Largely in terms of aesthetics, I guess. They are box speakers that require stands. A lot of people seem to prefer modernistic or some such "statement" design. Harbeth's "statement" is the sound.
Aside from that, like I said, they are extremely neutral and linear. Some people might not like that. Lots of speakers out there have pushed mid-ranges, highs, or especially lows, to attract certain kinds of listeners. Harbeths are designs to be linear and true to the recording -- they're supposed to get the speaker and the room, as much as possible, out of the equation. Read the HL5 review in Sphile. To me, it's apples and oranges. the 30s have the top of the line tweeter. The HL5 has greater bass extension. I could be very happy with either one. I *like* the small size of the 30s, and, I guess, that's why I went with them. Also, they image like crazy. Again, if you're into very LOUD music (these are essentially studio monitors and not made for extended play over 90db), into party speakers, etc., then Harbeth are not for you. If you want good value, great build quality, don't mind plain-Jane looks, and most of all are after accurate sound, then they should be on your short-list. -- highdudgeon SB3->Nuforce 9.02->Harbeth Monitor 30s/Skylan stands and Quad ESL-988s. Simple and satisfying. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ highdudgeon's Profile: http://forums.slimdevices.com/member.php?userid=2195 View this thread: http://forums.slimdevices.com/showthread.php?t=26930 _______________________________________________ audiophiles mailing list [email protected] http://lists.slimdevices.com/lists/listinfo/audiophiles
