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  1. #51
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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    The P3ESR projects a forward soundstage where the 30.2 is recessed. Tonally they aren't too far off of each other, though the 30.2 is a little more laid back. The 30.2 also does well on lower power where the P3 needs more juice.

    Personally, the only reason I'd consider the P3 over the 30.2 is application or price. The 30.2 are better in every way.

  2. #52

    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Quote Originally Posted by DSkip View Post
    The P3ESR projects a forward soundstage where the 30.2 is recessed. Tonally they aren't too far off of each other, though the 30.2 is a little more laid back. The 30.2 also does well on lower power where the P3 needs more juice.

    Personally, the only reason I'd consider the P3 over the 30.2 is application or price. The 30.2 are better in every way.
    Thanks, appreciate it. What would you say are sound-wise the main differences between the 30.1 and the 30.2?


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    “Life’s too short to listen to bad audio.”

    Big rig: Brinkmann Taurus DD TT + 12.1 arm + Lyra Etna Lambda SL MC + HRS M3X2/ Cardas Clear Beyond phono/ Stillpoints LPI/ Brinkmann Edison mk2 phono + RöNT II Tube PS/ Synology NAS with Roon + HD Plex linear PSU + Shunyata HD/ AQ Vodka RJ45 + Aqvox Network Switch SE + AQ Diamond RJ45 into DAC/ Brinkmann Nyquist mk2/ Audionet Humboldt/ Cardas Clear Beyond ICs/ Kharma DB9-S 1.1 LS/ Inakustik Reference LS 4004 AIR/ Audioquest Niagara 5000/ Shunyata Alpha power (HC, Analogue, Digital)/ Finite Elemente Pagode Rack/ Stillpoints Ultra SS/ Vicoustic panels + Stillpoints Aperture II.

    Small rig: Naim UnitiServe/ Curious USB/ Tidal/ Linn Klimax DS3/ Shunyata Power cable/ Pass Labs INT-60/ Acoustic Zen Silver Reference II/ HiD Diamond 8/ Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary/ Shunyata Venom EU7 & Venom 3 HD.

    HP rig: MacBookAir/ Tidal/ Auralic Gemini 2000/ Sbooster LPSU/ Audeze LCD-2 Classic + WyWires Red/ Shunyata HD/ Shunyata Hydra 2/ Shunyata Venom.

  3. #53
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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    I can't compare the two directly as I haven't heard the 30.1. I almost got a pair in trade a few months ago but the client decided to go a different route. Between the P3 and 30.2 I can say the P3 has a little more bite on the top end where the 30.2 is smoothed out some. The 30.2 has more depth to the soundstage and obviously fills in the frequencies better.

    I could imagine with the wrong gear the 30.2 could sound muffled but it isn't an attribute I've experienced on any combination I've tried thus far.

  4. #54

    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    These could be my next speakers for my smaller room. Currently have the B&W 805S in this room. Almost purchased a used 30.1, but I think I'll wait a while.
    Turntable: VPI Prime Signature Cart: Benz Micro LP-S
    DACs: Lampizator Golden Atlantic, Lampizator Euforia DSD
    Preamps: Mac C500T, MX121, Amps: Mac MC75 (*2), MC205
    Headphone Amps: Glenn 300B, Woo WA22
    Speakers: Dynaudio C1 Platinum, B&W 804S, Phones: LCD-3F, LCD-4

  5. #55
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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    I recently listened to the 30.2s at Mike’s store. These are wonderfully musical bookshelf speakers.

    Incidently, this past Friday, my wife and I stopped by Mike’s store and he played the HL5plus. These sounded very alive and musical.
    _______________

    Mike

    Amplification: MBL 6010D, MBL 9008A Monos
    Analog: Kuzma R, Kuzma 4Point (11”), MSL Ultra Eminent EX
    Phono Pre: Pass XP-27
    Digital: Esoteric N01XD Esoteric K05
    Speakers: MBL 101E MKII
    Subwoofers: REL Carbon Specials
    Conditioner: Shunyata Triton 3
    Power Cables: Shunyata Sigma 1 & 2, Alpha 2, Delta and Venom
    ICs and SCs: Wireworld Platinum 8
    Rack: Artesania Exoteryc

  6. #56

    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Quote Originally Posted by Ritmo View Post
    I recently listened to the 30.2s at Mike’s store. These are wonderfully musical bookshelf speakers.

    Incidently, this past Friday, my wife and I stopped by Mike’s store and he played the HL5plus. These sounded very alive and musical.
    Mike, which ones did you prefer?

    I find them a bit different in their characteristic.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    “Life’s too short to listen to bad audio.”

