QUAD ESL 2812X AND ESL 2912X LAUNCH AS SIXTH-GENERATION FULL-RANGE ELECTROSTATIC SPEAKERS
QUAD has introduced the QUAD ESL 2812X and QUAD ESL 2912X, the sixth generation in its ESL loudspeaker range.
As many HiFi Show visitors will know, the QUAD ESL 2912X Electrostatic Loudspeakers have been making pre launch appearances at events around the world, now they have been officially launched, along with their smaller siblings.
QUAD ESL 2812X AND QUAD ESL 2912X ELECTROSTATIC LOUDSPEAKERS
These new models follow a line that began with the original ESL in 1957 and represent a considered update to the previous ESL 2812 and ESL 2912, released in 2012. The latest versions incorporate refinements across key technical areas, while the fundamental design principles remain consistent.
As with earlier models, the QUAD ESL 2812X and QUAD ESL 2912X are full-range electrostatic loudspeakers. Instead of cone or dome drivers, they use a thin Mylar film diaphragm suspended in an electrostatic field between two stators. The diaphragm’s low mass allows it to respond quickly to musical signals, with the aim of reducing distortion and enhancing detail.
FULL-RANGE ELECTROSTATIC DESIGN REMAINS UNCHANGED
The ESL 2812X and ESL 2912X maintain the full-range electrostatic format without the use of hybrid dynamic drivers. QUAD has continued its approach of avoiding mixed-driver designs, opting instead to refine the single-driver electrostatic concept through improvements in component performance and manufacturing processes.
CONCENTRIC ELECTRODE DESIGN
Since the ESL 63, QUAD’s electrostatic speakers have used a concentric ring electrode arrangement. This configuration creates a point-source radiation pattern intended to improve stereo imaging. A delay line sends the signal in time-delayed stages to the outer rings of the panel, which contributes to the speaker’s spatial presentation.
MANUFACTURING UPDATES TO QUAD ESL 2812X AND ESL 2912X PANELS
The development of the ESL 2812X and ESL 2912X began with a full review of the ESL manufacturing process. Under the direction of Paul McConville, changes were introduced to improve the precision of the panel assembly, including adjustments to diaphragm spraying, etching, and tensioning. These updates aim to ensure consistency and repeatability during production.
A notable change in the new models is the redesign of the internal electronics. Instead of a single PCB, the QUAD ESL 2812X and QUAD ESL 2912X now use three separate modules for high-voltage multiplication, control and protection, and low-voltage signal processing. This separation reduces interaction between circuits and is intended to improve overall stability and reduce noise.
The audio transformers in both models are newly designed and manufactured in the UK under the supervision of QUAD’s service team. These components play a key role in driving the electrostatic panels and have been updated to improve performance in the mid and high frequencies, as well as maintain wide bandwidth and linearity at high output levels.
EXTERNAL DESIGN CHANGES TO QUAD ESL 2812X AND QUAD ESL 2912X
The outer appearance of the ESL 2812X and ESL 2912X has been revised with a new matt black finish, replacing the wood trims found on previous models. A new grille cloth complements the finish, while an optional LED lighting feature at the base can be dimmed or turned off. The visual updates are designed to allow the speakers to blend more easily into modern interiors.
SPEAKER DIMENSIONS AND APPLICATIONS
The QUAD ESL 2812X stands at 107cm tall and includes four electrostatic panels, making it suitable for medium-sized spaces. The QUAD ESL 2912X, at 147cm in height with six panels, is designed for use in larger listening environments. Both share the same composite aluminium and steel construction and a dipole configuration with a fixed 3° tilt.
QUAD ESL 2812X AND QUAD ESL 2912X ELECTROSTATIC LOUDSPEAKERS PRICING AND AVAILABILITY
The QUAD ESL 2812X and QUAD ESL 2912X will be available from mid-August 2025. The ESL 2812X is priced at £10,999 per pair, while the ESL 2912X will be available at £12,999 per pair.
HiFi PiG Says: Great to see the new QUAD ESL speakers now available to the public!
