Welcome to the AudioShark Forums.
Results 1 to 20 of 20

Thread: Harbeth goes XD

  1. #1
    Audioshark
    Join Date
    Apr 2013
    Location
    Sarasota, FL
    Posts
    30,044

    Harbeth goes XD

    Harbeth will be ramping down production of the Anniversary Series and ramping up production of their new XD series starting in April. However, at this weekends Bristol show, Harbeth was showing off their new XD series.

    What’s the changes? All new parts in the crossovers.

    No US pricing has been announced.




    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.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  2. #2
    Audioshark
    Join Date
    Apr 2013
    Location
    Sarasota, FL
    Posts
    30,044

    Re: Harbeth goes XD

    Comments from people at the show:

    “As far as the P3s are concerned. Alan Shaw has extensively redesigned the crossover (18 of 26 components have been changed or modified). For the other 4 speakers yes, the XD version carries over the 40th anniversary crossover improvements but, like the P3, have had the WBT binding posts replaced with ones more similar to what went before. This last item has had no audible effect.”

    “The P3ESR XD are fantastic! If you already like the P3 you will adore what the XD version does I promise you. extended Definition actually describes the sound improvement pretty well! The Rosewood veneer is lovely...”


    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.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  3. #3

    Re: Harbeth goes XD

    Any photos of the exotic ash finish?

  4. #4

    Re: Harbeth goes XD

    The XD/ 40th Anniversary crossover brings a significant benefit from sound perspective.

    The 30.2 40th Anniversary is considerably better than the 30.1 IMHO.


    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.

  5. #5
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Jul 2013
    Location
    Florida
    Posts
    3,837

    Re: Harbeth goes XD

    Look forward to hearing the new XD series.
    _______________

    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. #6

    Re: Harbeth goes XD

    I was working at the Bristol Show and had the opportunity of hearing the P3XD. What Alan has managed to do is create a flat frequency response across most of the range. Sounded very coherent to me and that ease of listening presentation I love.

  7. #7
    Super Moderator
    Join Date
    Apr 2013
    Location
    NY
    Posts
    18,726

    Re: Harbeth goes XD

    Thank you for your update. I’d love to hear the new speakers.
    Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.

    Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE

    NAD C 658 streamer.

    First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)

    Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.

    Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.

  8. #8

    Re: Harbeth goes XD

    For the people who don't know, the 40.2XD is the exact same speaker as the 40.2 Anniversary minus the WBT binding posts and the Anniversary badges of course. Probably looking at a price increase as well.

  9. #9
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Apr 2013
    Location
    New York, New York
    Posts
    657

    Re: Harbeth goes XD

    Interesting. Curious as to why they would drop great binding posts and raise the price????
    T+A MP3100HV, T+A PA3100HV. Custom made Furutech cables with ETP-609 distributor with NCF outlets, Harbeth 40.2 Anniversaries.

  10. #10

    Re: Harbeth goes XD

    Quote Originally Posted by Penthouse-D View Post
    Interesting. Curious as to why the would drop great binding posts and raise the price????
    Profit... cant blame them. Im glad I got my Anniversaries when I did.

  11. #11
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Apr 2013
    Location
    New York, New York
    Posts
    657

    Re: Harbeth goes XD

    Likewise..
    T+A MP3100HV, T+A PA3100HV. Custom made Furutech cables with ETP-609 distributor with NCF outlets, Harbeth 40.2 Anniversaries.

  12. #12
    Super Moderator
    Join Date
    Apr 2013
    Location
    NY
    Posts
    18,726

    Re: Harbeth goes XD

    Quote Originally Posted by dznutz View Post
    For the people who don't know, the 40.2XD is the exact same speaker as the 40.2 Anniversary minus the WBT binding posts and the Anniversary badges of course. Probably looking at a price increase as well.
    Wouldn’t you also expect maybe some crossover changes? I don’t know.

    I’d love to hear a side by side comparison.
    Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.

    Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE

    NAD C 658 streamer.

    First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)

    Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.

    Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.

