Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Physically the best version of the Quad ESL63 design to date in physical integrity
- Clarity, purity, and coherence, creating an image that floats in the air between the speakers
- Very low distortion levels
- Vocals delivered with plenty of subtlety and focus, and a mass of detail without sounding overtly analytical—just unforced and natural
- A classic of audio design
Product Considerations
- Fussy about positioning and partnering kit
- Requires mains power to work despite being passive speakers, as the power is needed for the stators
- Midrange oriented, with a definite hole that tends to exist between 150 and 500Hz or so
- Damping behind the speakers is really needed for satisfactory results—a lot of damping
- Does not have the broad range of dynamic expression that some conventional speakers do, and simply cannot compete when it comes to sheer air-moving power and strength
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Focal Diablo Utopias: Has a smooth presentation, without perhaps the openness of the Focal
- Vs. Magnepan 3.7i: The sound of the spherically radiating electrostatic technology was the most holographic among speakers experienced, and the degree of spatiality surpassed even that of the Magnepan 3.7i
Takeaway: The Quad ESL-2812 is a speaker that offers a unique listening experience with unparalleled coherence, clarity, and low distortion. If one values insight and unexaggerated smoothness, this speaker could be worth the effort of careful setup and system matching.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
ESL-2812
reviews
[{"title":"Quad 2812 Electrostatic","link":"https://www.theabsolutesound.com/articles/quad-2812-electrostatic","source":"The Absolute Sound","datePublished":"2016"},{"title":"Quad ESL-2812 review","link":"https://www.whathifi.com/quad/esl-2812/review","source":"What Hi-Fi?","datePublished":"2013"},{"title":"Quad 2812 electrostatic speaker Review","link":"https://www.dagogo.com/quad-2812-electrostatic-speaker-review","source":"Dagogo","datePublished":""},{"title":"QUAD ESL 2812 electrostatic loudspeaker","link":"https://hifiplus.com/articles/quad-esl-2812-electrostatic-loudspeaker","source":"Hi-Fi+","datePublished":"2014"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Model: ESL-2812
- Format: Floor standing dipole with 3 degree fixed tilt
- Type: Multiple Electrostatic Drive Membranes
- Time Delay: Progressive Concentric Rings
- Chassis Structure: Heavy Duty Composite Aluminium / Steel
- Panel Elements: 4
- Maximum Output: 2 N/m_ at 2m On Axis
- Sensitivity: 1.5mbar Per Volt Referred To 1m (86 dB/2.83 V RMS Equivalent)
- Impedance: 8 Ohms Nominal
- Impedance Variation: 4-15 Ohms
- Maximum Input Continuous Input Voltage (RMS): 10V
- Programme Peak For undistorted Output: 40V
- Permitted Peak Input: 55V
- Frequency Response: 37Hz - 21kHz (-6dB), 33Hz - 23kHz (useable)
- Distortion (100dB at 1m): Above 1000Hz 0.15%, Above 100Hz 0.5%, Above 50Hz 1.0%
Description
The latest version of highly acclaimed ESL series, the ESL-2812 and 2912 are a celebration of a classic. Using the signature mylar diaphragm, yet while re-evaluating all circuitry and components, the result is an authentic ESL experience – incredible full-range accuracy and startling realism.
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- Quad, a British hifi manufacturer with a long history dating back to the 1950s, is renowned for its iconic QUAD II Power Amplifier and ESL electrostatic speaker, maintaining a brand heritage built on exceptional sound quality.
- The brand has a long history of developing electrostatic panel loudspeaker technology, which has influenced the design and sonic qualities of their planar magnetic headphones, aligning with their heritage.
- Quad products are known for offering an exceptional price/performance ratio, often delivering superb sound quality and features that punch far above their price point.
Select products
Select product comparisons
Vena II
- Positioning: The entry-level integrated amplifier in Quad's lineup.
- Description: Offers a compact design with a powerful Class AB amplifier, making it ideal for small rooms or those seeking a neat setup. It features a high-quality phono stage for vinyl enthusiasts, which is not available in the more advanced Artera models, providing excellent value for those with a diverse music collection. Its Bluetooth streaming capability and multiple digital inputs make it versatile for modern digital sources, unlike the more traditional QII-Integrated.
QII-Integrated
- Positioning: A mid-range integrated amplifier that combines classic design with modern functionality.
- Description: Features a push-pull KT66 output configuration, delivering a warm, rich sound that appeals to those who appreciate vintage audio aesthetics. Unlike the Vena II, it includes a high-quality built-in phono stage, making it a great choice for vinyl lovers who want a classic tube sound. Its power output is lower than the Artera models.
Artera Solus
- Positioning: A high-end all-in-one system combining a CD player, DAC, pre-amplifier, and power amplifier.
