Magneplanar MG-II loudspeakers

We'd like to have a word with you. It's about Magneplanar loudspeakers. The word is "revolutionary". Revolutionary design concept; revolutionary sound reproduction, revolutionary beauty. In fact the Magneplanar system is patented because of the unique principles on which it operates. The Speaker are designed to be seen and not heard. So if you're listening to music, all you hear is music, not annoying vibrations from speaker cabinets and cavities. The first time you see Magneplanars you'll know something new is going on. They look like beautiful decorator screens. Or handsome room dividers. We know you've heard the word "revolutionary" before. But you've never heard anything like Magneplanars before.

 

What is Magneplanar?

The Magneplanar loudspeakers is a totally new type of loudspeaker. It is neither a cone type speaker, nor is it an electrostatic. The actual speaker itself is only about 1/8th inch thick. Its construction consist of a large area (planar) permanent magnetic field with a very thin film diaphragm stretched over it. The audio current is carried by conductors which are attached to the diaphragm in a zig-zag fashion.

As the audio current passes through the conductors, the interaction between the magnetic field around the conductors and the permanent planar magnetic field under them causes the entire diaphragm to pulsate. This creates sound waves in the air which is the sound your hear.

 

A few of the important characteristics of Magneplanars

Purely resistive impedance for ideal amplifier loading

Puts out same sound front and back (bi-polar radiator)

No cavity or cabinet wall resonance to colour sound.

Superior transient response throughout entire audio range due to low mass of diaphragm

Distortion level far below other loudspeakers because of complete control of diaphragm

Can be placed to look more like part of furnishings than a loudspeaker

56" long, 1-1/2" wide tweeter section provides horizontal sound dispersion previously unattainable

Fantastic power handling capability

Large radiating area provides width and height and depth of sound only equalled by live performances

The bi-polar radiation of Magneplanas provides a means of optimizing stereophonic and quadraphonic sound imaging.

 

Specifications

System:  Two-way full-range Magneplanar

Midrange/Bass Radiating Area:  500 sq. In

Tweeter Radiating Area:  85 sq. In

Frequency Response:  60 Hz to 18,000 Hz ±4 dB

Power Handling:  up to 200 watts RMS per channel (without equalization)

Minimum Power Required:  Depends of type of listening. If you are a background music listening, 15 - 25 watts might be sufficient. In most cases 40-50 watts is recommended

Efficiency:  85 dB SPL

Impedance:  6 Ω

Crossover System:  2400 Hz

Finish:  Walnut hard wood and light colored fabric

Dimensions (W x H x D):  22" x 71" x 2"

Weight:  41 pounds each

 

Beveridge System 4 loudspeakers

The world acclaimed Beveridge Model 2, introduced in 1975, created new demand for a non-amplified, less expensive version of this exclusive speaker system, thus the creation of the System 3. through exposure to System 3, thousands of music lovers around the world were asking for "The Beveridge Sound".

Unfortunately, trained ears cannot always afford the best in sound or a listening studio to house a system of the size and caliber of the Beveridge System 3. the demand was there,  and once again Beveridge answered the call with System 4.

 

System 4 has the same sonic design philosophy as the other components of the Beveridge family. Mainly, flat frequency response, low distortion and more importantly, superb sound reproduction. The realistic essence of the original sound is so exact that there is virtually no difference between reproduced and original sound.

 

The Beveridgw System 4 is able to create a left to right image as well as a life-like front to back image. This three dimensional imaging is the capability that separates this extraordinary speaker system from ordinary speaker systems.

While retaining the superior live sound reproduction of larger Beveridge Systems, the System 4 is substantially smaller in both size and price. At one-third the cost of the original System 2SW-2, the System 4 uses the same electrostatic transducer with a somewhat different dispersion lens. The new 100° dispersion lens affords the owner flexibility in room placement of the speakers. They are just 63" tall and 17,5" in diameter, finished in an elegant architectural tambour designed to compliment any decor.

 

Features

Three foot high, full range electrostatic transducer covers all frequencies above 200 Hz. Electrostatic will not arc; low impedance design minimizes effects of dust, moisture and humidity.

