Harbeth - Compact 7 ES-2 used OR P3-ESR new ?

Concur with Chashas1. Most important is trust your instincts. I don't think you would go wrong with the P3ESR. This new design features the first 5" Radial driver from the smallest box in the Harbeth line which deviates from the older P3's and is something really special. One of my friends who uses the 40.1 in his main system bought this P3ESR for his study replacing the Totem Model 1. A very nice and musical speaker which sounded excellent on vocals and small ensemble music. Of course, do not expect deep bass from the tiny little box but for overall coherence and musicality there are not many small bookshelves that can rival the Harbeth at this price point. In fact, none even in the higher priced-bracket will sound like the Harbeth's midrange. The C7ES are a bit larger and do offer a *slightly* bigger scale and deeper bass but can't handle big sweeps of orchestra or large scale ensemble either. The P3ESR are small speakers indeed, but they are small little gems.

Finally, the P3ESR comes in beautiful rosewood, and I thought they looked absolutely gorgeous in the finish compared to the standard cherry finish found in the bigger models(if this can be of further reassurance to you). I reckon anyone who ends up with a Harbeth, small or big will find long-term satisfaction with the speaker.

Really? I actually prefer the cherry over the rosewood, but that's just me. I'm not really a fan of the darker veneers.

Quick question... given the diminutive size of these little speakers, are speaker stands really necessary? I mean, I know that a sturdy base will improve the sound quality, but wouldn't a stand also 'drawf' the speakers? I'm just wondering how silly it would look to have such tiny speakers resting on a 24" stand.

This is just a passing question. I'm buying speaker stands regardless as SQ trumps aesthetics in my books.

Jferreir

I am interested in a pair of the P3ESR's for nearfield use on my desktops at home and the office.

So I too hope you enjoy them and look forward to hearing further thoughts and opinions.

Are you using your Naim Nait amplifier to drive them?

Assuming I also move forward and give the Harbeths a try, I would also love to hear more opinons on the best amplifiers for the magical Harbeth midrange.

cwlondon

Hi Cwlondon,

Unfortunately, I'm still waiting for the P3ESRs to arrive (long story). I expect to have them within the next few weeks, so I will report back with my observations once I get the opportunity to listen at length.

To answer your question, I will be driving the P3ESRs with the Nait 5i-2 (60 WPC). In this instance, I think the spec sheets are misleading. The Nait 5i-2 has plenty of power, while the P3ESRs are easier to drive than the 83.5 sensitivity rating would suggest.

In terms of synergy, it really depends on your preferences/requirements. That being said, I would suggest either Naim, Sugden, or LFD as a start. Naturally, some models will pair better than others, so I suggest you research carefully and then audition potential candidates. You will have to decide for yourself which sound signature you prefer (and at what cost).

For Naim in particular, I suggest you visit the user forum. There you will find a wealth of information from a number of knowledgeable (and biased) gurus.

Good luck with your search!