Quad

Quad in both their electrostatic and dynamic loudspeaker lines. Two new models of electrostatics have been added, the ESL 2805 at $9,000 and the ESL 2905 at $11,500. There are both performance and cosmetic improvements over the ESL 988 and ESL 989 (which continue in the line at their original prices). Internally, the new models have refinements to both their electronics and to the electrostatic panels that yield significant improvements to their performance. Furthermore, the frames for both models have been completely redesigned to make them much more rigid and immune to vibration, thus providing a much more stable housing for the panels. This improves imaging and reduces colorations. Esthetically, the new look is much more elegant with the curved bottom and pedestal allowing the loudspeakers to look as airy as they sound.

In the area of conventional, dynamic loudspeakers, Quad has used the designs of their award-winning L Series models to create a home theater package called “L-ite”. The package consists of four small loudspeakers for the front and rear, a center channel, and a subwoofer. The fronts/rears, center channel, and subwoofer are slightly scaled down versions of the 11L, Center L, and L Series subwoofer, respectively. The package, which sells for $2000, comes in the same types of gorgeous lacquer finishes as the L Series models. It is simply one of the best sounding and best value home theater loudspeaker packages we know of. If you don't need an entire home theater package, the individual components can be purchased at $1,000 for the subwoofer, $350 for the center channel, and $400 per pair for the bookshelf loudspeakers.