I listened to the 501 Gold/Harbeth combination the other day at a delightful listening session at a local audio dealer. Source was a LM cd/dac and a variety of turntables. I was auditioning the Harbeths - the 7es3 and the SHL5 - but it was the LM that caught my attention.
The Harbeths were good: The HLF was more transparent and shimmery than the more warm and forceful 7es3. But neither made me want to give up my Reference 3A de Capo i's.
I found myself, however, fascinated by the presence and projection of the LM 501 Gold. I have a hybrid LSA Statement integrated now which I'm not giving up any time soon. However, I would heartily recommend the LM. It's beautifully designed; smooth and silky in its sound, and made musical nuances more noticeable.
A very good tube integrated with gobs of power.
The Harbeths were good: The HLF was more transparent and shimmery than the more warm and forceful 7es3. But neither made me want to give up my Reference 3A de Capo i's.
I found myself, however, fascinated by the presence and projection of the LM 501 Gold. I have a hybrid LSA Statement integrated now which I'm not giving up any time soon. However, I would heartily recommend the LM. It's beautifully designed; smooth and silky in its sound, and made musical nuances more noticeable.
A very good tube integrated with gobs of power.