Quad - ESL-2912 Speaker

Here is a pair of QUAD ESL-2912, a refined evolution of Peter Walker's 'Full Range' electrostatic technology. This model, introduced in 2012-2013, represents the pinnacle of the ESL series, enhancing the already legendary previous models with a more rigid structure and higher-quality electronic components.

The list price is currently 17,000 euros.

Why choose the 2912?

Unparalleled Transparency: Thanks to electrostatic panels with almost zero mass, they offer a transient speed and a naturalness in mid frequencies that traditional speakers cannot achieve.

High-end construction: premium finishes in metal and lacquered black wood, with a reinforced structure to minimize parasitic resonances.

6 Panel Configuration: Compared to the 28xx series, the 2912 uses two additional panels to ensure a more authoritative response on low frequencies and a higher power handling capacity.

Conditions and History

Condition: perfectly functioning and maintained in a non-smoking environment. The panels are efficient and free of any extraneous noise or electrical defects.

Accessories: Included original feet, tips, and manuals.

Terms of Sale and Pickup
Due to the highly delicate nature and the size of the speakers (approximately 150 cm in height, weighing 44 kg each), shipping is not available.

Pickup only in the area: The pickup is at the buyer's expense. An appropriate means of transportation is required (spacious SUV or van).

Listening test: given the value of the item, a listening test is recommended and offered before pickup. This guarantees the buyer the perfect efficiency of the speakers and protects the seller by confirming the condition of the item at the time of delivery, with the 'sight and liked' sale formula between private individuals (art. 1490 of the Civil Code).

They are a pair of stunning top-of-the-line Quad speakers, in excellent condition, as you can see in the photos included in the description. If needed, I also have their original packaging (huge).

They are quite difficult to find on the used market, unlike the previous series 2905 (released in 2005), which this series (released in 2012) has improved upon in many ways, including greater reliability over time. I believe they are now the only ones for sale in Italy; those who have them rarely sell. I only change them to get the new ESL-2912X version, which will be released soon (and will have a retail price in Italy of €18,000), because as a passionate super audiophile, I always want to have the latest top-of-the-line Quad model as soon as it comes out, since each new version introduces small incremental improvements.

Currently, in Italy, the ESL-2912 costs 17,000 euros.

I am among the best speakers you can currently buy, regardless of the price: unlike other Quad models, these are suitable for any genre of music and also offer excellent bass extension: 32Hz - 21kHz (-6dB) is the frequency response!

You can find numerous reviews online; I don't think it's necessary to say more. Those who are knowledgeable know them very well and understand that they are unbeatable on various important parameters (sound image, micro-detail, resolution, speed). Those who have Quad rarely switch to other speakers, which simply are not as true, transparent, and musical.

This is the official site of Quad where you can read the brochure: esl_2812_&_esl_2912_brochure[4337].pdf

They work perfectly, as mentioned, it is possible and highly recommended to listen to them before purchasing to verify. The clause 'Seen and liked' applies — Art. 1490 of the Civil Code, private sale.

The IsoAcoustics Gaia II feet shown in the photo are not included, nor are the two marble bases below.

Given the size, delivery is only possible by hand. Keep in mind that if you want to take them away packaged, you'll need a van to transport them, as they won't fit in a standard SUV. Without packaging, they can also be transported in a sufficiently large SUV. The dimensions are: mm (HxLxP) 1470x690x380 – weight 44kg.

Differences with the ESL-2905
The Quad ESL-2912 represents the refined evolution of the already excellent ESL-2905 (introduced in 2005). Although the basic architecture remains the same (6 electrostatic panels), the improvements introduced with the '12' series focus on long-term reliability, sound transparency, and aesthetics.

Here are the main technical and performance changes:

Electronics and Power Supply (EHT)
The most significant improvement concerns the high voltage power supply section (EHT).

New Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs): A new double-layer PCB with 2oz copper has been adopted. This design increases the distance between contacts and improves insulation, significantly reducing the phenomenon of 'creepage' (charge dispersion between components).

Humidity resistance: Thanks to the new component layout and improved internal wiring, the 2912 models are much more stable in high-humidity environments compared to the 2905, which could sometimes suffer from discharges or parasitic noises in difficult weather conditions.

Premium Components: Vishay capacitors and high-grade audio resistors have been introduced to ensure greater signal purity.

2. Structure and Materials
Improved Stator: The stators (the grids that enclose the membrane) have been reinforced and equipped with better insulation, allowing the speakers to handle slightly higher power levels and play at higher volumes with less distortion.

Acoustic grid: The fabric cover ('sock') has been replaced with a more acoustically transparent material, which allows for better dispersion of high frequencies and a more defined micro-dynamics.

Aesthetic Refinements
The ESL-2912 introduce more luxurious finishes compared to the more 'industrial' look of the 2905.

Insert in real wood: The top part of the diffuser and the sides of the base are finished in lacquered black wood, giving a more elegant appearance.