

- Description
- Video
- Specs
- Shipping Information (domestic & international)
- Want to hear it?
- Express Delivery
- Trade In
Classic ESL 9 is your ticket to a life-changing experience with a masterpiece of audio performance. This completely passive design features a 9.2-inch (CLS™) XStat™ electrostatic transducer, dual 8-inch aluminum-Cone woofers, and custom 5-way bi-wire tool-less binding posts.
Classic ESL 9
A masterpiece doesn’t just inspire emotions. It changes the way you feel, and it sticks with you long after you’ve left the art gallery or the concert hall. It’s considered a masterpiece precisely because of its ability to alter something inside you. Once you experience it, you’ll never be the same. Enjoying a masterpiece in your own home is something to aspire to.
Consider the Classic ESL 9 your ticket to a life-changing experience with a masterpiece of audio performance. You will never be the same.
A Classic Masterpiece of Sound Reproduction
MartinLogan unveils the Classic ESL 9, its newest modern Masterpiece. All the familiar elements of MartinLogan’s flagship ESL series are here, with some revolutionary refinements. The heart of this exceptional loudspeaker is its 9.2-inch-wide Curvilinear Line Source (CLS) XStat vacuum-bonded electrostatic transducer. Advanced MicroPerf stator technology reveals more of the diaphragm surface area than any other electrostatic panel in this size class, efficiently increasing the narrow panel’s output. Ultra-rigid AirFrame Blade construction reduces performance-robbing vibrations, its shape creating an expressive alignment with the woofer cabinet. Deep bass is rendered with unflinching accuracy and authority by dual 8-inch low-distortion, high-excursion aluminum cone woofers in a beautifully sculpted enclosure.
Look at the familiar elements of the classic MartinLogan electrostatic loudspeaker:Advanced MicroPerf stator technology, which allows for almost twice the exposed electrostatic diaphragm surface as a traditional electrostatic panel of the same size. A reinforced electrostatic panel with rigid ClearSpar™ spacers, keeping an exact level of tension on the vacuum-bonded diaphragm without obscuring the beautiful see-through design. Add to these the slender, pointed-arrow design of the new AirFrame™ Blade construction and the result is a powerfully evocative composition creating a harmonious connection between the panel and its woofer cabinet.
Classic Elements, Experienced In a New Way: Advanced MicroPerf stator technology, which allows for almost twice the exposed electrostatic diaphragm surface as a traditional electrostatic panel of the same size. A reinforced electrostatic panel with rigid ClearSpar™ spacers, keeping an exact level of tension on the vacuum-bonded diaphragm without obscuring the beautiful see-through design. Add to these the slender, pointed-arrow design of the new AirFrame™ Blade construction and the result is a powerfully evocative composition creating a harmonious connection between the panel and its woofer cabinet.
Now notice some refinements: We have reinvented the Classic ESL 9 woofer section. We use two 8-inch laser-engineered low-distortion aluminum cone woofers, balanced in an opposing array, one forward- and one rear-firing. This design greatly reduces cabinet vibrations inherent in same-direction woofer positioning, specifically in the 34Hz to 100Hz range for uniform frequency response resulting in realistic bass effects you can feel.
New Ultra-Rigid AirFrame Blade Design
Classic ESL 9 XStat panels are joined to their speaker cabinets using MartinLogan’s redesigned AirFrame Blade construction, precision manufactured from an aerospace-grade extruded aluminum alloy. This material, and this exclusive manufacturing process, makes the panels extremely rigid.
The bold, forward-moving styling of this AirFrame Blade rail system, narrow and strong in front, broad and forceful from the side, is a modern design statement. It never obstructs playable surface area or interferes with the panel’s dipole sound radiation pattern. It also provides electrical and acoustical isolation, minimizing intermodulation distortion caused by vibration and resonance. The flowing lines emphasize the groundbreaking integration of the panel itself with the compact woofer and amplifier section. The breathtaking AirFrame Blade design enhances imaging, low-level sonic detail, accuracy, and speaker efficiency.
Curvilinear Line Source (CLS) Electrostatic Panel
CLS technology is an essential ingredient of every electrostatic loudspeaker we produce. Through our proprietary manufacturing method, we have built-in the panel’s gentle horizontal curvature. This unique design enhances the high frequency detail produced by the large radiating surface, without compromising overall sound quality. Notice how the gentle modern curve and perforation pattern gives way to the flat grille of the woofer section.
