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Martin Logan CLS vs Newer Hybrids Like Montis, Summit X, 9A, 11A

I recently acquired a pair of original CLSes and am absolutely smitten. I owned a pair of CLS and CLS IIz many years ago and loved them, but eventually went on to other speakers. I am so captivated that I’m ready to make MLs my new main speaker but the panels on these CLSes are on their way out. They crackle and make noise, particularly at lower volumes and at lower frequencies. 
 

I inquired with ML and they do still sell replacement panels for around $3,000. So now I’m trying to decide whether it’s worth taking that plunge or just acquiring a newer (used) hybrid model in the $3-6k range.
 

My room is pretty small at 13x14 but the full range CLSes sound amazing. I have them about 4’ into the room and about 2’ from the side walls. Being a full range panel they are incredibly coherent and there’s plenty of bass for me. But I wonder whether the newer hybrid models would be “better”?  
 

Anyone with experience with CLS and any of the newer hybrids who can offer their thoughts, I would be most appreciative.  
 

Amplifier is a conrad-johnson CAV-45 S2 that I adore and which seems to be a heavenly match with the CLS. The originals were pretty tube-friendly and I believe the newer hybrids are equally (perhaps more) suited to tubes. 
 

Your help is appreciated!

doodledan
doodledan OP
7 posts
 

Thanks for weighing in. I’m curious whether you’ve ever heard the CLS or perhaps any other speakers you’ve owned or considered buying before you settled on the Montis. 

docknow
309 posts
 

I had CLSs for many years (1989-2017), then upgraded to used CLXs in 2017 and they are better in almost every regard.  I paid $7,500 for my pair (without boxes).  I have since added a single ML BF210, which is wonderful and integrates well using the PBK kit (see some of my other posts).

Have you tried to clean your panels?  See the " Martin Logan Shower Cleaning PDF" thread at the "MartinLogan Audio Owners Forum".

debbiedoesaudio
2 posts
 

i have had CLS twice and glad i sold them and went to newer models have had most of them Vantage etc  and my favorite overall speaker is the "MONTIS" its One of the best speakers they have ever made period (better then the Summit even) and they flat out smoke the CLS on so many levels they are easier to drive easier size better Full Range and way more coherent and sound better! The newer tech panels are way better and the digital crossover makes them seamless read the review in TAS they even compare them to Harbeth 40.2s which are incredible speakers at $20K you can find Montis for $4k range used get a pair and use proper amp and pre and you wont look back imho

russ69's avatar
russ69
3,508 posts
 

$3000 for the pair? I'd repair them.

mofimadness's avatar
mofimadness
4,987 posts
 

One of my reference speakers, (I have several) is pair of the CLSIIA’s in beautiful Rosewood frames. They still hold there own. I was a ML dealer for many years and the newer models do some things better, but the CLSes are truly a captivating speaker and fully worthy of continued use.

Russ Knotts can repair your panels for a lot less money than new replacements. He’s a really good guy and knows his stuff. Contact him and see what he will charge. I highly recommend him.

https://eslrepair.com/

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