- Description: Features sleek design and comprehensive functionality, integrating a CD player and Bluetooth connectivity, which the QII-Integrated lacks. Uses an ESS ES9018 DAC for superior digital audio performance, making it ideal for users who want a high-quality, all-in-one solution. Its power output and connectivity options surpass those of the Vena II.
Artera Solus Play
- Positioning: The flagship model, adding wireless streaming capabilities to the Artera Solus.
- Description: Enhances the Artera Solus with DTS Play-Fi technology, allowing high-resolution wireless audio streaming, which is not available in the other models. The advanced streaming features and high power output provide a multi-room audio experience with the convenience of wireless connectivity.
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Avg. Product Price
$10,001-$20,000
Used For Sale
74
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
61
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
29
Founding Year
1936
Our take on the brand
Quad Hifi is renowned for its legendary electrostatic loudspeakers, first introduced with the ESL-57 in 1957, which are celebrated by audiophiles for their exceptional clarity and detail. The brand's groundbreaking 33 preamplifier and 303 power amplifier from the 1960s were among the first to successfully use solid-state technology with a unique "tilt" tone control that adjusts frequency response around a central point, rather than conventional bass and treble adjustments.
Look inside the brand
Brand Page
Our interview with the brand
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Used
QUAD HIFI
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What if you spend more?
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What competes at this price?
PureAudioProject
Seven Eyes Duet15
11800
/
Released
Duet15 is an Open Baffle Speakers for small to medium size rooms. It features our proprietary 15" woofer, a full range driver by Voxativ, and a dedicated audiophile-grade crossover.
PureAudioProject offers modular speakers that customers can customize by choosing and swapping different drivers and components, with their open-baffle design allowing sound to radiate from both front and back of the speaker for natural sound reproduction. The brand caters to tube amplification enthusiasts through their highly efficient speakers, while offering direct consultation with the designer Ze'ev Schlik to help customers choose the best configuration for their needs.
Expand Details
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Expansive and natural sound due to its open baffle (dipole) design
- Excellent resolution exposes the uniqueness of every recording
- Midrange is a highlight, resolving detail while remaining smooth and musical
- High transparency and excellent integration of the two drivers
- Fast woofer packs quite a visceral punch
Product Considerations
- Requires significant break-in time (approximately 200 hours)
- Requires breathing space and careful positioning for optimal tonal balance
- Needs to be at least 3 feet away from the front wall, slightly delaying the back wave bouncing off the front wall
- Loses a bit of dynamic contrast at very low listening levels
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Vandersteen VR-35s—Duet 15 Prelude has more enveloping bass than the tightly controlled bass impact
Takeaway: The PureAudioProject Duet 15 Prelude is a first-rate loudspeaker that offers an expansive sound with excellent detail and is terrific fun when played loud. It will fill the heart with joy while deepening one's understanding of the importance of music.
Video review
Our take on the brand
PureAudioProject offers modular speakers that customers can customize by choosing and swapping different drivers and components, with their open-baffle design allowing sound to radiate from both front and back of the speaker for natural sound reproduction. The brand caters to tube amplification enthusiasts through their highly efficient speakers, while offering direct consultation with the designer Ze'ev Schlik to help customers choose the best configuration for their needs.
Product Page
Product Page
Diptyque
DP 115
11999
/
Released
2024
The diptyque dp115 offer a perfect balance between aesthetic elegance and top-quality sound reproduction. They feature a 0.198m² bass-midrange driver based on our exclusive optimized PPBM principle, and a ribbon tweeter with neodymium magnets 45cm long. The mechanical sandwitch structure inherited from our Reference model.
Diptyque stands out in the hifi industry for its advanced isodynamic planar magnetic technology, delivering precise, natural sound with minimal distortion. With decades of expertise in acoustics, the brand has earned a strong reputation for crafting hand-built, high-performance speakers in France.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Exquisitely detailed sound with texture and resolution
- Exceptional imaging, creating a precise phantom center for dialogue
- Excellent bass for a dipole planar speaker
- Modern aesthetics with a stylish, flat, minimalist design
- Clean, pure sound with no cabinet or horn coloration
Product Considerations
- Pricey
- Power hungry, requiring a robust amplifier
- Dipole design is not suitable for placement against walls
- Limited optimal listening area due to dipole dispersion pattern
- Could use a subwoofer for some applications to extend bass response
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Reviewer suggests that the Magnepan LRS, with the addition of a sub, could be a cheaper alternative
Takeaway: The Diptyque DP 115 speakers offer an amazing listening experience with clarity and responsiveness, and are visually appealing. They would be a great addition to any high-end audio setup to enjoy music, movies, and games.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Diptyque stands out in the hifi industry for its advanced isodynamic planar magnetic technology, delivering precise, natural sound with minimal distortion. With decades of expertise in acoustics, the brand has earned a strong reputation for crafting hand-built, high-performance speakers in France.
Product Page
Product Page
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