Martin Logan recommends amplifiers that double in power each time you go down in ohms (all the way to 2ohms or better. Example: 120w/ch @8ohms, 240w/ch@4ohms, 480w/ch @2ohms. The difference in the sound with this in mind is jaw dropping. I have gotten the ESLs to sound good with a Class D NuPrime STA-9 though ($659). I run a tube amp and it just didn't give the instruments realism. I bought a Krell amp used and serviced, and my world went into a real sound system that gave a sound that was one of those "regardless of price" quality. I have since bought more powerful Krell amps and upgraded to a much more expensive ML Montis that I bought used. Also with (2) REL S3 subs sitting on the inside of the Montis, I have dialed the system into a finished state of the art sound system. Martin Logan base models ESLs need some sub love as well. Going up to the Anthem Correction ML models will give you the proper bass in medium sized rooms. But don't underestimate the magic of the REL sub systems. Don't bother with electrostatics if you can't give them proper amplification. I learned this thru experience. Don't be afraid to buy some items used for your sound system. Most of us..... it is the only way to afford "high end" sound. My 2 cents.
Just auditioned Martin Logan ESL vs 60xt
I just left my Best Buy Magnolia HT and did A/B comparisons between these two speakers. I really wanted to walk away shocked at the ESL electrostatics but was left very disappointed. They were just muddy and boring compared to the 60xts right next to them. It was as if someone turned off the tweeter too. I felt like there was almost nothing over 7k hz like cymbals, upper guitar string plucks, etc.
Now, the 60xts did sound muddy in male vocals down low but they definitely peaked my interest more than the electrostatics.
Now, if I ONLY owned the ESL's, I'd probably be happy, get used to the sound and think they sound good. We're all subject to that trickery, but I just thought there should be more..
I was listening to some of my favorite tracks through Tidal, into a Marantz sr7705 receiver..
I know the amp/situation wasn't perfect but the sonic characteristics between the two would be unchanged in a more optimal situation.
Anyone else kinda feel this way?
Now, the 60xts did sound muddy in male vocals down low but they definitely peaked my interest more than the electrostatics.
Now, if I ONLY owned the ESL's, I'd probably be happy, get used to the sound and think they sound good. We're all subject to that trickery, but I just thought there should be more..
I was listening to some of my favorite tracks through Tidal, into a Marantz sr7705 receiver..
I know the amp/situation wasn't perfect but the sonic characteristics between the two would be unchanged in a more optimal situation.
Anyone else kinda feel this way?