Hi,
A bit of a silly question really (as I think I can probably guess the answer) but has anyone upgraded from a vintage speaker like Spendor BC1, Spendor SP1/2, Harbeth HL or Rogers Studio One to either Harbeth SHL5 or 5+ or done any comparisons in recent times?
The reason is I have pair of Rogers Studio Ones which work really well for me (and I prefer to the others listed above which I have also owned over the years) but have never compared them to anything more contemporary. I don't believe there is a Harbeth dealer within striking distance of Bristol for me to do my own comparison, and therefore satisfy my curiosity.
I would expect considerable improvement in dynamics, less ponderous bass, superior more open midrange, less boxy colourations and warmth with a similarly sweet and extended treble.
Having said that, I think the Rogers are really very good for their age considering the bextrene technology they employ.
One last thought - how much of an improvement is the SHL5+ over the 5?
BTW the room is fairly small so listening distance is almost near-field (in other words driver integration needs to be spot on), amplification is a Quad 99 system and none of those factors look set to change. I dislike small speakers so please don't advise the smaller Harbeths, etc!