Help me complete my stereo system (Harbeth, ClearAudio Concept).


Hello Everyone,

I would like your help in completing my new 2 channel audio system.  My room is approximately (11ft X 14ft X 9ft ceiling) or about 42 square meters.  

I value good vinyl playback over streaming and CDs and listen mostly to small group jazz.  

I want to stay within a reasonable budget, so I'm focused on entry level components from high quality companies.  To give you an indication, I own a ClearAudio Concept with the Satisfy arm and MM cartridge.  

As far as speakers are concerned, it will be either the Harbeth P3ESR or Compact 7s.  I have auditioned both with expensive Accuphase amps and was blown away by the P3ESR, especially their natural, open sound and ability to fill a decent size room.  C7s struck me as less dynamic ... but let me know if those would be preferable considering my space and listening tastes.  

I am fairly certain that I will be favouring Solid State to drive the little Harbeth, and car analogy, realistically a well-tuned 4 cylinder turbo rather than a V8 with power to spare.  I plan to add a DAC for streaming and radio, more as a convenience than anything else (serious listening is always vinyl).  An onboard phono is preferred but not a deal breaker.  Speakers and stands to be considered separately.

Thanking everyone for their help and comments. 




juleman
PS.  I suspect the PRAT element found in Naim gear could give the kick in the pants I felt the C7s needed when I auditioned with Accuphase Integrated.
PPS : You guys have been really helpful despite the P3 /Amp match topic having been beaten to death : - )
Still trying to track down a set of P3Esr.

Called a dealer today, he was out of P3s, including XDs. He said that supply is scarce and .... that he didn’t expect to sell many XD versions at these new inflated prices !

Alan Shaw: Bring back the classic P3ESR in other colors than Black please !!