The Iconic Wharfedale Linton 85th Anniversary Heritage Speakers Review: A Nostalgic Journey Through Hi-Fi Heaven

Well, folks, it’s time to dust off those vinyl records and crank up the volume! Today, we’re diving into the world of retro-inspired audio with the Wharfedale Linton 85th Anniversary speakers. As a hi-fi enthusiast who’s been around the block a few times (much like these speakers), I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this blast from the past.

Founded in 1932, Wharfedale has been a staple in the audio world for nearly a century. The original Linton, one of their most iconic designs, first hit the scene in the 1960s and quickly became a favorite among audiophiles. Now, they’ve brought it back with a modern twist to celebrate their 85th anniversary. Talk about a birthday present to us all!

I’ll admit, when I first heard about the Lintons, I was skeptical. Would this be just another case of a company cashing in on nostalgia? Boy, was I in for a surprise. So, grab your favorite beverage, settle into your comfiest listening chair, and let’s explore why these speakers might just make you fall in love with music all over again.

Design and Build Quality

Construction and Finish

The moment I unboxed the speakers, I was hit with a wave of nostalgia. These beauties are built like a tank, reminiscent of the golden age of hi-fi. The cabinets are solid, hefty, and exude quality from every angle. It’s clear that Wharfedale hasn’t skimped on construction – these speakers feel like they could outlast my vinyl collection (and trust me, that’s saying something).

Material Used

Wharfedale has stayed true to the original Linton’s design philosophy while incorporating modern materials. The cabinets are crafted from high-density MDF, which helps minimize unwanted resonances. This old-school approach to speaker design is refreshing in an age where lightweight materials often take precedence.

Design Features

One of the standout features of the Linton 85th Anniversary is its three-way design. This isn’t just for show – it allows for a more precise division of labor among the drivers, resulting in a more accurate and natural sound. The speakers also come with some nifty grilles that attach magnetically, giving you the option to show off those gorgeous drivers or keep them under wraps.

Color Options

In terms of color options, Wharfedale keeps it classic with two choices: walnut or mahogany veneer. Both finishes are stunning and give the speakers a timeless look that’ll fit right in with your vintage gear or add a touch of class to a more modern setup. Personally, I’m partial to the walnut – it reminds me of my dad’s old stereo system.

Aesthetics

Let’s face it – these speakers are eye-catching. With their retro-inspired design and imposing stature, the Wharfedale Lintons are conversation starters. They harken back to a time when speakers were furniture, not just audio equipment. The attention to detail is impressive, from the textured front baffle to the subtle Wharfedale logo. These speakers don’t just sound good; they look good doing it.

Features and Specifications

Physical Dimensions

Alright, let’s talk size. The speakers are what I’d call “bookshelf speakers on steroids.” They measure a substantial 22.2 inches (565mm) high, 11.8 inches (300mm) wide, and 13 inches (330mm) deep. At 40.5 pounds (18.4kg) each, these aren’t speakers you’ll be moving around on a whim. But then again, why would you want to? Once you find the sweet spot for these beauties, you’ll want to leave them there permanently.

Frequency Response

Wharfedale claims a frequency response of 40Hz – 20kHz (+/-3dB) for the Linton 85th Anniversary. In layman’s terms, this means these speakers can reproduce a wide range of sounds, from deep bass to sparkling highs. But numbers only tell part of the story – we’ll dive into how this translates to real-world performance in the sound quality section.

Impedance, Sensitivity, Wattage & Power Handling

The Linton 85th Anniversary speakers have a nominal impedance of 6 ohms, making them relatively easy to drive for most amplifiers. With a sensitivity of 90dB, they’re efficient enough that you won’t need a powerhouse amp to get them singing. However, they can handle up to 200 watts of power, so feel free to crank it up if you’ve got the juice.

Connectivity

In terms of connectivity, the 85s keeps it simple and traditional. You’ve got a pair of high-quality binding posts on each speaker, ready to accept banana plugs, spade connectors, or bare wire. No fancy wireless options here – just pure, unadulterated analog goodness. Sometimes, the old ways are the best ways, especially when it comes to hi-fi.

Sound Quality

Bass

Let’s kick things off with the low end, shall we? The bass performance of the 85 Lintons is, in a word, impressive. The 8-inch woofer delivers a punch that you can feel in your chest, but it’s not just about quantity – there’s quality here too. The bass is tight, controlled, and articulate. Whether I was listening to the thunderous low notes of an organ or the intricate bass lines of a jazz quartet, the Lintons reproduced it all with aplomb.