    Big rig: Brinkmann Taurus DD TT + 12.1 arm + Lyra Etna Lambda SL MC + HRS M3X2/ Cardas Clear Beyond phono/ Stillpoints LPI/ Brinkmann Edison mk2 phono + RöNT II Tube PS/ Synology NAS with Roon + HD Plex linear PSU + Shunyata HD/ AQ Vodka RJ45 + Aqvox Network Switch SE + AQ Diamond RJ45 into DAC/ Brinkmann Nyquist mk2/ Audionet Humboldt/ Cardas Clear Beyond ICs/ Kharma DB9-S 1.1 LS/ Inakustik Reference LS 4004 AIR/ Audioquest Niagara 5000/ Shunyata Alpha power (HC, Analogue, Digital)/ Finite Elemente Pagode Rack/ Stillpoints Ultra SS/ Vicoustic panels + Stillpoints Aperture II.

    Small rig: Naim UnitiServe/ Curious USB/ Tidal/ Linn Klimax DS3/ Shunyata Power cable/ Pass Labs INT-60/ Acoustic Zen Silver Reference II/ HiD Diamond 8/ Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary/ Shunyata Venom EU7 & Venom 3 HD.

    HP rig: MacBookAir/ Tidal/ Auralic Gemini 2000/ Sbooster LPSU/ Audeze LCD-2 Classic + WyWires Red/ Shunyata HD/ Shunyata Hydra 2/ Shunyata Venom.

  7. #57
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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Quote Originally Posted by Kuoppis View Post
    Mike, which ones did you prefer?

    I find them a bit different in their characteristic.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    Once you experience the 40.2’s, it’s hard to go down, but the SHL5+ is really the sweet spot. But then again, I have a soft spot for the 30.2’s in a small room. Hell, they’re all good.
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

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  8. #58

    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    Once you experience the 40.2’s, it’s hard to go down, but the SHL5+ is really the sweet spot. But then again, I have a soft spot for the 30.2’s in a small room. Hell, they’re all good.
    I am not surprised you added Harbeth, I really like their products.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    “Life’s too short to listen to bad audio.”

    Big rig: Brinkmann Taurus DD TT + 12.1 arm + Lyra Etna Lambda SL MC + HRS M3X2/ Cardas Clear Beyond phono/ Stillpoints LPI/ Brinkmann Edison mk2 phono + RöNT II Tube PS/ Synology NAS with Roon + HD Plex linear PSU + Shunyata HD/ AQ Vodka RJ45 + Aqvox Network Switch SE + AQ Diamond RJ45 into DAC/ Brinkmann Nyquist mk2/ Audionet Humboldt/ Cardas Clear Beyond ICs/ Kharma DB9-S 1.1 LS/ Inakustik Reference LS 4004 AIR/ Audioquest Niagara 5000/ Shunyata Alpha power (HC, Analogue, Digital)/ Finite Elemente Pagode Rack/ Stillpoints Ultra SS/ Vicoustic panels + Stillpoints Aperture II.

    Small rig: Naim UnitiServe/ Curious USB/ Tidal/ Linn Klimax DS3/ Shunyata Power cable/ Pass Labs INT-60/ Acoustic Zen Silver Reference II/ HiD Diamond 8/ Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary/ Shunyata Venom EU7 & Venom 3 HD.

    HP rig: MacBookAir/ Tidal/ Auralic Gemini 2000/ Sbooster LPSU/ Audeze LCD-2 Classic + WyWires Red/ Shunyata HD/ Shunyata Hydra 2/ Shunyata Venom.

  9. #59
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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    Once you experience the 40.2’s, it’s hard to go down, but the SHL5+ is really the sweet spot. But then again, I have a soft spot for the 30.2’s in a small room. Hell, they’re all good.
    K - What he said...
    _______________

    Mike

    Amplification: MBL 6010D, MBL 9008A Monos
    Analog: Kuzma R, Kuzma 4Point (11”), MSL Ultra Eminent EX
    Phono Pre: Pass XP-27
    Digital: Esoteric N01XD Esoteric K05
    Speakers: MBL 101E MKII
    Subwoofers: REL Carbon Specials
    Conditioner: Shunyata Triton 3
    Power Cables: Shunyata Sigma 1 & 2, Alpha 2, Delta and Venom
    ICs and SCs: Wireworld Platinum 8
    Rack: Artesania Exoteryc

  10. #60

    Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Quote Originally Posted by Ritmo View Post
    K - What he said...Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review
    Sure, was not aware you guys think like siamese twins. Next time I ask Mike if I want to know what you think Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review.

    I only know the previous gen and from those I do have the P3ESR, like the SHL5, but thought the 30.1 sounded muffled. So background of the questions was to understand if the 30.2 has improved compared to the previous gen.

    The larger cabinet SHL5 would not fit into the listening space in my summerhouse.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    “Life’s too short to listen to bad audio.”

