11 october 2025 Sound Odyssey 10-18h
Twelve years after the launch of the Quad ESL-2812 and its larger sibling, the ESL-2912, QUAD introduces the new ESL X series. The updated ESL-2812X and ESL-2912X loudspeakers build upon an already exceptional design, offering further refinement and performance.
For more than 65 years, QUAD ESLs have set the benchmark for purity, transparency, and musical realism. Unlike conventional loudspeakers with heavy cones or domes, electrostatics use an ultra-light diaphragm suspended in an electrostatic field. This diaphragm moves as a whole, producing sound with astonishing speed, accuracy, and freedom from distortion.
Distinctive qualities include:
True point-source radiation – QUAD’s patented concentric delay line system carefully times the signal across the diaphragm so the speaker radiates as if from a single point, ensuring perfect phase alignment and natural imaging.
Transparency and openness – with no cabinet coloration, music emerges unfiltered, revealing layers and detail often masked in traditional designs.
Lightning-fast transient response – the near-weightless diaphragm follows the signal instantly, preserving micro-dynamics and texture.
Seamless coherence – free from the crossovers and driver mismatches of multi-way speakers, instruments and voices sound whole and lifelike.
Expansive, three-dimensional soundstage – creating a holographic, immersive listening experience.
The new X series refines this heritage with improved materials, greater dynamic range, and enhanced build quality—delivering the classic ESL delicacy alongside added scale and authority.
THÖRESS amplifiers are handcrafted in Germany to the highest standards, and truly stand apart from anything else you’ve seen or heard. Their sound is fast, highly resolving, dynamic, and spacious, with a rich palette of tonal colors. The result is an immersive musical experience that feels effortless and deeply rewarding.
THÖRESS EHT (Eintakt Hybrid Triode) electronics and QUAD ESL loudspeakers form a remarkable pairing, complementing each other with natural synergy.
This past summer, Reinhard Thöress meticulously reimagined his acclaimed EHT amplifier circuits. The result: newly refined EHT Mono Amps, an all-new EHT Stereo Amplifier, and their perfect match, the Full Function Preamp.
There is something unmistakably special about THÖRESS amplifiers — a sound so captivating that once you start listening, it’s difficult to let go.
The Nakamichi Dragon is the legendary cassette deck that set the standard in 1982 — with auto azimuth correction, dual capstan drive, and breathtaking fidelity up to 22 kHz. An icon of audio history, still unmatched today.
An excellent analog source to reveal the full musical capabilities of the Quad ESL X loudspeakers.
The Technics SL-1000R remains, in our view, the finest turntable available today. A masterpiece of engineering — pure industrial design without excess, and above all, sound quality that stands unmatched.
A phono stage has one of the most delicate jobs in the audio chain. The signal from a cartridge is tiny — just a few millivolts in the case of MM (moving magnet) designs, and often ten times lower with MC (moving coil) cartridges. At such low levels, even the slightest noise, distortion, or interference can mask musical detail.
The phono stage must carefully amplify this fragile signal up to standard line level while applying precise RIAA equalization to restore the music’s tonal balance. Any shortcomings in this process are immediately audible.
This is why the quality of the phono stage is so critical: with MM it must be clean and accurate, and with MC it must also deliver ultra-low-noise gain to unlock the full potential of the cartridge. Get it right, and you hear not just sound, but the full texture, dynamics, and emotion captured in the grooves.
We will compare three of the most highly regarded phono stages in the audio industry: the Mola Mola Lupe, Grimm PW1, and Thöress Phono Enhancer. All three are designed for ultra–high performance and deliver exceptional sound quality, each with its own unique approach.
In parallel with loudspeaker, amplification, and source innovations, we are proud to present the Nagaoka MP-700, the company’s newest flagship in their Moving Permalloy (MP) line. Designed to bring out extraordinary detail, dynamics, and musical realism, the MP-700 features a boron cantilever and a nude micro-ridge diamond stylus that excels in resolving inner nuance and subtle texture. Its lightweight permalloy generator design achieves impressive speed and transient response, while the soft damper plus suspension wire ensures stability without sacrificing expressiveness. With a recommended 1.4 g tracking force and output near 4 mV, the MP-700 adapts well to high-end MM/MP phono stages—and with today’s analog icons and reference phono gear on show, you’ll hear just how much difference a top-end cartridge makes in clarity, openness, and emotional impact.
The Accuphase DP-770 combines luxurious, addictive sound with stellar build quality. As both an SACD player and DAC, it serves as the digital heart of our demonstration setup.
A Curated Search for Sonic Excellence. You’re invited to explore a refined selection of vinyl records — from original pressings to high-quality reissues.
Every record is handpicked by Frederik Goossens for its technical purity and musical integrity.
Our reference audio setups are available to experience each pressing as it was meant to be heard.
QUAD ESL X Launch Event
Date & Time: 11 October 2025, 10:00-18:00
Location: Sound Odyssey, Brandstraat 28 – 9255 Buggenhout, Belgium
The QUAD ESL X Series
The new ESL-2812X & ESL-2912X build on the legacy of their predecessors to offer enhanced refinement, greater power, and more detail — delivering music with striking presence, realism, and the signature ESL clarity.
Thöress EHT Amplifiers
Showcasing the newly reworked EHT Mono Amps, the new Stereo Amp, and the Full Function Preamp. These handcrafted German units emphasize dynamic range, speed, and tonal richness for a deeply engaging listening experience.
Analog Icons
• Nakamichi Dragon cassette deck — a 1982 landmark with auto-azimuth and dual capstan drive.
• Technics SL-1000R turntable — precision engineering and timeless design allied to superb sound.
Phono Stages in Focus
Comparing three top-tier phono stages — Mola Mola Lupe, Grimm PW1, Thöress Phono Enhancer — each revealing how the phono stage shapes detail, dynamics, and musical texture.
Nagaoka MP-700 – Flagship Moving Permalloy Cartridge
Unveiling Nagaoka’s brand-new reference cartridge, featuring a boron cantilever and nude micro-ridge diamond stylus. The MP-700 combines ultra-low moving mass with refined suspension design, delivering exceptional clarity, speed, and musicality. A rare chance to experience Nagaoka’s latest analog innovation in a live demonstration.
Digital Reference
The Accuphase DP-770 SACD player / DAC serves as the digital centerpiece. Expect high build quality and a refined, natural digital sound.
Curated Vinyl
Frederik Goossens selects a refined vinyl collection — from original pressings to high-quality reissues — available for browsing, audition, and purchase via reference setups.
Registration is recommended, but walk-ins are welcome.
SOUND ODYSSEY BV
Brandstraat 28
9255 Buggenhout
Belgium
BTW BE0756.538.632
