Electrostatic pros and cons.

Ive had several ML's over the years, the key to getting the most sound is room placement out from the walls and having a high bias current amplifier.   Its amazing how same speaker can sound on the same amplifier just by playing with the bias.  No matter what they will never be "loud".   They can be pretty awesome if set up right.

Sadly I have no experience with electrostatics. MY only comment is this thread is a good read. Thank you all.(I own Magnepan 20.7 speakers. kissing cousins...)

My first and most long lasting love in speakers was the Quad ESL 63s. I had and they made a lot of beautiful music for more than 20 years. Not a perfect speaker, but did everything right with the music I listened to - contemporary pop, jazz, Celtic, folk and chamber.
Finally, because of a change in the size of my living space, I had to give them up for a smaller pr. of dynamic speakers.

Now back in a bit larger space, am quite happy with my little Maggie 1.7 ribbons and may consider moving up to a larger pair Maggies or possibly something in the smaller Sound Labs, Sanders, Kings, or a nicely re-furbished pr. of Apogee, Duetta Sigs. ( still love the Quads, but their move to China and a host of quality and service problems has spoiled me against them) Regardless of which, am never going back to the box.

I agree with erik_squires, regarding room integration being the key factor, when using subs with stats and ribbons. There is nothing quick or fast about 20, 30, or even 40HZ and anything below 60HZ, in about any home sized room, is non directional. My suggestion is - don’t ask or expect your sub/subs to do the job of your mains for mid base and keep them set to operate at or below 60HZ and do your diligence in room set up.......Jim