Even at 30 years old, the Monoliths are a nice electrostatic speaker, if you like that sound, which I do. (I have two sets today.)
To answer your questions:
- Replacement panels, if still available from Martin Logan, are probably going to run you about $2000, if not more.
- Also, there is a well known procedure to "wash" the existing panels that will help extend their life. Google it for the instructions.
I had a friend in the Chicago area years ago that had a set of the Monolith II’s that I helped him setup. It was my first exposure to electrostatics. A couple of things I learned. Placement is key. The Monoliths have a big foot print (about 2 1/2 feet wide) and need to be kept well away from both the back and side walls. More so than the current generation of Martin Logan’s. Also with that wide width, you can’t get them to close to each other either, or you loose the separation in the sound stage. I would say at least 8 feet apart. (Unlike the narrower models which can work well down to 5 or 6 feet. So if you don’t have the space, you might want to reconsider.
You didn’t specify what amp you will be using. Electrostatics need power, and more importantly, current and the ability to handle impedance less that 1 ohm. (That rules out most if not all receivers and a lot of tube amps.) While I can't speak as to the Monolith III’s, my friend trashed a few amps in his day with the Monolith II’s because they were under powered.
Hope this helps...
Jeff
