2. amps-preamps
  3. 1024105702

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 3 responses by asa

asa
662 posts
 
Bear is right, its current.

I'll probably get some flack here, but driving Quad 989's the Innersound amp sounded , well, brittle - kinda like a Coda amp, who I think makes it for Sanders...

I've seen the Berning ZH270 easily drive a pair of Acoustat 1+1 Medallion transformer elctroststat spkrs - a very tough load. My advice is get the Berning. No big tube hassles either, run warmish not hot, don't weigh much, great reliability - what do you need to know?

If not, and you like SS, the Sim suggestion above looks good.
asa
662 posts
 
Travis, they were sent in for review at the time; they were properly burned in. Coda, Innersound, Boulder are all detailed oriented, energy loaded at the transient-type SS amps - quite similar. Not sure that's a great comparison...

Paul, 7W!!? You've got more courage than me! :0)

Seriously though, Paul, you might find a nice balance with the Berning - and maybe a bit of tube rolling the inputs yo siut.
asa
662 posts
 
Travis, sorry so long to get back; forgot about this thread actually. Glad you are happy. Hey, lots of guys with Soundlabs seem to like the new Parasounds. Maybe you might like those too on the 3.6's? Just an idea down the road if you get the itch...
More to discover