a heavy emotional weight. Behind it lies a story of creative compromise, legal red tape, and the often-unspoken tug-of-war between artistic vision and industry bureaucracy.

The Creative Power of Sampling

To understand the gravity of Zeds Dead’s experience, we need to acknowledge what sampling means to musicians—particularly in electronic music and hip-hop. A sample isn’t just a lifted melody or a drum break. It can be the spark that lights an entire track. It might be a vintage vocal chopped into rhythmic perfection or a cinematic string flourish that ties a modern production to decades of musical heritage.

For Zeds Dead, who have built their name by seamlessly blending dubstep, house, hip-hop, and ambient textures, sampling is an essential part of their storytelling. Their discography is peppered with moments that borrow from forgotten records, nostalgic dialogue, or obscure musical fragments, woven together with their signature flair.

So when they talk about losing elements because of sample clearance issues, it’s not just about legality—it’s about creative loss.

The Sample Clearance Gauntlet

Sample clearance is the process of obtaining legal permission to use someone else’s recorded work in your own composition. This typically involves negotiating with rights holders—both the owner of the original master recording and the publisher of the underlying composition.

That sounds simple enough. In practice, it’s a complex, time-consuming, and often costly ordeal.

Here’s why:

• Multiple Rights Holders: One track may have several songwriters and performers, each with a stake in the composition or recording. Identifying and contacting all of them can take weeks or even months.

• Unresponsive or Unknown Owners: Rights can change hands, be inherited, or lost in corporate mergers. Sometimes it’s unclear who even owns the rights anymore.

• High Costs: Sample clearance fees can range from a few hundred to tens of thousands of dollars—or more. Some rights holders demand high up-front fees, while others request a percentage of future royalties (or both).

• Creative Restrictions: Even when a sample is cleared, the rights holder may place restrictions on how it's used—no alterations, no certain contexts, or limits on release formats.

Zeds Dead encountered all of the above. In interviews and behind-the-scenes insights, they’ve described how several tracks on their latest album underwent painful transformations—not because of artistic decisions, but because a particular sample couldn’t be cleared.

When the Best Part Gets Cut

Imagine crafting the perfect drop—layering a haunting vocal over a deep, atmospheric build-up. The crowd at your listening party loves it. You’ve tested it live, and it hits. But just weeks before the album deadline, you’re told you can’t use that vocal because the clearance didn’t come through. Now you’re scrambling to either replace it with something similar (but not infringing), or scrap the idea altogether.

That’s what happened more than once on Zeds Dead’s latest release. While the duo hasn’t named specific tracks or samples, they’ve been open about the emotional toll. “We’d have something in the track, and then we would have to take it out,” they said. “And it wouldn’t sound as good.”

That phrase—wouldn’t sound as good—highlights what fans don’t often realize. The album you hear isn’t always the album the artist wanted to make. The version released to the public may be missing key elements, altered due to legal obstacles rather than creative choices.

A Common Artist’s Struggle

Zeds Dead’s experience isn’t unique. From Kanye West’s well-publicized sampling battles to indie producers on SoundCloud getting takedown notices, sample clearance affects artists across the board.

For newcomers and underground artists, the risks can be even greater. A single uncleared sample can lead to lawsuits, distribution takedowns, and loss of revenue. For artists without legal teams or label support, the safest bet is often to avoid sampling entirely—or to use royalty-free sample packs that lack the charm of vintage or obscure material.

That creates a chilling effect. Artists begin to self-censor, avoiding samples not because they don’t love them, but because they can’t afford the risk.

Alternatives and Workarounds

So how are producers coping?

1. Royalty-Free Samples: Many producers now rely on commercial sample packs from platforms like Splice or Loopmasters. These samples come pre-cleared for commercial use, but they also tend to be overused and lack uniqueness.

2. Replaying/Recreating: Some artists recreate a sample from scratch—hiring musicians to replay a melody or vocal line. This avoids needing to clear the master recording, though you still need to license the composition.

