ESL 2812X

The ESL 2812X is a dipole electrostatic loudspeaker that uses thin Mylar diaphragms charged to roughly 5.25 kV and driven between perforated metal stators. It has four panel elements and shares its treble and midrange panels with the ESL 2912X. The mid and high-frequency panels use a concentric-ring electrode layout with a progressive time delay, so the sound behaves as if it comes from a single point.

The X revision splits the electronics into independent modules: a high-voltage multiplier, a control and protection module, and a low-voltage signal module. Keeping the 5.25 kV stage apart from the signal circuits is intended to reduce stray fields, crosstalk and noise. UK-made audio transformers are fitted, with a stated flat response beyond 18 kHz, along with a new grille cloth and a low-reflection matt black finish without wood trim.

A touch-controlled LED halo lighting option illuminates the underside of the speaker, with user-set brightness. The speaker has a nominal impedance of 8 ohms and runs from mains power for the panel polarising supply, with a 3° fixed backward tilt.