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Electrostatic speakers and low volume resolution

I've used electrostats almost exclusively for over 35 years and am just now questioning whether it is my somewhat compromised hearing (73 yrs old), the nature of that type speaker, or both that lead me to this question. At "normal" listening levels factors like detail, resolution, timbre, etc are excellent. At lower volumes, though, I lose these attributes. I realize that my age related hearing deficiencies could account for these loses but am questioning whether the nature of speakers themselves could be a contributor.

It's been awhile since I've used conventional speakers so my memory might be lacking but this didn't seem an issue when using them. The two that I owned and recall having the best sound to my ears were the JMLab Electras and the Jamo Concert Eights. My current speakers are the Martin Logan Ethos' which replaced the Odysseys that were in the system for 12(?) years.

For various reasons I need to listen mostly at reduced volumes, so, before I start looking to trade my Ethos' which I very much like, btw, for something like a good pair of stand mount dynamic speakers, I'm asking for input.
128x128broadstone
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,760 posts
 
Listening is the best means. The use of the ZEROs should not represent a compromise to the tonality of the system.
broadstone's avatar
broadstone OP
310 posts
 
Actually, Atmashere, I don't anticipate that tonality would be compromised; my goal and belief in trying the Zeros is to improve tonality through reduction of low volume distortion. Because most of the info I've been able to find address autoformers in general as relates to tube amps and none, as far as I've found, discuss the choice or calculation method to determine which impedance tap would have the best chance working with my system, that question still remains.
atmasphere's avatar
atmasphere
11,760 posts
 
Since you have a solid state amp that does OK on the speaker right now my first inclination would be to simply go with the 2X multiplier tap, IOW 4 ohms.
broadstone's avatar
broadstone OP
310 posts
 
Thanks. When I get it, that's where I'll start and I'm anxious to try it. Should I anticipate any changes beyond the low volume distortion issue being addressed here?
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,106 posts
 
Not be heretic about it but our ears do not have flat frequency response to start with, hear differently at different volumes, and become less sensitive over time as noted. So digital signal processing or equalization may be all the doctor ordered to provide any needed corrections.

See the chart to the right in particular in this very informative Interactive Music Frequency Response Chart . Take not of what instruments produce sound at what frequencies and how that relates to teh sensitivity of our ears in the chart. It will help to get a handle on things better perhaps before taking any action, if needed.

Gear that sounded good when younger probably is still sounding equally if in good operating condition. So you can change gear or do some basic equalization/signal processing to correct the problem. Many ways to skin the cat.
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