    Big rig: Brinkmann Taurus DD TT + 12.1 arm + Lyra Etna Lambda SL MC + HRS M3X2/ Cardas Clear Beyond phono/ Stillpoints LPI/ Brinkmann Edison mk2 phono + RöNT II Tube PS/ Synology NAS with Roon + HD Plex linear PSU + Shunyata HD/ AQ Vodka RJ45 + Aqvox Network Switch SE + AQ Diamond RJ45 into DAC/ Brinkmann Nyquist mk2/ Audionet Humboldt/ Cardas Clear Beyond ICs/ Kharma DB9-S 1.1 LS/ Inakustik Reference LS 4004 AIR/ Audioquest Niagara 5000/ Shunyata Alpha power (HC, Analogue, Digital)/ Finite Elemente Pagode Rack/ Stillpoints Ultra SS/ Vicoustic panels + Stillpoints Aperture II.

    Small rig: Naim UnitiServe/ Curious USB/ Tidal/ Linn Klimax DS3/ Shunyata Power cable/ Pass Labs INT-60/ Acoustic Zen Silver Reference II/ HiD Diamond 8/ Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary/ Shunyata Venom EU7 & Venom 3 HD.

    HP rig: MacBookAir/ Tidal/ Auralic Gemini 2000/ Sbooster LPSU/ Audeze LCD-2 Classic + WyWires Red/ Shunyata HD/ Shunyata Hydra 2/ Shunyata Venom.

  11. #61
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    Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Quote Originally Posted by Kuoppis View Post
    Sure, was not aware you guys think like siamese twins. Next time I ask Mike if I want to know what you think Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review.

    I only know the previous gen and from those I do have the P3ESR, like the SHL5, but thought the 30.1 sounded muffled. So background of the questions was to understand if the 30.2 has improved compared to the previous gen.

    The larger cabinet SHL5 would not fit into the listening space in my summerhouse.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    Harbeth’s live in the midrange. The cabinets are thin walled and meant to resonate at a tuned frequency. Anyone used to listening to 99.9% resonance free Magico’s will immediately pick up the resonances in a Harbeth. However, the Harbeth’s are very musical and offer long time listening enjoyment.

    In the store, their classic look and sound compliment the modern, SOTA Magico’s. Meanwhile, the Avantgarde’s offer a dynamic, non-cone and dome alternative.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

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  12. #62
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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    Harbeth’s live in the midrange. The cabinets are thin walled and meant to resonate at a tuned frequency. Anyone used to listening to 99.9% resonance free Magico’s will immediately pick up the resonances in a Harbeth. However, the Harbeth’s are very musical and offer long time listening enjoyment.

    In the store, their classic look and sound compliment the modern, SOTA Magico’s. Meanwhile, the Avantgarde’s offer a dynamic, non-cone and dome alternative.


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

    That is exactly why I find them not so enjoyable.
    Whatever model I've heard so far, the enclosure singing along has severely disturbed my listening pleasure.
    Like you say, when you're used to and like dead silent cabinets like with Magico, YGA, Vivid Audio, Harbeth is a no go.
    Sorry to be the party pooper here.
    Vivid Audio - Burmester - Hegel - Marantz - Oppo - Pioneer 60" - Wireworld

  13. #63
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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Bart, there is an interesting discussion here:

    http://www.harbeth.co.uk/usergroup/f...why-so-special


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

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  14. #64
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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Quote Originally Posted by Kuoppis View Post
    Sure, was not aware you guys think like siamese twins. Next time I ask Mike if I want to know what you think Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review.

    I only know the previous gen and from those I do have the P3ESR, like the SHL5, but thought the 30.1 sounded muffled. So background of the questions was to understand if the 30.2 has improved compared to the previous gen.

    The larger cabinet SHL5 would not fit into the listening space in my summerhouse.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    Just having a little fun...

    I could live with either. Depends on the room.

    For a smaller room like a studio/office, the 30.2s would be fantastic. I like jazz, small ensembles, light classical, light rock...so these would be very fine with that type of music.

    The 5s are more dynamic, play larger and higher. Need a larger space. A small apartment or medium size room would be terrific.

    I used to have Spendor SP1s so I like the musical signature of these speakers. One can listen to these for hours without any fatigue. They are not the ultimate with high or low frequencies but, oh, they (Harbeths) are so musical.

    My perspective and personal taste. As written many times before, all of this stuff comes down to personal preference.

    Enjoy the music!
    _______________

    Mike

    Amplification: MBL 6010D, MBL 9008A Monos
    Analog: Kuzma R, Kuzma 4Point (11”), MSL Ultra Eminent EX
    Phono Pre: Pass XP-27
    Digital: Esoteric N01XD Esoteric K05
    Speakers: MBL 101E MKII
    Subwoofers: REL Carbon Specials
    Conditioner: Shunyata Triton 3
    Power Cables: Shunyata Sigma 1 & 2, Alpha 2, Delta and Venom
    ICs and SCs: Wireworld Platinum 8
    Rack: Artesania Exoteryc

  15. #65

    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    Harbeth’s live in the midrange. The cabinets are thin walled and meant to resonate at a tuned frequency. Anyone used to listening to 99.9% resonance free Magico’s will immediately pick up the resonances in a Harbeth. However, the Harbeth’s are very musical and offer long time listening enjoyment.

