The Braun LE-1 is the German-made version of the famous Quad ESL57, with a different, sturdier frame and the Bauhaus styling from the late 50's. The same electrostatic panel is used, and the Braun plays with the same beautiful fidelity that the Quads are famous for.
Quad of England ceased production of the ESL 57 speakers in the 80's, and subsequently stopped making replacement panels a few years later. Their German distributor, Quadmusik, bought one of the machines for producing panels, and started production again.
However, there have been improvements to the electrical circuits inside. The panels can handle more power than the originals, and there is circuit protection built-in so that you can't accidentally over-drive them and arc them, burning holes into the panel. These new models are superior to the old refurbished Quads available elsewhere. The metal frame is much more sturdy and stable than the wood rails and frame on the ESL 57s, and the speakers are mounted on metal legs on each end for a sturdy base. This pair has also been upgraded with Cardas binding posts. Ed Wolkow of Foundation Research also replaced the passive crossover parts (resistors, capacitors, etc) with better quality components, a $500.00 upgrade.
The Brauns are usually only available by direct sale out of Germany, for over $8000.00. You can have this pair for $3500.00 firm.
They are in excellent operational and cosmetic condition. Email me for photos.
Wire Transfer, Int'l. money order or bank draft preferred. If buyer wants PayPal, buyer pays fees.
Check my feedback on Audiogon (spit) under Golden_ears
http://www.quad-musik.de/html/braun_le1___le2.html
