Harbeth · XD2 Series
Harbeth's modern take on the BBC LS5/9 studio monitor: a compact two-way known for midrange clarity and controlled, honest bass.
Price is for a pair.
The Monitor 30 grew out of the BBC LS5/9 monitor, and it remains the most compact Harbeth built around a 200 mm bass/mid driver. The current Monitor 30.3 XD2 uses Harbeth's RADIAL4 cone with a 25 mm ferrofluid-cooled tweeter and a newly refined crossover, in a cabinet a little shorter and squarer than the C7ES-3's.
StereoNET's review of the M30.2 XD heard a warm, easygoing but transparent midrange, natural voices and acoustic instruments, controlled bass and a wide, tall soundstage. At 85 dB and 6 Ω it rewards a solid amplifier; Harbeth suggests 25 W per channel or more. Use rigid stands that put the tweeter near ear height and give it space from the rear wall. It suits small and medium-sized rooms and listeners who prize tone and voices.
Real-wood veneers, so grain and shade vary from pair to pair. Finish names follow Harbeth's US price list.
| Type | Two-way stand-mount loudspeaker |
| Drive units | 200 mm (7.9 in) Harbeth-made RADIAL4 bass/mid; 25 mm (1 in) ferrofluid-cooled tweeter |
| Frequency range | 50 Hz – 20 kHz ±3 dB (free space, grille on) |
| Sensitivity | 85 dB (2.83 V, 1 m, axial) |
| Impedance | 6 Ω |
| Amplifier suggestion | From 25 W per channel |
| Power handling | 150 W programme |
| Connectors | 4 mm Harbeth binding posts |
| Placement | Optimized for use away from walls; tweeter 320 mm (12.6 in) above cabinet base |
| Dimensions (H × W × D) | 18.1 × 10.9 × 10.8 in (460 × 277 × 275 mm); add 12 mm (0.5 in) depth for grille and terminals |
| Weight | 25.6 lb (11.6 kg) each |
| Packing | Single speaker per carton |
| Sold as | Pair |
Harbeth Monitor 30.3 XD2 technical information sheet (PDF) · harbeth.co.uk product page
Best in small and medium-sized rooms.
In the US, Harbeth is distributed by Harmonia Distribution.
Hear Harbeth with Pearl Audio
Pearl Audio is an authorized Harbeth dealer. We can help with room placement, amplifier matching, delivery and setup, and arrange a listening appointment. The M30.3 XD2 is on demonstration in our Portland showroom. Call (503) 222-2599 or email sales@pearlaudio.com.