    In the store, their classic look and sound compliment the modern, SOTA Magico’s. Meanwhile, the Avantgarde’s offer a dynamic, non-cone and dome alternative.

    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    Mike, I all with you. Design philosophy is well known and it works very well with my 2nd system.

    So far I just enjoyed the 3PSRs better than the 30.1 and am hence trying to understand whether your new 30.2s would sound different enough from the previous version to warrant a new auditioning. If I am not mistaken, the 40.2 better the 40.1 by quite a significant margin.

    I also have the smaller Harbeths in the summerhouse.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    “Life’s too short to listen to bad audio.”

    Big rig: Brinkmann Taurus DD TT + 12.1 arm + Lyra Etna Lambda SL MC + HRS M3X2/ Cardas Clear Beyond phono/ Stillpoints LPI/ Brinkmann Edison mk2 phono + RöNT II Tube PS/ Synology NAS with Roon + HD Plex linear PSU + Shunyata HD/ AQ Vodka RJ45 + Aqvox Network Switch SE + AQ Diamond RJ45 into DAC/ Brinkmann Nyquist mk2/ Audionet Humboldt/ Cardas Clear Beyond ICs/ Kharma DB9-S 1.1 LS/ Inakustik Reference LS 4004 AIR/ Audioquest Niagara 5000/ Shunyata Alpha power (HC, Analogue, Digital)/ Finite Elemente Pagode Rack/ Stillpoints Ultra SS/ Vicoustic panels + Stillpoints Aperture II.

    Small rig: Naim UnitiServe/ Curious USB/ Tidal/ Linn Klimax DS3/ Shunyata Power cable/ Pass Labs INT-60/ Acoustic Zen Silver Reference II/ HiD Diamond 8/ Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary/ Shunyata Venom EU7 & Venom 3 HD.

    HP rig: MacBookAir/ Tidal/ Auralic Gemini 2000/ Sbooster LPSU/ Audeze LCD-2 Classic + WyWires Red/ Shunyata HD/ Shunyata Hydra 2/ Shunyata Venom.

  16. #66

    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Quote Originally Posted by Ritmo View Post
    Just having a little fun...

    I could live with either. Depends on the room.

    For a smaller room like a studio/office, the 30.2s would be fantastic. I like jazz, small ensembles, light classical, light rock...so these would be very fine with that type of music.

    The 5s are more dynamic, play larger and higher. Need a larger space. A small apartment or medium size room would be terrific.

    I used to have Spendor SP1s so I like the musical signature of these speakers. One can listen to these for hours without any fatigue. They are not the ultimate with high or low frequencies but, oh, they (Harbeths) are so musical.

    My perspective and personal taste. As written many times before, all of this stuff comes down to personal preference.

    Enjoy the music!
    Thanks, I always do.

    I am definitely also a Harbeth fan.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    “Life’s too short to listen to bad audio.”

    Big rig: Brinkmann Taurus DD TT + 12.1 arm + Lyra Etna Lambda SL MC + HRS M3X2/ Cardas Clear Beyond phono/ Stillpoints LPI/ Brinkmann Edison mk2 phono + RöNT II Tube PS/ Synology NAS with Roon + HD Plex linear PSU + Shunyata HD/ AQ Vodka RJ45 + Aqvox Network Switch SE + AQ Diamond RJ45 into DAC/ Brinkmann Nyquist mk2/ Audionet Humboldt/ Cardas Clear Beyond ICs/ Kharma DB9-S 1.1 LS/ Inakustik Reference LS 4004 AIR/ Audioquest Niagara 5000/ Shunyata Alpha power (HC, Analogue, Digital)/ Finite Elemente Pagode Rack/ Stillpoints Ultra SS/ Vicoustic panels + Stillpoints Aperture II.

    Small rig: Naim UnitiServe/ Curious USB/ Tidal/ Linn Klimax DS3/ Shunyata Power cable/ Pass Labs INT-60/ Acoustic Zen Silver Reference II/ HiD Diamond 8/ Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary/ Shunyata Venom EU7 & Venom 3 HD.

    HP rig: MacBookAir/ Tidal/ Auralic Gemini 2000/ Sbooster LPSU/ Audeze LCD-2 Classic + WyWires Red/ Shunyata HD/ Shunyata Hydra 2/ Shunyata Venom.

