It doesn’t matter if you’re a melophile, audiophile, average music enjoyer or just have one song on repeat, your speakers are one of the crucial components that can make or break the whole sound experience. When it comes to digital formats and analogue formats, nickel-plated cables and gold-plated cables, it takes a trained ear to tell the difference in sound. However, in the case of speakers, the difference is far more easily perceivable. That’s why, if you’re planning on upgrading your audio set-up, a high-quality pair of speakers can bring the ultimate bang for your buck.
Wondering whether you should make the investment? Let’s see. Do you hear bees buzzing instead of music? Can’t blast your favourite bop without distortion? Is there a boominess taking over or a lack of bass and treble? Answering at least one of these questions positively means it’s time to level up. If you want to truly take things to new heights and your budget allows it, Harbeth loudspeakers are a fine choice that you most certainly won’t regret.
How Good Are Harbeth Speakers?
The classic British crowd favourites, especially among seasoned audiophiles, Harbeth Audio monitors are inspired by the BBC monitor design of the 1970s. If you’re someone who strives for audio perfection and sound reproduction that’s close to the original recording, you’ll find the meticulously engineered Harbeth loudspeakers to work a treat. With impressive vocals and strings throughout the whole range and unprecedented accuracy especially in the mid-tones, Harbeth delivers a natural sound quality that won’t disappoint even the most discerning audiophile.
Under the baton of Alan Shaw, the company’s lead designer, Harbeth has become synonymous with innovation and reliability, bringing professional broadcast studio gear to homes worldwide. When exploring Harbeth speakers for sale, you’ll come across an expansive price range with each price tag carrying its own distinct features. Although your choice will greatly depend on your budget, needs and design preferences, here are some of the most sought after Harbeth loudspeakers on the market.
P3ESR 40th Anniversary Tamo Ash Finish Bookshelf Speakers
A part of a strictly limited edition, the P3ESR 40th Anniversary speakers are prized for their elegant design and beautiful Tamo Ash finish. Featuring WBT next-gen binding posts, audio grade poly capacitors and ultra-pure OFC internal cable, this bookshelf speaker delivers wide soundstage and deep sound similar to the larger Harbeth speakers. This is rather impressive considering the size that measures just 306 x 190 x 184 mm. Offering next-level clarity and realism, the P3s are suitable for reproducing just about any type of music and thanks to the compact design, they’re a perfect choice even for the smallest of apartments.
SHL5plus 40th Anniversary Walnut Finish Speakers
Another precious now discontinued gem you’d be lucky to get your hands on, the SHL5plus speaker honours and celebrates the company’s 40th anniversary. Although it’s been more than four decades since the legendary designer Dudley Hardwood founded Harbeth Audio, the HL5+ series keeps in step with the modern technologies taking the clarity and realism that extra bit further. The HL5+ bookshelf speakers are inspired by the first loudspeaker model released by Harbeth in 1977.
Inside the box, you’ll find a completely redesigned crossover and other major upgrades made possible by Harbeth’s patented RADIAL2™ technology. On the outside, the SHL5+ boasts timeless elegance thanks to the premium walnut veneer and the sleek black 40th anniversary badges that only add to the classy appearance. Similarly to other Harbeth speakers, the HL5+ are well-suited for various types of music, but they sound the best in domestic settings at normal listening levels.
M40.2 Speakers (Original Version)
Following the lead of the multi-award-winning M40.1, the M40.2 brings live musical performance to your home. This new generation was warmly welcomed by audiophiles all over the globe and received only the highest remarks by experts, critical listeners and prestigious magazines. Not only that the M40.s have surpassed the expectations during The Hong Kong High-End Audio Visual Show, but they have also gained approval from the discerning Japanese audiophile community.
Efficient, perfectly balanced and suitable for a wide range of listening environments, the M40.2 speakers offer an unprecedented sonic experience with a soul-stirring soundstage. The downside of the M40.2 isn’t the hefty price tag, (all great things cost money), but rather the fact that they’re extremely hard to find.
M40.3 XD Stand Mount Speakers
If money is no object, you should consider embarking on a grand sound experience with the flagship Harbeth 40.3 XD speakers. Offering impressive detail and space, this M40.2 successor takes the acclaimed Harbeth performance to new heights with mesmerising soundstage and stunning realism that leaves no audiophile unimpressed. Is the price tag worth it? Well, being dubbed the “most musical monitor ever” and “the ultimate reference loudspeaker” speaks for itself.
If you’re on a quest to audio perfection, the 40.3 XD is the closest to the studio you can get from the comfort of your own home. Highly accurate and adaptable to a wide range of listening environments, this speaker is a supreme upgrade for any devoted audiophile or music aficionado.
Closing Thoughts
Since no words can quite convey the sound experience, especially when it comes to high-end brands like Harbeth, it’s advisable to visit a Hi-Fi store where you can enjoy and experience the speakers first-hand before making a final decision. With that being said, it’s time to hit some showrooms UK wide and witness the Harbeth difference. Beware though, once you’re embraced into the Harbeth musical indulgence, there’s no going back.
