move to a floorstander from Harbeth?


So, I’m pretty happy with my system but I’m getting that itch we all know so well. I’ve had my Harbeth C7es3’s for about 6 years now and still really enjoy them. I’ve gone through a few amps with them and they’ve shown the changes pretty clearly. I’ve used the Croft Phono Integrated, the Marantz PM-KI ruby and now have the Belles Aria. The Belles seems to bring out most of the best of these speakers short of a super integrated. I guess my question is: for a harbeth lover looking to move to a smaller floorstanders, what would likely satisfy and feel like an upgrade. So far:

Spendor A4

Neat Elite Classic

Dynaudio Contour 30 (would likely require and amp change)

maybe a Proac with ribbon tweeter if I can find one in my range…

I don’t have much to complain about with the Harbeths, at their best they are sublime. Would be nice to have a little more transient speed and more a sense of pace as they can feel a bit laid back. I know some of that comes down to amp as well. The only other “complaint” I have is with certain recordings (and some amp combos like the advance a12) I can really be reminded that the c7 have an aluminum dome tweeter, so I am looking for something with a nice soft dome, amt or ribbon. 

Looking up to about $3500ish used. Would love to find something good on TMR as their trade policy is helpful. They also have the Totem Bison Twin Tower and Tower. I’ve read great things but not sure if that would be a good move or a downgrade in some ways. Any other thoughts on this? Recommendations? Others who have moved on from harbeth, was there regret or was it a great move? Just fyi, source is an orchard audio streamer. Thanks for any help.  
 

 

clarinetmonster2

@clarinetmonster2 

I had the Harbeth C7ES3 for several years and sold them for the Spendor D7.2 which have been fantastic.  

Get the best Spendor you can afford- they are one of the few speaker makers that know what they are doing at a very high level that considers every speaker requirement like dynamics, clarity, refinement and sound stage.  Just superb.  

This is all great, really appreciate hearing people’s experience with similar moves. dpac996, what amps have you used in the atc’s? This might be the first time I’ve heard them compared so closely with Harbeth. I’m thinking amp matching with ATC is more critical than with Harbeth?

I found a pair of used Graham LS6F for about 2900. You might check with Gene Rubin Audio as he's a dealer for Graham, Harbeth, and Spendor speakers and is pretty familiar with the differences. That's where I got mine. Good luck!

The ATCs are not very efficient but not that hard to drive. Impedance doesn't go below 5.5 ohms. They do like power and current but there are plenty of amps that work well with them. From the SCM20 up, there are active versions that have perfectly matched amps.

I auditioned the 20s for a few weeks. They sounded great but I prefer a 3 way with that special midrange driver. I'm hoping to score a pair of SCM50 very soon. Likely the last speakers I ever buy. 

Not the OP but I appreciate the ATC feedback.  

Just want to  wish everybody on this thoughtful a Happy New Year!!!