Beveridge patented lens gives the three foot electrostatic transducer a minimum of 100° horizontal dispersion over its entire frequency range and vertical length,

Two 12" drivers in sealed box enclosures cover frequencies from 33 to 200 Hz. The design places woofer on bottom end of the column and ensures bass uniformity throughout a room.

Three way amplification:

Single amplifier

Biamplification using internal Beveridge Passive crossover provided, and

Biamplification using external crossover preferably the Beveridge RM-3 electronic crossover.

Separate fused protection for woofer section, electrostatic section and polarizing voltage section.

Step-up audio transformer custom designed for high permeability and non-saturating cores.

 

Specifications

Frequency Response:  33 Hz - 20,000 Hz ±3 dB of a flat response function of approx. -2 dB per octave, over a horizontal polar pattern of  100°

Total Harmonic Distortion :  1% at 90 dB SPL at 3,3 meters from two units as measured in an average room of 38 sq. Meters

Sound Pressure Level: 106 dB peaks, measured at 1m in a 13" x 26" room.

Woofer:  Q = 0,7 -3 dB "elbow" - 33 Hz

Crossover:  200 Hz , 18 dB/octave passive crossover. Directly by-passable

Impedance:  8 Ω  (can vary between 4 Ω  and 9 Ω )

Amplification Required:  Minimum 50 watts RSM per channel, maximum 300 watts per channel. A stable amp into variable low impedances is necessary, one capable of driving 4 mld load, as well as possessing a damping factor of 20 or over , at 10 kHz

Includes:  Two electronic line sources with built-in sub-woofer system, all step-up transformers, crossovers and polarizing voltage network.

Dimensions:

Diameter :  17,5"high :  63"

Shipping Weight:  200 lbs

Finishes:  Oak or walnut architectural tambour and black foam grill standard. Brushed silver aluminum, rosewood and unfinished birch optional. Export versions available.

 

SAE Mark XIV loudspeaker

The SAE Mark XIV Solid -State Electrostatic Transducer represents a dramatic advancement in the loudspeaker industry. Years of extensive research and design were required to perfect the ideal enclosure which would optimize the performance of all internal components. Only after this was achieved was the task of developing the correct drivers begun. Faithful sound reproduction was the goal while developing the Mark XIV. Each and every component part was developed expressly for the Mark XIV and is assembled within the SAE plant.

The result of this intensive program is the purest re-creation of the recorded audio signal by any device anywhere.

Low Frequency Transducer

Nominal diameter - 12,3 inches

Voice coil diameter - 4,175 inches

Voice coil material - edge wound copper ribbon

Magnetic assembly - Black anodized aluminum voice coil support to assist in transmission and dissipation of heat during high power operation

Integral heat sink in the magnet structure to assist elimination of temperature build up; double spider system for precise alignment of the voice coil form to eliminate breakage

11,25 pound cast ductile iron-magnetic structure for efficient conductance of magnet flux.

Frame - rigid 8-spoke aluminum

Compliance - non-fatiguing foam to insure linear travel

Free air electrical resonance of 18 Hz ±1 Hz

In system electrical resonance of 32 Hz ±1 Hz.

Chamber type - 3 cubic foot with acoustically suspended low-frequency driver

 

Specifications

Mid Frequency Transducers

Nominal diameter - 5.0 inches

Voice coil diameter - 1,0 inches

Magnetic assembly - 1,75 pounds

High compliance is ensured with a half-roll linear surround, drivers are acoustically suspended within their own chambers

Electrostatic Elements: Constant-charge, bipolar-radiating elements

Crossover:  All air-core copper inductors with special design audio transformers

Crossover Frequencies

Low Frequency Driver :  Adjustable to 120 Hz, 240 Hz, 4890 Hz at 12 dB/octave

Mid Frequency Drivers :  240 at 6 dB/ocave, continuously variable calibrated adjustment from 16 dB through +4 dB

Electrostatic Elements :  1440 Hz at 12 dB/octave, efficiency level adjustable from -4 dB through +10 dB, continuously variable calibrated adjustments

Solid-State Electronic Protection

The circuit is triggered by excessive voltage in relation to a particular frequency. Triggering may be caused by ±DC voltage, super-sonic or subsonic oscillations or any other amplifier malfunction; see graph. Operational mode is indicated by an amber light behind the grill cloth. A red light indicates the non-operational mode. This device also indicates the non-operational mode if it senses a malfunction within itself. Initial activation time - 5 seconds nominal; deactivation time 0,1 second nominal; reactivation time 5 seconds nominal.