Controlled Dispersion Sound Radiation
The sound we hear from a loudspeaker is a combination of direct radiation from it to our ears, and reflections off of room surfaces—walls, floor, and ceiling. How our brains integrate this information is far from simple. Depending on the angle of incidence to the ears and the arrival-time difference between direct and reflected sound, reflections can either blur detail and stereo imaging, or enhance the natural impression of depth and openness.
Electrostatic panels, which are true dipole speakers, produce a nearly-ideal controlled dispersion radiation pattern. They send very little sound to the sides, thereby minimizing side-wall reflections, whose short arrival times tend to interfere with the perception of the direct sound. Their strong rear radiation, however, produces a generous amount of natural, ambience-enriching later-arriving mid- and upper register information.
Big, Well-Blended Bass Performance
Rounding out the dynamic performance of this Masterpiece is a passive pair of high-excursion 8-inch laser-engineered aluminum cone woofers custom designed by MartinLogan’s in-house engineering team. This efficient, cast basket woofer design improves cone suspension and the magnetic flux field, maximizing response time, to produce truly profound bass output (down to 34Hz) with vanishingly low distortion.
The woofers are balanced in an opposing array, one forward- and one rear-firing. This design greatly reduces cabinet vibrations inherent in same-direction woofer positioning, specifically in the 34Hz to 100Hz range. Roll-off characteristics for this opposing woofer array are further optimized for a realistically coherent bass wave form. In addition, we’ve tuned the rear-firing woofer to minimize near-wall interactions, perfectly complementing the dipole nature of the electrostatic panel. Bass performance from this configuration is accurate, musical and utterly lifelike.
A flared, ultra-low turbulence rear-firing slotted bass port is integral to the design of the enclosure, providing an extra layer of rigid internal bracing and increasing deep bass output with no added port noise.
Bi-wirable Tool-less Binding Posts and Low-Voltage Power Supply
MartinLogan's proprietary tool-less binding posts simplify cable connection and management. Two sets are supplied—one connected to the electrostatic panel and the other feeding the woofer. Listeners can choose to vertically/horizontally bi-amp the Classic ESL 9, or use jumper clips between the binding post sets for a single wire-connection. Classic ESL 9 features bi-wirable binding posts and provide the ultimate level of flexibility for connection and setup. To further simplify setup and cable management, Classic ESL 9 features a low-voltage DC power supply eliminates the need for a traditional, heavy IEC power cord.
Specifications
Specifications are subject to change without notice
Frequency Response |
34–23,000 Hz ±3dB |
Recommended Amplifier Power |
20—400 watts per channel |
Horizontal Dispersion |
30° |
Vertical Dispersion |
44" (112cm) line source |
Sensitivity |
90 dB/2.83 volts/meter |
Impedance |
4 Ohms, 0.8 at 20kHz Compatible with 4, 6, or 8 Ohm rated amplifiers. |
Crossover Frequency |
380Hz |
High Frequency Transducer |
XStat™ CLS™ electrostatic transducer » Panel Dimensions: 44" x 9.2" (112 x 23cm) » Radiating Area: 405 in² (2,576 cm² ) |
Low Frequency Transducer |
Two 8” (20.3 cm) cast basket, high excursion, rigid aluminium cone woofers with extended throw drive assembly, non-resonance asymmetrical chamber format |
Components |
Custom-wound audio transformer, air core coils, low DCR steel laminate coils, polyester capacitors |
Signal Inputs |
Custom 5-way bi-wire tool-less binding posts |
Power Draw |
Max: 2W per channel Standby: <1W per channel |
Weight |
78 lbs. (35.4 kg) |
Dimensions |
59.8" x 10.4" x 25.4 " (152cm x 26.4cm x 64.6cm) |
UK Deliveries
Within the UK we aim to ship all items same day, however during busy periods it can take 1-3 days for dispatch. We ship all items with premium courier services which quote 1-2 days for delivery. Please note these times may be effected due to circumstances outside our control. Shipping is free on all orders over £50.
Ireland Deliveries
Following Brexit, We are still able to ship into Ireland, and no further VAT or charges apply. All Irish orders will dispatch from our N.Ireland warehouse, and therefore no charges apply. Shipping is free on all Irish orders over £50.00.
Europe Deliveries
For deliveries in Europe, we have two options which can be chosen by the customer.
