has anyone bought second hand electrostatics-martin logan etc?

[Ant02]

Im thinking of buying a pair of secondhand martin logan electrostatics and was wondering if anyone had any issues with transporting them- are they fragile - do they wear out faster than a traditional style speaker etc-i understand the condition of every single pair is different but still want to hear your experiences -Any model is fine also Quad esl's anthing secondhand electrostatic

Edited July 5, 2012 by Ant02

[Luc]

Triode and Andyr would be the guys to talk too when it comes to panels but there are others here who know them too.

[robin-hobart]

Re the transporting - how far, what method, by whom? would be the big questions. Horses for courses. Across country by a 3rd party might require a bit of detailed cabinetry and/or specification.

I bought a pair of ML Ascent speakers (165cms tall) about 6 months ago, only had to carry them 3 kms home - simply laid them on their sides in the back of the hatchback and drove carefully.

The panels are actually pretty robust - including electronically - some users disconnect theirs and literally put them in the shower to get rid of dust - and the woofers are just like any conventional speaker so common sense stuff really - pad out well, secure to prevent moving about, keep sharp objects and corners away, etc.

Some pundits reckon they can hear a timbre disconnect between the electrostatic / woofer components and others don't care for the dipole 'air' (which I love). I have a friend who dislikes what he calls a 'chocolate box foil' sound.

All I can say is my Ascents (which cross over at a lowish 280 hz) are far and away the best speaker I have had in my lounge (and I've had over 50 pairs!) so strong recommendation from this user.

[Guest guru]

Im thinking of buying a pair of secondhand martin logan electrostatics and was wondering if anyone had any issues with transporting them- are they fragile - do they wear out faster than a traditional style speaker etc-i understand the condition of every single pair is different but still want to hear your experiences

which model?

[L J T]

If the speakers come with the original packaging, they can be easily transported. The boxes are quite large for them and would easily be half the size of a mid size fridge.

Of course they can be transported without the boxes, just don't attempt to lift the speakers by the panel, like the absolute idiotic Telstra installer who did our cable tried to do. Luckily I was in the room and stopped him!!

The panels are lightweight and can be easily cleaned of excess dust with a vacuum cleaner after they have been without power for a few hours.

I have the Source model that is discontinued.

I had them for sale and both times the sale fell trough, so I still have them here.

The ESL's do require some room. The panel sound is not for everyone. It is for me though

[Zaphod Beeblebrox]

Im thinking of buying a pair of secondhand martin logan electrostatics and was wondering if anyone had any issues with transporting them- are they fragile - do they wear out faster than a traditional style speaker etc-i understand the condition of every single pair is different but still want to hear your experiences -Any model is fine also Quad esl's anthing secondhand electrostatic

When looking at Logans, you should ascertain the cost of new panels and factor that into the purchase price.

[Krispy Audio]

I've heard a 15-year life-span for panels (could be wrong), so could be worth confirming their age and as above, the cost of panel replacement.

[L J T]

Here is an interesting read in regard to the model Quest - from Martin Logan.

http://www.martinlog...wer Washing.pdf

The owner removes the panels and washes them with water.

The panels are made very well.

Of course this isl done at the owners risk.

Edited July 8, 2012 by L J T