So I just got a Mac and I love it. But the speaker match has been a challenge. First, I need to have bookshelf speakers with the space I have. Second, I can't add a subwoofer. So... I am starting testing with a beautiful pair of Harbeth P3ESR. They sound wonderful EXCEPT when you crank the volume and add heavy bass. At that point, you get some clipping. I'm told that's because they aren't powerful enough and are demanding too much energy from the Mac. I'm considering trying something as obvious as the KLF LS50s or Klipsch R-51s. Anybody have experience with this? Also, do I need to look at powered vs. passive if I want that Fela Kuti record to blast out right? Is there a downside, sound-wise, to powered speakers? Thanks everyone.
Speaker match help for McIntosh 1900
- Thread starter gedgers
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captouch
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Well, the efficiency of those Harbeths is really low (83.5), so the 1900 not having enough power isn’t too surprising for bass heavy music and high volume.
Since they’re only spec’d down to 75Hz and if you’re okay with the amount of bass you’re getting with those, you should have plenty of options that go at least that low and are much more efficient.
What are the characteristics of the Harbeths that you like the most? It doesn’t make the most sense to get recommendations for speakers without knowing what characteristics you value most in speakers.
Since they’re only spec’d down to 75Hz and if you’re okay with the amount of bass you’re getting with those, you should have plenty of options that go at least that low and are much more efficient.
What are the characteristics of the Harbeths that you like the most? It doesn’t make the most sense to get recommendations for speakers without knowing what characteristics you value most in speakers.
I love the voices. Fantastic sound on my Frank Sinatra record. I thought a Thelonious Monk record was wonderful. Just brilliant clarity (to my ears). But even then, if you blast it - I know, blasting Monk - you end up with a little clipping at top bass levels. Perhaps to get all the great and my annoying requirements (no sub, bookshelf size, Mc 1900) I need to accept that not everything can be perfect. But I'd love the clarity of the speakers without having to worry about what happens when I push the volume and bass on Toots and the Maytals.
One other thing, if it helps. I listen to all music except not as much classical and opera and NO new country. But most everything else I'm open to.