Harbeth loudspeakers have their origins in a simpler time when objectivity was the path to greater fidelity. Here we attempt to apply citizen science* (an attitude of mind) to explore practical, universal and cost-effective ways to maximise natural sound at home. In matters Harbeth, this forum is the wellhead: as close as you can get to our brand, products, values, people, facilities and ethos, and we thrive on harmony, good manners, mutual respect and mature discussion. We are constantly vigilant to prevent social influencers from misusing this forum.
Making great music with your Harbeths is remarkably simple. Drive them from any hi-fi electronics designed in the last 50 years or so. That’s it. Use whatever you have available. This Forum does not offer a ranking on audio amplifiers, cables, power supplies, sources, connectors etc. as we do not make these products. Music should always come first, especially in these challenging times.
Consider this when selecting audio equipment. Audiologists, acousticians, sound engineers, film producers, musicians, actors, composers, orators, whispering lovers, the military, and wailing infants invoke quantifiable differences in loudness to steer human auditory experience. Replay loudness is rarely managed during audio equipment comparison and as louder sounds trigger more auditory neurones, this more dramatic subjective experience can be easily misinterpreted as greater fidelity, when it is simply louder.
Tolerance and respect for a century of audio science is the backbone of HUG. Contributions deemed combative or disruptive will not appear. We constantly try to balance the pleasure of good music at home with our objective roots. The Moderator's decision is always final.
The Harbeth User Group is owned and run by Harbeth Audio Ltd., a commercial enterprise, and is moderated within that reality. We consciously downplay marketing of our products - they speak for themselves. With that all said, welcome and enjoy.
* Example of citizen science in action here.
Revised Jan. 2025