Planar speaker that don't require herculean amp?

Thanks for responding. I've heard a lot about Sound Lab speakers, but they might be somewhat over my budget (3k or so max). The Entec subs have an internal low pass crossover at 100Hz. I'm currently using my surround processor which crosses over at 80Hz, although I'm considering the use of an outboard active crossover for greater control. I am currently using Montitor Audio GR60 speakers (which by the way are fine with the amps), but miss the planar magic (I used to have Martin Logan Quest electrostatic hybrids).

Actually, looking at Sound Labs website, model R-3 would probably be perfect, if I can get them for a lower price. They have a relatively high sensitivity, and are designed to work with a subwoofer. I also like that they have a wide horizontal dispersion.

Thanks Dave for the suggestion on the Apogees. I did some research on them, and from what I read, they seem that they are a difficult load and require powerful amps. I would be interested to know how well that guy's sixpacs work with the Caliper Signatures. I am running a slighly less powerful configuration with my sixpacs with the KT66 tubes instead of the supplied EL34's. Let me know how your Rogue amps handle the Duettas.

- Stew

Thanks Duke for the response and email. That's too bad about the R-3's, but they're probably out of my price range anyhow. I'm not really interested in the Dynastats, as I am looking for a non-hybrid panel. I already have the Entec subwoofers, so don't need to worry about anything below 80Hz.

The Quad ESL-57 is a very interesting suggestion. This speaker certainly seems to have a loyal following! I am a little worried about SPL levels however. It appears I listen at levels that are a little higher than I thought. I did a few SPL measurements with my RS meter, which were showing values of up to 97db or so at 1 meter. This was a level that would be about the maximum that I would need. Can the ESL-57 (cut off below 80Hz) handle this SPL? Would stacking the panels, as I've read seems to be a popular option, be able to handle higher SPL's?

- Stew

Thanks Dave... I'll take a look.