  13. #13

    Re: Harbeth goes XD

    This is what I have been told... the 40.2, SHL5 and 30.2 anniversary already have what is now considered the XD upgrade. All the other speakers that never received upgraded components/modified crossovers and wiring will now receive the same and will be called XD. Is it possible that some other small tweaks were made... sure, lets wait and hear directly from the source when they're ready.

  14. #14
    Audioshark
    Join Date
    Apr 2013
    Location
    Sarasota, FL
    Posts
    30,044

    Re: Harbeth goes XD

    Quote Originally Posted by dznutz View Post
    This is what I have been told... the 40.2, SHL5 and 30.2 anniversary already have what is now considered the XD upgrade. All the other speakers that never received upgraded components/modified crossovers and wiring will now receive the same and will be called XD. Is it possible that some other small tweaks were made... sure, lets wait and hear directly from the source when they're ready.
    I’m hearing that all models are getting the XD treatment - all new parts in the crossover, new crossover design, etc. But yes, let’s wait and hear from Harbeth directly. I’ll try to find out more. THAT BEING SAID, just because the XD comes out, doesn’t make the Anniversary suddenly a bad speaker. SOME manufacturers feel they need to keep improving on things, even a little here or a little there.
    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.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  15. #15
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Feb 2019
    Location
    Southeast Iowa
    Posts
    992

    Re: Harbeth goes XD

    Quote Originally Posted by dznutz View Post
    Profit... cant blame them. Im glad I got my Anniversaries when I did.
    +1
    Amplifier: Pass Labs INT 250 integrated.

    DAC/Streamer: MSB Discrete Dual Power Supply.

    Server: Roon Nucleus with lifetime subscription.

    Speakers: Harbeth Super HL 5+ 40th Anniversary
    Model.

    Headphones/Amp: Focal Stellia phones, NAIM Uniti Atom Headphone Edition headphone amp/music player/server/streamer.

    Cables: AudioQuest Rocket 88 speaker cables,
    Mackenzie interconnects.

    Speaker Stands: HiFi Man.

  16. #16
    Audioshark
    Join Date
    Apr 2013
    Location
    Sarasota, FL
    Posts
    30,044

    Re: Harbeth goes XD

    A little more info: P3 and C7 will be the first models to get “XD’d”. Expected that the 40 will be the last to get the XD changes.
    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.

    https://suncoastaudio.com/
    Phone: 941-932-0282
    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Suncoast-Au...1105178279194/

  17. #17
    Super Moderator
    Join Date
    Apr 2013
    Location
    NY
    Posts
    18,726

    Re: Harbeth goes XD

    Fleetwood Deville by Oswald Mills Audio, Vienna Acoustics Haydn Jubilee, Wharfedale Linton w/ stands, Klipsch RB-75, Klipsch RP-160M.

    Job INTegrated. Luxman L-595aSE

    NAD C 658 streamer.

    First Watt SIT-3, Job 250 Monos, NuForce STA200, AkitikA GT-102 amp, ASL Wave monos, Dennis Had 45 monos. Absolute Audio Labs PCF 25 amp (improved First Watt F7 super clone)

    Topping D90, RME Audio ADI-2 DAC FS, ModWright Ultimate Sony XA-5400ES.

    Burmester 948, McIntosh MCLK12, Kimber Kable, Siltech, Cardas, Avanti Audio cables.

  18. #18
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Dec 2018
    Location
    Salem VA
    Posts
    174

    Re: Harbeth goes XD

    Quote Originally Posted by Mike View Post
    Comments from people at the show:

    “As far as the P3s are concerned. Alan Shaw has extensively redesigned the crossover (18 of 26 components have been changed or modified). For the other 4 speakers yes, the XD version carries over the 40th anniversary crossover improvements but, like the P3, have had the WBT binding posts replaced with ones more similar to what went before. This last item has had no audible effect.”



    Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
    So it does sound like the new XD versions are carrying over the 40th Anniversary crossover improvements into the new "standard" model aside from the P3s which did not have the crossover improvements in the 40th Anniversary model? So very likely the new C7 XD and the C7 40th Anniversary will share the same crossover that improved on the prior C7-ES3?
    PRIMARY 2 CH SYSTEM: Backert Labs Rhythm 1.3; Parasound JC3+ Phono pre; Luxman M900u; Pure Fidelity Harmony with Origin Live Illustrious tonearm and PF Stratos cart; Naim NDX 2; Naim 555PS; Innuos Zen MK III (Roon Core); EtherRegen; Volti Audio Rivals; JL Audio e112 (2); Transparent Super Speaker Cables; Transparent Super interconnects; Transparent Premium & High Performance power cables; Naim Fraim; Stillpoints Ultra SS; Symposium Ultra platforms; IsoTek EVO3 Sigmas conditioner; GIK Acoustics absorption and diffusion panels

  19. #19
    Senior Member
    Join Date
    Apr 2013
    Location
    Singapore
    Posts
    247

    Re: Harbeth goes XD

    Quote Originally Posted by dznutz View Post
    This is what I have been told... the 40.2, SHL5 and 30.2 anniversary already have what is now considered the XD upgrade. All the other speakers that never received upgraded components/modified crossovers and wiring will now receive the same and will be called XD. Is it possible that some other small tweaks were made... sure, lets wait and hear directly from the source when they're ready.
    I don't know for sure IF the innards of the .2 series is the same as the .3, as I've seen and audition a pair of the new 40.3 XD, thats the label on the speaker and it had only single amp input. Price was quoted at about S$25k, while the 5 Plus XD is at $8k (both rounded up). This is the first time I left an audition of the 40.3 XD very, very impressed. Lucky I have a 9W amp that won't drive these beauties (the walnut veneer is simply gorgeous, never seen one like that). My apologies if I did caused some "itch" ... better still, go get "itchier" by listening/auditioning a pair.
    SME Synergy
    Thorens TD147 Jubilee (Restored) + Ortofon A-Mono
    Roon Nucleus+ 4TB + Plixir Elite LPS
    Luxman D-10x (Sep 2020)
    ModWright Oppo UDP205
    Air Tight ATC-5 Pre + ATM300R + ATH-3
    Avantgarde Uno XD Piano Black/Stealth Grey
    Audience AU24 SX Cables, Interconnects & aR6 OX Power Conditioner
    DS Audio Ioniser
    Audio-Philar Rack & Amp Stand

  20. #20

    Re: Harbeth goes XD

    If you are comparing the original .2 variants to the newest, and yet to be released, XD variants then you are correct. They will be different. I have owned the 40.2 Anniversary and the regular 40.2, I prefer the original 40.2

    If you are comparing any of the Anniversary models to the XD then no, they will be the same speakers with cosmetic differences. I consider binding posts cosmetic

AudioShark - The Best High End Audio Discussion forum.

AudioShark forum is a leading forum site for High End Audio Discussion, Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater System Discussion, Best Home Stereo System Discussion, Home Theater Installation Discussion etc.

The AudioShark forum was created for sharing the passion of high-end Audio. We have Audiophiles from all over the world participating and sharing their knowledge. From novice to experts, you will find a friendly environment for discussing about High End Audio, Stereo System, Home Theater System, Home Stereo System, Home Theater Installation, Amplifiers, Speakers, Subwoofers, Integrated System, Acoustic treatments & Digital Room Corrections and many more.

At AudioShark, we also have incorporated an exciting Marketplace where members can peruse terrific buys on used gear, as well as meet dealers and discuss the purchase of new gear.

We are as crazy about this hobby as you are! So come on in and join us! Audioshark.org the Friendliest Audio Forum!

Industry Participation Disclosure : The owner and administrator of Audioshark is the owner of Suncoast Audio LLC in Sarasota Florida. Suncoast Audio has a full brick and mortar presence in Sarasota with several great show rooms with many world class brands. More information can be found at http://www.suncoastaudio.com

Audioshark is a community of like minded individuals. Audioshark welcomes participation from all manufacturers and owners of all brands and products. It is our belief that online forums provide a community of like minded audiophiles and music lovers to encourage the growth of this wonderful hobby.

Sincerely,
The Audioshark.org Team

Harbeth goes XD

Posting Permissions

  • You may not post new threads
  • You may not post replies
  • You may not post attachments
  • You may not edit your posts
  •