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Martin Logan CLS 11Z speakers + which power amp?

just listened to MARTIN LOGAN ASCENT($4300) and the AEON($3000). no doubt the best allround sound nothing even comes close. however i have heard that the CLS11Z are even better except in the bass. i listen to classical so i do not need big bass. problem is that one needs lots of power to drive them. i plan to buy the PATHOS CLASSIC ONE($2000+), it is reported to be the best of both worlds tube + solid state. do i need the PATHOS TWIN TOWERS($5000+)to drive the CLS11Z($4500). if so maybe i should go with the ASCENT+CLASSIC ONE (and with the savings pick up a CARY 303/200 or CARY 306/200. if not the PATHOS can someone make a suggestion on a amp.(not all tube and under $3000, used ok)? thanks , paul
tweekerman
travis's avatar
travis
239 posts
 
I should have been more help. Try this forum and use the search feature typing in CLS, CLSII, or CLSiiz. You will find amplifier talk there.
http://www.AudioAsylum.com/forums/MUG/bbs.html
audibleguy
152 posts
 
I tried the CLS-IIz's with both large tube amps and large solid state amps and they do suck a lot of power the solid state amps, monoblocks were running out of steam, Bryston 7B's. Also the tube amps could not them any justice.
monk
120 posts
 
I think all of the new SS and hybrid amps from Blue Circle are designed with the CLS IIz. Made just for em! I would definitely put these on my list!
gasman
42 posts
 
I have not found a better amplifier for CLS IIz than the Innersound ESL amplifier. Dynamic, with extended highs, trouble free in operation, and a perfect match for any electrostat I have tried (various Acoustats, Innersound Eros, and CLS IIz.) The ESL amp lists for $2995; check the website at "www.innersound.net"
ljgj
955 posts
 
The Innersound is great for that speaker - you can add the ML sub later if you miss the deep bass - A friend of mine has this setup - without sub - tried it but didn't feel it created anything he needed. Phenomenal sound if you place them properly and can put up with their size - better looking than my Quad 989's were.
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