Nubert nuPro X-3000 Review

Introduced in the spring of 2011, the nuPro family of active speakers from the Swabian loudspeaker direct seller Test compact active speaker Electronic is now making its debut in its third evolutionary stage. Now under the name nuPro X, the new models do not want to immediately replace their ancestors of the nuPro A family, which is still available, but rather supplement them in terms of quality and equipment. The Nubert nuPro X-3000 presented below is the smaller of two compact boxes of the currently four-member nuPro-X family.

Conceptually and even with comparable housing dimensions, the Nubert nuPro X-3000 is based on the Nubert nuPro-A-200, which was able to position itself excellently in the LowBeats nuPro family test. Of course, the Swabians kept the proven recipe for success. The Nubert nuPro X-3000 is one of the fully active two-way speakers. which opens up a wide range of applications with universal connection options. Thanks to the remote control, it can form a complete hi-fi system in connection with a sound source – a separate preamplifier is therefore not required.

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However, that is where the similarities end. Because both optically and technically, the Nubert nuPro A-3000 is in fact a completely redesigned loudspeaker. The stylish “screwless” appearance with a concealed chassis immediately catches the eye. Instead of the usual mounting flange, the tweeter now has a delicate mounting ring. This allows it to move closer to the mid-bass driver, which results in better phase behavior in the transition area of ​​both drivers.

The new low-midrange chassis is also visually striking in comparison to the nuPro A-200. Although it also measures around 15 centimeters in diameter, it signals a larger, maximum cone stroke with a significantly thicker rubber surround. The appearance of the Nubert nuPro X-3000 is also characterized by a new display. In a subtle gray-blue, it no longer signals the current operating and setting statuses in cryptic abbreviations, as it used to, but in whole words.

Nubert numero X-3000 Technology

The exclamation point in terms of technology in the nuPro X-3000 is clearly the new electronic unit. Here, too, tried and tested elements from the nuPro-A family were retained. This explicitly means the fully digital signal processing from the input to the loudspeaker. Characteristic of the nuPros since the second generation: The power amplifiers do not work as “quasi-digital” class D amplifiers, but are controlled directly by the digital signal processor (DSP). This ensures that the self-noise is hardly perceptible, even at ultra-short listening distances – a not unimportant quality criterion for active loudspeakers.

Compared to the A-200, the new electronics unit of the Test compact active speaker X-3000 offers twice the nominal and pulse power. This creates a significant increase in dynamic reserves (in figures: 3dB). The maximum accepted sampling rate when fed via their digital inputs (internal sampling rate for signal processing = 96 kHz) has also doubled (to now 192 kilohertz).

However, the new nuPro-X electronic module has gained the most in terms of connectivity. Bluetooth according to the aptX standard is now part of the basic equipment, as is the wireless connection of two loudspeakers to form a stereo pair. Of course, this also works conventionally via digital cable from the master to the slave box, with the former acting as a command receiver for both.

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As with the neurons of the second generation, the operation can be carried out directly on the loudspeakers using the key cross or via the supplied IR commander. A new addition to the nuPro X is operated via a free Android or iOS app. It even worked for me when the remote-controlled smartphone was also the sound source and both speakers were also wirelessly connected as a pair.

Nubert numero X-3000 – more focus on Pro

The syllable “Pro” in the name is much more pronounced with the new Generation X electronics. The Nubert nuPro X-3000 now also has a (long-awaited) symmetrical XLR input. This can even be used twice: On the one hand in an analog, symmetrical way with switchable input sensitivity (0 or 6dBV), whereby each box can be controlled individually.

Alternatively, the XLR socket can also be used as a digital input in AES3 format. In this case, the signal is transmitted from the master to the slave box via a coaxial cable. Digital latency compensation ensures that the signals from both channels are transmitted at the same time.

