MartinLogan Matinee Center Channel Electrostatic Speaker (Single, Black)

by Martin

Product Details

• Product Dimensions: 9 x 29.8 x 7.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 23 pounds
• Shipping: This item is also available for shipping to select countries outside the U.S.
• Shipping Advisory: This item must be shipped separately from other items in your order. Additional shipping charges will not apply.
• ASIN: B0018ZDBJ8
• Item model number: Matinee
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #95,163 in Electronics (See Top 100 in Electronics)

Product Description

From the Manufacturer

MartinLogan - The Great American Speaker Company

Since 1983 MartinLogan, the great American speaker company, has hand-crafted high performance electrostatic speakers. Their award-winning designs, advanced technologies, and outstanding customer service have long made MartinLogan's amazingly detailed speakers a must have for home theater and music lovers around the world.

Matinee is the perfect companion to MartinLogan Puritys or Source

Matinee: the Center Channel That's a Team Player

Matinee is a high value, very affordable evolution of the acclaimed family of MartinLogan hybrid on-wall loudspeakers. Matinee employs a combination of technologies balanced to maximize performance, price, and flexibility.

Beyond anchoring the critical horizontal center channel position in all types of home theaters, Matinee also works vertically and functions fabulously as a main left, right or rear effects speaker. We're talking about a true utility team player here.

The MartinLogan design and engineering team has blended the latest generation, ultra compact ML electrostatic panel with top quality dynamic woofers and tweeter, a dead accurate crossover network and handsome, functional cabinet design. The result is rich, lifelike and stunningly detailed sound that meshes seamlessly with other MartinLogan speakers and can be mounted or positioned ideally for nearly any role in home system use.

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No room to wall-mount? No problem - just use an optional pivoting tabletop stand (sold separately)

Under the Hood: The Benefits of CLS Electrostatic Panels

Generation 2 Curvilinear Line Source (CLS) Technology
For 25 years MartinLogan has led the speaker building world in refining what experts acknowledge as the most accurate sound reproducing technology- a way of recreating sound that has been known since the dawn of audio recording and replay. The basic story is one of simply harnessing a force of nature, the world of charged particles. In their Lawrence, Kansas factory ML builds perforated, curved steel panels (stators) which are precisely insulated. They sandwich an ultra light weight membrane (diaphragm) of highly advanced, specifically treated film. When the signal from your receiver comes through these voltage charged, elegant structures, magic happens. Decades of research have allowed ML to bring forth these nearly indestructible, see-through panels with the ability to reproduce exactly every detail of sound, in your room, as it was originally recorded.

Innovative manufacturing techniques and relentless research enabled MartinLogan to produce the original Curvilinear Line Source (CLS) panels, the first wide-range electrostatic drivers to deliver good horizontal sound dispersion without sacrificing overall sound quality or reliability. CLS Generation 2 builds on that success with advanced diaphragm and stator technologies that significantly enhance speaker efficiency and dynamics.

Their new thin-film plasma-deposition process applies an improved conductive coating to the ultra-low-mass PET (polyethylene terathylate) diaphragm for superior adhesion and abrasion resistance, as well as a better impedance characteristic. MicroPerf™ stators expose more of the diaphragm surface, dramatically expanding effective radiating area without increasing panel size, while ClearSpar spacers help maintain their stiffness without impairing the signature transparent look of MartinLogan electrostats. Many folks fall in love with MartinLogans on the strength of their stunning architectural appearance alone.

Hybrid Dynamic Technology
What really sets the Matinee apart, even from its previous generation Martinlogan ancestors, is the high-resolution neodymium soft dome tweeter embedded directly in the electrostatic panel. By eliminating the need for a bulky tweeter-housing mounted in front of the ESL panel , the Matinee all but eliminates high-frequency diffraction. This unique mounting system also increases mid-range/high-frequency phase coherence and time alignment while offering superior dispersion characteristics.

Low-Distortion Woofers
By eliminating cone flexure, Matinee's rigid composite cone diaphragms help these advanced-technology woofers achieve the very low distortion necessary for proper blending with MartinLogan electrostatic panels.

Vojtko Crossover
Carefully hand-built using only the finest air-core coils, the crossover employ's MartinLogan's proprietary Vojtko topology for vanishingly low distortion and seamless driver integration. This precision-tuned network preserves even the most subtle sonic nuances while handling the full dynamics of any source. You'll swear the musicians are right there in your room.

