Planar speaker that don't require herculean amp?

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

Stew

Here is a link to a post our forum member (jaragaki) made regarding his new sixpacks and Calipers.

http://audioworld.com/sw/Forum1/HTML/004560.html

I'm sure that you could also email him with any questions you may have.

Dave

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

Duke you really need to stop mentioning your products in every post even though you are not recommending them. Can't you see the problem? Communicate them in private emails.

Are you set on a full range electrostatic? If not, consider used Innersound Eros. This is an 'stat panel mated to a transmission line bass section which is driven by an integrated amp/crossover unit. The panel itself is quite efficient and the speaker can be driven to astonishing levels (if so desired). The only caveat is that your amp must be stable into a difficult impedance load. I would expect that your Carys would be just fine.

One further comment on the possibility of the Quads. Given your listening preferences, there is no way in the world that these will satisfy. There were - and are - great speakers for certain things, but high SPLs? No way.