Harbeth - Compact 7 ES-2 used OR P3-ESR new ?


I can't decide which is best, both in terms of use and value.

Concerning Use:
The system will be setup in a small cubed room with less than ideal listening conditions. In all likelihood, the speakers will be close to the rear wall. In this case, I would think that the smaller P3-ESRs would be the best fit, but I've been told that the Compact 7s are a more capable monitor and one that performs well in tight spaces. I should also mention that I may be moving in a year, so I don't want to excessively limit myself based on room dimensions. I'm also not sure which speaker has the better technology - although the P3-ESR is new, the Compact 7 ES-2 is a model above. I would think that the Compact 7 ES-2 would excel in the lower frequencies, but I'm really not sure (I have yet to audition them).

Concerning value:
I can find a used pair of Compact 7 ES-2s with some minor cosmetic damage for about $700 less than a new pair of P3-ESRs. Naturally, the Compact 7s will be a better deal and retain greater resale value (not that I intend to sell them), but I don't want to buy the speaker if it doesn't align properly with my needs. That is, if the P3-ESR is the better fit, I would be happy to bite the bullet.

I would appreciate any/all feedback - especially from those with first-hand experience. Thanks!
jferreir
I read your post and one line stuck out in my mind, "I don't want to excessively limit myself based on room dimensions." I personally have not heard these two spks. but I did own the P3-ES2's which I thought were very nice sounding spks. but overpriced. I personally would buy the used 7ES-2's.
I agree. The new P3's can produce great bass and volume, for their size. They're meant for small rooms.
The 7's can fill a bigger room and go lower.
There's no arguing with it. Alan Shaw explains this in great length( as is his usual) on the user forum.

And I also agree with Kotta, as much as I love the Harbeths, they are overpriced. On the other hand, (quoting the great LD) if you love their sound they're worth it.

I'd buy the 7's.
First of all, the Harbeths are not overpriced. The Dollar is loosing value. Even at poor exchange rates the Harbeths are a great value.
The HL5s were one of the top 5 sounds at RMAF. The P3s were comparable to Joseph Audios new monitors at 1/3 the price. That's value.
Have the 7es2, larger, richer, fuller and deeper sound than the 3s. The Harbeth midrange is hard to compete with a any price. The 7s integrated very well in a poor listening enviroment.