I have Harbeth 40.3 XDs, a pair of Rythmik E15HP2 subs and an Accuphase E-800. The sound is wonderfully lush, soothing full and detailed at low levels. I think the Harbeths are 85 db (not super efficient) but easy to drive with an impedance range of 6-8 ohm. I had a pair of Harbeth SHL5 Plus as well and they also sounded full, lush and detailed in the 70 db range. I had larger more efficient Focal Scala Utopia EVOs and they were not as enjoyable at low levels.
Nearfield Low-Level Listening : New Speakers or EQ? Thoughts?
In my main rig, I listen nearfield at low levels, and I do not feel the music sounds fully engaging until moderate-to-loud volumes. Have been told my speakers, Totem Forest Signature, "need power to sing". I have ordered a Schiit Loki Max EQ; wondering if that will do the trick or do I need to consider new speakers? I use the Loudness/Comp feature on my integrated amp, it helps some. Listen to 70s, Jazz, Americana, ...
My System:
- Accuphase E-380 Integrated
- 180 watts into 4 ohms and 120 watts into 8 ohms.
- High damping factor of 500.
- Totem Forest Signature Speakers
- Impedance: 8 ohms (6.4 ohms minimum)
- Sensitivity: 87 dB
- Recommended Power: 50 - 225 watts
- Rose HiFi RS-150B Streamer/DAC
- Thorens 1601 TT, Schiit Skol Pre, Nagoaka Cart
- REL Classic 98 Subwoofer, Speakon connection
- XLR Connections, Bi-Wired Speakers
- Shunyata Power Conditioner