What really struck me was how natural and unforced the bass sounded. There’s no artificial boost here, just a faithful reproduction of what’s in the recording. It’s the kind of bass that makes you rediscover your music collection, picking up on nuances you might have missed before. And let’s not forget – this is coming from a “bookshelf” speaker. The Lintons punch well above their weight class in the bass department.

Midrange

Moving up the frequency range, we come to the midrange – often considered the most crucial part of the audio spectrum. This is where voices and most instruments live, and it’s where many speakers falter. Not so with the Linton 85th Anniversary. The midrange here is nothing short of spectacular.

Vocals are presented with stunning clarity and realism. Whether it’s the gravelly tones of Tom Waits or the soaring highs of Aretha Franklin, voices sound eerily present and lifelike. Instrumental timbres are reproduced with exceptional accuracy – acoustic guitars have that woody resonance, brass instruments have just the right amount of bite, and pianos sound rich and full-bodied.

What impresses me most about the Linton’s midrange is its ability to unravel complex musical passages without breaking a sweat. Even in densely layered recordings, I could easily pick out individual instruments and follow their lines. This level of detail and separation is something you’d expect from speakers costing much more.

Treble

The treble performance of the Linton 85th Anniversary is a testament to Wharfedale’s engineering prowess. It’s detailed and extended, providing plenty of air and sparkle to recordings without ever becoming harsh or fatiguing. Cymbals shimmer realistically, string instruments have a lovely sheen, and there’s a sense of space and ambience that brings recordings to life.

What I appreciate most about the Linton’s treble is its smoothness and integration with the rest of the frequency range. There’s no sense of the treble being disconnected or calling attention to itself – it’s simply there, adding the perfect amount of top-end extension to complete the sonic picture. Even with bright or less-than-stellar recordings, the Lintons manage to stay composed and listenable.

Soundstage and Imaging

Here’s where things get really interesting. The soundstage presented by the Linton 85th Anniversary speakers is, quite frankly, jaw-dropping. These speakers disappear in a way that belies their substantial physical presence, creating a wide and deep sonic landscape that extends well beyond the confines of the cabinets.

The imaging is precise and holographic. Instruments and voices are locked in place with laser-like focus, creating a three-dimensional soundscape that’s almost spooky in its realism. Listening to well-recorded live albums, I often found myself closing my eyes and feeling as if I was right there in the venue.

What’s particularly impressive is how the Lintons maintain this sense of space and imaging even at lower volumes. You don’t need to crank them up to get that “you are there” feeling – although, trust me, you’ll want to from time to time. The ability to create this kind of immersive soundstage is a hallmark of great speaker design, and the Lintons deliver in spades.

Pros and Cons of the Wharfedale Linton 85 Heritage Speakers

Pros:

1. Exceptional sound quality across the entire frequency range
2. Stunning retro-inspired design that’s sure to turn heads
3. Impressive bass performance for their size
4. Wide and deep soundstage with precise imaging
5. High-quality construction and materials
6. Versatile performance that suits a wide range of musical genres
7. Efficient enough to work well with a variety of amplifiers
8. Comes with matching stands for optimal placement

Cons:

1. Large size may not suit all room layouts or aesthetics
2. Heavy weight makes them challenging to move or reposition
3. Premium price point may be out of reach for some budgets
4. Limited color options compared to some competitors
5. No built-in modern connectivity options (e.g., wireless)

Value Comparison

Value proposition of this speaker

When it comes to value, the speakers present an interesting proposition. Yes, they’re not cheap, but considering the level of performance they offer, I’d argue they represent excellent value for money in the world of high-end audio. These speakers compete with models costing significantly more, making them a smart choice for the discerning audiophile who wants top-tier sound without completely breaking the bank.

The build quality alone justifies a good chunk of the price tag. These speakers are built to last, potentially providing decades of listening pleasure. When you factor in the included stands (which are custom-designed to complement the speakers both aesthetically and acoustically), the value proposition becomes even more attractive.

How does it stack up with its predecessor

Comparing the Anniversary version to its predecessors is a bit like comparing apples to oranges, given the decades of technological advancements between them. However, it’s clear that Wharfedale has managed to capture the essence of what made the original Lintons so beloved while significantly improving upon their performance.

The new Lintons offer superior bass extension, improved clarity across the frequency range, and a more refined overall sound compared to their ancestors. They’ve retained the warmth and musicality that Wharfedale is known for, but added a level of detail and precision that meets modern audiophile standards.