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The newest version of MartinLogan's MicroPerf stators increase the size of the soundstage without sacrificing small size

Structural Features Make Matinee Versatile

The Clarity of MicroPerf Stators
Although stators are the elements of an electrostatic driver that are supposed to stand still, they carry the audio signals that do the work of propelling the diaphragm back and forth to move air and produce sound. Because the stators sandwich the diaphragm between them, they must be perforated to allow sound to pass through. Yet they must also be rigid enough to remain absolutely stationary despite the strong electrostatic forces pushing and pulling at them during operation.

MartinLogan's new, updated MicroPerf design optimizes this tradeoff by reducing the size of the individual holes and using many more of them than in the former version. MicroPerf almost doubles effective diaphragm radiating area without compromising structural integrity. The resulting increase in output capability and efficiency allows a panel to be made much smaller without sacrificing performance - or to enjoy a substantial leap in bandwidth and dynamics without growing larger. You get a cool look at the heart of the Matinee and can keep the size under control.

On-Wall/Off-Wall Acoustic Contour Switch
Matinee features a unique 'on-wall/off-wall' switch that tailors acoustic equalization to either installation option. Simply set this switch to On-Wall if mounting to a surface. Set the switch to Off-Wall if the Matinee is more than four inches from a wall. Setting this switch ensures that you will achieve total system matching in even the most diverse setups (such as systems mixing on-wall and off-wall installations).

Application Versatility
Matinee is suitable for use in any stereo or multi-channel audio system, mounted either on- or off-wall, horizontally or vertically. Ideal as the matching center channel with either the MartinLogan floorstanding speakers such as Purity or Source, or use as rear effect speakers. 5 or 7 Matinees and a sub make a killer compact high performance theater package. You can mix and match Matinee to meet your specific needs.

Installation Versatility
The Matinee LCR speaker easily installs on a set-top or shelf. Also note that using the included wall-mount brackets and installation template, Matinee may be horizontally/vertically mounted to a wall--under or beside a plasma or LCD screen, for example. An optional pivoting stand with 35 degrees of motion (sold separately) can be used on a surface for extra ranges of aiming. There is also an optional interface plate to attach available pivoting wall brackets.

Easy Installation Low-Voltage Power Supply
A low-voltage DC power supply eliminates the need for a traditional, heavy IEC power cord and increases installation flexibility and allows for extra long or custom runs when necessary.

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The Final Breakdown: Technical Specifications

	Frequency Response:	73-20,000 Hz ±3dB
	Horizontal Dispersion:	30 Degrees
	Sensitivity:	89 dB/2.83 volts/meter
	Impedance: Nominal:	6 ohms Minumum: 4 ohms
	Crossover Frequencies:	450, 4000 Hz
	Components:	Air core coils
	High Frequency Driver:	1" (2.5cm) neodymium soft dome
	Midrange Driver:	Patented CLS™ Generation 2 MicroPerf electrostatic transducer
	Woofer Type:	Two 5.25" (13.4 cm) neodymium magnet, composite cone with extended throw driver assembly, non-resonant asymmetrical chamber format; shielded
	Power Handling:	150 watts
	Weight:	21 lbs./channel (9.5 kg)
	Size (HxWxD with non-skid feet):	7.6" x 29.75" x 9" (19.3 x 75.6 x 22.9 cm)
	Size (HxWxD with wall brackets):	7.3" x 29.75" x 7.9" (18.6 x 75.6 x 20.1 cm)

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Complete Your Home Theater with MartinLogan Front Channels (sold separately)

