Electrostatic Advantages

How can sound be reproduced by something that you are able to see through? Electrostatic energy makes this possible.

Where the world of traditional loudspeaker technology deals with cones, domes, diaphragms and ribbons that are moved with magnetism, the world of electrostatic loudspeakers deals with charged electrons attracting and repelling each other.

To fully understand the electrostatic concept, some back- ground information will be helpful. Remember when you learned in a science or physics class that like charges repel each other and opposite charges attract each other? Well, this principle is the foundation of the electrostatic concept.

An electrostatic transducer consists of three pieces: stators, the diaphragm and spacers (see figure 14). The dia- phragm is what actually moves to excite the air and create music. The stator’s job is to remain stationary, hence the word stator, and to provide a reference point for the mov- ing diaphragm. The spacers provide the diaphragm with a fixed distance in which to move between the stators.

As your amplifier sends music signals to an electrostatic speaker, these signals are changed into two high-voltage signals that are equal in strength but opposite in polarity. These high voltage signals are then applied to the stators. The resulting electrostatic field, created by the opposing high voltage on the stators, works simultaneously with and against the diaphragm, consequently moving it back and forth, producing music. This technique is known as

push-pull operation and is a major contributor to the sonic purity of the electrostatic concept due to its exceptional linearity and low distortion.

Since the diaphragm of an electrostatic speaker is uniform- ly driven over its entire area, it can be extremely light and flexible. This allows it to be very responsive to transients, thus perfectly tracing the music signal. As a result, great delicacy, nuance and clarity is possible. When you look at the problems of traditional electromagnetic drivers, you can easily see why this is so beneficial. The cones and domes which are used in traditional electromagnetic driv- ers cannot be driven uniformly because of their design. Cones are driven only at the apex. Domes are driven at their perimeter. As a result, the rest of the cone or dome is just “along for the ride”. The very concept of these drivers requires that the cone or dome be perfectly rigid, damped and massless. Unfortunately, these conditions are not available in our world today.

To make these cones and domes move, all electromag- netic drivers must use voice coils wound on formers, spider assemblies, and surrounds to keep the cone or dome in position (see figure 15). These pieces, when combined with the high mass of the cone or dome materials used, make it an extremely complex unit with many weaknesses and potential for failure. These faults contribute to the high distortion products found in these drivers and is a tremen- dous disadvantage when you are trying to change motion as quickly and as accurately as a loudspeaker must (40,000 times per second!).

Figure 14. Cut away view of an electrostatic transducer. Notice the simplicity due to minimal parts usage.

Figure 15. Cut away view of a typical moving coil driver. Notice the complexity due to the high number of parts.

14 Electrostatic Advantages

Source Speakers specifications

The MartinLogan Source Speakers are a testament to the brand's dedication to high-fidelity sound and innovative design. Renowned for their stunning performance and elegant aesthetics, these speakers cater to audiophiles and casual listeners alike, seamlessly blending into any home audio setup.

At the heart of the Source Speakers is their unique hybrid electrostatic technology. This innovative approach combines the purity of an electrostatic panel with the dynamic bass response of a traditional woofer. The electrostatic panel, known for its ability to recreate sound with exceptional clarity and precision, is complemented by a high-output dynamic woofer. This synergy allows the Source Speakers to deliver a full range of frequencies, from the detailed highs to the robust lows, ensuring an immersive listening experience.

One of their standout features is the Folded Motion tweeter, which utilizes a unique diaphragm that moves in a pleated fashion. This design enables the tweeter to produce greater output and higher efficiency while minimizing distortion. As a result, the Source Speakers are capable of delivering crisp, clear highs that can fill even the largest rooms.

Additionally, the Source Speakers boast a stylish and contemporary design. The elegant cabinetry is crafted from high-quality materials and finished in a range of attractive veneers, allowing them to blend harmoniously with any home decor. The speakers are also relatively compact, making them suitable for a variety of spaces, from dedicated listening rooms to casual home theater setups.

Connectivity is another strong suit of the Source Speakers, with options that include high-quality binding posts for straightforward integration with various amplifiers and audio systems. This versatility ensures that users can easily incorporate these speakers into their existing setups without hassle.

In terms of performance, the Source Speakers excel in creating a soundstage that is both wide and deep. Their ability to produce accurate spatial imaging allows listeners to feel as if they are in the center of the performance. This makes them ideal not only for music lovers but also for movie enthusiasts who crave that cinematic audio experience.

Overall, the MartinLogan Source Speakers represent a perfect amalgamation of cutting-edge technology, stylish design, and outstanding audio performance. Whether for music playback or home theater use, they offer an unparalleled listening experience that will satisfy even the most discerning audiophiles.