ES Lab ES-2a Open-Back Electrostatic Headphone

Hifi Pig found bass impact and body stronger than on most electrostatics it had heard, with convincing presence and depth. This is presented as substantial, controlled low-end weight rather than bass quantity for its own sake.

The midrange is singled out as a major strength, with vocals portrayed superbly: slightly forward but natural. Lower mids are said to have realistic body, while low vocal notes retain convincing weight.

Treble is described as smooth, well extended, and very well tuned. It has plenty of upper-frequency energy without becoming brash, harsh, or overly forward in the way some electrostatics can.

The review repeatedly praises the ES-2a's separation, resolution, and detail retrieval. It is said to dig deep into mixes and reveal subtle information that other headphones can mask, while retaining a clean presentation.

The stage is said to give up a small amount of width, but the reviewer found its imaging and separation compensating strengths. A well-defined centre image and clear space around musical elements support convincing organization.

The review highlights quick transient response and describes bass as having meaningful impact and body. There is less direct discussion of large-scale dynamic swing, but the reported speed and punch suggest an engaging rather than flat delivery.

Hifi Pig calls the ES-2a lightweight and extremely comfortable for long listening sessions. At 450 g without cable, its reported comfort appears to come from successful overall fit and weight handling rather than merely a low stated mass.

The review says ES Lab makes its products very well, using premium materials throughout. The aluminum-magnesium housing supports that impression, though the available review offers limited comment on long-term durability or serviceability.

This is a straightforward open-back electrostatic design using a 5-pin Stax Pro-bias connection. It requires a dedicated electrostatic energiser, an important system and ownership consideration, though no other practical usability problems are reported.

At £1,749, Hifi Pig considers the ES-2a to offer a lot of sound for the money. That endorsement comes with the important caveat that buyers must already own, or budget for, a suitable electrostatic energiser.