 

Real professional monitors usually have spatial filters to adapt to their acoustic environment. The Nubert nuPro X-3000 cannot help with this directly, but it cleverly compensates for this with its quite extensive sound controls. The X-3000 took over the Nubert-typical “sound scales”, called Tilt-EQ in pro jargon, from its predecessors of the A-generation.

A digitally working, graphic 5-band equalizer has been added. The highlight: the second-lowest control works at a center frequency of 240 Hz. This is exactly the range in which neighboring acoustic interfaces (e.g. the mixing console) cause an audible level increase. With the graphic EQ of the nuPro X-3000, this can now be easily compensated.

On the other hand, if you have to struggle with booming room resonances, the nuPro X-3000 will be happy about another useful feature. It has a high-pass filter whose cut-off frequency can be set in ultra-fine 1 Hz steps. This allows low-frequency room modes to be elegantly faded out without significantly thinning out the bass range.

The hearing test

The nuPro X-3000 is without question one of the best nuPros I’ve ever heard. First of all, it pleases with its substantial, catchy, and closed playback. Tonally, it shows itself to be a very balanced, completely calm character: Always pleasant to hear, but without a pleasing middle dip, it plays committed and unspectacularly rich in detail.

What I particularly like about the nuPro X-3000 is its rich, natural tones. In addition, it also impresses with its excellent spatial representation, which is already very close to that of a coaxial system. The Nubert nuPro X-3000 combines excellent focus with a wide-ranging representation of diffuse sound components – for example, reverb tails. For me, the acoustic imaging is one of the most noticeable improvements compared to the Nubert nuPro A-200.

Ahead of its predecessor, the X-3000 also has a tighter, crisper, yet powerful bass range. As with the numero A-200, its tonal focus is in the range of around 60 to 70 Hertz, but it can also go lower – for example in “Never Undo” on Morcheeba’s new album Blaze Away.

Hearing test compact active speaker X-3000 – surprisingly dynamic

With 220 watts of impulse power each for the mid-woofer and tweeter and a special surround for high membrane deflection, the nuPro X-3000 has the best prerequisites for being able to sound the alarm properly in terms of dynamics. The listening test proved that quite impressively. With crisp tracks like “Nazreh Mili” (Kalya Scintilla Remix) and “Up From The Dust” (Birds Of Paradise Remix) by Kaya Project, the Nubert nuPro X-3000 became a real “scoop” and, considering its size, produced almost astounding numbers level.

With its dynamic capabilities, the Nubert nuPro X-3000 should definitely reach the limits of what is physically feasible. No matter how low-distortion their drivers may be and how powerful their amplifiers may be: Compact two-way loudspeakers with a relatively small diaphragm diameter and large diaphragm excursion inevitably produce (acoustic-related) intermodulation distortions. The reason: the sound field of the mid-bass driver modulates that of the tweeter in the frequency domain (Doppler effect).

This is particularly noticeable in music titles in which signal components are permanently present in the bass range, such as when e-bass, bass drum, and deep-reaching synth layers are superimposed. An almost archetypal sound example of this is Lele Yane (ft. Irina Mikhailova) by British producer Seb Taylor.

In the listening test with the Nubert nuPro X-3000, with such critical tracks, a slight restlessness in the mid-high range could be determined at high volumes. However, it must be emphasized that the Nubert nuPro X-3000 trumps its predecessor nuPro A-200 in the LowBeats discipline “upper, HiFi-suitable average level” by an impressive 8 decibels. And it is not without reason that the nuPro-X line-up also includes loudspeakers with a significantly larger membrane area…

Conclusion

The test shows it very clearly: Based on the proven nuPro concept, the nuPro X generation is not just an upgrade, but a real step forward. The Nubert nuPro X-3000 presented here was able to improve in all respects compared to its test-proven “base” nuPro A-200. This is expressed not only in further expanded and now thoroughly professional equipment.

The numero X-3000 also demonstrates its leading position in terms of sound with more precise bass, grippier mids, excellent spatial representation, and a noticeably higher maximum level. The additional price of 240 euros per loudspeaker therefore seems completely justified. The Nubert development team has done a great job in implementing the nuPro speakers for Generation X. Compliment!

