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
Unless I knew a whole lot about the outfit that did the restoration, and had complete confidence in them, I would opt for the original pair.

A lot of the parts used in the restoration are not exactly as the original. Do an internet search, and you'll see some of the highly esteemed aftermarket suppliers / rebuilders end up with something that does not remain true to the original. Apart from that, who can know the skill of the person doing the restoration?

I own and have owned an awful lot of speakers, including a pair of unrestored ESL57. In most ways, I am in agreement with those that believe they are the finest sounding loudspeakers ever built. Makes me wonder why people chase so many of today's poorer sounding products that cost tens of thousands of dollars, if not more. Outside of the bottom octave and a half, and the ability to play well over 100 dB, have any of them (including Quad's current offerings) actually eclipsed the original Quads?
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