  17. #67
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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    Bart, there is an interesting discussion here:

    http://www.harbeth.co.uk/usergroup/f...why-so-special


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

    Thanks Mike.
    Interesting read.
    But I hear what I hear.
    And I don't like what I hear.
    The first time I heard Harbeth, it was with a bunch of lovers of the brand.
    The whole afternoon, I was amazed that they didn't complain about the colouration, which was very obvious to me.
    Vivid Audio - Burmester - Hegel - Marantz - Oppo - Pioneer 60" - Wireworld

  18. #68
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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Bart - You're not alone with your impressions of Harbeth, I have similar experiences and find their bass to have a quality which I would best describe as being somewhat plodding. I can still appreciate some of their other qualities in the midrange but would never choose to buy one of their speakers due to their overall performance. As has been said we all have different tastes and preferences and that's a good thing, and why we have so many different choices of quality products to choose from in high end audio!

  19. #69
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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Harbeth has a target demographic and they hit on full cylinders with that demographic. For others, I can see why they don't fall in love. I don't find them to be polarizing as everyone seems to enjoy them, but clients seem to fall head over heels or just say 'I get the love... what else do you have?'

  20. #70
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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    For a change of pace, I frankly love the resonances which study after study has shown to ultimately enrich the midrange without causing a bass problem. You have to keep in mind that Harbeth is to speakers what tube amps are to amplifiers. Their tag line should be "just listen". I understand why some people may not prefer it, but I can tell you, they are one of the most popular speaker brands in the world for a reason.

    For me, I wanted a speaker I loved and something that would be different from others in the store. I'm frankly not a fan of Devore speakers (apologies to Keith and others). I've heard the others similar to Harbeth and keep coming back to Harbeth as being the one in that style of speaker.

    I joked with some friends that I should sell each pair with a plaid sport coat, a bottle of scotch and a pair of slippers. But I plan on bringing home a pair of SHL5+'s to replace my KEF LS50's in the family room. I like them that much.
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

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  21. #71
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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Quote Originally Posted by bart View Post
    That is exactly why I find them not so enjoyable.
    Whatever model I've heard so far, the enclosure singing along has severely disturbed my listening pleasure.
    Like you say, when you're used to and like dead silent cabinets like with Magico, YGA, Vivid Audio, Harbeth is a no go.
    Sorry to be the party pooper here.
    Those three brands..... they never connect me with music as Harbeth does. Whenever I listen to Harbeth, I don't think about anything else other than music. So musical. I guess that's why we have so many brands out there for suits everyone's taste of Hifi and music.
    Paul

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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Quote Originally Posted by Paul View Post
    Those three brands..... they never connect me with music as Harbeth does. Whenever I listen to Harbeth, I don't think about anything else other than music. So musical. I guess that's why we have so many brands out there for suits everyone's taste of Hifi and music.

    Paul, I absolutely agree with you, our ultimate goal is connecting with the music.
    Whatever method we use for that.
    The choice in gear almost equals the choice in music, and it all keeps our hobby so interesting, thrilling even.
    Vivid Audio - Burmester - Hegel - Marantz - Oppo - Pioneer 60" - Wireworld

  23. #73
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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Soundtrack - The Greatest Showman

    Jim

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  24. #74

    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Day 3 breaking in the Harbeth 30.2 40th and to say I am impressed is an understatement. Utterly musical without sacrificing too much detail or airiness. Imaging like crazy in my 26x31 room, they simply disappear leaving a wide and deep soundstage with great focus and image density. Tonally smooth and rich without sounding thick, veiled or rolled off. Bass is obviously limited but I mostly listen to acoustical instruments, not synthesized bass and what they accomplish with Jazz has me extremely satisfied. The way these speakers evoke the emotional response to recorded music makes them worth every penny and that is exactly what I was looking for in a pair of speakers. Midrange purity is exemplary. Love them. Thanks Mike!

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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Congratulations Serge, that’s awesome.

    Curious, what amp and preamp?
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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Congrats Serge !
    The mids of the 30 and 40 are just the very best in the world imho.


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  27. #77

    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Joe, surprisingly the 30.2 has me floored with their musicality even from the Peachtree Nova 300 which is class D but sounds very smooth and engaging.

  28. #78

    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Thank you Jerome! To my ears the midrange has always been the most important factor. Smooth treble a big plus. Bass is something I can sacrifice on if I have to. What the 30.2 does with acoustical bass is impressive anyway. I don’t recall being kicked in the chest with live music and bass instruments like we tend to expect from our playback systems.

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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Very nice! I’m so happy that you love them. I’m still thinking about a pair of Harbeth. They really are wonderful.

    Quote Originally Posted by TheOctopus View Post
    Joe, surprisingly the 30.2 has me floored with their musicality even from the Peachtree Nova 300 which is class D but sounds very smooth and engaging.
    Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.

