Planar speaker that don't require herculean amp?

Thanks for responding. I've heard a lot about Sound Lab speakers, but they might be somewhat over my budget (3k or so max). The Entec subs have an internal low pass crossover at 100Hz. I'm currently using my surround processor which crosses over at 80Hz, although I'm considering the use of an outboard active crossover for greater control. I am currently using Montitor Audio GR60 speakers (which by the way are fine with the amps), but miss the planar magic (I used to have Martin Logan Quest electrostatic hybrids).

Actually, looking at Sound Labs website, model R-3 would probably be perfect, if I can get them for a lower price. They have a relatively high sensitivity, and are designed to work with a subwoofer. I also like that they have a wide horizontal dispersion.

We have a guy at the Apogee speaker users forum that (I think?) is using the sixpacks with his Caliper Signatures. I may be able to put you in touch with him.

I have Apogee Duetta Signatures and have just bought Rogue 120 monos to try on them...I don't have the amps yet so no report to give.

Apogee Stage should work quite well for you...not all Apogees are Scintillas.

Dave

I'm a Sound Lab dealer, and frankly the only Sound Labs that I think would work well with your amps are the hybrid Dynastats. They are definitely among the easier electrostats to drive even among hybrids, and show up used from time to time within your price range.

Quad electrostats are easier to drive than the big full-range Sound Labs are. Thirty-five watts would be still be marginal, unless you went for rebuilt ESL's (the originals, commonly called "57's"). They'd be within your price range, and they are absolutely lovely in the midrange but can be easily damaged by too much power (doesn't sound like you're into headbanger levels, though). Several people rebuild and/or offer rebuilt '57's; you might try inquiring for leads here:

http://www.audioasylum.com/forums/MUG/bbs.html

Another possibility is Newform Research. I'm under the impression that their model 645 ribbon hybrid isn't such a beastly load. They have a loyal following.

Best of luck in your quest!

Duke

Thanks Dave for the suggestion on the Apogees. I did some research on them, and from what I read, they seem that they are a difficult load and require powerful amps. I would be interested to know how well that guy's sixpacs work with the Caliper Signatures. I am running a slighly less powerful configuration with my sixpacs with the KT66 tubes instead of the supplied EL34's. Let me know how your Rogue amps handle the Duettas.

- Stew