N.Ireland - We can ship your goods from our N.Ireland warehouse, in which case we must charge VAT however due to N.Ireland's free trade agreement with Europe you will therefore not be charged any import duty or further costs. Shipping costs are calculated at the checkout based on destination.
Britain - We can ship orders from our British warehouse (UK Mainland) which will be charged ex VAT, however this will require export paperwork, and import duty and applicable charges will apply. VAT is removed at the checkout if your destination is applicable.
Non EU Countries
If you are purchasing from a Non-EU country, you will not be charged VAT which will be deducted at the checkout. Import duties and further applicable charges may apply depeding on your country. Shipping is calculated at the checkout based on destination.
We have several deomonstation areas in both of our branches. Please give us a call on 03435236169 or email support@kronosav.com to enquire about hearing products at your local branch.
Please always contact us before to make sure the product(s) are available
Express Deliveries
Express Delivery is FREE on all orders over £50. Express Delivery offers delivery in 24-72 hours from time of purchase. We use premium couriers for this service, mainly DPD & Royal Mail. DPD will offer you a one hour window for delivery to make sure someone is at home, or you can reschedule the delivery if no one is around.
Standard Deliveries
Here at Kronos AV, we have vast experience with e-commerce sales. Making sure that your parcel arrives undamaged is a huge priority for us. That’s why at Kronos AV, we only use premium couriers for all our orders. All our parcels are shipped with DPD or Royal Mail and are always sent Signed For to make sure it gets to the right person.
If for any reason your parcel does arrived damaged, please get in touch, and we will be happy to get everything resolved for you. We are always on hand to help!
Details
Delivery is FREE on all orders over £50. In order to offer FREE delivery to UK customers, we use several premium couriers to ensure your delivery arrives safe.
Most large orders (over 2kg) ship using DPD or DHL courier and smaller orders (under 2kg) by Royal Mail signed for services.
The most appropriate courier will be chosen for the items ordered to ensure the quickest possible delivery.
We can offer very generous trade in offers across the majority of our product range.
Why not ask and see how much you HiFi is worth!
To find out how much your HiFi is worth... Click Here
If you have any question, please feel free to call us on 03435236169 or email support@kronosav.com

- Description
- Video
- Specs
- Shipping Information (domestic & international)
- Want to hear it?
- Express Delivery
- Trade In
Classic ESL 9 is your ticket to a life-changing experience with a masterpiece of audio performance. This completely passive design features a 9.2-inch (CLS™) XStat™ electrostatic transducer, dual 8-inch aluminum-Cone woofers, and custom 5-way bi-wire tool-less binding posts.
Classic ESL 9
A masterpiece doesn’t just inspire emotions. It changes the way you feel, and it sticks with you long after you’ve left the art gallery or the concert hall. It’s considered a masterpiece precisely because of its ability to alter something inside you. Once you experience it, you’ll never be the same. Enjoying a masterpiece in your own home is something to aspire to.
Consider the Classic ESL 9 your ticket to a life-changing experience with a masterpiece of audio performance. You will never be the same.
A Classic Masterpiece of Sound Reproduction
MartinLogan unveils the Classic ESL 9, its newest modern Masterpiece. All the familiar elements of MartinLogan’s flagship ESL series are here, with some revolutionary refinements. The heart of this exceptional loudspeaker is its 9.2-inch-wide Curvilinear Line Source (CLS) XStat vacuum-bonded electrostatic transducer. Advanced MicroPerf stator technology reveals more of the diaphragm surface area than any other electrostatic panel in this size class, efficiently increasing the narrow panel’s output. Ultra-rigid AirFrame Blade construction reduces performance-robbing vibrations, its shape creating an expressive alignment with the woofer cabinet. Deep bass is rendered with unflinching accuracy and authority by dual 8-inch low-distortion, high-excursion aluminum cone woofers in a beautifully sculpted enclosure.
Look at the familiar elements of the classic MartinLogan electrostatic loudspeaker:Advanced MicroPerf stator technology, which allows for almost twice the exposed electrostatic diaphragm surface as a traditional electrostatic panel of the same size. A reinforced electrostatic panel with rigid ClearSpar™ spacers, keeping an exact level of tension on the vacuum-bonded diaphragm without obscuring the beautiful see-through design. Add to these the slender, pointed-arrow design of the new AirFrame™ Blade construction and the result is a powerfully evocative composition creating a harmonious connection between the panel and its woofer cabinet.
