Martin Logan ElectroMotion ESL
MartinLogan hybrid floorstanding speaker combining a 34in electrostatic panel with a 20cm dynamic woofer, for grounded bass and an electrostatic midrange-treble.
Description
The ElectroMotion ESL is a hybrid floorstanding speaker combining an electrostatic panel with a conventional dynamic woofer. This architecture delivers the speed and refinement inherent to electrostatic technology for the midrange and treble, whilst entrusting the bass to a conventional driver better suited to reproducing low frequencies with authority. MartinLogan positions it as the entry point to its ESL range.
The electrostatic panel measures 34in in height by 8.6in in width, giving a radiating surface of 292in². It covers frequencies from 500 Hz to 22 kHz, whilst a 20cm dynamic woofer with a paper cone takes over below, down to 42 Hz. The crossover point set at 500 Hz places the transition between the two technologies in the lower midrange.
The sensitivity of 91 dB (2.83 V / 1 m) and nominal impedance of 6 Ω, with a minimum of 1.6 Ω at 20 kHz, indicate a demanding load at high frequency for the amplifier. The recommended power ranges from 20 to 300 W, and the overall frequency response covers 42 Hz to 22 kHz at ±3 dB.
This speaker is aimed at enthusiasts wishing to discover the distinctive sound of electrostatic panels without moving to a full-range model, which is more demanding in terms of amplification and setup. It is suited to attentive stereo listening, in a living room where the column can be positioned with a little distance from the walls.
Technical specifications
| Type | Hybrid electrostatic speaker |
| ESL panel | 34in (H) × 8.6in (W), 292in² surface |
| Dynamic woofer | 20cm (8in), paper cone |
| Crossover | 500 Hz |
| Sensitivity | 91 dB (2.83 V / 1 m) |
| Impedance | 6 Ω nominal / 1.6 Ω minimum (20 kHz) |
| Frequency response | 42 Hz – 22 kHz (±3 dB) |
| Recommended power | 20 – 300 W |
| Finish | Satin Black |
What to check before buying used
The electrostatic panel should be examined from several angles under raking light to spot any torn or slack film, or discolouration, indicating wear or a past electrical arc; operation should be checked with the unit plugged into the mains for a few minutes before drawing conclusions. The suspension of the 20cm woofer warrants a visual check of the foam or paper, and it should be ensured that the crossover at 500 Hz produces no noise or dropout between the two technologies. Finally, the satin black finish of the cabinet may show marks on the corners and faces, reflecting the care taken by the previous owner.
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