Infinity ES-1 headphones

The most acurate headphones ever created. That was the goal.

When Infinity's scientists set out to develop such a stereo component, we determined to start from the highest achievement to date in headphone reproduction - electrostatics - and to remove the previous limitations of electrostatics.

The ES-1 Headphone System demonstrates that accomplishment. And no longer are the finest headphones any less accurate than the finest speakers.

An altogether new diaphragm material is employed in these headphones because it follows dynamic changes much faster and more precisely than the polyester others use. This extremely low-mass material, called Polyurethin, is so responsive as to provide a transient fullness impossible to achieve in the past.

 as a result, Infinity's electrostatic headphones deliver a frequency response of 20 to 25,000 Hz ±2 dB; at a sound pressure level of 100 dB; they show total harmonic distortion of less than 0,3%; their maximum output is a full 118 dB SPL; the realism of their reproduction is startling.

The ES-1 Headphone System consists of one headphone set and the walnut-enclosed adaptor containing power supply and matching transformers. Front-panel output connectors accommodate two headsets; an optional second set is available from your Infinity dealer.

The power supply is to be connected between your amplifier and speakers. Front panel switchingwill let you leave your headphones connected whether you are listening to them or to your speakers. Power supply is also provided with a fast-acting protection circuit to switch off either channel or both in case of overloading that might otherwise damage the unit. A re-set button on the front panel easily puts the circuit back into operation.

Infinity Electrostatic Headphones operate in the push-pull mode, that is, the power amplifier's signal is boosted by the transformer, and constant bias (DC) voltage sets up electrostatic fields which push and pull the diaphragm between two grids.

Infinity coats the Polyurethin of the diaphragms precisely evenly with conductive chemical compounds. The material and the process deliver three benefits:

A high "ratio of extension", the ability to respond to the smallest signal variations and return instantaneously to original tension. Infinity has achieved a marked improvement over polyester, which is 20 times heavier than Polyurethin.

Reduction virtually to zero of the distortion that can be caused when energy is reflected at the suspended edge of a headphone diaphragm.

Voltage spread evenly over the entire diaphragm surface so it will move as a perfect piston with no "hot spots" moving sooner or more than other portions.

As with every Infinity product, the purpose and the result of our using the most advanced technology is to deliver the original, uncolored sound of music exactly as recorded. In the case of the ES-1, you experience a spacious, open quality. Not only can you hear sounds around you (baby's cry, doorbell), but in addition, the music seems to be spread naturally all around you, and not focused unnaturally inside your head.

Your private listening experience with Infinity Electrostatic Headphones will be gratifyingly comfortable, supremely accurate, and totally musical.

Specifications

Frequency Response:  20 Hz to 25,000 Hz ±2 dB

Total Harmonic Distortion:  less than 0,3% at 100 dB SPL

Sensitivity:  98 dB SPL at input of 2 volts at 1000 Hz

Maximum Output:  118 dB SPL

Maximum Input:  50 watts at 100 Hz

Source Impedance:  4 to 16 Ω

External Power Requirements:  117 or 220 volts AC 50/60 cycles, ,01 watts

Headphone Weight:  9 ounces

Headband Adjustment:  11-1/2 to 13-1/2 inches

Headphone Cord Length:  98 inches

Adaptor Size (W x H x D):  5-1/4" x 3" x 7-1/4"

Adaptor Input Cord:  33-1/2 inches

Adaptor AC Cord:  67 inches