Minimum Power Requirement :  100 Watts RMS per channel (recommended)

Maximum Power Input :  No limit, Electronic Protection will deactivate System with excessive wattage input

System Impedance :  8 Ω  nominal

Finish :  Oiled walnut or rosewood

Fabric :  Ebony

Dimensions (H x W x D):  1086  x 457 x 152 mm (42-3/4" x 24" x 6"

Shipping Weight:  113,6 kg (250 pounds) /pair

 

Magneplanar MG-IIc speakers

Magneplanars provide unique styling not available in box speakers. With optional trim and fabrics, Magneplanar Screens can blend or contrast with the surrounding decor, thus forming a backdrop in the same manner as curtains or drapes. With Magneplanars you have the ability to add a pair of speakers to your living area without adding the visual "weight" of box speakers. Magneplanars are easily moved for vacuuming or repositioning to other listening areas.

 

Magneplanar MG-IIc (and MG-Ic), these models are of similar design , both representing excellent value. The MG-IIC is one foot taller than the MG-Ic, providing better vertical dispersion and extension of the frequency extremes. Both models appeal to a wide range of listening tastes. For the classical music enthusiast, the critical midrange of the MG-IIc is often the speaker of choice. Having been introduced in their original versions many years ago, these speakers have benefited from years of gradual refinements.

They highlight Magnepan's belief that there should be no change for the sake of change. Improvements over earlier versions include a reduction in diaphragm mass, refinements in magnetic structure, improved crossover design, more rigid panel construction, inclusion of bi-amplification option, and improved diaphragm mass distortion.

Both models are worthy of the finest ancillary equipment and source material, and are remarkable in their respective price ranges.

 

Specifications

System :  Two-way full-range dipole radiator

Midrange/Bass Radiating Area:  500 sq/inch

Tweeter Radiating Area:  68 sq/inch

Frequency Response :  40 Hz - 18,000 Hz ±4 dB

Minimum Power Requirement:  50 watts RMS

Maximum Recommended Power :  can be safely used with amplifier up to 200 watts RMS per channel, when fused per instructions

Sensitivity:  84 dB (1 Watt/ 500 Hz / 1 m)

Impedance:  5 Ω  at any frequency (purely resistive)

Crossover System:  400 Hz to Low-pas); 1600 Hz to High-pass (6 dB/octave)

Finish:  Panels covered with off-white, black or brown fabric, with oak trim

Dimensions (W x H x D) :  22" x 71" x 2"

Weight:  45 lbs (each)

Audiostatic ES-100 loudspeakers

 

The Audiostatic Philosophy

Be it from a piano string, clarinet reed, drum skin or vocal chord; the beginning, middle and end of any sound is vibration, making high-fidelity sound reproduction a trickly proposition. In the recording process, you are starting with a sound source such as a violin string, which vibrates at a certain primary frequency of cycles per second, yet alos creates a variety of secondary frequencies or harmonics. This vibration pressurizes the nearby air, producing sound waves that cause objects in the vicinity to vibrate in unison. If these objects are sensitive devices such as microphones, containing a single responsive membrane capable of matching all of the primary and secondary vibrations of the source, a coherent translation of acoustic energy into electric energy can be made.

Ideally, the translation in playback from electric to acoustic energy should be exactly the reverse of the recording method. That is, the end of the playback chain should be a single, coherent membrane that acts as a microphone in reverse, capable of matching the vibrations of the original instrument and exciting the eardrums to move in unison.

Conventional, planar and ribbon two-way or three-way cross-over-type speakers do not behave like either the microphone or the original sound source. They attempt to divide the source into two or three separate vibration sources, reuniting them in mid-air. This results in a lack of coherency or faithfulness to the original sound, simply because a vibrating violin string does not break itself into two or three separate frequency elements and then reintegrate these separate frequencies in mid-air at the microphone.

 

An Audiostatic electrostatic speaker is a device that works essentially as a microphone in reverse. It uses no crossovers to artifically create a frequency division which did not exist in the source,  and because its moving mass is so much lighter than conventional, planar and ribbon speakers, it is capable of the very fast acceleration and deceleration necessary to keep up with the complexity of the original sound.