3. Interpolation: Similar to replaying, interpolation involves recreating a melody or lyric in a new way. It can reduce costs and make clearance easier, but it doesn’t eliminate the need for legal negotiations.

4. Clearance Services: Companies like Tracklib, WhoSampled’s Clearance Lab, and Rightsify specialize in helping artists clear samples efficiently. While not cheap, they streamline the process.

5. Using Obscure Sources: Some producers dig deep into old or foreign records, hoping to sample tracks unlikely to be recognized or contested. This is legally risky but still common.

Zeds Dead have likely explored many of these routes. But even with resources and industry connections, sample clearance remains a gamble.

Is There a Better Way Forward?

The sample clearance system is widely acknowledged to be broken—an outdated framework trying to serve a modern digital age.

Some industry experts argue for a “compulsory licensing” model for samples, similar to how cover songs work. Under such a system, an artist could legally sample a track by paying a fixed fee or royalty rate, without needing to negotiate one-on-one with rights holders.

Blockchain-based platforms are also emerging with promises of automated licensing and transparent royalties. While promising, these systems are still in early development and have yet to solve the broader legal complexities.

Until then, artists like Zeds Dead will continue navigating a broken system—one that forces difficult choices between creative authenticity and legal compliance.

The Listener’s Loss

While much of the sample clearance debate focuses on artists and lawyers, it's also worth remembering that fans lose out, too.

When Zeds Dead say a track doesn’t sound as good without the sample, that means fans are missing the best version of the song. The true, original vision—the one tested in clubs, honed in studios, and polished over months—is often lost in favor of something “legally safe.”

And unlike a director’s cut or extended edition, that original version might never be heard again.

Conclusion: Creativity in Chains

Zeds Dead’s battle with sample clearance on their latest album is a stark reminder of the limitations that today’s musicians face. In a world where creative possibilities are endless—thanks to powerful software, global collaboration, and access to rich musical archives—legal constraints often act as invisible chains.

For a duo like Zeds Dead, who thrive on eclecticism and experimentation, the inability to use certain samples isn’t just a minor annoyance—it’s a major artistic compromise.

As they continue to evolve their sound and push genre boundaries, their experiences highlight a larger truth: the music industry desperately needs a new model—one that respects both the rights of original creators and the creative freedom of today’s artists.

Until then, fans may have to wonder what could have been—what that one unreleased version sounded like, the one with the sample that made the drop hit just a little bit harder.

Zeds Dead’s latest album is available now on all major platforms. While you’re listening, take a moment to imagine the sounds that didn’t make it—lost not to poor creativity, but to a system that hasn’t caught up with the times.

HEDD Audio’s A-CORE Range of Monitors Is Its “Most Advanced Analogue Loudspeakers to Date”

In the increasingly saturated world of studio monitors, it’s rare for a new product range to genuinely excite audio professionals across the board. Yet with its recent announcement of the A-CORE series, German audio manufacturer HEDD Audio has done just that—capturing the attention of producers, engineers, and audiophiles worldwide.

HEDD calls the A-CORE monitors its “most advanced analogue loudspeakers to date,” and that’s no hollow claim. This new range marks a significant leap forward in both sonic fidelity and engineering design, drawing upon the company’s rich legacy in speaker innovation while pushing the boundaries of what modern analog monitoring can deliver.

But what exactly makes A-CORE so groundbreaking? How does it differ from HEDD’s previous offerings? And what does it mean for today’s studio environment?

Let’s dive into the details of the A-CORE range, unpacking its design philosophy, features, and why this launch could represent a paradigm shift in analogue monitoring.

A Brief Background: Who Is HEDD Audio?

Before we get technical, it’s worth exploring the pedigree behind the A-CORE line.

HEDD Audio (Heinz Electrodynamic Designs) was founded by Klaus Heinz and his son Freddy Heinz, both of whom bring deep expertise in speaker design and pro audio engineering. Klaus was the co-founder and chief engineer at ADAM Audio, where he helped popularize the Air Motion Transformer (AMT) tweeter in studio monitors—a design that still resonates with producers today.