How does it stack up with speakers at the lower and higher tier within the same brand

Within the Wharfedale lineup, the Linton 85th Anniversary sits near the top of the range. Compared to lower-tier models like the Diamond series, the Lintons offer a significant step up in terms of sound quality, build, and overall presence. They provide a more full-bodied sound, better bass extension, and a larger, more immersive soundstage.

When compared to Wharfedale’s flagship models, like the Elysian series, the Lintons hold their own surprisingly well. While the top-tier models may offer that last bit of refinement and ultimate performance, the Lintons provide a large portion of that high-end sound at a fraction of the price.

How does it stack up with competing speakers in this price point from other brands

In their price range, the Lintons face stiff competition from brands like KEF, B&W, and Focal. However, they more than hold their own in this esteemed company. What sets the Lintons apart is their combination of retro charm and modern performance.

While some competitors might offer a more neutral or analytical sound, the Lintons provide a warmth and musicality that many find more engaging for long-term listening. Their bass performance is particularly noteworthy, often surpassing that of similarly priced standmount speakers.

The Lintons also offer a unique value proposition with their included stands and distinctive aesthetic. For those who appreciate both form and function, the Lintons present a compelling package that’s hard to beat at this price point.

Users Feedback

What are some of the main things that users and reviewers love about this speaker

1. Sound Quality: Overwhelmingly, users and reviewers praise it for its exceptional sound quality. The balanced, natural, and engaging sound signature is frequently mentioned as a standout feature.
2. Bass Performance: Many are impressed by the depth and quality of bass these speakers produce, especially given their bookshelf classification.
3. Retro Design: The vintage-inspired aesthetics of the Lintons have won many hearts. Users appreciate the speakers’ ability to serve as both audio equipment and stylish furniture.
4. Build Quality: The solid construction and high-quality materials used in the Lintons are often praised, with many noting that the speakers feel built to last.
5. Versatility: Reviewers frequently mention how well the Lintons perform across various musical genres, making them a versatile choice for diverse music collections.
6. Included Stands: The matching stands that come with the speakers are seen as a valuable inclusion, both for their aesthetic match and acoustic benefits.
7. Value for Money: Despite their premium price point, many users feel the Lintons offer excellent value given their performance and build quality.

What are some of the main things that users and reviewers don’t like about this speaker

1. Size and Weight: Some users find the Lintons too large or heavy for their living spaces, particularly those with smaller rooms.
2. Price: While many feel the Lintons offer good value, some users find the price point to be a bit high, especially those on tighter budgets.
3. Limited Color Options: A few reviewers have expressed a desire for more finish options beyond the walnut and mahogany veneers offered.
4. Lack of Modern Connectivity: Some users wish for built-in wireless capabilities or other modern connectivity options.
5. Break-in Period: A few reviewers noted that the speakers require a significant break-in period before reaching their full potential, which can be a minor inconvenience.
6. Amplifier Sensitivity: While not a common complaint, some users found that the Lintons are somewhat picky about amplifier pairing to achieve optimal performance.

Conclusion

Who is this speaker for

These speakers are a match made in audiophile heaven for anyone with a discerning ear and an appreciation for vintage-quality design.

Who Is This Speaker Not Suitable For

If you’re chasing bass drops that rattle your fillings or if you’re struggling to fit a laptop on your coffee table, you might want to swipe left on this one.

Key Takeaway & Final Verdict

If you’re looking for a speaker that commands the room and serenades the ears, look no further. The Wharfedale Linton 85th anniversary speakers are like a well-aged scotch—simple, refined, and always satisfying. 

FAQs

What type of wood is used in the Wharfedale Linton 85th Anniversary?

The speakers use real wood veneers combined with high-density composite materials for enhanced sound qualities and aesthetics.

Are these speakers compact enough for small spaces?

While larger than typical bookshelf speakers, they are thoughtfully designed to fit seamlessly into a variety of spaces.

Can the grilles be removed?

Yes, the woven grilles are removable for those who love flaunting those beautiful drivers.

What amplifiers pair well with these speakers?

These speakers work well with a wide range of amplifiers, ensuring great compatibility across setups.

How does the Wharfedale Linton handle different genres of music?

From jazz to rock, these speakers handle genres with grace, offering a balanced experience that befits most musical tastes.

Do the Linton 85th Anniversary speakers come with stands?

Yes, they come with matching stands designed specifically for these speakers.

Are these speakers difficult to drive?

With a nominal impedance of 6 ohms and 90dB sensitivity, they are relatively easy to drive for most amplifiers.

What is the power handling capability of these speakers?

They can handle up to 200 watts of power.

Do they require a break-in period?

Like many high-quality speakers, they may benefit from a break-in period to reach their full potential.