Classic Elements, Experienced In a New Way: Advanced MicroPerf stator technology, which allows for almost twice the exposed electrostatic diaphragm surface as a traditional electrostatic panel of the same size. A reinforced electrostatic panel with rigid ClearSpar™ spacers, keeping an exact level of tension on the vacuum-bonded diaphragm without obscuring the beautiful see-through design. Add to these the slender, pointed-arrow design of the new AirFrame™ Blade construction and the result is a powerfully evocative composition creating a harmonious connection between the panel and its woofer cabinet.
Now notice some refinements: We have reinvented the Classic ESL 9 woofer section. We use two 8-inch laser-engineered low-distortion aluminum cone woofers, balanced in an opposing array, one forward- and one rear-firing. This design greatly reduces cabinet vibrations inherent in same-direction woofer positioning, specifically in the 34Hz to 100Hz range for uniform frequency response resulting in realistic bass effects you can feel.
New Ultra-Rigid AirFrame Blade Design
Classic ESL 9 XStat panels are joined to their speaker cabinets using MartinLogan’s redesigned AirFrame Blade construction, precision manufactured from an aerospace-grade extruded aluminum alloy. This material, and this exclusive manufacturing process, makes the panels extremely rigid.
The bold, forward-moving styling of this AirFrame Blade rail system, narrow and strong in front, broad and forceful from the side, is a modern design statement. It never obstructs playable surface area or interferes with the panel’s dipole sound radiation pattern. It also provides electrical and acoustical isolation, minimizing intermodulation distortion caused by vibration and resonance. The flowing lines emphasize the groundbreaking integration of the panel itself with the compact woofer and amplifier section. The breathtaking AirFrame Blade design enhances imaging, low-level sonic detail, accuracy, and speaker efficiency.
Curvilinear Line Source (CLS) Electrostatic Panel
CLS technology is an essential ingredient of every electrostatic loudspeaker we produce. Through our proprietary manufacturing method, we have built-in the panel’s gentle horizontal curvature. This unique design enhances the high frequency detail produced by the large radiating surface, without compromising overall sound quality. Notice how the gentle modern curve and perforation pattern gives way to the flat grille of the woofer section.
Controlled Dispersion Sound Radiation
The sound we hear from a loudspeaker is a combination of direct radiation from it to our ears, and reflections off of room surfaces—walls, floor, and ceiling. How our brains integrate this information is far from simple. Depending on the angle of incidence to the ears and the arrival-time difference between direct and reflected sound, reflections can either blur detail and stereo imaging, or enhance the natural impression of depth and openness.
Electrostatic panels, which are true dipole speakers, produce a nearly-ideal controlled dispersion radiation pattern. They send very little sound to the sides, thereby minimizing side-wall reflections, whose short arrival times tend to interfere with the perception of the direct sound. Their strong rear radiation, however, produces a generous amount of natural, ambience-enriching later-arriving mid- and upper register information.
Big, Well-Blended Bass Performance
Rounding out the dynamic performance of this Masterpiece is a passive pair of high-excursion 8-inch laser-engineered aluminum cone woofers custom designed by MartinLogan’s in-house engineering team. This efficient, cast basket woofer design improves cone suspension and the magnetic flux field, maximizing response time, to produce truly profound bass output (down to 34Hz) with vanishingly low distortion.
The woofers are balanced in an opposing array, one forward- and one rear-firing. This design greatly reduces cabinet vibrations inherent in same-direction woofer positioning, specifically in the 34Hz to 100Hz range. Roll-off characteristics for this opposing woofer array are further optimized for a realistically coherent bass wave form. In addition, we’ve tuned the rear-firing woofer to minimize near-wall interactions, perfectly complementing the dipole nature of the electrostatic panel. Bass performance from this configuration is accurate, musical and utterly lifelike.
A flared, ultra-low turbulence rear-firing slotted bass port is integral to the design of the enclosure, providing an extra layer of rigid internal bracing and increasing deep bass output with no added port noise.
Bi-wirable Tool-less Binding Posts and Low-Voltage Power Supply
MartinLogan's proprietary tool-less binding posts simplify cable connection and management. Two sets are supplied—one connected to the electrostatic panel and the other feeding the woofer. Listeners can choose to vertically/horizontally bi-amp the Classic ESL 9, or use jumper clips between the binding post sets for a single wire-connection. Classic ESL 9 features bi-wirable binding posts and provide the ultimate level of flexibility for connection and setup. To further simplify setup and cable management, Classic ESL 9 features a low-voltage DC power supply eliminates the need for a traditional, heavy IEC power cord.
