Quad Unveils Stealthy New ESL Speakers: The ESL 2812X and ESL 2912X
Next-generation electrostatic speakers from Quad promise an impressively accurate and dynamic sound experience
The audio industry has been abuzz with the recent unveiling of Quad's latest additions to their ESL line - the ESL 2812X and ESL 2912X electrostatic speakers. These new speakers were showcased at the Bristol Hi-Fi Show earlier this year.
The new speakers aim to maximize the sonic advantages of the time-honored ESL design while addressing perceived downsides. They are full-range loudspeakers, using diaphragms that are electrically charged and suspended in an electrostatic field. Both models feature a concentric ring electrode design for more precise stereo imaging.
One of the key features of the new ESL speakers is their 'stealth' design. This aesthetic shift includes a matte black, low-reflection finish that replaces the traditional wood trims of previous models. The removal of wooden trims, borderless construction, and optional LED halo lighting contribute to a discreet appearance, making the speakers visually subtle and unobtrusive in contemporary living spaces.
The ESL 2912X, the larger of the two models, has a greater number of panel elements (six) compared to the ESL 2812X (four). This results in a slightly higher maximum frequency response for the 2912X. The speakers' electronics now use three fully independent modules for optimal performance and reliability.
Peter Comeau, Quad's Director of Acoustic Design, states that both new models have improved transient and dynamic performance. The audio transformers for both the 2812X and 2912X have been improved for better signal dynamics and greater levels of sonic detail.
The new ESL speakers continue a lineage that dates back to the first ESL 57 model from 1957. They will be available from mid-August. The prices for the Quad ESL 2812X and ESL 2912X are as follows: £10,999 / $14,995 / €13,999 / AU$25,000 for the 2812X and £12,999 / $17,995 / €16,999 / AU$27,500 for the 2912X.
These new Quad ESL speakers represent a significant step forward in electrostatic speaker technology, offering a combination of modern aesthetics, improved performance, and legendary Quad sound quality.
- The audio industry is buzzing with news about Quad's new additions to their ESL line, the ESL 2812X and ESL 2912X electrostatic speakers, which were showcased at the Bristol Hi-Fi Show.
- The ESL 2812X and ESL 2912X speakers aim to maximize sonic advantages while addressing perceived downsides, with a 'stealth' design for a discreet appearance in contemporary living spaces.
- The ESL 2912X, the larger of the two models, has six panel elements and a slightly higher maximum frequency response compared to the ESL 2812X with four panel elements.
- Peter Comeau, Quad's Director of Acoustic Design, claims that both new models have improved transient and dynamic performance, with audio transformers that offer better signal dynamics and greater levels of sonic detail.
- The new Quad ESL speakers, a evolution of the first ESL 57 model from 1957, will be available from mid-August, and their prices are as follows: £10,999 / $14,995 / €13,999 / AU$25,000 for the 2812X, and £12,999 / $17,995 / €16,999 / AU$27,500 for the 2912X.
- These new Quad ESL speakers represent a significant deal in electrostatic speaker technology, offering a combination of modern aesthetics, improved performance, and legendary Quad sound quality, making them an attractive gadget for technology enthusiasts and audiophiles.
