Biggest problem with Harbeths is that they are bulky for the bass you get. The other minus is soundstage. Otherwise so sweet.
What Is So Special About Harbeth?
SLike probably all of you, I just received notice from Audiogon of a 20% discount on Harbeth XD. I clicked on the tab and found that the sale price is about $2700. I have read so many glowing comments here about Harbeth — as if just saying the name is the password for entering aural nirvana. I admit, I haven’t listened to Harbeth speakers. But looking at these, they just look like smallish bookshelf speakers. I’m not questioning how good others say these speakers are, but HOW do they do it out of an ordinary-looking box?
Is it the wood? Is it the bracing? Is it the crossover components? Is it the cone material? What is the reason why these Harbeth’s are such gems compared to other bookshelf speakers? What is it about the construction or technology that makes these speakers a deal at $2700 on sale versus the $800, 900 or $1,000 that others normally cost? What is the secret that makes audiophiles thrill to get such a costly bargain?
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Have both the 30.1’s and 40.2’s and they do sound great in all respects... when... driven by the right amplifiers - especially, the Hegel’s, which Alan Shaw demos his speakers with. The SS Hegel amps control the woofers and mids properly, which adds clarity, detail and dynamics. Makes all the difference in the quality of their sound and elevates them more to a sound similar to Quad ESL57’s, or even close to ATC’s. They also sound great with the Mac MA252, or MA352 tube / SS hybrids. Though, I’d prolly still prefer the ATC’s - they’re harder to find at a reasonable price. And... if you want something that’s much easier to drive, which can rival the sound of the Harbeths - the Klipsch Heritage line is a great option - which can sound great with some great tube amps (e.g. Line Magnetic LM 219ia, etc.). And... you can likely find them at a better price. |
I've been in this hobby since the 60's and I've heard everything known to man. I've owned horns, electrostatics and a range of dynamic speakers. I've listened to every kind of music in every kind of room. |
@ryder +1. I think there was one typo; the 40.2 made some significant changes over the 40.1, so the regular 40.2 or anniversary 40.2 are the best places to look. Also, just to be clear, 40.2's at least are anything but forward sounding, if anything they are a little laid back.
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