I'm often surprised by those who are surprised by the performance or electrostatic and ribbon speakers. By nature they are able to shift a of of air and can produce very good bass slam and reasonable extension. I am not a fan of sub-woofers as I have found that they smear the image and make a system sound slower. The problem with electrostatics and ribbon speakers is that they are often paired with inadequate amplification. My Magneplanars are now sounding superb since I got the amplification right and the soundstage is huge (even though I have them in a dedicated listening room - a double bedroom - that is smaller than ideal). Bass slam is excellent and the tonal balance ideal to my ears. Even without a sub! I have heard ESL57s sound fantastic when suitably powered.

Geoff