Martin Logan CLS "Buyer's Guide" Question

Those serial numbers would make them original CLS electronics.  Can't be sure unless I saw pictures of the insides, if they were modified/updated or not.

IMHO, the panels are already do for replacement.  You could sure use them, but you wouldn't be hearing them at full capability.

I wouldn't pay more than around $600-$800 for them.  It would also depend on what shape the frames are in and if the seller has the boxes and packaging for them.

The newer model Martin Logans are somewhat easier to setup and drive.  They have integrated the woofer with the panel much better than the earlier models, (the CLS is, of course, a full range speaker).

Still there is a definite "magic" about the CLS series that nothing short of the CLX or the mega expensive Neolith can match.  Once you hear them setup properly and driven with enough juice, they are hard to forgot.  Just like your first encounter with them back in the 80's.  That's why you're here at this juncture...correct?

That's why you're here at this juncture...correct?

At this juncture, I'm beginning to think I need to have my head examined.  ;-)

I've been wanting a set of CLSII's for years.  It's taken me this long to be able to afford to do so, because it's not just the speakers, but the rest of the system, that starts getting expensive.  You need an amp powerful enough to drive them, and a preamp clean enough to not make your ears bleed.  That equipment is far more costly than most folks expect to spend on a 'stereo'.  It was only recently - in the last couple months - that I've finally saved enough and been patient enough to stumble on the Bryston/Krell combo.

The seller claims that the electronics were upgraded by a local ML dealer, though if he's as mistaken about that as he is with the panels, it does give me a moment of pause.

I was prepared to drive 9 hours each way to buy 'em, but the asking price is more than you indicate and though they look by the photograph to be in very good condition, it's a LONG time to spend in a car and a LOT of money to lay out.

I'll probably beg off and wait it out.  My set of Dahlquist DQ10's don't suck, so I guess I'll just have to struggle through, until what I really want comes my way.

Thanks for all your help!!!

I think you're probably better off waiting also.  The right pair will come around.  The last couple pair of  IIZ's that I've seen were around $1200-$1500 dollars in excellent condition.

You're quite welcome and if you have any other questions or need any additional help, just let me know.

Very grateful for your assistance.  If you happen to stumble on a pair in the Northeastern PA region (keeping in mind I was ready to drive 9 hours each way for this pair), let me know.

If you happen to stumble on a pair in the Northeastern PA region (keeping in mind I was ready to drive 9 hours each way for this pair), let me know.

Will do.  I am always running into a pair somewhere.  I'll let you know.