What kind of power wakes up electrostatic speakers


Is it wpc, high current, both or what? I've been aud-itioning amps with the Final Electrostatic 0.3's (86 db sensitivity). The manufacturer suggests a minimum of 50 wpc to get them going. So far, I've tried a Nakamichi Stasis (150wpc) and an Electrocompaniet AW250DMB(250 wpc).With both,the speakers sounded dull, yet the Parasound HCA 3500 (250wpc & high current)made them sing sweet as can be.
Could somebody be kind enought to explain to me how this stuff works. I need to purchase an amp to drive the Final 0.4's (the big brother to the 0.3's). I'd love to know what
to look for.
I appreciate in advance your help. The source for this
was a Pioneer PD S95.
steakster
Hi Duke: As usual, your response(s) are informative and to the point. My question to you is, what specifications should us 'stat fans look for in an amp? The 'current' rating should be ..... or above? The 'voltage' capability should be....or above? TIA.
I can't speak from personal experience, but some seem to like the "Sim" gear with stats.
Back about 15 years ago ( WOW, was it really that long ago ??? ), J. Gordon Holt found that the only two SS amps that he had tried that could drive Acoustat's well were the Acoustat TNT-200 and a Threshold. I will second that nomination and also add Perreaux to the list. Whether or not any of these amps are to your personal liking in terms of sonic characteristics may be another story though. Sean
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The Acoustat TNT-200 has been upgraded and is now the Hafler 9505 DIABLO. It was designed by Jim Strickland who designed all of the Acoustat products made in USA. I have been using a 9505 to drive my Acoustat 2+2s for several years and have no complaints. Don
it's the volts!(watts = amps x volts) Look at the power supply rating on the amps you auditioned and that should give you your answer. -aj