Harbeth vs. Tyler

I wish Muzikat had provided a really specific description of the tonal and resolution qualities of the Tylers and the Harbeths - especially since he has owned and heard them both.

I've owned other British Speakers, Rogers LS35A's and Studio 1A, as well as Quad 63's. If these represent 'British sound', and Harbeth represents British sound, I doubt that Tyler's speakers will sound much like them based on my experience with the Linbrooke Signature Systems that I presently use.

In comparison I would expect the Tyler's to have a warmer sound, both in the upper bass, and a little less high end energy (not resolution - I think the Tylers resolution using the millenium tweeter is outstanding). From all I've read about Harbeths (I've never heard a pair, but I'd like to hear one of the larger models) I would expect a very high quality/resolution speaker, tonally neutral, perhaps without the typical upper mid range dip that appears in a lot. They certainly are not some POS speakers that out VI seems to think they are!

Personally I really like the Tylers.

Just a WAG FWIW

Drubin & Dodgealum,

While I would consider you cynicism about speaker design with multiple options using the same drivers regularily in different boxes and with (or without?) crossover adjustments, very reasonable, consider that many of the major manufacturers put out multiple models with different drivers, different boxes, and different crossovers, and is continually introducing Mk I, II, and III versions, and then moving on to a new model. One must wonder about their level of expertise and dedication to producting a speaker that is truly a value. Names intentionally omitted but they are well known and have large followings. Same also applies to components as well.

I'm much more impressed by the small manufacturers (I would think Harbeth would be one) who take the time to get a good basic design in the first place and stick with it, only making changes allowing for slow evolution or the needs of the end user.

Personally, I think far too much "emphasis" placed on anything (other than quality component parts) is likely to be marketing hype. Especially when it comes to design philosophy and esoteric or new stuff.

IMHO there is nothing inherrently wrong with a cross over designed by Madisound any more than there is anything right with a crossover designed by some major speaker designer. They all have their share of successes and failures which are only revealed by careful listening.

JMHO folks.