@jtcf thanks. Yes, I am not planning to buy it immediately, but be prepared when something comes up in the used market. Actually, the weakest link in my system now is the DAC, if I judge by the price. I am using a Audio-gd NFB-3 which is an entry level DAC bought 8 yrs ago. I originally plan to upgrade that first. I bought a Topping dx7 pro, it is too bright for the X5 and the Bluetooth keeps dropping so I returned it. Maybe it will match well with the Harbeth to bring some sparkles. My Audio-gd now is a very smooth DAC.
Harbeth 30.1 or 40.1
I would like to get a pair of Harbeth, and wondering if 30.1 or 40.1 is better. My room size is about 18’ x 16’. I currently have a pair of Spatial Audio X5 with large 12” mid range driver. I would say I listen in low to low-medium volume for Jazz and vocals. Is 40.1 too big for my area? I am afraid if I am not listening to what it is supposed to sound like if I don’t turn up the volume.
however, if I buy the 30.1, is that I should get a pair of sub? Versus for 40.1, I assumed I don’t need subs?
however, if I buy the 30.1, is that I should get a pair of sub? Versus for 40.1, I assumed I don’t need subs?
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@arturgorniak is the extreme case of someone who believes 40 series Harbeths need serious power. https://forum.audiogon.com/discussions/harbeth-40-2-40th-anniversary-with-simaudio-mono-blocks At the other extreme, I've read posts from people driving them with tube amps well under 50 W. But I think you are reporting the lowest. For a real comparison/contrast, I think you need to aim for 100 or 150W SS. |
@twoleftears I downloaded an app and finally got the number on how loud I listen to. My max volume is around 90dB. Average can get up to 85dB. There is also a weighted average which I don’t really know what’s the difference, but it is much lower at 78dB. I am at about 3.5-4 m away. I got a suggestion from someone that, I should leave about 20dB head room, ie. 100dB at 3.5m. Then I plug into a calculator in a web site, it turns out the following: 60W -> 94.95 dB 80W -> 96.2 dB 100W -> 97.17 dB 120W -> 97.97 dB 150W -> 98.93 dB So, it seems your suggestion of 100-150W is spot on. Then, it seems the only option is SS. I am a tube guy, have switch to tube amps 8 years ago and never look back. I am a bit hesitant to go back to SS gear. So, my first decision need to be made is, do I get 60-80W tube amp, or 100-150W SS amp. i read comments both ways. Some say he try SS and don’t like it, then get a McIntosh 275 and very happy. Some say he move to Luxman and Accuphase and they are as good as tube. |
- 72 posts total