User`s manual
22
made large enough to play bass, yet is still light
enough for high frequencies. This unique property
allows for the elimination of high frequency
crossover points and their associated distortions.
We recommend an amplifier with 100 to 200
watts per channel for most applications. Probably
less would be adequate for our smaller hybrids or
when used in home theater where a subwoofer
is employed. Our hybrid designs will perform
well with either a tube or transistorized amplifier,
and will reveal the sonic character of either type.
However, it is important that the amplifier be
stable operating into varying impedance loads:
an ideally stable amplifier will typically be able to
deliver nearly twice its rated wattage into 4 Ohms
and should again increase into 2 Ohms.
The area of electronics and cable choice is
probably the most common type of question that
we receive. It is also the most subjective. We have
repeatedly found that brands that work well in one
setup will drive someone else nuts in another. We
use many brands with great success. Again, we
have no favorites; we use electronics and cables
quite interchangeably. We would suggest listening
to a number of brands—and above all else— trust
your ears. Dealers are always the best source for
information when purchasing additional audio
equipment.
Actually, there is less interaction between a
television and an electrostatic speaker than
between a television and a conventional system.
However, we do recommend that you keep your
speakers at least one foot away from the television
because of the dynamic woofer they employ.
No. A pair of MartinLogan’s will draw about 8
watts maximum (idle). There is circuitry to turn
off the static charge when not in use; however,
actual consumption will remain close to the same.
The primary purpose of the sensing circuitry is to
prevent dust collection on the electrostatic element.
Our research department has literally punctured
hundreds of holes in a diaphragm, neither affecting
the quality of the sound nor causing the diaphragm
to rip. However, you will be able to see the actual
puncture and it can be a physical nuisance. If this
is the case, replacing the electrostatic transducer
will be the only solution.
We recommend that you not place any
loudspeaker in direct sunlight. The ultraviolet (UV)
rays from the sun can cause deterioration of grill
cloth, speaker cones, etc. Small exposures to UV
will not cause a problem. In general, the filtering
of UV rays through glass will greatly reduce the
negative effects on the electrostatic membrane
itself.
Exposure to excessive contaminants such as smoke
or dust may potentially affect the performance
of the electrostatic membrane, and may cause
discoloration of the diaphragm membrane. When
not in use for extended periods, you should unplug
the speakers and cover them with the plastic bags
in which the speakers were originally packed. It is
a good idea to vacuum the electrostatic portion of