Quad 2912 vs Martin Logan ESL 11a


I am seriously considering electrostatic speakers although living in a part of the world where dealership for both brands do not have all models on hand for audition. While the 2912's were unavailable, a Quad 2812 was available a month ago for audition. It was in an all Quad setup, with a solid state and a 40  watts tube amp for comparison. In a 4 x 4m room, the music was very engaging playing Miles, Coltrane, and Heifetz. Transparency and speed were plenty evident, and  there was a warmth and solidity ( coherence ?) that was a pleasant surprise.  

Last weekend,  audition of  the Martin Logan's esl X was arranged . This is a few step down from the 11a's. Although it was in a totally different system, the ML seemed to be of a different sound signature. Brighter, more air? Ultimately I was not  impressed with the X's, the woofer seemed not to integrate well with the panels. And the salesperson admitted as mush. He said an audition could be arranged in a week or two for the 11a. 

While I wait for a proper audition of the ML 11a,  I would appreciate any comment specific to these two speaker models. Not all electrostatic speakers are created equal, as I have found out.   If the choice came down to the two, what are the issues that needs to be considered?
ledoux1238
With the rainy season upon us in my part of the world, it’s a constant 70%-80% humidity level.

I’m in Sydney, known also to be very humid, but I’m talking more basement 24/7 dampness that will induce mould growth on the mylar panels ect.

I wonder also if my 40 watt Von Gaylord tube amp is adequate to drive the 11’s
It’ll work as they have an active bass, but won’t be the best for them.

Cheers George
Hi George, No,  It's not that kind of dampness. Going by your suggestion, I should be alright then.
tube amps are great. When it comes to ESL the problem lies in how the speaker looks to the amp with tubes they do not work well with the very low impedences the the panels can achieve they need lots of current. The panels act more like capacitors giving low to no negative feedback to the amp tubes like the feedback to my understanding. check out the Sanders white papers to better understand what is going on with these speakers
 
As far as maintenance goes I will unplug them vacuum them wipe them down and that’s it. I also use the covers that come with the speakers.  
@pvmike The Sanders Technical White Paper on Tube vs Transistor , which you recommended, opens up a whole new can of worms. I understand Sander's argument. And it doesn't seem to bode well for my 40 watt tube amp driving ESL speakers. Need to do more research.

Thanks!