This thread takes me back more years than I remember, or care to remember. I recall that the 57s and 63s were the darlings of the high-end B&M audio shop that I used to hang out at in the 70s and 80s.
Some background recollections, which may not be entirely accurate. Would sure appreciate some clarification and correction where appropriate.
First, I generally recall that one of the few drawbacks of the early Quad ESLs was their power handing ceiling coupled with a correlative limitation on dynamic range. I think the 63s addressed this issue (at least in part) with improved protective circuitry and better power handling ability.
Second, I also seem to recall that the 63s had a pretty sophisticated time delay feature built into the ESL array and circuitry. The purpose of the foregoing refinement was to simulate sound propagation emanating from a point source and then rippling outward. I do not recall if this improved sound. The comments above suggest maybe not.
Last point is a question, actually 3 Qs. One, if one wanted to pick up a well-done rebuild, which outfit would the Quad lovers recommend? Two, would the use of a subwoofer be a good supplement? Three, how do the old 57s/63s (assume rebuilt with modern protection circuits) compare to modern Quads, i.e., 2805s or 2905s? I've read many horror stories about Quad owners blowing panels and still complaining about acoustic dynamics.
As a matter of curiosity, I've always had a hankering to pick-up a pair of rebuilt 57s or 63s just to hear their acoustic capabilities.
Thanks for the memories.
Some background recollections, which may not be entirely accurate. Would sure appreciate some clarification and correction where appropriate.
First, I generally recall that one of the few drawbacks of the early Quad ESLs was their power handing ceiling coupled with a correlative limitation on dynamic range. I think the 63s addressed this issue (at least in part) with improved protective circuitry and better power handling ability.
Second, I also seem to recall that the 63s had a pretty sophisticated time delay feature built into the ESL array and circuitry. The purpose of the foregoing refinement was to simulate sound propagation emanating from a point source and then rippling outward. I do not recall if this improved sound. The comments above suggest maybe not.
Last point is a question, actually 3 Qs. One, if one wanted to pick up a well-done rebuild, which outfit would the Quad lovers recommend? Two, would the use of a subwoofer be a good supplement? Three, how do the old 57s/63s (assume rebuilt with modern protection circuits) compare to modern Quads, i.e., 2805s or 2905s? I've read many horror stories about Quad owners blowing panels and still complaining about acoustic dynamics.
As a matter of curiosity, I've always had a hankering to pick-up a pair of rebuilt 57s or 63s just to hear their acoustic capabilities.
Thanks for the memories.