 

The Audiostatic ES 100 Series

Audiostatic ES 100 series are pure full range electrostatics. The heart of each Audiostatic electrostatic loudspeaker is the multi suspension (US patent 4105877) electrostatic element with ultra low mass membrane.

To prevent even the smallest irriqularities in sound, the frames of the ES 100 series are of a solid, 35 mm thick m.d.f. construction. There is no sound-degrading obstruction like grille cloth between the loudspeaker membrane and the listener's ear. Only computer grade electronic components are used, with polypropylene capacitors in the sound path. Massive 18 crt. Goldplated terminals are standard, accepting every possible loudspeaker cable. Finish is in beautiful spekled lacquer, available in 16 colors without extra charge.

 

The Audiostatic Modular Design

Bipolar full range electrostatic need careful room matchment to insure optimum reproduction of low frequencies. For this reason the ES 100 can be extended with the SW 100 electrostatic subwoofer, to achieve the best possible results in larger rooms.

The SW 100 simply can be switched in parallel with the ES 100, without dropping the overal impedance below 4 ohms.

 

Specifications

Frequency Range:  35 Hz - 22,000 Hz

Sensitivity:  86 dB 1W/1m

Impedance:  8 Ω  minimum

Recommended Amplifier:  50 - 250 watts (8 Ω )

AC Input:  220 Volts (12 volts U.S.)

Suitable for rooms:  18 - 50 mq.

Dimensions:  1880 x 350 x 35 mm

Weight:  23 kg

Martin Logan Summit X loudspeakers

 Summit X—Flawless Electrostatic Performance Inspired by CLX

Inspired by CLX, Summit X is the first hybrid electrostatic speaker to bring controlled dispersion to low-frequencies. By using a precision Vojtko crossover network to apply variable phasing near the crossover point, dual woofer Controlled Dispersion PoweredForce technology provides seamless blending with MartinLogan’s controlled dispersion XStat transducer. Four modular feet allow vertical dispersion adjustment over a 12 degree range, while 25 and 50 Hz level controls fine-tune woofer output to provide deep, powerful, smooth, clean, and detailed bass throughout the listening environment. Control panel and ground effects lighting provide the final touch.

 

CLX™ inspired crossover engineering perfectly blends a high-resolution XStat™ electrostatic transducer and dual Controlled Dispersion PoweredForce™ woofers to provide an unparalleled sonic experience.

Key Features:

• CLS™ XStat electrostatic transducer

• Ultra rigid AirFrame™

• Dual 200 watt Controlled Dispersion Powered Force 10-inch aluminum cone woofers

• Precision built advanced topology Vojtko™ crossover

• 25 & 50Hz level control

• Highly adjustable ETC™ spikes

 

 

Specifications

Frequency Response:  24 – 23,000 Hz ± 3dB

Sensitivity:  91 dB/2.83 volts/meter

Impedance:  4 Ω , 0.8 @ 20 kHz. Compatible with 4, 6, or 8 Ω  rated amplifiers.

Crossover Frequency:  270 Hz

High/Mid Frequency Driver:   1118  x 287 mm (44” x 11.3”) CLS Xstat electrostatic 3,209 cm² (497 in²)

Low Frequency Driver:  Two 10” (254 mm) 200 watt Powered Force aluminum cone woofers

Recommended Amplifier Power:  20 – 600 watts per channel

Weight:  34 kg (75 lbs) per channel

Dimensions (H x W x D):  154.8 x 32.2 x 54 cm (60.9” x 12.7” x 21.3”)

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

Magneplanar SMGa

SMGa features:

Planar-Magnetic-Driver

Low Mass - .0005 inch diaphragm

Bi-Polar Design - No cabinet to color sound

Direct Coupled - No transformer is necessary. Subtle detailing is maintained with no dynamic compression

Mirror-Imaged - for stable stereo image

Linear power response - No compression of dynamic range

Superb Power Response

High Power handling

Flat Impedance - for ideal amplifier loading

Accurate Phase response

SMGa - incorporates most of the unique qualities of the large expensive models, at an affordable price. This smallest and most popular models is for the serious music lover on a budget and works best in smaller listening rooms. The SMGa can be placed against the wall when you are listening to backgound music or pulled out 2 or 3 feet to appreciate their full potential. The SMGa is our most efficient model and can be driven with smaller receivers and amplifiers or can be part of a serious sudiophile system, utilizing the best of equipment.

