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Quad ESL 57 - Which to buy

I have an opportunity to purchase one of two pairs of Quad ESLs. One pair has been fully restored recently ($2300) (original panels, new rivets, new mylar, new dust covers, new electronics and EHT) and the other is an original late 1970s, single owner pair ($1200) always driven by Quad II amps. Both look and sound great on their own(they are in different towns, so I have not been able to do a side by side comparison). Both are quiet, power up well and show no signs of arcing. Cosmetically, they look identical.

I'll be driving them with Quad II-40s.

I'm in Ontario, Canada.

Any opinions on which would be the better purchase?
kwbreezer

Showing 1 response by ct0517

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ct0517
2,041 posts
 
Kwbreezer
Another thing to consider.
If you are living near the great lakes you know there is tremendous humidity in the summer. Factor in a few hundred for a good dehumidifier for your space if your house is not climate controlled where they will placed. Humidity and 57’s / 63’s don’t mix well. In discussions with a couple of rebuilders the message was the same. 57’s are much more durable than 63’s in this area. Totally rebuilt 63’s can be destroyed in a few years if left in high humidity.
Good luck
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