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  30. #80

    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Quote Originally Posted by joeinid View Post
    Very nice! I’m so happy that you love them. I’m still thinking about a pair of Harbeth. They really are wonderful.
    These are keepers for sure Joe.

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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Quote Originally Posted by TheOctopus View Post
    Day 3 breaking in the Harbeth 30.2 40th and to say I am impressed is an understatement. Utterly musical without sacrificing too much detail or airiness. Imaging like crazy in my 26x31 room, they simply disappear leaving a wide and deep soundstage with great focus and image density. Tonally smooth and rich without sounding thick, veiled or rolled off. Bass is obviously limited but I mostly listen to acoustical instruments, not synthesized bass and what they accomplish with Jazz has me extremely satisfied. The way these speakers evoke the emotional response to recorded music makes them worth every penny and that is exactly what I was looking for in a pair of speakers. Midrange purity is exemplary. Love them. Thanks Mike!
    I'm so happy for you Serge, They are truly musical speakers in my honest opinion, Well, if you know me I've been through lot of speakers over the last few years. Including triple , for times price of speakers vs my M40.1. Most of them are gone but the Harbeth. Enjoy them in good health.
    Paul

  32. #82

    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Quote Originally Posted by Paul View Post
    I'm so happy for you Serge, They are truly musical speakers in my honest opinion, Well, if you know me I've been through lot of speakers over the last few years. Including triple , for times price of speakers vs my M40.1. Most of them are gone but the Harbeth. Enjoy them in good health.
    Thank you Paul. I've also been through some speakers... 5 pairs of Sonus Faber and 4 pairs of Wilson in the past 10 years. The Harbeths are moving me in ways I have never been moved before.

  33. #83
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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review



    Not 30.2’s, but my Harbeth setup...


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  34. #84

    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Very nice Mike!

  35. #85
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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Quote Originally Posted by TheOctopus View Post
    Day 3 breaking in the Harbeth 30.2 40th and to say I am impressed is an understatement. Utterly musical without sacrificing too much detail or airiness. Imaging like crazy in my 26x31 room, they simply disappear leaving a wide and deep soundstage with great focus and image density. Tonally smooth and rich without sounding thick, veiled or rolled off. Bass is obviously limited but I mostly listen to acoustical instruments, not synthesized bass and what they accomplish with Jazz has me extremely satisfied. The way these speakers evoke the emotional response to recorded music makes them worth every penny and that is exactly what I was looking for in a pair of speakers. Midrange purity is exemplary. Love them. Thanks Mike!
    That is so awesome Serge!
    Great that you found speakers that connect you emotionally to the music. You will have many wonderful hours of musical bliss ahead of you.
    Buddy

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  36. #86
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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post


    Not 30.2’s, but my Harbeth setup...


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    I bet that combination makes some real fine music Mike!
    Buddy

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  37. #87
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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9v7gs__s2Rw


    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    My Systems: http://www.audioshark.org/showthread...481#post158481

    "We can hear everything we measure, but we can't measure everything we hear. Let your ears be your guide."

    Dealer for: Aqua Hi-Fi, Aurender, AudioQuest Cables & Power Products, Berkeley Audio, Block Audio (distributor), Boulder Amplifiers, Bowers & Wilkins (B&W), Bryston, Clarisys Audio Loudspeakers (distributor), Classe’ Audio, Degritter Record Cleaning Machines, Esoteric, Finite Elemente, FirstWatt, Focal Loudspeakers and Headphones, GigaFoil, Harbeth Loudspeakers, Hegel, HiFi Man, Innuos, ISO Acoustics, Keces Power Supplies, Kharma Loudspeakers and Electronics, Kuzma Turntables, Lumin, Luxman, Magico Loudspeakers, MBL Speakers & Electronics, MSB Technologies, MySonicLabs Phono Cartridges, Nordost Cables, Ortofon, Pass Labs, Quadraspire, Rega Turntables and Electronics, Shunyata Research, STAX, Stein Music Products, Stillpoints, Soulution, VAC, Vicoustics, Viva Audio, VPI Industries, WireWorld Cables.

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  38. #88

    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Thanks Buddy! Would love to hear your Avantgarde speakers next time I’m down south I bet that is one sweet system!

  39. #89
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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Quote Originally Posted by TheOctopus View Post
    Thanks Buddy! Would love to hear your Avantgarde speakers next time I’m down south I bet that is one sweet system!
    You are most welcome any time Serge.
    Right now I am listening to Melody Gardot through a Lampizator Golden Atlantic DAC I have on loan (thank you Mike) and I must say it is sounding pretty darn sweet!
    Buddy

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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Quote Originally Posted by TheOctopus View Post
    Thank you Paul. I've also been through some speakers... 5 pairs of Sonus Faber and 4 pairs of Wilson in the past 10 years. The Harbeths are moving me in ways I have never been moved before.
    Hi Sege, Hahaha I know how you feeling. You've been through crazy as I did LOL. Enjoy your M30.2 they are truly wonderful sounding speakers.
    Paul

  41. #91
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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Quote Originally Posted by Audio 1 View Post
    You are most welcome any time Serge.
    Right now I am listening to Melody Gardot through a Lampizator Golden Atlantic DAC I have on loan (thank you Mike) and I must say it is sounding pretty darn sweet!

