MartinLogan Classic ESL

The Classic ESL 9 is compatible with amplifiers ranging from 20 to 400 watts per channel. Because it is a 4-ohm speaker, you will get the best performance from an amplifier that is stable at lower impedances and can provide clean, consistent current.

Because the electrostatic panel radiates sound from both the front and back, it interacts with your room differently than traditional box speakers. You should place them at least a few feet away from the front wall to allow the rear-firing sound to dissipate, which helps create a more natural, spacious soundstage.

Yes, the electrostatic panels require power to create the electrostatic charge necessary to move the diaphragm. Each speaker includes a low-voltage DC power supply that connects to a standard wall outlet.

Yes, the Classic ESL 9 features high-quality binding posts that support both bi-wiring and bi-amping configurations. This allows you to separate the signal paths for the electrostatic panel and the woofer section if you choose to experiment with different amplification setups.

MartinLogan uses a proprietary Vojtko crossover to handle the hand-off between the electrostatic panel and the woofers. This ensures a seamless transition, allowing the fast, transparent response of the panel to blend perfectly with the deep, punchy output of the aluminum cone woofers.

The AirFrame Blade is an ultra-rigid aluminum structure designed to hold the electrostatic panel securely without obstructing the sound. By minimizing vibrations and resonance, it ensures that the panel remains stable during high-output playback, resulting in cleaner and more accurate audio.