Polk Signature Elite ES20 vs. Wharfedale Denton 85th

Polk Audio Signature Elite ES20 Bookshelf Speakers Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary Bookshelf Speakers
MSRP
$400 $1000
Dimensions (H × W × D)
14.80” × 8.50” × 13.80”
376mm × 216mm × 351mm
13.44” × 9.44” × 11.94”
341mm × 240mm × 303mm
Power Type
Passive Passive
Frequency Response
44-40,000 Hz 45-20,000 Hz
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: The Polk Audio Signature Elite ES20 and Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary bookshelf speakers cater to keen listeners but serve different tastes. The ES20s offer contemporary design and dynamic sound with a broad soundstage, ideal for those craving modern aesthetics and versatile performance. Meanwhile, the Denton 85th Anniversary speakers exude a classic charm with their vintage look and warm, detailed sonic character, appealing to traditionalists and those who prioritize musicality. Both possess distinct sonic signatures: Polk prioritizes clarity and punch, while Wharfedale embodies richness and a nod to audiophile nostalgia. The choice hinges on personal preference for either technical precision or lush, time-honored acoustics.

Speaker Comparison

When it comes to high-fidelity sound in the home, bookshelf speakers hold a special place. They strike the balance between the imposing presence of floor-standers and the discretion of in-ceiling alternatives, all while aspiring to deliver an uncompromised sonic experience. Today, we set our sights on two intriguing contenders in this space: the Polk Audio Signature Elite ES20 and the Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary Edition. Both speakers promise premium sound, yet they come from distinctly different design philosophies and acoustic legacies.

American Muscle versus British Elegance

The Polk Audio Signature Elite ES20 is a testament to American engineering, bringing forth a dynamic and forward sound that's meant to grab your attention. These speakers are not shy about making a statement, whether that's through their robust build quality or their assertive sonic character. On the other side of the pond, the Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary Edition speaks to the British tradition of refined audio. These speakers, with their rich walnut veneer and classic design, channel a more laid-back and nuanced presentation that pays homage to their heritage.

Design and Build Quality: A Study in Contrasts

Design-wise, the Polk ES20 sports a modern aesthetic with clean lines and a minimalist vibe that's at home in contemporary settings. It feels well-constructed and sturdy, with Polk's proprietary Power Port technology for enhanced bass response. The Wharfedale Dentons, celebrating their 85th anniversary, exude a sense of nostalgia with their vintage-inspired design. The hand-veneered cabinets not only look stunning but also contribute to the speaker's acoustic properties, offering a resonance that complements their signature sound.

Sound Characteristics: Clarity Meets Warmth

Sound-wise, the two speakers diverge in their approach to rendering audio. The Polk ES20 delivers a crisp and articulate sound with a bright top-end that emphasizes clarity and detail. Its 6.5-inch mid-woofer combined with a 1-inch Terylene tweeter ensures that music is presented with punch and precision. The Wharfedale Dentons, with their softer dome tweeter and woven kevlar woofer, lean towards a warmer and more relaxed sound profile. There's a smoothness to the high frequencies and a richness to the mids that fans of vinyl and acoustic recordings might find particularly appealing.

Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary Bookshelf Speakers
Wharfedale Denton 85th arrow (at Amazon.com)

What sets the Dentons apart is their ability to render a lush midrange, a quality that is especially flattering for vocal performances. The ES20s, with their more aggressive midrange, might not coddle the ears in quite the same way, but they offer excellent vocal clarity and separation that can be especially engaging with modern pop and rock genres.

Room Considerations and Placement

Room placement and acoustics will play a significant role in the performance of any speaker, and it's no different with the ES20 and the Denton 85th. The ES20s are somewhat more forgiving when it comes to placement, courtesy of Polk's Power Port technology, which mitigates port noise and provides deeper bass even when placed closer to walls. However, the Dentons, with their rear-ported design, will require some breathing space from the wall to truly shine, making them slightly more demanding in terms of room setup.

In conclusion, choosing between the Polk Audio Signature Elite ES20 and the Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary Edition comes down to personal taste and the specifics of your listening environment. If you're drawn to the bold and energetic delivery of American loudspeaker design, the ES20s could be your match. Those seeking a more relaxed, warm, and nostalgic listening experience might find the Dentons to be the perfect companions for evenings spent with a glass of wine and a collection of classic records. Whichever you choose, both offer a captivating entry into the world of audiophile-grade sound that can make music come alive in your home.


Check Current Prices:

Polk Audio Signature Elite ES20 Bookshelf Speakers
Polk Audio Signature Elite ES20 Bookshelf Speakers
Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary Bookshelf Speakers
Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary Bookshelf Speakers
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

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Disclaimer: the speaker data listed on this website are correct to the best of our knowledge, but we do not guarantee the accuracy of the data. Please double-check any measurements with the manufacturer before making a final purchasing decision.