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Harbeth - Compact 7 ES-2 used OR P3-ESR new ?

I can't decide which is best, both in terms of use and value.

Concerning Use:
The system will be setup in a small cubed room with less than ideal listening conditions. In all likelihood, the speakers will be close to the rear wall. In this case, I would think that the smaller P3-ESRs would be the best fit, but I've been told that the Compact 7s are a more capable monitor and one that performs well in tight spaces. I should also mention that I may be moving in a year, so I don't want to excessively limit myself based on room dimensions. I'm also not sure which speaker has the better technology - although the P3-ESR is new, the Compact 7 ES-2 is a model above. I would think that the Compact 7 ES-2 would excel in the lower frequencies, but I'm really not sure (I have yet to audition them).

Concerning value:
I can find a used pair of Compact 7 ES-2s with some minor cosmetic damage for about $700 less than a new pair of P3-ESRs. Naturally, the Compact 7s will be a better deal and retain greater resale value (not that I intend to sell them), but I don't want to buy the speaker if it doesn't align properly with my needs. That is, if the P3-ESR is the better fit, I would be happy to bite the bullet.

I would appreciate any/all feedback - especially from those with first-hand experience. Thanks!
jferreir

Showing 3 responses by chashas1

chashas1's avatar
chashas1
596 posts
 
I agree. The new P3's can produce great bass and volume, for their size. They're meant for small rooms.
The 7's can fill a bigger room and go lower.
There's no arguing with it. Alan Shaw explains this in great length( as is his usual) on the user forum.

And I also agree with Kotta, as much as I love the Harbeths, they are overpriced. On the other hand, (quoting the great LD) if you love their sound they're worth it.

I'd buy the 7's.
chashas1's avatar
chashas1
596 posts
 
I saw your thread on the user forum. I wasn't surprised Alan pushed the new 3's, he being the supreme marketer.
If I remember right he earlier chose an older version of the 5's over the newer 7's, due to woofer size.

My contention was that a small speaker still sounds small.
I had the Kudos C-10's here for a while, more open and clearer than the Harbeths, but still, a small sounding speaker.

I love the Harbeth sound, I own a pair. I still consider, as do many of the British users over there even, that they are still over priced, i.e they have a decent veneer, not beautiful veneers that some in their price range have.
Value is what you make of it.

I was a little sad for you that you chose the 3's, only because if you move to a bigger room, which sounds like you'll eventually be doing, you'll need a bigger speaker.

Have fun regardless!
chashas1's avatar
chashas1
596 posts
 
Seriously, trust your instincts, I think you did fine.
If you like the harbeth sound, you're gonna love em!
One thing Alan is right about, even on iffy stands they sound great, of course, that being said, the better the stand the better the sound. And of course, he'd disagree..
Do enjoy!
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