The music lover on a budget can now  own a music system that will bring him or her much closer to the excitement of a live performance. Available in three trims (oak, brass, or chrome), and three fabric colors ( off-white , black or brown).

Specifications:

Type:  2-way, Full-Range, Planar/Magnetic Speaker System

Frequency Response:  50 Hz to 18 kHz ±3 dB

Recommended Power:  40 to 150 Watts RMS (8 Ω)

Sensitivity:  90 dB (1 watt/1 m)

Impedance :  4 Ω, Resistive

Dimensions:  24-1/4" x 48-9/16" x 1-3/4"

Weight:  28 lbs

I like

Martin Logan Aerius i

 Twenty years ago (from the past 1996) Martin Logan presents "Aerius i" one of the ESL series, a wonder in dimension, technology and price. The Aerius i requires only 1 square foot of floor space making it an outstanding addition for small apartments and dedicated home theaters. Available in matte black with a variety of handfinished hardwood trim. Single and bi-wire capable.

 At the heart of every Martin Logan speaker -  the patented curvilinear electrostatic transducer -lies an ultrathin transparent diaphragm. Driven by charged electrons and weighing less than the air it moves, the diaphragm is so responsive it reproduces sound at levels only associated with the finest audio electronics.

With indistinguishably low distortion, the patented Martin Logan diaphragm precisely tracks the input signal, engages the air, and transmits the audio signal to your ear - flawlessly. The ESL’s low distortion and curvilinear line source combine to provide minimal room interaction, detail, power, and clarity; unavailable any other way.

Specifications:

Frequency Response:  40 - 22,000 Hz, ±3 dB

Dispersion:

Horizontal:  30 degrees

Vertical:  3.5’ (106 cm) line source

Sensitivity:  89 dB [2.83 volts/meter]

Impedance:  4 Ω , 1.7 at 20 kHz

Crossover Frequency:  450 Hz

Components:  Custom-wound audio transformer, polypropylene capacitors, air core coils

Woofer Type:  8" (203 mm) high excursion, high rigidity cone with extended throw driver assembly; non-resonant chamber format

Power Handling:  200 watts/channel

Dimensions (H x W x D):  1410 x 270 x 320 mm (55,5" x 10,5" x 12,5")

Weight:   24.9 kg each, (55 lbs)

AKG K 340

 K-340

The K-340 headphone surpasses even the most elaborate electrostatics in transparency and accuracy. It has deeper and more precisely defined bass than is available from the most  expensive loudspeakers, while also being completely free from the effects of room acoustics. Every detail of the sound is clear and natural, and the acoustic image is better localized than with any other headphone available. Listening fatigue is the biggest enemy of headphones - but you can listen to thecoloration-free K-340's hour after enjoyable hour.

 A headphone's acoustical performance is academic if it is uncomfortable to wear, so every unnecessary ounce of weight was eliminated. The K-340 - despite its dual transducers and crossover networks - weighs about the same as an average open air headphone. Side pressure against the head is very low, and the large ultra-soft urethanefilled circumaural earpads may be removed for cleaning. The headphones are supported by a wide, soft headband with raised pads which not only permit air to circulate, but also provide flexibility to conform to the exact curvature of any head. Strength is supplied by a dual-bow bail above the headband. The bail terminates in a pair of self-adjusting slide fittings that automatically position the earpieces at the proper height.

 The K-340 comes with a 3 meter coiled input cable that terminates in a standard ¼" stereo phone plug. The cable's flat, side-by-side conductors are specially designed to reduce kinking. The input cable is brought directly to the left earpiece, and the headphone bail carries audio to the other earpiece, doing away with distracting "Y" cords under the chin. No detail has been overlooked in the design and every detail is revealed in the music for your enjoyment.

Specifiactions

Transducer Types:  Dynamic moving coil low-frequency system; Fixed-charge electrostat high-frequency system.

