Martin Logan Neolith Electrostatic Loudspeaker
Truth in Sound, Embodied
For those who appreciate accuracy and realism in their audio, the electrostatic transducer is the grail. For those who understand this truth in sound, MartinLogan introduces their new flagship loudspeaker: Neolith.
Neolith is not for the faint of heart. As the embodiment of our philosophy of the truth in sound, its performance is unconstrained. It goes against the grain. In a world of small, Neolith says size is no impediment.
Neolith features one of MartinLogan's largest electrostatic radiating surfaces, fully 35% larger than the Statement E2. Its proprietary curvilinear electrostatic transducer delivers an ideal wave launch; a detailed, ultrarealistic soundstage, reproducing nearly the entire mid-range and high frequency audio spectrum. It is utterly uninhibited by room limitations.
Smoothly blended low-frequencies are provided by a 15-inch rear-firing ported woofer and 12-inch front-firing sealed mid-bass woofer. Combined, they deliver powerful, extremely accurate bass.
This is just the beginning. The details demand your attention.
The exclusive advanced-topology Vojtko Crossover uses hand-selected components for optimum power handling. The passive Neolith design gives you more control, allowing single-wire or bi-amp connections with silver filigree WBT Binding Posts, plus a unique system of audio adjustment jumpers. The audaciously sculpted Neolith frame is made of non-resonant Phenolic Resin Polymer, smoothly finished in a premium automotive gloss. Its hand-crafted woofer cabinet is wrapped in elegant soft leather.
Prepare yourself for an astonishing new audio experience; a bigger, bolder, no-holds-bared experience of breathtakingly articulate performance. The bespoke Neolith is the culmination of over 30 years of MartinLogan passion, engineering innovation and dedication to the ultimate truth in sound.
Electrostatic Truth in Sound
MartinLogan didn't invent electrostatic transducer technology. But by eliminating the perceived deficiencies of electrostatic technology, such as poor power handling, lack of bass response and narrow soundstage (beaming), MartinLogan has reinforced the benefit of electrostatic technology: uncanny audio accuracy.
An electrostatic transducer has three components—stators, a diaphragm, and spars (non-conductive spacers that keep the tall assembly stationary)—assembled as a sandwich. The diaphragm is an ultra-light film impregnated with an electrically conductive material and stretched taut between two stators, which are perforated steel sheets coated with an insulator. When the speaker is operating, the diaphragm is charged with an electrostatic field of fixed positive voltage. The two stators, between which the diaphragm is stretched, are charged with voltages of equal strength but opposite polarity. These charges occur in instantaneously alternating pulses according the signal received from your audio equipment. When the charge on one stator is positive, the charge on the other is negative. Because like charges repel and opposite charges attract, the diaphragm's constantly positive charge will force it to move forward or backward depending on the stator charges. With this movement, an electrostatic transducer translates an electrical audio signal into the diaphragm motion that produces sound waves in your room.
A POWERFUL DUAL-WOOFER SECTION
In addition to its large electrostatic transducer, Neolith features two substantial woofers. They are specifically engineered to deliver a Neolith-sized dose of deep bass.
The front-firing 12-inch mid-bass woofer, operating from 60Hz to 250-400Hz (depending on jumper settings) boasts an extremely low moving mass relative to its size. Its non-woven carbon fiber cone, set in a cast aluminum alloy frame, is lightweight and rigid, for high efficiency when moved by its 3-inch copper-clad aluminum flat wire voice coil. The low-inductance single-layer edge-wound coil, with copper-cupped pole piece, reduces intermodulation distortion caused by the changing inductance as the woofer's big coil moves back and forth within the gap, delivering maximum bass.
On the back of the Neolith is a 15-inch bass woofer playing beneath 60Hz. It features an extended throw assembly, with an efficiently vented triple shorting ring motor and 4-layer coil, to eliminate compression and distortion. The woofer's rigid, extra thick anodized aluminum cone design, in a stable cast basket, is ideal for producing Neolith's deep, naturally flat extended bass response.
Performance Art
Now look at Neolith. It is a towering achievement of bold sculptural art; performance art. To house this kind of performance, MartinLogan designers crafted a chassis that is a work of art itself.
The bridge-like beams and arching buttresses of Neolith are carved from sheets of Phenolic Resin Polymer. This dense, non-resonant material exhibits incredible mechanical strength and superior dimensional stability. With oversized Energy Transfer Coupler footings, the frame is unshakeable on any flooring. You will never hear this cabinet; you will only hear your music, pure and simple.
The non-resonant woofer enclosure is acoustically ideal. Substantial interior bracing separates and isolates the electronics from the powerful driver system, ensuring no energy is lost to vibrations, even at peak performance levels. In an elegant touch, the cabinet is wrapped in soft black leather.
The Phenolic Resin Polymer frame is offered in several standard finishes, each extravagantly hand-buffed to an opulent automotive gloss. MartinLogan is proud to offer the bespoke Neolith in custom color options, as well. (Please speak with your dealer.)