    Hi Buddy, As you know I just got my GA too . One advice to you . When you not ready, don't borrow anything from Mike . it will open your wallet! I promise How you like the GA so far ? I'm loving what I hearing vs BIG7 I had
    Paul

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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Quote Originally Posted by Paul View Post
    Hi Buddy, As you know I just got my GA too . One advice to you . When you not ready, don't borrow anything from Mike . it will open your wallet! I promise How you like the GA so far ? I'm loving what I hearing vs BIG7 I had
    Hi there Paul ...... your advice is very true, however I seem to be better at giving advice to others than to myself! But it is very nice to be able to try gear in your system as it really makes a big difference.
    I do like the GA and it certainly sounds different than any DAC I have used in my system. Vocals sound so beautiful and the soundstage is so amazing to experience. I only wish I had more time to listen!
    Buddy

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  43. #93
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    Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Quote Originally Posted by Audio 1 View Post
    Hi there Paul ...... your advice is very true, however I seem to be better at giving advice to others than to myself! But it is very nice to be able to try gear in your system as it really makes a big difference.
    I do like the GA and it certainly sounds different than any DAC I have used in my system. Vocals sound so beautiful and the soundstage is so amazing to experience. I only wish I had more time to listen!
    I couldn't agree with your more. Home demo is only way you can judge the gear.

    Since we do not have any dealer in Canada. ( Lucky you ) I bought my both LampizatOr in blind and never regret with both purchases. I was think some other DAC last time so I bought the Lumin A1 ( I do miss the MQA on Lumin though.... It was good but their APP kept crash on my iPad and iPhone so I had enough and sold it ) did a home demo with PS Audio Direct Stream DAC ( this was good too but it wasn't Lampi ) I found Lampi sounds much bold and lot of meat on the bone and boy they sounds so organic. I think I will keep the Lampi as DAC forever.
    Paul

  44. #94
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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Quote Originally Posted by Kuoppis View Post
    Any views on the 30.2 yet?

    As I love my 3PSRs I auditioned the 30.1s but was not impressed as I found them sounding a bit muffled. Are there any improvements in the 30.2 regarding that?


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    I tried the 30.1 in my rooms with various amps. Mids and treble were superb. Bass was very disappointing to me. They had some kind of bass boost around 80 Hz, like if the speaker wanted to look bigger than it is and after a few hours I was really tired of their sound. Big deception for me.
    I guess that Harbeth made the necessary corrections on the 30.2.


    Envoyé de mon iPhone en utilisant Tapatalk
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  45. #95
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    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Quote Originally Posted by bart View Post
    That is exactly why I find them not so enjoyable.
    Whatever model I've heard so far, the enclosure singing along has severely disturbed my listening pleasure.
    Like you say, when you're used to and like dead silent cabinets like with Magico, YGA, Vivid Audio, Harbeth is a no go.
    Sorry to be the party pooper here.
    Hello Bart,

    This is really a question of taste. I cannot hear this "resonance" in Harbeth speakers. Neither they can sound "boxy". Actually if you open a pair you can see easily that the cabinet walls are not thin at all. They are about 17 mm which is pretty thick for a wood speaker.
    The old story about resonating thin walls come actually from the original BBC LS3/5a.
    Now if you knock on a Harbeth cabinet with your hand, you will have an idea of how dense and heavy and actually non resonant these cabinets are. Moreover, Harbeth speakers are extremely heavy. The P3ESR for example is at least 2 times heavier than the Stirling V2 LS3/5a. The 30.1 is much heavier than most similar british wood speakers. And I don't even mention the 40.1 which is a monster compared to the Spendor S100.
    Something that is impossible to deny, no matter your tastes, is the incredible linearity, coherence, purity, naturalness of the Harbeth mids. To me this medium is not only the best in the world, it is far better than any other one on the market.
    If the speakers were really "resonating" at a frequency that the human ear can get, then, it would just be impossible to reach this quality of the mids.
    Last but not least, I cannot listen to Magico, YG ( never listened to Vivid), BW...and other supposedly non resonant and highly inert cabinets, without getting angry and frustrated and horrified and...
    just cannot end this list !
    They sound just sterile and cold and they do not communicate any emotions to me.