When Klaus and Freddy launched HEDD in 2015, their goal was to combine the warmth and reliability of analogue designs with modern digital adaptability. Since then, HEDD’s Type series and HEDDphone have earned them a reputation for precision, innovation, and uncompromising sound quality.

The new A-CORE monitors continue this lineage but shift focus heavily back to pure analog excellence—no digital signal paths, no compromises.

What Is the A-CORE Range?

The A-CORE range is a new line of active studio monitors developed with a fully analog signal chain and HEDD’s most refined acoustic and amplification technologies to date.

“A-CORE” stands for Analogue CORE Technology, and the key philosophy is clear: deliver ultra-transparent, dynamic, and lifelike sound reproduction using only analog components—from input to output—without sacrificing precision or flexibility.

This isn't a throwback to vintage designs, but rather a redefinition of what modern analog monitoring can achieve.

The range includes:

• HEDD A07 CORE – 2-way nearfield monitor (7” woofer, 1” AMT tweeter)

• HEDD A09 CORE – Larger 2-way nearfield/compact midfield (9” woofer)

• HEDD A11 CORE – 3-way midfield monitor (5” midrange, 1” AMT, 11” woofer)

• HEDD BASS 12 CORE – Active subwoofer (12” woofer, high headroom, matching voicing)

Each speaker in the series has been designed to provide honest, high-resolution sound across the frequency spectrum, optimized for mixing, mastering, sound design, and critical listening.

Key Features & Innovations

1. Fully Analogue Signal Path

At the heart of the A-CORE concept is its pure analog signal chain. Unlike many modern studio monitors that rely on DSP for crossover management or frequency correction, the A-CORE monitors maintain a fully analog topology from input to amplifier to driver.

Why does this matter?

• Zero latency: No digital conversion, no DSP-induced delay.

• Phase integrity: Analog crossovers are meticulously tuned for natural phase response.

• No aliasing or quantization errors: Preserving the nuances of high-resolution analog and digital sources alike.

This makes the A-CORE monitors ideal for mastering engineers and audiophiles who demand the highest fidelity and signal purity.

2. New AMT Tweeter with Refined Waveguide

HEDD has long been known for its custom Air Motion Transformer (AMT) tweeters, and the A-CORE series debuts their most advanced iteration yet.

The AMT tweeter offers:

• Lightning-fast transient response

• Extended high-frequency detail

• Low distortion, even at high volumes

What’s new is the waveguide design, which has been acoustically optimized to better integrate the tweeter with the woofer or midrange driver, resulting in a smoother crossover region and improved directivity. The result is a more coherent stereo image and more accurate high-end response in real-world studio environments.

3. CORE Power Amplification

The A-CORE range introduces a new proprietary amplifier architecture: CORE Amp Technology. These are high-headroom, Class D amplifiers carefully matched to the speaker drivers, delivering:

• Ultra-low distortion

• Flat frequency response at all SPLs

• Wide dynamic range

• Tight transient response

The amplifiers are mounted inside the cabinet using a special thermal dissipation design, which prevents overheating while maintaining silent operation.

Each speaker uses separate amplifiers for each driver, ensuring full control over the sonic output and maximized headroom per driver.

4. Acoustically Optimized Cabinets

Cabinet design is just as crucial as the drivers themselves. The A-CORE enclosures are made from dense MDF with internal bracing, designed to minimize resonances and coloration.

Highlights include:

• Custom-designed bass reflex ports for accurate low-end extension and reduced chuffing.

• Angled baffle design to minimize edge diffraction and improve imaging.

• Matte finish with minimal branding, suitable for professional environments and free from visual distractions.

The result is consistent off-axis response, tight bass, and clear midrange definition.

