MartinLogan CLS IIz
Best full-range electrostatic speaker for discerning audiophiles seeking pure, holographic sound.
Experience audio purity with the MartinLogan CLS IIz, a classic full-range electrostatic loudspeaker launched in 1992. Renowned for its exceptional fidelity, it utilizes a curved diaphragm to reproduce the entire musical range without common phase anomalies or multi-driver distortions. This speaker is celebrated for revealing subtle holographic magic in music, creating a vast soundstage that excels with natural strings and challenging trumpet passages, immersing you in the recording. It's a treasured piece for discerning audiophiles.
$5995.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
3269
/ 8447
#3269 in Speakers
Price vs Category Average
+310%
Above average
Frequency Response
35200003
/ –, Hz ± dB
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking absolute sonic transparency and micro-detail
- Listeners desiring a realistic, three-dimensional soundstage
- Purists demanding seamless, phase-coherent audio reproduction
Who should skip it
- Owners lacking high-current, stable power amplification
- Casual listeners who dislike restricted, precise seating positions
- Users wanting deep bass extension and low-maintenance equipment
Performance breakdown
Sonic Transparency
The electrostatic panel delivers unmatched clarity and near-zero coloration.
Soundstage Imaging
Creates a holographic, expansive presence that places instruments with pinpoint accuracy.
Phase Coherency
Single-driver design eliminates crossover interference for a seamless musical presentation.
Amplifier Sensitivity
Demands high-current amplification to truly unlock its full dynamic potential.
Low-Frequency Extension
Lacks deep sub-bass impact, often requiring a dedicated subwoofer for full-range.
Placement Versatility
Requires significant room space and careful positioning to optimize dipole radiation.
Key Specs
Frequency Response
35–20,000 Hz ± 3dB
Recommended Amplifier Power
20—400 watts per channel
Sensitivity
86 dB / 2.83 volt / meter
Impedance
4 Ohm, compatible with 4, 6 or 8 Ohm amplifiers
High-Frequency Transducer
48 " (121.92 cm) electrostatic transducer
Dimensions
146 cm x 71.1 cm x 36.8 cm
Weight
38.5 kg (85 lbs.)
Inputs
4-way binding posts
Features
- Full-range electrostatic sound reproduction
- Minimizes distortion with curved diaphragm
- Eliminates crossover phase anomalies
- Exceptional detail and clarity
- Immersive soundstage and dynamics
- Reveals subtle holographic music details
- Excels with complex instrument frequencies
What customers say
The MartinLogan CLS IIz earns legendary status for its sonic purity and transparency. Owners consistently praise the speaker's unparalleled ability to reproduce a coherent, detailed, and lightning fast soundstage. The midrange and treble are frequently described as lifelike, showcasing the hallmark clarity and speed of electrostatic design. Satisfaction remains extremely high among dedicated audiophiles who view this speaker as a reference level investment. A key consideration is the demanding nature of the design; users stress the absolute necessity of pairing the CLS IIz with powerful, high current amplification to achieve optimal dynamics. While bass accuracy is noted, the deep visceral impact of large dynamic woofers is often absent, leading some to integrate subwoofers for a fuller presentation.
Know before you buy
Unlike traditional speakers that use cone drivers, the CLS IIz uses a large, curved electrostatic diaphragm to move air. This design eliminates the need for a crossover, which removes phase anomalies and distortion for a more transparent, holographic sound.
The CLS IIz is compatible with 4, 6, or 8 Ohm amplifiers and performs best with stable power between 20 and 400 watts per channel. Because of their unique electrostatic load, they benefit from high-quality amplification that can handle lower impedance dips gracefully.
Each speaker stands approximately 146 cm tall and 71 cm wide, with a depth of about 37 cm. Given their dipole nature—meaning they radiate sound from both the front and the back—they require significant room to breathe away from the front wall to achieve their signature soundstage.
They excel at natural, acoustic instrumentation like strings and brass, offering incredible detail and clarity. While they provide a full-range experience, listeners who prioritize deep, visceral sub-bass for electronic or heavy rock might consider pairing them with a high-quality subwoofer.
Each speaker weighs 38.5 kg (85 lbs), so they are substantial and require a sturdy floor. Proper placement is critical; because they are full-range electrostatics, you will need to experiment with their distance from the walls to optimize the holographic imaging and frequency response.
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$5995