Frequency Range:  16 Hz to 25,000 Hz

Crossover:  4000 Hz , 6 dB/octave

Nominal Impedance:  400 Ω, each channel

Sensitivity:  1,6 Pa/volt

Nominal Listening Level Requirements:  0,63 V (1 mW) for 94 dB SPL (approx. 1 Pa)

"IHF Sensitivity"  rating 5,0 V (63 mW) for 112 dB SPL (approx. 8 Pa)

Sound Pressure level for less than or equal to 1,0 THD:  104 dB (200 to 2,000 Hz)

Maximum Continuous Input (per channel):  9 V (200 mW) approx. 117 dB SPL

Cable:  3 meter (9,8 feet) 4 conductor cable with 3-conductor ¼" phone plug.

Weight:  385 grams (13,5 oz ) less cable

Contact Force:  Approx. 3 newtons (10,5 oz)

Martin Logan Quest

 Truth can be revealed only through uncomprmised commitment to the highest concepts. The Quest re-creates musical truth through proprietary Electrostatic Loudspeaker technology available only from Martin Logan.  Daring in both form and function, the Quest delivers everything from the most delicate detail to the most inspired crescendo.

Complete Engineering

Only after exhaustive Coputer Aided Design and final listening sessions did our design team put their signature of approval on the Quest interface system.  This high-density composite sub-woofer cabinet provides maximum rigidity and damping to minimize vibration and distortion, resulting in tighter bass. The sub-woofer driver has the strength of "powered" woofers, while blending with the lightning fast performance of our propietary electrostatic transducer technology. Both woofer and midrange control switches are provided to give you additional flexibility to tailor the audio signal to your room environment. Bi-wire capability is provided for those who demend even more purity of sound.

 Superb Components

Within the interface module, a regulated power supply creates stable voltage even under the most extreme conditions. The audio transformer, utilizing high-purity copper and the finest laminates, is vacuum-epoxy dipped for ultimate signal refinement and high voltage protection. All  high-voltage leads are made from the purest copper and coated with teflon. Only superlative materials, including polypropylene capacitors are used throughout.

 Transparent Purity

Weighing a total of less than one cubic inch of air, our thin film diaphragm can change motion as quickly as air itself.  Martin Logan designers have curved the membrane to form a pure thirty-degree dispersion sound field for uncompromised performance without the need for extraneous devices. For the first time in history, pure ESL transparency and resolution can be experienced in a wide dispersion field.

 Complement Your Living Environment

A full selection of standard wood finishes is available to match your decor.

Other finishes may be custom-ordered. Before building any unit, we carefully selected and match all woods by hand. After the wood is fitted to the system, multiple coats of hand-rubbed lacquer are applied.

To accommodate your taste, the Quest is available with any of our grill cloth choices. Both the wood trim and grill cloth options are completely flexible and can be added or changed at any time.

Specifications

System Frequency Response:  28 - 24,000 Hz

Electrostatic Frequency Response:  100 - 24,000 Hz

Woofer Frequency Response:  28 - 2,000 Hz

Woofer Speed:

6,3 ms at 50 Hz (capable of 160 Hz)

1,2 ms at 100 Hz (capable of 830 Hz)

Presence Control Switch:  =2 dB from 1,000 to 5,000 Hz

Bass Control Switch:  -3 dB from 60 - 150 Hz

Crossover Frequency:  125 Hz at 12 dB/octave

Dispersion [Horizontal/Vertical]:  30° /4' Line Source

Sensitivity:  90 dB (1 W/m)

Power Handling:  200 watts per channel RMS

Recommended Amplifier Power:  80 - 200 watts per channel

Nominal Impedance:  8 Ω (minimum 2 Ω)

Phase Angle:  less than 45°

Dimensions (H x W x D):  72 ¾" x 19" x 13"

Weight:  125 lbs

Components:  Custom-wound audio transformers polypropylene bypass caps; 100% OFC coils

STAX SR-Λ (Lambda) Series

 The SR-Λ (Lambda) series have such pleasing sound quality because its diaphragm is oblong, instead of round, as in the SR-Σ Series. This shape approximates the elliptical shape of the outer ear so that you use your entire ear to listen to the sound, just as you would in a natural listening situation. In fact, the diaphragm is actually larger than the average ear's dimensions to take full advantage of the outer ear's response characteristics. The result is fuller low range response along with the uncolored mid and high range response typical of electrostatic reproduction.

