Quad - ESL-2912 / Electrostatic Floorstanding Speaker set

Here is a pair of QUAD ESL-2912s, a refined evolution of Peter Walker's Full Range electrostatic technology. This model, presented in 2012-2013, represents the zenith of the ESL line, improving the already legendary previous models with a stiffer structure and higher-quality electronic components.

List price currently: 17,000 euros.

Why choose the 2912:

Unparalleled Transparency: Thanks to the quasi-zero mass electrostatic panels, they offer a transient speed and naturalness in the midrange that traditional loudspeakers cannot match.

High-End Construction: Premium metal and piano black lacquered wood finishes, 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 low-frequency response and higher power handling.

Conditions and History:

Status: Fully functional and kept in a non-smoking environment. The panels are efficient and free from any noise, spurious issues, or electrical defects.

Accessories: Original feet, spikes, and manuals included.

Sales and Pickup Terms
Given the extremely delicate nature and bulk of the speakers (height about 150 cm, weight 44 kg each), shipping is not offered.

Pickup Only in the Area: Pickup is at the buyer's expense. A suitable vehicle is required (a capable SUV or van).

Listening Test: due to the item’s value, a listening test before pickup is advised and offered. This guarantees the buyer the speakers’ perfect performance and protects the seller by confirming the item’s condition at delivery, with the private sale “as seen and appreciated” clause (Art. 1490 of the Italian 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 desired I also have their original enormous packaging.

They are fairly hard to find on the used market, unlike the previous 2905 series (released in 2005); compared to which this 2012 series brought numerous improvements, including greater reliability over time. I believe they are the only ones currently for sale in Italy; those who have them seldom part with them. I’m trading them only to acquire the new ESL-2912X version that will come out soon (with a list price in Italy of 18,000€), because as a super-audiophile enthusiast I want to always have the latest top-of-the-line Quad model as soon as it’s released, since each new version introduces small incremental improvements.

Current list price in Italy for the ESL-2912 is 17,000 euros.

They are among the best loudspeakers you can buy today, regardless of price: unlike other Quad models, these are suitable for every genre of music and they also have excellent bass extension: 32 Hz – 21 kHz (-6 dB) frequency response!

You can find numerous reviews online; I don’t think I need to say more—those who know them know them very well and know they are unbeatable on several important parameters (soundstage, micro-details, resolution, speed). Those who own Quad hardly move to other loudspeakers, which simply aren’t as truthful, transparent, and musical.

This is Quad’s official site 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 “Seen and liked” clause applies - Art. 1490 C.C. private sale.

The IsoAcoustics Gaia II feet you see in the photos are not included, as are the two marble bases underneath.

Due to their size, hand delivery only is possible; if you want them shipped packed, you’ll need a van to transport them, a normal SUV won’t fit. Without the packaging they can be transported in a large enough SUV, the dimensions are: (HxWxD) 1470x690x380 mm – weight 44 kg.

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, sonic transparency, and aesthetics.

Key technical and performance changes:

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

New PCBs: A new double-sided PCB with 2 oz copper was adopted. This design increases the distance between contacts and improves isolation, drastically reducing the “creepage” phenomenon (charge leakage between components).

Humidity tolerance: Thanks to the new component layout and improved internal wiring, the 2912s are far more stable in high-humidity environments than the 2905s, which could suffer from discharges or parasitic noise in difficult climate conditions.

Premium components: Vishay capacitors and audio-grade resistors of higher quality were introduced to ensure greater signal purity.

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

Acoustic Grille: The fabric covering (the “sock”) has been replaced with a acoustically more transparent material, enabling better high-frequency dispersion and more defined micro-dynamics.

3. Aesthetic refinements
The ESL-2912 introduces more luxurious finishes compared to the more “industrial” look of the 2905:

Wood inserts: The top of the speaker and the sides of the base are finished in piano black wood, giving a more elegant appearance.