	Vantage Speaker - Based on the state-of-the-art Summit loudspeaker, Vantage offers unprecedented performance for its size and price. Key to this achievement is our PoweredForce active woofer technology, which generates deep, articulate, dynamic bass from an astonishingly compact cabinet. An XStat electrostatic panel handles the midrange up, delivering the smooth, pristinely detailed, and richly ambient sound that is the hallmark of MartinLogan speakers. No ordinary speaker comes close.
	Vista Speaker - Vista is MartinLogan's most affordable XStat equipped floorstanding speaker. Incorporating ultra-high-resolution XStat and AirFrame technologies originally developed for the cost-no-object Summit; Vista is capable of an exceptionally dynamic and realistic performance. A single aluminum cone woofer, compact cabinet, and bi-wire capable toolless binding posts further reinforce Vista's high-end pedigree. The result? A stellar performer at an exceptional price.
	Fully Powered Purity Speaker - Purity is an internally powered hybrid design descended from Martinlogan's legendary, ultra performing enthusiast models. Purity represents a remarkable achievement in performance and 21st century connectivity at a really amazing price. Executing an exciting new direction, Purity is an elegant compact floor standing beauty that does it all. Combining the latest, friendliest version of MartinLogan's unique see-through electrostatic panel (world's most accurate method of sound reproduction) with 2 deep bass woofer cones in a clean lined cabinet, Purity mates ideally with any electronics for any audio use. Purity is at its best when directly connected with an RCA cable from any device with a volume control. Your computer, TV, i-pod, pre-amp, and A/V receiver will all love the marriage. Of course you may hook-up using conventional speaker wire if your system so requires.
	Source Speaker - Source is an elegant, compact floor standing beauty that does it all. Combining the latest version of MartinLogan's unique "see-through" electrostatic panel (the world's most accurate method of sound reproduction) with a deep bass woofer cone in a clean lined cabinet, Source mates ideally with nearly any of your electronics, for any use. Beyond delivering stunning, accurate play back of all types of stereo music, or incorporated as the star in your 5.1 or 7.1 home theater playing film soundtracks, Source will look great in your entertainment space and provide years of performance and pride because of its renowned MartinLogan design and construction. Best of all is the low cost - the Source allows you to get the superior build quality and truly exceptional sound of more expensive electrostats for a very affordable price.
	Preface Speaker - Compact and decor-friendly, the Preface is a perfect reflection of the passion and pride of MartinLogan products. Equipped with 3 6.5 inch woofers and an ATF high frequency driver, the Preface delivers a sound with unparalleled purity, precision and clarity. Frequency response ranges from 35-20,000 Hz.

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Complete Your Home Theater with A MartinLogan Subwoofer (sold separately)

	Depth i Subwoofer - Depth i deploys the full array of MartinLogan's advanced subwoofer technologies to achieve deep, rich, satisfying bass while preserving electrostatic-like accuracy and detail. Its TriLinear BalancedForce alignment, advanced low-distortion switching amplifier, and sophisticated triple-servo control systems extract the very best possible performance from Depth i's high-resolution 8-inch aluminum-cone drivers. TriLinear BalancedForce places the subwoofer's three drivers precisely 120 degrees apart from each other in the cabinet. Their reaction force vectors meet at the center and exactly cancel, virtually eliminating cabinet resonance and vibration. Gone with them are the cabinet-radiation coloration and bass blur that afflict even the best conventional subwoofers. The triple-servo system, meanwhile, ensures that the output from the drivers themselves - the output we want - is always an absolutely faithful replica of the audio input signal.
	Grotto i Subwoofer - Grotto i deploys the full array of MartinLogan's advanced subwoofer technologies to achieve deep, rich, satisfying bass while preserving electrostatic-like accuracy and detail. Its advanced low-distortion switching amplifier and sophisticated servo control system extract the very best possible performance from Grotto i's high-resolution 10-inch aluminum-cone driver. A powerful 300 watt (900 watt peak) low-distortion, high-reliability amplifier gives Grotto i extremely articulate bass without need of exaggerated amplifier power ratings or transient-blurring ported or passive radiator enclosures common to many modern subwoofers. A proprietary servo system further ensures that output from Grotto i's 10-inch high-resolution aluminum cone woofer is dramatically free of distortion and provides a faithful replica of the audio input signal.
	Dynamo 500 Subwoofer - No other subwoofer offers Dynamo 500's bass extension, power, and detail at such an affordable price. Perfect for either home theater or stereo applications, the Dynamo 500 is solidly built with high-density materials to minimize cabinet resonance and provide a foundation for the high-output 10-inch woofer and high-current 120-watt RMS, 360-watt peak amplifier. Additionally, dual rear-mounted low-turbulence ports maximize bass output while minimizing port induced distortions.

Other MartinLogan Custom Install Solutions (sold separately)

