QUAD Classic Series ESL manual Esl

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The Quad

ESL

A legend in Electrostatic loudspeaker design

The Quad ESL is fundamentally different from conventional loudspeakers and even other electrostatic designs. Whilst most conventional speakers use cone type drive units and a coil moving in a magnetic field, Quad uses the full-range electrostatic principle, first introduced in 1956. The sound is not created by a cone but by a very thin diaphragm, less than one tenth the thickness of a human hair. This ultra-low mass diaphragm is coated with a conductive material and is stretched between two fixed electrode plates. The electrodes carry a positive charge and the diaphragm carries a negative charge. The size of the charge on the electrodes rises and falls to track the waveform of the musical signal; so attracting and repelling the diaphragm closer to and further from the electrode plates. It is the movement of the almost mass-less diaphragm that creates the sound we hear.

Quad’s unique ESL system takes the performance of electrostatic loudspeakers a step further. Acousticians have long recognised that the ideal loudspeaker should be a point source from which the waves of sound radiate in a fashion rather like the ripples resulting from a pebble dropped into a lake. It is

obvious that large cones and even larger electrostatic diaphragms cannot be point sources, so how can they be made to behave more like the perfect loudspeaker? Quad solved the problem with an elegant engineering solution that was subsequently awarded a patent.

Instead of a large single electrode, Quad designed a number of electrodes arranged as a series of concentric rings. Each electrode is fed with a calibrated delay line so the sound first leaves the centre of the speaker then, after a short delay, the sound leaves the next ring and so on. The delayed sounds build up into a spherical waveform identical to that produced by a theoretical point source. This innovative step brought closer the achievement of the perfect loudspeaker. The Quad ESL is a premiére music reproduction loudspeaker constructed from the finest materials with meticulous attention to detail. It reaches the pinnacle of high-fidelity performance with an unparalleled ability to sonically ‘disappear’, and create convincing three-dimensional sound stages. Instruments and vocals occupy precise, accurately sized locations in space, giving an uncanny realism to reproduced sound.

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Classic Series ESL specifications

The QUAD Classic Series ESL (Electrostatic Loudspeakers) stands as a notable innovation in the world of high-end audio reproduction, blending sophisticated technology with classic design elements. These speakers offer a unique listening experience that captivates audiophiles and casual listeners alike, making them a prized addition to any audio setup.

At the heart of the QUAD Classic Series ESL is its electrostatic driver technology. Unlike traditional dynamic speakers, which rely on moving coils and magnets, electrostatic speakers utilize a thin diaphragm positioned between two conductive panels. When an audio signal is applied, the diaphragm moves in response to the electrostatic field, creating sound waves that are remarkably accurate and immersive. This design results in a fast response time, extended frequency range, and minimal distortion, ensuring that listeners experience music as it was intended.

One of the standout features of the QUAD Classic Series ESL is its wide soundstage. The planar design of the electrostatic panels allows for exceptional spatial imaging, meaning that sounds appear to emanate from locations across the room rather than just from the speakers themselves. This immersive quality enhances the listening experience, allowing users to appreciate nuances in both music and film soundtracks.

The Classic Series ESL also incorporates advanced technologies such as the QUAD's unique transformer which allows for high voltage deployment necessary for optimal electrostatic performance while maintaining impedance compatibility with a wide range of amplifiers. Additionally, the design features an adjustable frequency response, enabling listeners to tailor the bass output to their specific listening environment, ensuring that the sound adapts to the acoustic properties of any room.

Constructed with high-quality materials, the speakers sport a sleek aesthetic reminiscent of traditional QUAD designs, appealing to those who appreciate a blend of modern technology and classic elegance. In terms of connectivity, the Classic Series ESL is versatile, compatible with both tube and solid-state amplifiers, expanding its usability across different audio setups.

Overall, the QUAD Classic Series ESL offers audiophiles a remarkable blend of innovative technology, elegant design, and superior sound quality. It not only brings music to life but also enriches the listening experience, making it a quintessential choice for those seeking the ultimate in audio fidelity.