HARBETH COMPACT 7 ES-3 CHERRY

Used item, still in its original packaging, never opened.

Speaker images shown are from the catalog; real packaging photo shown.

The Harbeth Compact 7ES-3 perfectly exemplify what happens when an audio design breaks free from conventional schemes, delivering a surprising and engaging listening experience in any setting. Despite their understated appearance and clear ties to the British BBC speaker tradition, these monitors go beyond the stereotype of a sound focused solely on the midrange. Their openness, dynamic response, and tonal coherence make them exceptionally modern and complete, while preserving the hallmark accuracy and naturalness the brand is known for.

While their design might resemble previous versions, the Compact 7ES-3 are completely reengineered, featuring new drivers, updated crossover components, and the proprietary Radial 2 technology for the woofer—already employed in higher-end models like the Monitor 30 and 40. The newly designed tweeter works in perfect harmony with the woofer, providing a wide and even frequency response that extends from a solid 45 Hz in the lows to a clear 20 kHz in the highs, always maintaining high definition even at lower volume levels. Thanks to a sensitivity of 86 dB and a 6-ohm impedance, they are easy to drive and pair well with most amplifiers starting at 30 watts per channel, whether solid-state or tube-based.

Their character adapts gracefully to the electronics they are matched with: a tube amplifier will enhance their warmth and classic British charm, while a more neutral and powerful amp will highlight their transparency and dynamic capability. This versatility allows them to handle everything from intimate acoustic vocals to powerful rock music with finesse, always maintaining a refined balance between detail and musicality. Cable choice has a relatively minor impact, making them appealing even to users who prefer a simpler setup without obsessing over fine-tuning combinations.

Over time, the Compact 7ES-3 continue to prove their worth, even with heavy use. Their sound remains natural and true, accurately reproducing the timbre of acoustic instruments. They stand as one of the finest offerings in high-fidelity audio—able to move enthusiasts and satisfy demanding listeners alike—without ever causing fatigue and retaining tonal consistency that’s rarely found even in much more expensive loudspeakers.

Technical Specifications:

• Tweeter: 25 mm; ferrofluid-cooled
• Midwoofer: 200 mm; Harbeth RADIAL 2
• Frequency Response: 45 Hz – 20 kHz (±3 dB)
• Impedance: 6 ohms
• Sensitivity: 86 dB (2.83 V/1 m)
• Amplifier: From 25 W/channel
• Power Handling: Up to 150 W
• Connectors: 2 Harbeth-branded 4 mm binding posts
• Grille Color: Black
• Dimensions: 272 x 520 x 305 mm (W x H x D); +12 mm for grille and terminals
• Weight: 13.2 kg each