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  46. #96

    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Quote Originally Posted by Jerome W View Post
    I tried the 30.1 in my rooms with various amps. Mids and treble were superb. Bass was very disappointing to me. They had some kind of bass boost around 80 Hz, like if the speaker wanted to look bigger than it is and after a few hours I was really tired of their sound. Big deception for me.
    I guess that Harbeth made the necessary corrections on the 30.2.


    Envoyé de mon iPhone en utilisant Tapatalk
    I had a similar impression as well and that’s why I tried to understand whether that issue was corrected in the 30.2.

    But based on the postings I guess it is.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    “Life’s too short to listen to bad audio.”

    Big rig: Brinkmann Taurus DD TT + 12.1 arm + Lyra Etna Lambda SL MC + HRS M3X2/ Cardas Clear Beyond phono/ Stillpoints LPI/ Brinkmann Edison mk2 phono + RöNT II Tube PS/ Synology NAS with Roon + HD Plex linear PSU + Shunyata HD/ AQ Vodka RJ45 + Aqvox Network Switch SE + AQ Diamond RJ45 into DAC/ Brinkmann Nyquist mk2/ Audionet Humboldt/ Cardas Clear Beyond ICs/ Kharma DB9-S 1.1 LS/ Inakustik Reference LS 4004 AIR/ Audioquest Niagara 5000/ Shunyata Alpha power (HC, Analogue, Digital)/ Finite Elemente Pagode Rack/ Stillpoints Ultra SS/ Vicoustic panels + Stillpoints Aperture II.

    Small rig: Naim UnitiServe/ Curious USB/ Tidal/ Linn Klimax DS3/ Shunyata Power cable/ Pass Labs INT-60/ Acoustic Zen Silver Reference II/ HiD Diamond 8/ Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary/ Shunyata Venom EU7 & Venom 3 HD.

    HP rig: MacBookAir/ Tidal/ Auralic Gemini 2000/ Sbooster LPSU/ Audeze LCD-2 Classic + WyWires Red/ Shunyata HD/ Shunyata Hydra 2/ Shunyata Venom.

  47. #97

    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Like every other speaker and various rooms, the 30.2 is no different in that it takes some effort to position them properly. When I tried my pair in the 12x15 room, to my ears the midbass bump you guys describe was still there (good or bad depends on preference and room coupling). Now I have them setup in a 26x31 room and it is not there but I still need to be at least 3 feet away from any wall! These speakers are monitors but still require some space around them to sound their best. Still dialing in the final placement but I have them 10 feet apart and listening between 9-11 feet away which to my ears sounds good. Imaging/focus is as good as any of the Sonus Faber I've owned, midrange is less colored. In fact the midrange is less colored than the Wilson Sophia II and III that I owned and surely the Sophias had a plump bass response. Sasha2 and Alexia is also sounded just a bit darker in the midrange so I'd say these 30.2 at fraction of a price are pretty damn impressive in the midrange. The highs are a bit rolled off by comparison to many other speakers which is a blessing to my ears. I am listening in a room that has no acoustic treatments what so ever compared to my other rooms where I had $20k worth of ASC treatments with Wilson and other speakers and I can listen to the 30.2 all day long. I could never listen to any of the 5 pairs of Wilson speakers I owned in a room that was not treated properly. Does that say anything about the overall balance and laid back character of the 30.2? To my ears it does. Still these are not going to be for everyone and that's completely understandable. That's why there are so many different speakers on the market and so many preowned for sale at the same time

  48. #98

    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    With “some” reportedly deficient bass, how do one speaker get the sound staging right? I’m not a bass head, but I do regard bass as the foundation of music and it’s as important as the midrange if not more.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

  49. #99

    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Quote Originally Posted by kzhtoo View Post
    With “some” reportedly deficient bass, how do one speaker get the sound staging right? I’m not a bass head, but I do regard bass as the foundation of music and it’s as important as the midrange if not more.


    Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
    These monitors create a soundstage like any other smaller speaker. In fact monitors often image better than bigger, boxier speakers.
    The 30.2 seem to sign off completely on any audible bass around 30 Hz from the frequency sweeps I have done so far in my 26x31 room and away from wall boundaries/reinforcement but the rest is there just not as prominent up until 50Hz and up. Bass frequencies are not directional like the higher frequencies to our ears so have nothing to do with a soundstage per say. Having said that, any time a well placed subwoofer is used, it does tend to create an "illusion" of more focused and fleshed out instruments that have presence in the bottom octaves. It's just an illusion. This is not a bass head speaker by any means though. All the acoustical bass instruments are still present and accounted for in a more natural way like you would hear at any live event with acoustic instruments playing in some acoustic space large enough to house an audience.

  50. #100

    Re: Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

    Found great synergy with the PrimaLuna HP EL34 integrated driving the 30.2 The Triode mode doubles up on the midrange magic with the 30.2s. Very happy with the results.

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Harbeth 30.2 40th Anniversary Edition Review

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