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Harbeth P3's or CS7 easier drive

I'm driving the P3's with a Croft phono Integrated. It's a very nice combo, and I would think very hard to beat for the money. Opinions may vary of course. I can't help but wonder if the C7's would unleash the Croft a bit. I remember the dealer playing the SHL5's for me after the P3's, and they easily sounded more efficient...Played louder with same amp and VC set the same. That was what I had heard about the 5's, so no surprise there. The C7's are spec'd at 86db, while the P3's I believe are 83.5db. However, the Harbeth site suggests an amp with higher wattage (than P3) for the C7's. Cheers -Don
fjn04

Showing 5 responses by fjn04

fjn04 OP
1,561 posts
 
Thanks yogi. The P3's are quite special. I'm not selling them short, believe me. I think you have done it right with the V-4's, and having that type of power on tap. I don't consider them tube friendly, but I'm sure you have them singing with the Quickies. Pardon me if I have it wrong, but my memory is you have the Silver 70's or V4 Single ended version.Weren't you
limited as to how far you could pull them away from rear wall. I think that may have been your reason for preferring the sealed P3's, correct?
Cheers
fjn04 OP
1,561 posts
 
Very nice Yogi. I really liked my V4's. I bet the Silver 70's sound sublime with the P3's.  I will have to read through the archives a bit. A bit quiet around here. Hmmm...
fjn04 OP
1,561 posts
 
Thanks smrex13. I figured with that 2.5 to 3 db difference the C7's would be somewhat easier to drive. I do feel the Croft does nicely with the P3's, and would have no problem recommending the combo. The C7's remain an interesting option...I also have a friend who has experience with both speakers, and he really liked the C7's.
fjn04 OP
1,561 posts
 
Has anyone tried the baby Leben (300X or XS) with the P3's, or C7's? It would seem like a stretch to think 15 watts would drive them to satisfying levels. Obvious exceptions to the case would be a small room, acoustic music... played at relatively normal listening levels.
fjn04 OP
1,561 posts
 
There are exceptions, but in general, it seems like the majority are using SS (or Hybrid) amps with the P3's. I understand why an 83-86 db speaker will respond to power... But I have never heard a SS amp which (for me) had that ever so engaging quality of a tube amp. I have a feeling a good 75 watt tube amp would do nicely. That said, I'd certainly take the opportunity to try a SS amp with the Harbeths. willemj- thanks for your response. (-:
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