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Are Harbeth Super HL5 XD right for me?

I am feeling like despite being very happy with my current speakers, I am missing something because they are by far the least expensive part of my system. I recently replaced my Large Advents with a pair of the new KLH Model 5s and I love them, despite being about 5% of my systems cost.

I am thinking about the Harbeth Super HL5 XD as a final upgrade. It’s a big chunk of change though and my biggest concern is that they can only be 12” away from the rear wall. They’ll be essentially open on both sides and I’ll be sitting about 8’ from them. This is fixed in stone. I’ll be driving them with a pair of Luxman MB-3045 tube amps and an ARC SP-14 playing 98% (or more) vinyl. Mostly jazz, classic rock and classical. I live in an apartment and never play very loud, and have reached the point where I really don’t have much desire to anyway.

So… Is it worth taking the chance given my situation or am I just setting myself up for disappointment and better off sticking with what I am really very happy with?

TIA

128x128jdougs

Showing 1 response by yakbob

yakbob
449 posts
 

Are you in the states? 
I always felt Harbeth were a poor value on this side of the pond. A nice, well designed/built product, and respected history…but still.

In the similar “new but vintage look and feel” category, I’d suggest looking into the Tannoy Cheviot, which is more efficient, has a wider frequency response, (slightly) less expensive and more tuneable via the front panel. Their controlled directivity also helps with rooms that may otherwise be difficult. I listen to a lot of jazz at lower volumes (when my wife is asleep), and own the larger Tannoy Arden. They work great in this situation.

Jeff’s recommendation of AudioNote seems a solid choice too, although I thought they liked being placed in corners, which doesn’t sound like you have in this room.

 

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