The good news is with those two choices, you can't go wrong. The bad news is probably no one can answer that question except you. If price is not a consideration, do you have the room for the larger HL-5s? If you do, personally, I would go for those. I own the C7ES3's and they are simply stunning. If I can answer any questions for you about those, just let me know.
Harbeth Hl-5 or Harbeth-7es
I've been reading about both speakers on Audiogon.I have also paid attention for pre-owned one's that have come up for sale. It seems that the compact 7's sell more quickly on the used market. I talked to a dealer that told me he sells 10pairs of compact 7's to 1 pair of Hl-5's. If price Isn't a consideration what would you suggest me buying used or new. I'm currently running all tube gear with an analog front end.