FAQs Test compact active speaker

1. What is the power output of the Nubert numero X-3000?

The Nubert numero X-3000 has a total power output of 100 Watts RMS, with 80 Watts dedicated to the woofer and 20 Watts for the tweeter.

2. What are the connectivity options for the X-3000?

The X-3000 offers multiple connectivity options, including:

• RCA (Stereo)
• XLR (Balanced)
• TRS (6.3 mm) jack
• Optional Bluetooth for wireless audio streaming Additionally, it has a subwoofer output (RCA) for connecting an external subwoofer.

3. Can I use the Nubert numero X-3000 for home theater setups?

Yes, the X-3000 is versatile enough for home theater setups. Its powerful sound output and multiple connectivity options make it suitable for enhancing your movie-watching experience.

4. Does the speaker have built-in EQ settings?

Yes, the Nubert numero X-3000 features adjustable bass and treble controls, allowing you to customize the sound to your liking.

5. What is the frequency response range of the X-3000?

The frequency response of the Nubert numero X-3000 ranges from 48 Hz to 22 kHz, providing a well-balanced audio experience across different music genres.

6. Is the Nubert numero X-3000 easy to set up?

Absolutely! The speaker is designed for easy setup, with straightforward connections and user-friendly controls. Simply plug it in, connect your audio source, and start enjoying high-quality sound.

7. What is the size and weight of the Nubert numero X-3000?

The X-3000 measures approximately 320 mm x 200 mm x 280 mm (12.6 in x 7.9 in x 11 in) and weighs around 6.5 kg (14.3 lbs) per speaker.

8. Does the speaker have energy-saving features?

Yes, the Nubert numero X-3000 has a standby mode that automatically powers down the speaker when not in use, helping to conserve energy.

9. What materials are used in the construction of the X-3000?

The speaker’s enclosure is made from high-quality MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard), which provides durability and minimizes resonance for improved sound quality.

10. What kind of warranty does Nubert offer for the numero X-3000?

Nubert typically offers a warranty period for their products. Please refer to the specific warranty details provided by the retailer or Nubert for more information.

11. Can I connect the X-3000 to a computer or TV?

Yes, you can connect the Nubert numero X-3000 to your computer, TV, or any other audio source using the appropriate input connections (RCA, XLR, or TRS).

Specification

Nubert numero X-3000 Specifications

General Features:

• Type: Active compact speaker
• Design: Two-way bass-reflex
• Usage: Suitable for music playback, home theater, and multimedia applications
• Enclosure Material: MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) with a high-quality finish

Drivers:

• Woofer: 5.25-inch (135 mm) polypropylene cone
• Tweeter: 1-inch (25 mm) silk dome tweeter
• Frequency Response: 48 Hz – 22 kHz

Amplification:

• Built-in Amplifier: Class D
• Total Power Output: 100 Watts RMS
  • Woofer Power: 80 Watts
  • Tweeter Power: 20 Watts

Connectivity:

• Inputs:
  • 1 x RCA (Stereo)
  • 1 x XLR (Balanced)
  • 1 x TRS (6.3 mm) jack
  • Bluetooth for wireless audio streaming (optional)
• Outputs:
  • Subwoofer output (RCA)

Control and Features:

• Volume Control: Analog rotary knob on the front panel
• Bass and Treble Controls: Adjustable EQ settings
• Standby Mode: Energy-efficient standby mode
• LED Indicators: Power and status indicators

Dimensions and Weight:

• Dimensions (H x W x D): Approximately 320 mm x 200 mm x 280 mm (12.6 in x 7.9 in x 11 in)
• Weight: Approximately 6.5 kg (14.3 lbs) per speaker

Other Features:

• Protection Circuits: Overload and thermal protection
• Accessories Included: Power cable, RCA cables, and user manual