Suggestions for Harbeth P3ESR speakers


Last year I purchased a used pair of P3ESR speakers in cherry finish for my study. The gentleman from whom I bought the speakers also had a Naim Unitiqute (first version) that he sold to me at a decent price. While I liked the combination, I always felt that the Unitiqute was a little under powered for driving the Harbeths to their full potential. To make matters worse, the digital display (green LCD) on the Unitiqute started to fade and eventually went out after a few months. Searching on the internet revealed that this is a common problem with Naim amps. On one hand, they recommend that the amp be kept on at all times for optimal performance, but on the other hand they use substandard parts for the display. What a shame! So now, while I can still listen to music, I can't really see any information on the amp. Cannot listen to the internet radio, which was a feature I enjoyed, anymore 'cause I can't see the display.

So now, I'm in two minds. Will getting another amp make the Harbeths open up further? Or am I better off selling them and trying something else instead. I already have a pair of KEF LS50 Wireless that I really like and enjoy. KEF has come up with a smaller version (LSX), which is worth a try.

If I decide to stay with the Harbeths, what other amps can you folks recommend? 

Limitations: Have to buy used, under $2000 preferably. Small footprint preferred since it's in my study (10x12x12).

Music: Mostly jazz (including modern), vocals (Diana Krall, Gregory Porter, Nina Simone), soft/psychedelic rock -- Pink Floyd, etc. Sometimes I do listen to hard rock or mainstream pop also. Don't really listen at high volumes mostly but do like to crank it up every now and then.

Lastly, I think adding a small, fast, and musical sub might also help. Recommendations in this category are also welcome
128x128arafiq

Showing 5 responses by yogiboy

The P3s sound great with tubes. 50 watts in that small room is sufficient to drive them. There are a few Rogue Audio integrated amps listed here within your budget that would fit the bill. I use a JL Audio Dominion with my P3s and it is a perfect match!
http://www.jlaudio.com/home-audio-powered-subwoofers-dominion
@arafiq
You should make an offer on that Atlas Magnum that is listed for $1895. It is a demo with full warranty. It looks like the seller is a Rogue dealer! My friend uses Rogue tube gear with his P3s and I use Quicksilver tube gear with my P3s and both give outstanding results!!
@arafiq
So make an offer at 40% off the list. I doubt that it will be turned down. What do you have to lose? BTW, there is a Cronus Magnum listed for $1200!
Having owned four pairs of the P3ESR including the newer 40th anniversary edition I am very familiar with those speakers. My friend uses the original Atlas Magnum 50 watt el34 power amp with the P3’s and they work fine together.
I would say that the 100 watt Cronus in your size room will be fine.
BTW, $1400 for the used Cronus is fine!!