i appreciate the responses. first, an errata--i actually own the model ones (single panel w/passive sub), not the 1 + 1. in any event, i finally settled on a hafler 9500 amp. as i understand it, hafler based on the tnt200 design after he acquired acoustat in the mid 80's. thus driven, the acoustats are pretty great--they have that non-fatiguing, eerie realism that you only get with electrostatics. their main limitation is soundstage width--they have a definite, narrow sweet spot--which is not an issue in my 9' x 18' listening room. i often see these monoliths listed for near give-away prices (i assume most wives hate 'em), and while not for everyone they're an inexpensive entry to real high end.
Help with Acoustat Model 1 + 1
I recently bought a pair of Acoustat Model 1 + 1 with Hafler Mk121 transformers. I foolishly bought 'em without testing, and of course, the transformers were near-DOA, but I was able to get 'em repaired and the speakers working. However, I'm struggling with the following and would very much appreciate your counsel:
1. Am I best served leaving the transformers plugged in? Do they need to stay charged? They seem like an electrical fire waiting to happen.
2. I've been testing the speakers with a 150w/ch 80s HK integrated; high voltage/high current, but still need to crank the amp up to get decent volume level. Is it possible I'm underpowering even at 150w?
3. The Acoustat passive sounds marginal; will I encounter any special difficulty trying to integrate a modern powered sub?
Thanks in advance for your insights.
1. Am I best served leaving the transformers plugged in? Do they need to stay charged? They seem like an electrical fire waiting to happen.
2. I've been testing the speakers with a 150w/ch 80s HK integrated; high voltage/high current, but still need to crank the amp up to get decent volume level. Is it possible I'm underpowering even at 150w?
3. The Acoustat passive sounds marginal; will I encounter any special difficulty trying to integrate a modern powered sub?
Thanks in advance for your insights.
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- 11 posts total
- 11 posts total