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Harbeth M30.1 vs B&W CM10 s2

My current gear consists of B&W CM10, Parasound A21 and Cambridge Audio Azur 851D (preamp and DAC). My taste in music -- jazz, blues, light rock (e.g. John Mayer). No interest in pop music, rock, metal, rap, etc. I am not really dissatisfied with my current system per se, but there are times when I find the speakers to be a bit on the bright side and lacking warmth. I am also planning to add a subwoofer (or two) in the near future, so musical sub recommendations are also welcome.

I have an opportunity to buy a used pair of Harbeth M30.1. I have heard great things about Harbeth. The problem is that the seller lives about 2 hours away from me. So before I make the trip, I want to get some feedback from folks who own the Harbeths, or better yet replaced B&Ws with Harbeths.

If one’s taste in music leans toward jazz (classical and contemporary), vocals (Diana Krall, Patricia Barber, Shirley Horn, etc), blues, and light rock, do you think Harbeths will be a step up in sound quality compared to the CM10s? I am looking for more transparent, detailed sound but not at the expense of losing the bottom end/oomph.

The speakers will be placed in the media room. Roughly 15 x 20, 10 ft ceilings. No windows.
arafiq

Showing 1 response by joey54

joey54
435 posts
 
Given what given what you have said you are looking for you have described the sound of the Harbeth SHL5+’s. I am happy owner of the SHL5+’s but I have never heard the B&W CM10’s and can not compare the sound of the two. There are a few pairs of the SHL’s for sale on AGON right now for good prices.

My only caution would be that you probably can’t listen to them before you buy unless they are near you. For me, I would not buy any speaker I have not heard personally. Any opinions you get are just that and are based on the listeners priorities and experience with the speaker they know. I have always believed that the speaker is the most important component in a system and you need to start there. Have you discussed this with your audio dealer? They may have some good advice for you. Good Luck!
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