Thinking about going electrostatic

Bill,

There is a ML dealer in Rochester if you are willing to make the 2 hr drive.  (Digitial Audio Video Enviroments   https://www.comeseedave.com/)  I don't know anything about them other than they are a licensed ML dealer.

And don't dismiss the ML users group as a resource for a possible audition.  They are a good group in this hobby.  I got my first listen from a nearby user that responded from a post I made there.  https://www.martinloganowners.com/

and whatever happens... enjoy where the journey takes you.  

I used panels and electrostatics (Quads and Acoustats) for a number of years. I found that the most critical aspect of the merits of these speakers was the proper set up in a room large enuf. For example, they sound best at least 5ft from the wall behind them. Any closer and you start to lose the clarity that they are known for. The back wave can be a killer! I set up my Quads, out of necessity, in a room less than 5ft and they were easily bested by some quality dynamic speakers. 5 1/2 ft out and they were aurally superior to all but visually not acceptable. 

Good luck.

If you want to hedge your bet, try the Eminent Technology LFT-8b or c. It's a hybrid design, giving you the crispness and clarity in the mids and highs, while also providing heft and presence in the lows with a traditional subwoofer. As a bonus, they don't need anywhere near the power that planar-only speakers do. Unfortunately for me, I have to sell mine (ad here: https://www.audiogon.com/listings/lisbd12d-eminent-technology-lft-viiib-planars). I'm just down the road from you in Rochester. 

I looked at the reviews for the eminent technology ltf8c and I'm interested in those I'm a few hours from you

Checked TMRaudio. Com . If you decide on ML speakers toe in a bit. And put bass trap on the outer side 6 inches away from the speakers. I used to own request.