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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 4 responses by yogiboy

yogiboy's avatar
yogiboy
5,486 posts
 

I have those speakers. I took a chance and bought them used about 4 months ago. They have a front port so I doubt you will have a placement problem. I’ve owned many speakers including other Harbeth models and these are outstanding.

If you take a look at my system you will see that they are placed about a foot from the rear wall with windows behind them. You should look for a used pair just in case they don’t work out.

BTW, make sure you get the correct size stands to match them. You should check all listings for a used pair before you spend over 8 grand new!

TMR has a pair listed here for $4000. Grab them!

yogiboy's avatar
yogiboy
5,486 posts
 
@helomech

The last time I looked that Graham LS/8 is about 10 grand! You think that’s a value? Have you listened to them?

yogiboy's avatar
yogiboy
5,486 posts
 

The amount of toe in was very critical for a perfect sound stage on my HL5s. Do a little amount at a time until the sound stage dials in. BTW, glad you like them!

Toe-in is pointing a loudspeaker inward toward the listener rather than aiming it straight ahead. Toe-in is a powerful tool for dialing-in the soundstage and treble balance. There are no rules for toe-in; the optimal amount will vary greatly with the speaker and the room. Toe-in increases the amount of treble heard at the listening seat.

yogiboy's avatar
yogiboy
5,486 posts
 

Perfect!👍

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