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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 rgodin

rgodin
85 posts
 
The ESL amps are actually Coda's low-end "Continuum" line. These should not be confused with Coda's branded line, which is quite superior in sound and quality to the Continuum. I've driven M-L CLS IIz with both a Continuum and the higher-end Coda 20.5. The Continuum worked well, but the Coda 20.5 was magical in comparision.

There are plenty of good amps out there for driving ESLs and panels. Lots of good advice here, but nothing beats listening in you own environment.
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