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: the stators, the diaphragm and the spacers (See Figure 11). The diaphragm 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 moving 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.

Figure 11. Cut-away view of an electrostatic transducer. Notice the simplicity due to minimal parts usage.

12 Electrostatic Advantages

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MartinLogan CLS IIz user manual Electrostatic Advantages

CLS IIz specifications

The MartinLogan CLS IIz is a sophisticated hybrid electrostatic loudspeaker that exemplifies the brand's commitment to innovation and exceptional audio performance. This model is a continuation of the legendary CLS design, which has garnered a loyal following among audiophiles and music enthusiasts alike.

One of the standout features of the CLS IIz is its electrostatic transducer design. Unlike conventional dynamic speakers that rely on moving coils and cones, electrostatic speakers use a thin, electrically charged diaphragm sandwiched between two stators. This design allows the CLS IIz to produce sound with extraordinary clarity, speed, and precision, making it particularly well-suited for accurately reproducing the nuances of vocal performances and acoustic instrumentation.

The CLS IIz also integrates a new, more advanced version of the brand's Curvilinear Line Source technology. This innovation provides a wider and more consistent sound dispersion pattern, resulting in an expansive soundstage that immerses listeners in their favorite recordings. The speaker’s tall, slender design further enhances this effect, allowing for an impressive imaging capability that places sounds precisely within the listening environment.

Another key characteristic of the CLS IIz is its frequency response. The speaker is capable of reproducing frequencies from an astonishingly low 38 Hz to a remarkable 25 kHz. This wide frequency range ensures that music and audio content are delivered with great depth and richness, fully capturing the lower bass notes while maintaining the sparkling clarity of high-frequency sounds.

In terms of build quality, the CLS IIz features a sturdy yet elegant cabinet that minimizes resonance and vibration, allowing for pure audio reproduction. The speaker's sleek aesthetic is complemented by high-quality finishes, ensuring that it looks as good as it sounds, making it an attractive addition to any audio setup.

Additionally, the CLS IIz boasts versatility in its setup, allowing for positioning flexibility that accommodates various room sizes and acoustic conditions. This ensures that enthusiasts can achieve optimal sound quality regardless of their environment.

In summary, the MartinLogan CLS IIz is a marvel of modern audio engineering that combines cutting-edge technologies with a commitment to high fidelity sound. With its electrostatic design, advanced dispersion capabilities, wide frequency response, and elegant build, the CLS IIz stands as a testament to MartinLogan's dedication to providing an unparalleled listening experience.