MartinLogan ElectroMotion ESL

Price: $3,499.98/pr

Normally in stock to buy (some finishes)
Finish Options: Satin Black, Gloss Black ($300 premium)
Audition in store at Creative Audio in Winnipeg

Summary

Think more “mini-flagship” than entry-level. This, MartinLogan’s most compact electrostatic model, delivers the magic in a room-friendly size. Made in Canada!

We will just come out and say it: we love MartinLogan’s hybrid electrostatic designs. Thousands of our clients do, too. And this, the entry-level model, is particularly special. Not because it overshadows its larger siblings; with MartinLogan stepping up in the range always delivers a superior performance. No, it’s because at its price this speaker is essentially untouchable, in our expert opinion. The level of fine detail and resolution available is absolutely jaw-dropping. You may have heard that MartinLogan’s current designs have finally nailed that pesky issue of bass integration and we are here to tell you that is absolutely true. The end result is a speaker that will put a smile on your face and will constantly reveal new musical insights. You absolutely must have the MartinLogan ElectroMotion ESL on your shortlist in this price range.

Key Features

• 2-way design

• Electrostatic transducer with high-excursion 8” woofer

• Bottom port

About the MartinLogan ElectroMotion series

The ElectroMotion series from MartinLogan is built upon the success of their legendary Aerius model, which debuted in 1992 and went on to sell in record numbers, garnering multiple awards in the hi-fi press. The company’s relentless efforts to advance their technologies and manufacturing techniques has led to these models which are more efficient and feature better integrated bass performance than their predecessors.

The latest-generation XStat electrostatic transducer features MicroPerf technology, increasing the radiating area by over 40% without sacrificing structural integrity. The gentle curve of the electrostatic panel allows for a wider high-frequency dispersion pattern than is possible from a traditional electrostatic design. The AirFrame, a composite material, holds and rigidifies the electrostatic panel without obstructing the sound radiating surface. It also provides electrical and acoustical isolation, reducing distortion caused by vibration and resonance. The end result is enhanced imaging and resolution of fine sonic detail.

A unique characteristic of electrostatic speakers is their controlled dispersion pattern. A true dipole, this design exhibits very low output to the sides, relative to a conventional speaker. This minimizes side-wall reflections which serve to muddle sonic detail and blur stereo imaging. This reduction in side output contributes to the shocking clarity and directness for which electrostatic speakers are revered.

One of the greatest advances in this, the latest series of entry-level hybrid electrostatic speaker design from MartinLogan, is the integration of the bass to the output of the electrostatic panel. Custom and in-house designed woofers combined with proprietary Vojtko crossover designs ensure a seamless transition from woofer to panel. Now, the bass response of a MartinLogan speaker is as fast and taut as its midrange and high frequencies.

Frequency Response:
42 Hz - 22,000 Hz (+/- 3 dB)

Sensitivity:
91 dB

Drivers:
1x 34” x 8.6” electrostatic transducer
1x 8” high-rigidity woofer

Crossover Frequency:
500 Hz

Impedance:
6 ohms (compatible with 4, 6, or 8 ohm rated amplifiers)

Dimensions (HxWxD):
52.1” x 9” x 16.3”

Weight:
35.5 lbs (each)

• These speakers will sound great right out of the box, but will sound even better after 50-100 hours of use.

• We always recommend a quality speaker cable to connect your speakers.

• For the best results with any electrostatic speaker, we recommend a minimum distance of 24” from the wall behind the speaker to the back of the electrostatic panel.