Will excessive smoke or dust cause any prob- lems with my electrostatic speakers?

Exposure to excessive contaminants such as smoke or dust may potentially affect the performance of the electrostatic membrane, and may cause discoloration of the diaphragm membrane. When not in use for extended periods, you should unplug the speakers and cover them with the plastic bags in which the speakers were originally packed. It is a good idea to vacuum the electrostatic portion of each speaker three or four times a year. See the vacuuming FAQ.

A problem has recently developed with my MartinLogan speakers. The right speaker seems to be hissing even when the amplifier and such are not connected. I was wonder- ing if this sounds like any problem you have encountered previously and have a simple solution for or might it be something which will need to be looked into more carefully.

Your speakers are dusty. See the vacuuming FAQ. The electrostatic charge on the element has attracted airborne dust or pollen. Since 1993, all of our speakers have been built with a charging circuit board that only charg- es the electrostatic element when music plays. At other times they are not charged and cannot collect dust. You can get the same benefit by simply unplugging them whenever they are not in use. A power strip is an easy way to do that.

Could my children, pets, or myself be shocked by the high-voltage present in the electrostatic panel?

No. High voltage with low current is not dangerous. As a matter of fact, the voltage in our speakers is 10 times less than the static electricity that builds up on the surface of your television screen.

How do MartinLogan speakers hold up over a long term in the humidity of tropical climates?

We should tell you that MartinLogan indeed has a very substantial number of customers in tropical regions of the world. Our speakers have been serving them nicely for many years. This concern may have come from our earlier design of speakers, which were charged con- tinuously. Since 1993, all of our speakers have been designed so that they only charge the panel while music is being played. This improvement has made a

tremendous difference in the consistent performance of our product. There may be a little more maintenance involved in humid regions when not in an air condi- tioned environment. Simply enough, the concern is to keep the electrostatic panels dust free. Humidity will combine with any dust on the panel to make it slightly conductive. This will result in a slight pathway for the charge to leave the membrane of the speaker. The solu- tion is simple. They only require occasional vacuuming with a strong vacuum hose.

How do I vacuum my MartinLogan speakers? Vacuuming will be most effective if the speakers have been unplugged for six hours to twelve hours (or over- night). You need not worry about the vacuum pressure damaging the "delicate" membrane. It is extraordi- narily durable. Dirt and dust may be vacuumed off. Use an open hose with your finger tips at the opening act- ing as a soft bumper to prevent the hose from scratching the coating of the panel. When vacuuming or blowing off your panels do so to both sides, but focus the major- ity of your attention on the front of the panels.

Should I unplug my speakers during a thun- derstorm?

Yes, or before. It’s a good idea to disconnect all of your audio/video components during stormy weather.

20 Frequently Asked Questions

Page 19 Page 21
Page 20
Image 20
MartinLogan Source Speakers user manual Should I unplug my speakers during a thun- derstorm?
Page 19 Page 21

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.
Top Page Image Contents