2. amps-preamps
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What kind of power wakes up electrostatic speakers

Is it wpc, high current, both or what? I've been aud-itioning amps with the Final Electrostatic 0.3's (86 db sensitivity). The manufacturer suggests a minimum of 50 wpc to get them going. So far, I've tried a Nakamichi Stasis (150wpc) and an Electrocompaniet AW250DMB(250 wpc).With both,the speakers sounded dull, yet the Parasound HCA 3500 (250wpc & high current)made them sing sweet as can be.
Could somebody be kind enought to explain to me how this stuff works. I need to purchase an amp to drive the Final 0.4's (the big brother to the 0.3's). I'd love to know what
to look for.
I appreciate in advance your help. The source for this
was a Pioneer PD S95.
steakster

Showing 1 response by aroc

aroc
760 posts
 
Try tube amps. The previous owner of my Acoustats commented that his Acoustat seemed more at ease with tube amp of decent size and power. I've tried my Acoustat Model 3 with an Audio Alchemy OM-150 (150wpc) and an Acurus A150 2 stereo amp. The 'stats were more at ease with the OM-150, since it was quite a buiser. I tried my Quicksilver silver mono 90's, and even thought I had less power (some 90wpc), that 'stats were driven with even more ease. No sure if it's the volts, current, or the fact the tubes can just deal with load the 'stats present (better overloading?). I think this helps drive home the point of Jim Strickland's direct drive tube amps.

I you're looking for a big tube amp, try the Wolcott. It was designed for drive ESLs, in particular the Soundlab models.
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