Considering Harbeth C 7ES-3


I am considering purchasing Harbeth C 7ES-3s. Have PSAudio Stellar amp and preamp. I would appreciate thoughts on sound quality and character. I listen to everything except heavy metal/ thrash. Are there other speakers I should consider in their price range? @$4000.
jlm51

Showing 1 response by tobes

10-11-2019 3:50am
The C7ES3 treble is incredible and best in the Harbeth line IMHO.  
Possibly the nicest sounding application of an aluminum dome that I have ever heard- natural but with a shimmering amount of air that adds trailing edge detail without going too far.  
The P3ESR and 30.1 / .2 use the soft domes and they are too rounded off for me.  
The SHL5+ have a super tweeter that while impressive does have some cancellations with the main tweeter that give the C7ES3 the edge.  
The 40.1 /2 sound overly natural with a rounded off top end and dominating bottom end.
Again with the right system synergy and room setup the C7ES3 are spooky good speakers.
I owned the C7ES3 for 2yrs and the m30.1 for 6 years. I found the 30.1 to have a more sophisticated and refined treble than the ES3.

I always enjoyed listening to the ES3, but music sounded richer and more complex through the m30.1.
Since moved on to ATC, which I find more neutral and dynamic than the Harbeth. 
Definitely compare the ATC SCM19 to the C7ES3 and see which you prefer. Very different speakers. I sold my m30.1's after comparing to SCM19's - but many don't favour the more neutral ATC sound.