Specifications
Specifications are subject to change without notice
Frequency Response |
34–23,000 Hz ±3dB |
Recommended Amplifier Power |
20—400 watts per channel |
Horizontal Dispersion |
30° |
Vertical Dispersion |
44" (112cm) line source |
Sensitivity |
90 dB/2.83 volts/meter |
Impedance |
4 Ohms, 0.8 at 20kHz Compatible with 4, 6, or 8 Ohm rated amplifiers. |
Crossover Frequency |
380Hz |
High Frequency Transducer |
XStat™ CLS™ electrostatic transducer » Panel Dimensions: 44" x 9.2" (112 x 23cm) » Radiating Area: 405 in² (2,576 cm² ) |
Low Frequency Transducer |
Two 8” (20.3 cm) cast basket, high excursion, rigid aluminium cone woofers with extended throw drive assembly, non-resonance asymmetrical chamber format |
Components |
Custom-wound audio transformer, air core coils, low DCR steel laminate coils, polyester capacitors |
Signal Inputs |
Custom 5-way bi-wire tool-less binding posts |
Power Draw |
Max: 2W per channel Standby: <1W per channel |
Weight |
78 lbs. (35.4 kg) |
Dimensions |
59.8" x 10.4" x 25.4 " (152cm x 26.4cm x 64.6cm) |
UK Deliveries
Within the UK we aim to ship all items same day, however during busy periods it can take 1-3 days for dispatch. We ship all items with premium courier services which quote 1-2 days for delivery. Please note these times may be effected due to circumstances outside our control. Shipping is free on all orders over £50.
Ireland Deliveries
Following Brexit, We are still able to ship into Ireland, and no further VAT or charges apply. All Irish orders will dispatch from our N.Ireland warehouse, and therefore no charges apply. Shipping is free on all Irish orders over £50.00.
Europe Deliveries
For deliveries in Europe, we have two options which can be chosen by the customer.
N.Ireland - We can ship your goods from our N.Ireland warehouse, in which case we must charge VAT however due to N.Ireland's free trade agreement with Europe you will therefore not be charged any import duty or further costs. Shipping costs are calculated at the checkout based on destination.
Britain - We can ship orders from our British warehouse (UK Mainland) which will be charged ex VAT, however this will require export paperwork, and import duty and applicable charges will apply. VAT is removed at the checkout if your destination is applicable.
Non EU Countries
If you are purchasing from a Non-EU country, you will not be charged VAT which will be deducted at the checkout. Import duties and further applicable charges may apply depeding on your country. Shipping is calculated at the checkout based on destination.
We have several deomonstation areas in both of our branches. Please give us a call on 03435236169 or email support@kronosav.com to enquire about hearing products at your local branch.
Please always contact us before to make sure the product(s) are available
Express Deliveries
Express Delivery is FREE on all orders over £50. Express Delivery offers delivery in 24-72 hours from time of purchase. We use premium couriers for this service, mainly DPD & Royal Mail. DPD will offer you a one hour window for delivery to make sure someone is at home, or you can reschedule the delivery if no one is around.
Standard Deliveries
Here at Kronos AV, we have vast experience with e-commerce sales. Making sure that your parcel arrives undamaged is a huge priority for us. That’s why at Kronos AV, we only use premium couriers for all our orders. All our parcels are shipped with DPD or Royal Mail and are always sent Signed For to make sure it gets to the right person.
If for any reason your parcel does arrived damaged, please get in touch, and we will be happy to get everything resolved for you. We are always on hand to help!
Details
Delivery is FREE on all orders over £50. In order to offer FREE delivery to UK customers, we use several premium couriers to ensure your delivery arrives safe.
Most large orders (over 2kg) ship using DPD or DHL courier and smaller orders (under 2kg) by Royal Mail signed for services.
The most appropriate courier will be chosen for the items ordered to ensure the quickest possible delivery.
We can offer very generous trade in offers across the majority of our product range.
Why not ask and see how much you HiFi is worth!
To find out how much your HiFi is worth... Click Here
If you have any question, please feel free to call us on 03435236169 or email support@kronosav.com