5. Front-Panel Control & Rear Trim Options

While the A-CORE range remains 100% analog, it’s far from inflexible. HEDD has added smart analog trim controls on the rear for:

• Input sensitivity

• Low-shelf and high-shelf EQ

• Midrange tilt filters (on the A11 CORE)

On the front, users will find power indicators and LED clipping signals, with the ability to fine-tune each speaker to its environment without digital processing. This analog approach supports pure signal flow while giving the user control over room interaction.

Why Go Fully Analogue in a Digital World?

In an era dominated by DSP-driven monitors offering FIR filtering, Bluetooth, room correction, and mobile apps, HEDD’s all-analogue approach might seem unconventional. But there are compelling reasons behind this design philosophy.

1. Transparency Without Tampering

DSP is often used to correct inadequacies in speaker design. By focusing instead on driver integration, cabinet resonance, and analog crossover precision, HEDD delivers transparency without compromise or coloration.

2. Latency-Free Performance

For live recording, syncing with outboard gear, or simply ensuring the most natural monitoring experience, zero-latency is a game-changer—especially when compared to DSP monitors that can introduce 1–3 ms of delay.

3. Purist Signal Chain

From mixing desks to mastering gear, many engineers prefer analog chains for their warmth and precision. The A-CORE monitors honor that signal chain without inserting unnecessary AD/DA conversions.

Use Cases & Applications

1. Mastering Studios

With their linear frequency response, phase coherence, and zero latency, the A-CORE monitors are ideal for mastering applications where every micro-detail matters. The A11 CORE in particular, with its 3-way design, delivers surgical midrange accuracy.

2. High-End Mixing Rooms

The A07 and A09 provide transparent, punchy nearfield monitoring perfect for mixing engineers who demand honesty in their listening environment.

3. Post-Production & Sound Design

In film, gaming, and TV post-production, reliable imaging and time alignment are crucial. A-CORE monitors offer fast transient response, pinpoint imaging, and consistency across volumes.

4. Audiophile Listening

Though designed for studios, the A-CORE’s purity and analog ethos make them highly attractive to audiophiles seeking reference-grade loudspeakers for high-end music playback systems.

Comparing with Previous HEDD Monitors

HEDD’s Type Series (Type 05, 07, 20, 30) are already well-respected in the monitoring world, offering hybrid analog/DSP designs and digital expansion capabilities.

Compared to the Type Series:

• A-CORE is fully analog, while Type offers optional digital cards.

• A-CORE delivers more refined cabinet acoustics and a higher-end amplifier architecture.

• The new AMT waveguide in A-CORE provides more focused imaging and smoother highs.

• A-CORE is designed for pro users who demand signal path integrity above all else.

Price & Availability

As of May 2025, HEDD has begun global distribution of the A-CORE series through select dealers and professional audio retailers. Estimated prices (per speaker) are:

• HEDD A07 CORE – $1,299 USD

• HEDD A09 CORE – $1,799 USD

• HEDD A11 CORE – $2,499 USD

• HEDD BASS 12 CORE – $1,599 USD

Given their design pedigree and build quality, these monitors sit in the premium tier, aimed squarely at pros and high-end studios—not casual bedroom setups.

Final Thoughts: A Return to Precision, Not Nostalgia

With the A-CORE range, HEDD Audio has achieved something rare: a genuinely forward-thinking analog monitor that embraces the best of the past without feeling retro or restrictive. It’s a product line that challenges the assumption that DSP is the only path to sonic precision.

By focusing on mechanical engineering, crossover precision, and amplifier excellence, HEDD proves that analog monitoring still has a major role to play in the digital age—especially for professionals who know that what you hear shapes what you create.

If you’re looking for uncolored, accurate, and phase-coherent monitoring, without the influence of digital manipulation, the A-CORE series may just be the most compelling option on the market today.

Are you excited about the A-CORE range? Would you choose analog over DSP in your studio? Let us know in the comments below.

For more studio monitor reviews, gear updates, and pro audio insights, subscribe to our newsletter or follow us on our X account here.