Quad ESL 2912X Electrostatic Speakers - New Model

The ESL X concept began in 2019 as part of an intensive review of the QUAD Electrostatic manufacturing facility—a suite dedicated solely to the production of QUAD ESL loudspeakers. 

The ESL 2912X is the flagship QUAD electrostatic loudspeaker. Featuring an expanded six-panel design for increased radiating area, higher sound pressure levels, dynamics and extension, the ESL 2912X delivers an immersive listening experience with deeper bass and rich textures, bringing even the most complex music to life. Built for the ultimate audiophile experience, it offers enhanced dynamic range, improved headroom, and a spacious soundstage.

The Beginning

The ESL-X concept began in 2019 as part of an intensive review of the QUAD Electrostatic manufacturing facility—a suite dedicated solely to the production of QUAD ESL loudspeakers. Under the expert leadership of Paul McConville, (a gentleman recognised as the world’s foremost authority in QUAD ESL engineering, with 40 years of experience), every aspect of the original design underwent a comprehensive evaluation and meticulous refinement.

This approach encompassed a thorough analysis of every process, step, technique, material, tool, and jig employed in the construction of a QUAD ESL, with the aim of improving the quality and precision of the electrostatic loudspeaker assembly.

Leveraging techniques such as advanced laser-precision metrology, QUAD undertook an exhaustive review of the foundation of the ESL design. Systematic enhancements were implemented in the processes of spraying, etching, tensioning, and assembly to ensure peak performance. Rigorous upgrades were applied to implement both passive and active components, enhancing the overall system integrity of the then-current ESL 2912 and 2812 models.

The team of QUAD engineers considered the results of this lengthy and time-consuming self-appointed audit so significant that they deemed it worthy of a new model in the lineage of the ESL programme.

It is widely accepted that enhancing an ESL is fundamentally an exercise in building upon existing frameworks through incremental improvements rather than pursuing radical innovations. Consequently, QUAD did not require a complete overhaul of established methods. Nonetheless, these incremental advancements have now culminated in a significant transformation of the 2912 and 2812 models into what is now known as ESL X.

The History

In 1957, QUAD founder Peter Walker shattered conventions with the introduction of the first full-range electrostatic loudspeaker, achieving transient response and clarity then considered impossible.

Subsequent models (ESL-63, ESL988/989, ESL 2805/2905, ESL 2812/2912) each introduced incremental refinements. Critics have long hailed these models for their airy, effortless midrange and natural box-less hear-through qualities.

Peter Comeau, QUAD’s Director of Acoustic Design, has monitored the development of the ESL X closely and comments as follows:

“The X suffix for the new QUAD ESL 2912 and 2812 speakers suggests something eXtra and that is certainly delivered in the sonic performance of these models.

First of all the inclusion of UK built audio transformers, built precisely to Peter Walker’s original specification, provides wider bandwidth, especially at the high frequency end where the extra extension offers superior clarity to instrumental harmonics as well as lending more air to the spatial acoustics.

Secondly, an all new PCB board layout splits the audio components from the high tension section and optimises the latter to provide a more stable 5kV supply to the electrostatic panels. This benefits both the precision of instrumental timbres and, not surprisingly, the transient attack, particularly in the bass region. Finally a new grille cloth, specially chosen to match the matt black finish of the speakers, offers improved acoustic transparency which helps realize the full benefits of the new internal components.

The result is yet another incremental advance of the musical performance of the QUAD ESL, still considered the most uncoloured, natural and transparent-to-the-source hi-fi loudspeaker.”

When it all converges

The QUAD ESL X embodies six years of obsessive refinement — from heritage blueprint to futuristic electronics architecture.

A QUAD ESL is perpetually surpassed only by its successor. With ESL X, the next step in the evolution of this esteemed lineage is upon us.

Prepare to immerse yourself in the finest, most enveloping musical reproduction the world has ever had the privilege to experience: the QUAD ESL X.

Specifications

Model ESL 2912X

Format Floor standing dipole with 3° fixed tilt

Type Multiple electrostatic drive membranes

Point Source Time Delay Progressive concentric rings

Chassis Structure Heavy duty composite aluminium / steel

Panel Elements 6

Maximum Output 2 N / m2 at 2m on axis

Sensitivity 1.5 mbar per volt referred to 1m

(86dB/2.83V rms equivalent)

Nominal Impedance 8 Ohms

Impedance Variation 4 - 20 Ohms

Maximum Input Continuous input voltage (rms):

10V Programme Peak for undistorted output: 40V

Permitted peak input: 55V

Frequency Response 32Hz - 21kHz (-6dB)

28Hz - 23kHz (useable)

Directivity Index See Polar Diagrams

Distortion (100dB @ 1m) Above 1000Hz <0.15%

Above 100Hz <0.5%

Above 50Hz <1.0%

AC Input 220 - 240V, 100-120V

Power Fuse 100mA anti-surge, 200 - 240V

200mA anti-surge, 100 - 120V

Power Consumption 8W

Dimensions (H x W x D) 1470 x 690 x 380 (mm)

Net Weight 44kg