Dynaudio C-1 or Harbeth-7-es-III

I own the C1 and have heard the 7ES and ES2 though on different but similar systems. They are voiced quite differently so it is not a direct compare, but from strictly a fidelity standpoint, I think the C1 performs at least a couple level above the 7ES2 in the areas of refinement, resolution, transparency, dynamics. As mentioned by others the C1 can sit comfortably in a reference level system. A fairer comparison is probably with the SHL5.

I've owned both, and both are excellent. I'm using the Harbeth now. The official Dyn stands that the C1s use are a pain to fill/unfill. Harbeth's are much easier--just bluetack to Sound Anchor/Skyland. I tried tubes with C1s--SS much better(Clayton)--SS just grabs and takes control--Dyns need that IMO. Also, with Harbeth, less than perfectly recorded CDs, LPs, still can sound good--not so with C1s. The C1s also need to be played louder than the Harbeth to sound right. I listen to mostly jazz from the '50s, '60s, '70s, and classical w/the Harbeth--it's tough to beat. Also running Rel Strata 3. My room is 15' x 20' x 8 which is a good size for either. The Harbeth sounds great w/grills. To get the best sound from C1s--grills off--WAF? Hope this helps.

Having to compare both speakers and considering the C1s cost almost double than the cost of the C7s, its quite a compliment.
One may say that the C7s are not in the same league as the C1s. Yes, the C1s has better refinement, better bass, better imaging, and other hi fi goodies. But the harbeth will more than make up for those deficiencies when it comes to naturalness and the midrange glory. Best part, the C7s are easy to place.... almost anything sounds really good with them.
I know of a few friends who have replaced their mega speakers with just the C7s and couldn't be happier.
Its not a do all, end all speaker, but the charm will get to you.
Good luck.

As mentioned earlier, it depends on the type of sound one prefers apart from WAF considerations(some thought the Harbeths look a tad ugly) and cost. As quoted by Nolitan, the Dynaudio C1s cost almost double the C7ESIIIs. One is not superior to another IMO. A member "Pdreher" went from the Dynaudio C4's to the Harbeth M40.1 and was pleased with the switch.

Both are excellent speakers albeit different sounding. Listening preferences will dictate which is a "better" speaker.

A member "Pdreher" went from the Dynaudio C4's to the Harbeth M40.1 and was pleased with the switch.
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