???Compare-Contrast or Comment???Harbeth-ProAc or Reference 3a???

@akg_ca :
 if you could only keep 1 pair,discounting the limited bass of the Dulcet,which would you keep?

@freediver

HARBETH 30.2XD ….. hands down ….full stop. Rest assured that the DULCET BE II is a very fine performer regardless.

- Its midrange, tweeter are class leading, not surprising in that the 2-way speaker drivers are the identical in the $19000 three-way 40.3 XD model.

There are extraneous factors contributing further to my assessment ..

First off , I run both speaker systems, each with a quality subwoofer, in a 2.1 system configuration, so bass extension below their respective roll-off point is not a factor. In fairness the ATC sub bested all contenders and pretenders at its pricepoint as a best in class sub synergy stablemate to the HARBETHs,.

The REFERENCE 3A speaker product line is more efficient than the HARBETHs,The REF 3a. Mm DE CAPO BE II are 92 db…. DULCET BE II a bit less.

This may matter more to some tube fan AGONers,, in that both the MM DE CAPO BE II, and the DULCET BE II are both favourably driven by more modest SS amp options (and price) .
-REF 3a models are arguably easier to sync up even with modest price tube amps. . The manufacturer showcases their speaker line with COPLAND high-end tube amps.

FWIW, I run my HARBETHs with a much more beefy, immensely refined, (at multiples more price-point…) solid state REGA OSIRIS integrated amp, along with a premium build high-end ATC C1 Sub Mk 2 subwoofer. This 2.1 combo mightily bests my “B” 2.1 system with an ARCAM FMJ A39 integrated amp, driving the DULCETS, with a MARTIN LOGAN DYNAMO subwoofer.

TAKEAWAY:

IF:

(a) … Price is what you pay, BUT value is what you get…” ….and,

(b); “ You always get what you pay for ….”

then HARBETH rule in MY home …

One of my least favorite speakers are Harbeth. Be careful when a manufacturer proclaims something to be of sonic benefit which then turns out to be the cheapest way to make the speaker. They sound just as they should given the lossy cabinet and wide baffle. 

I would say go with the De Capo although running drivers at full range can limit dynamic output. 

These are great speakers, but overpriced, for different reasons, and also vastly different in nature. Really apples and oranges. 

Still, by sheer data and specs, the Reference 3a is the best value. The ProAc may be the best sounding though, for you needs. 

+1 on Harbeth 30.2. Give it good amplification and it will reward you in ways few speakers can. Natural, balanced, beautiful tonality and timbre, and an exquisite midrange.