Harbeth 30.1, 30.2, XD

I have 30.1s. Is there an actual sound difference between them and the 30.2 or XDs? I’ve searched around but I can’t seem to find an answer.

dhcod06-02-2021 2:57pm

ryder Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 1,738 posts 06-02-2021 at 03:49pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete I have listened to both 30.1 and 30.2 at the dealers about 3 or 4 years ago and they surely sound different. 30.2 sounds slightly more open with better clarity. The 30.2 sounds slightly brighter than the 30.1 which is warmer in comparison where the treble is less airy or sparkly. I do not have experience with the XD version of the 30.2.
ryder Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 1,738 posts 06-02-2021 at 09:42pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete New is not always better. +2. Having said that, I find the 30.1 to be much better than the older M30 which sounded too warm and shut-in in the midrange and treble, severely lacking clarity and detail. My first Harbeth experience with the M30 was more than 10 years ago. FWIW a 30.1 owner on another forum tried the 30.2 but went back to the 30.1 as he prefers the warmer sound of the latter.