M30.3 XD2

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.

50 Hz
frequency range (±3 dB)
85 dB
sensitivity (2.83 V, 1 m)
200 mm
RADIAL4 bass/mid driver
25.6 lb
per speaker

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.

Key technologies

  • RADIAL4 bass/mid driver. 200 mm, made by Harbeth.
  • Newly refined XD2 crossover. Harbeth's revised network for smoother integration between drivers and better tonal accuracy.
  • BBC heritage. Harbeth's designs build on decades of BBC loudspeaker research.
  • Handmade in England. Cabinets are built by hand from selected real-wood veneers, so grain and shade vary pair to pair.

Finishes

  • Satin Black
  • Cherry
  • Walnut
  • Oak
  • Rosewood
  • Walnut Burr

Real-wood veneers, so grain and shade vary from pair to pair. Finish names follow Harbeth's US price list.

Specifications
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

Where it sits in the range

Best in small and medium-sized rooms.

In the US, Harbeth is distributed by Harmonia Distribution.

Reviews

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.

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