The design approach of the SR-Λ Series won various prizes and especially the SR-Λ Signature is called "The best Headphone in the World".

 SR-Λ (Lambda) Normal + SRD-7sb

Stax introduced the SR-Lambda in 1979. still a worthy product in its own right, it has also served as the foundation for the most important earspeaker innovations since then. And in one respect it has not yet been bettered - the earpiece.  This designencloses the outer ear, housing an angled oblong diaphragm larger than the average ear's dimensions. The radiated sound is then captured by all parts of the outer ear and conducted to the eardrum - just like listening in any normal situation. The brain perceives a spacious sound field outside the listener's head. How unlike the typical headphone, whose earpiece crushes the outer ear, not permitting it to do its job, while the small dynamic speaker injects the music unnaturally into the ear canal.

SR-Λ (Lambda) Professional

Daimler Benz provided the impetus for the SR-Lambda Professional (1982) when they requested a unique earspeaker to analyze car noise. Stax achieved the desired low-frequency response by increasing the electrode gap and the polarizing voltage. These changes also created side benefits - the Lambda could now play louder than before, and with increased efficiency and less distortion. Until the advent of the Signature, the SR-Lambda Pro was the best earspeaker Stax  knew how to make; it remains a product second  to one only.

 The SRM-1 Mk2 Professional was designed to drive the SR-Lambda Pro or other earspeakers dirctly. Its pure class-A circuit eliminates audio transformers and coupling capacitors for detailed, natual reproduction. Like the SRM-T1, this unit can be connected to the tape loop of a preamplifier, or run directly from the line-level source - CD player, tape deck, tuner or mixing console - resulting in a remarkably simple and elegant signal path. It has output sockets for one Professional Series and one standard earspeaker.

 The SR-Lambda pro earspeaker can also be powered through the SRD-P portable energizing adaptor. It employs high-power IC's and Professional bias-voltage circuitry to extract the earspeaker's capabilities. The SRD-P operates not only on a household power source but also on batteries, allowing remote use for high-quality monitoring of location recordings. Its RCA input trminals enable direct connection to line-level outputs (as with the SRM-1 Mk2 Pro); but it also has a mini-jack input for use with portable cassette decks or mini CD players.

The SRD-7 Professional energizing adaptor connects to the speaker taps of a power amplifier, enabling one to enjoy Professional Series earspeakers  over whatever equipment one already owns. It contains advanced features like LC-OFC wiring and audio transformer windings, and an all-aluminum chassis to eliminate magnetic distortion. This adaptor is a particulary viable alternative to the direct-drive earspeaker amplifiers if one has made a major investment in state-of-the-art. Preamps and power amps.

SR-Λ (Lambda) Signature + SRM-T1

Surpassing the SR-Lambda Pro - probably the most widely acclaimed audio component of recent years - was a formidable task, but that is what the SR-Lambda Signature has accomplished; any superlatives not expended on the Lambda pro may now be safely employed. Two material changes are largely responsible. The Signature's transducing diaphragm is only one micron thick, a reduction of one-third from the Lambda Pro. And the signal cord is made of PC-OCC cable, specially cast from oxygen-free copper to preserve phase integrity through large linear-crystal-line structure.

A standard-setting earspeaker requires an amplifier which performs similalry - the SRM-T1.  this two-stage driver unit incorporates dual FET's and twin 6FQ7/6CG7 triode output tubes, thus combining transient speed with the smoothness and dimensionality sophisticated audiophiles have come to expect from vacuum-tube amplification. The SRM-T1 can accommodate both Pro Series and normal earspeakers.

The Signature System is urgently recommended for discerming audiophiles seeking the ultimate in musical information retrieval.

SRM-T1 Tube Driver 

Frequency Response:  DC-20kHz, +/-1dB

Gain:  60 dB

Harmonic Distortion:  0,02%

Input Impedance:  50 k Ω

Input Level:  100 mV

Maximum Output Voltage:  330 V RMS (1 kHz)

Bias Voltage:  230 V DC, 580 V DC

Power Requirements:  100 - 240 V 50/60 Hz

Dimensions (W x D  x H):  7-3/4" x 15-1/4" x 4"

Original Box (W x D x H): 18" x 9-1/2" x 5"  (+1 lbs)

Weight:  10,5 lbs