ProAc Studio 100 vs. Proac 1SC vs. Harbeth P3ESR

I don't have much experience with any of the speakers you mentioned, so my advice should be taken with a grain of salt. I've heard them, but not for any length of time to give the insight the others here have...

If you're really intrigued by Harbeths, you should definitely make it a point to hear them. When I was speaker shopping, I heard a bunch of speakers. There were some excellent ones that I'd easily have been happy with. Something told me to track down Audio Physic. I'd almost made my mind up when I went to a dealer on the way back from another audition. Unbeknownst to me, he carried the speaker I was looking for. It was exactly what I was looking for in a speaker, and then some. I've happily had them for 4 years, and they blow the doors off everything I've heard anywhere near their price.

I'm not saying buy Audio Physics. I'm saying if you're truly interested in the Harbeths, find a way to hear them. Harbeths don't have a cult following for nothing. They're excellent speakers that I think everyone in this hobby should hear at least once.

ProAcs are excellent speakers as well. Keep in mind the best speaker will most likely be the one that fits your room and system best. If you have a bigger room, the Studio 100 may end up sounding better than the 1SC, even though the 1SC is a "better" speaker, lineup wise.

Thanks for the responses. I appreciate hearing from people who have experience with these. I am not sure what I am going to do but I think I got some insight. I would love to hear the Harbeth but don't know if I will have that option. Thanks again.

The Studio 100 is still one of the best all around speakers in audio. Unless you go to a D2, you'll be splitting hairs.

My experience is only with the P3ESR and Proac Tablette 50 Signature.

From what I gather the Studio 100 is a lower-end model in comparison to the 1SC which used to be Proac's reference monitor. Although decent, the Studio 100 is not in the league of the 1SC in terms of poise and refinement. The 1SC will have superior separation, imaging and delicate highs, whereas the Studio 100 will sound as what Zkzp8 had described, though the bass will go deeper due to the larger cabinet and mid-bass driver. Between the Studio 100 and 1SC, I wager it's a choice of a bigger scale and fuller sound of the Studio 100, or a more refined and delicate sound of the 1SC.

Personally I would go with either the 1SC or P3ESR. The P3ESR will have the signature "organic bloom" of the Harbeth house sound which gives a warm glowing feel to music. The Studio 100 is not at the level of both these speakers though it may be able to play louder.

Since you find the Studio 100 an excellent speaker, you may want to consider it over the 1SC or P3ESR to minimize your risk if an audition can't be arranged.

I've heard the 100's in both demo rooms and recording studios - great speakers, but I have P3-ESR's. Honestly haven't heard the 100's in a while, but I just really dig Harbeth so that's what I'm into. From memory, I found the 100's a little too boxy - that's always a deal breaker for me...