Harbeth Compact 7ES-2 - room size

Paul -- Tue, 07/28/2009 - 13:52

I am using a NAD t753 for home theater use, and also for 2 channel listening. In 2-channel it is a relatively low 90 w/ch.

I have a CA 840C and a Linn Axis that is in good working order. Both sound pretty good right now with some B&W 603 S3 speakers.

My room is 12 ft x 26 ft. (9 ft ceilings) with the speakers about 3 feet out from the back wall, and 2 feet in from the side walls. This works well in most listening positions.
Will my amp and/or speakers be underpowered when matched with the Harbeths? Any feedback is appreciated.
I am looking for a 2 channel musical upgrade for my B&W's and the Harbeths are available to me.

Mr Plus -- Tue, 07/28/2009 - 14:35

Paul,

The Compact 7ES-2 will be completely fine in that room and I've heard them sound great with decent 50 watt amplifiers. The NAD and Harbeth combo should also be a good package (I like Harbeths with Sugden and similar amps, and the NAD isn't far from that sonically). I would suggest possibly not upsetting the applecart though; your stereo sound will get better, but you might lose some integration in your home theater. If you can live with the slight compromise, though... go for it!

Alan Sircom
Editor, Hi-Fi Plus Magazine
London, England
editor [at] hifiplus [dot] com

Paul -- Wed, 07/29/2009 - 14:10

Thanks Alan,
BTW, I'm a regular reader of Hi-Fi Plus and have a lot of respect for the reviewers comments. Your feedback is appreciated. Room size was my main concern, so this helps my decision.
Thanks,
Paul

Paul