	Voyage In-Wall Speaker - The MartinLogan Voyage in-wall speaker system is a ultimate-performance speaker for your home theater entertainment room.. It is the world's most sophisticated and elegant architectural loudspeaker, The Voyage in-wall speaker sounds so clean and dynamic, you'd think it were a superb standalone design. Not surprising, since it borrows so much from our own, including Advanced Thin Film drivers and high-resolution woofers. A rigid aluminum chassis and die-cast mounting locks enhance performance and ease installation, while an adjustable tweeter-alignment sphere, paintable end caps, and a selection of grille colors provide incredible adaptability.
	Passage In-Wall Speaker - A uniquely elegant and extremely accurate in-wall speaker, Passage is a remarkable performer delivering the sound quality you would expect to hear from one of MartinLogan's floorstanding loudspeakers. With twin high-resolution aluminum-cone woofers, a world class ATF (Advanced Thin Film) tweeter, an advanced-technology Vojtko crossover and a rigid aluminum chassis and 1" front baffle, Passage is quite simply an in-wall loudspeaker marvel. The result is a full, wonderfully smooth and engaging sound with clean and surprisingly deep bass foundation.
	Ticket In-Wall Speaker - The MartinLogan Ticket in-wall speaker is a compact, affordable in-wall speaker for every room in your home. While significantly smaller than Passage, the elegant, affordable Ticket in-wall speaker is nonetheless a very strong performer. Its dual long-throw, high-resolution woofers, integrated dome tweeter, and advanced Vojtko¿ crossover deliver rich, clear sound and superb stereo imaging. Ticket also features paintable end caps and a selection of grille colors for perfect matching with any decor. Its quick and easy, yet very secure, installation system is the same used in Voyage and Passage speakers from MartinLogan.
	Helos 100 In-Ceiling Speaker - Helos 100 is ideal for any room requiring ultimate in-ceiling audio performance such as a 2-channel system in a large living room or a multi-channel system in a discrete home theater. Helos 100's aimable assembly allows a large audience to experience the full potential of the Helos 100. Featuring a 1-inch neodymium soft dome tweeter, high-rigidity aluminum cone woofer, and proprietary Vojtko crossover topology, Helos 100 effortlessly provides solid imaging with extreme sonic accuracy. An acoustic contour switch tailors dispersion assuring a top-notch performance in any installation.
	Helos 20 In-Ceiling Speaker - A direct descendant from the Helos100, the Helos 20 continues with the MartinLogan tradition of exceptional sound. The Helos 20 has the ability compliment any decor with it's paintable grill and frame. Sonically, the Helos 20 boasts a dual voice coil system with two 0.75 inch soft dome tweeters with a pivoting stem and a single 6.5 inch woofer, creating crisp accurate sound. Frequency response ranges from 47-20,000 Hz.
	Helos 10 In-Ceiling Speaker - The Helos 10 delivers legendary MartinLogan quality and performance in a compact, high-resolution in-ceiling loudspeaker. Featuring a 1-inch neodymium soft dome tweeter mounted in an aimable stem, high-rigidity aluminum cone woofer, and proprietary Vojtko crossover topology, Helos 10 effortlessly provides extreme sonic accuracy.

Product Description

The MartinLogan Matinee electrostatic center channel speaker is highly compatible and complimentary with your home theater system. The MartinLogan Matinee is an evolved expression of the same ideas and engineering that spawned the Stage and Motif speakers. A state-of-the-art Generation 2 MicroPerf electrostatic panel, dual paper-cone woofers, and highly sophisticated Vojtko crossover technology deliver unrivaled precision and center-channel intelligibility. Carefully hand-built using only the finest components, Matinee's crossover preserves even the most subtle sonic nuances while handling the full dynamics of any source.

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

4 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Identical to Motif in sound, March 2, 2010

By 

R. Sitarz (Maryland, USA) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: MartinLogan Matinee Center Channel Electrostatic Speaker (Single, Black) (Electronics)

The Matinee is essentially identical to the Motif in terms of sound. There are three differences, none of which justified $300 price difference for me:

1. Matinee has last gen electrostatic panel - virtually identical in sound.
2. Matinee = vinyl finish only (matches my Sources), no stand (don't need one)
3. Matinee = paper cones (like sources), Motif (aluminum cones)

All the technical specs on the martin logan page are identical between the two.

Happy Listening!

8 of 10 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars clarity above all, August 19, 2008

By 

Alex Davenport (Sacramento, USA) - See all my reviews

This review is from: MartinLogan Matinee Center Channel Electrostatic Speaker (Single, Black) (Electronics)

I recently bought a pair of Sources and was stunned at the difference versus normal speakers. I had to complete the system, and in talking to people, they told me how important the center is. Since I had electrostats that showed me so much pleasure, I splurged and went for the Matinee so I have stats for the most important channels. What a revelation! Talking that was always hard to hear became so much clearer, I started to hear things I didn't know was there. I have also bought the Vignettes and the Abyss so am complete and in love. I am never looking back and enjoy music and movies like never before.

3 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Simply Beautiful, July 27, 2008

By 

B Gutz "SSG G" (MN) - See all my reviews

This review is from: MartinLogan Matinee Center Channel Electrostatic Speaker (Single, Black) (Electronics)

I bought a Matinee to pair with my Martin Logan Puritys. It made for a seamless integration, the sound stage flows as if you are actually there. A work of art to look at and superlative to listen too, a real treat. If you want to feel like your in the movie this is the center channel for you.