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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 ryder

ryder
1,738 posts
 
The M30.1s sound quite different from the SHL5+. The M30.1s are capable of sounding big in a larger room fed with good power. Nevertheless, the SHL5+ will have a larger and more enveloping sound than the M30.1 apart from deeper and fuller bass.

The M30.1 has the small studio house sound which is great for vocals and small musical ensembles playing some jazz. However, it doesn’t sound as airy or open as the Compact 7ES3 and SHL5+ which are more of an all-rounder in my view. Personally I prefer the SHL5+ more than the M30.1 but that’s entirely based on my listening taste and personal preference. As always, it is best if you can listen and decide for yourself.
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