XPRESSION DPM-1

The Xpression! DPM1 two-way passive monitor is the first studio monitor from Harbeth, a long-established British company associated with loudspeaker manufacturing for broadcast and audiophile hi-fi. Designed by MD Alan Shaw, the Xpression! DPM1, and the optional MS1 sub-bass enclosure, are aimed primarily at the private studio and post-pro market, though a Pro version is available, featuring auto-sensing electronic speaker protection with LED peak power monitoring. Active versions are available to order, and the regular DPM1 may easily be converted for bi-amping.

The quoted frequency response of the DPM1 used alone is 48Hz-20kHz (±3dB), with a sensitivity of 87dB 1W/1M and a nominal impedance of 8(omega). The optional MS1 sub-bass enclosure extends the system response down to 40Hz, and passive filtering inside the sub-cabinet removes LF being fed to the DPM1s below around 140Hz. For this review, I used a Mass 500 which delivers 175W into 8(omega), though the recommended amplifier power is from 20-200W with a complete system rating of 175W programme material.