Hi! I am a proud new Martin Logan ESL X owner. With the MLs, I got an NAD C399 integrated stereo amp, and I have installed both, bi-wiring the MLs to the NAD. I am using the NAD BluOS and Sonos as my sources, each driving FLAC files from my home audio server over gigabit Ethernet.
Having auditioned the setup, I am hoping I didn’t make a mistake with the NAD. In order to get the MLs to “sing” in my listening room with either source, I need to crank the volume to -15db, which doesn’t leave much headroom.
Is this normal, or should I return the NAD (180w per channel) and upgrade to a more powerful amp?
If I do need to upgrade, what should I look for?
Thanks in advance for any advice!
Introduction:
I employ anthem amps either MCA 225 or STR integrated or both. Both these amps both channels simultaneously drive, max power output approx. 180 watts@ 8 ohms. Rated for 2- and 4-ohm loudspeaker resistance.
I drive ELS 9 at amp volume between -35db and -26 dB max. At -26 dB sonic level is not moderate or btw moderate and high, rather is high or loud.
Body:
Perhaps need to increase the volume to -15db depends on the following causal factors:
First, before purchase if audition ML and NAD together and this issue was present. Then perhaps NAD amp does not match ELS X.
Second, DAC settings may influence output dB level. In my experience higher sampling rate results in leaner sonics and lower sonic output level. This difference is not much but is discernible. I use HP and STR DAC. both average in terms of sound quality.
Third, listening distance - too far away, room size - too large and speaker placement - not optimal inside the room, may require a very high or -15db volume level.
Fourth, allow the brand-new equipment to break in. For the first couple or few hours everything sounds great. Then sonics deteriorate to again gradually improve in line with burning in of equipment.
Last but not least, listening to earphones at anything above average speech decibel level or volume over a long period may be problematic.
Conclusion:
A -15 dB level will cause stress on the amplifier and on the ELS X low frequency driver. A -15db volume setting is like a tidal wave and may accelerate wear and tear of amplifier circuitry and loudspeaker cones. There are exceptions to this statement.
Anthem MCA 225 Gen.2. Is a good match and in comparison, to Sanders ESL Mark 2, is affordable and approx. 2/5 sale price. However, sonics through Sander's amp I guess are exemplary.
I would recommend the ESL Mark 2 for non-hybrid electrostatic speakers. For hybrid ELS would recommend Sanders Magtech amplifier. Magtech is designed to optimally drive electrostatic and especially dynamic loudspeaker drivers.
Return the New Acoustic Dimension integrated amp, if possible, without incurring financial loss. The Magtech is too expensive and too powerful for ELS X.
Look no further than Anthem MCA 225 generation 2 power amp. MCA 225 matches with ELS X. I used to drive ELS 9 through MCA 225 using a jack to 2XLRM cable directly attached to HP desktop. On the desktop ran Audirvana software. Adjust volume through this software. The sonics are good. A conservative statement. Actually, superb or great. Available at Crutchfield.
