Greetings Ad01068,
If you want "electrostat type of sound", my suggestion would be to get an electrostat. I have yet to hear a non-electrostat that could really deliver the low-level detail of a good electrostat, and especially in your price range.
You might consider the InnerSound Isis. The Isis has very fast, tight bass and superb imaging but the sweet spot is pretty narrow.
If you want a wide sweet spot, consider the Sound Lab Dynastat. There are two pairs for sale here now. The electrostatic element of the Dynastat radiates over a 60-degree arc, which gives a wide sweet spot and rich timbre. The bass is more on the full side than the tight side. The Dynastats have controls for the bass level, bias voltage to the panels, and brilliance. I can help you with getting these controls set up properly.
The Dynastats do best in a medium-sized room; in a small room the bass can be a bit overpowering (despite the level controls). There are a few tweaks that can improve the midbass and bass that I'd be happy to share with you. If you really wanted a killer system based on the Dynastats, you might opt for the toroid transformer upgrade. Given the asking prices of the Dynastats on sale here at Audiogon, the transformer upgrade would put you right at the upper edge of your price range.
The Dynastats like to be a few feet out into the room, and you might find it necessary to treat the first reflection points. But they are easier to drive than most electrostats, have a warmish tonal balance, and rich timbre. Articulation is very good without the toroid, and superb with it. The Dynastat is also extremely reliable - I've never heard of anyone having a problem with them.
I'm a Sound Lab dealer, but I'm not associated with either of the Dynastats on sale here now.
Other options include Martin Logan and Quad. Right now there are several pairs of Quad 63's out there, and maybe a 57 or two. I personally like either of these better than the newer Quads, the 988 and 989. A pair of Quad 57's or 63's wouldn't be as dynamic as the hybrids mentioned above, but would be much more coherent. It's a matter of personal preference.
But if you want "electrostat type" sound, the best way is to get an electrostat. And there are plenty of options within your price range.
Best of luck in your quest!
Duke
If you want "electrostat type of sound", my suggestion would be to get an electrostat. I have yet to hear a non-electrostat that could really deliver the low-level detail of a good electrostat, and especially in your price range.
You might consider the InnerSound Isis. The Isis has very fast, tight bass and superb imaging but the sweet spot is pretty narrow.
If you want a wide sweet spot, consider the Sound Lab Dynastat. There are two pairs for sale here now. The electrostatic element of the Dynastat radiates over a 60-degree arc, which gives a wide sweet spot and rich timbre. The bass is more on the full side than the tight side. The Dynastats have controls for the bass level, bias voltage to the panels, and brilliance. I can help you with getting these controls set up properly.
The Dynastats do best in a medium-sized room; in a small room the bass can be a bit overpowering (despite the level controls). There are a few tweaks that can improve the midbass and bass that I'd be happy to share with you. If you really wanted a killer system based on the Dynastats, you might opt for the toroid transformer upgrade. Given the asking prices of the Dynastats on sale here at Audiogon, the transformer upgrade would put you right at the upper edge of your price range.
The Dynastats like to be a few feet out into the room, and you might find it necessary to treat the first reflection points. But they are easier to drive than most electrostats, have a warmish tonal balance, and rich timbre. Articulation is very good without the toroid, and superb with it. The Dynastat is also extremely reliable - I've never heard of anyone having a problem with them.
I'm a Sound Lab dealer, but I'm not associated with either of the Dynastats on sale here now.
Other options include Martin Logan and Quad. Right now there are several pairs of Quad 63's out there, and maybe a 57 or two. I personally like either of these better than the newer Quads, the 988 and 989. A pair of Quad 57's or 63's wouldn't be as dynamic as the hybrids mentioned above, but would be much more coherent. It's a matter of personal preference.
But if you want "electrostat type" sound, the best way is to get an electrostat. And there are plenty of options within your price range.
Best of luck in your quest!
Duke