Bic Acoustech PL-200 II vs. Wharfedale Denton 85th

Speaker Comparison

When you're in the market for a new audio setup, the choices can be overwhelming. In the realm of low-frequency prowess, the Bic Acoustech PL-200 II Subwoofer stands out, offering a powerhouse of bass that promises to shake the foundation of your home theater or music experience. On the other flank, we have the Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary Bookshelf Speakers, a reincarnation of a classic design that sings a different tune—these are steeped in mid-range warmth and high-frequency detail. While both aim to please the ears of audiophiles, they cater to different senses within the auditory spectrum.

The Powerhouse: Bic Acoustech PL-200 II Subwoofer

The Bic Acoustech PL-200 II is not shy about its capabilities. Boasting a 12-inch front-firing long-throw powered subwoofer and a BASH amplifier capable of delivering peaks of 1000 watts, this behemoth is designed to deliver deep, impactful bass. Its frequency response range of 21-200 Hz ensures that you'll feel every rumble and explosion in cinematic sequences and the pulse of bass lines in music. For those who crave that chest-thumping experience, the PL-200 II promises to deliver in spades, and it's particularly well-suited to larger rooms where its power can be fully unleashed.

The Classic Charm: Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary Bookshelf Speakers

Wharfedale's Denton 85th Anniversary Bookshelf Speakers, on the other hand, are a nod to the company's storied past. These two-way speakers feature a 6.5-inch woven Kevlar cone woofer and a 1-inch soft dome tweeter, a combination that provides a balanced and refined sound. They shine in the mid-range frequencies, which brings vocals and acoustic instruments to life with a richness and authenticity that is often lost in more modern, bass-heavy systems. Their frequency response is not as extended on the lower end as the PL-200 II, with a range of 44 Hz to 24 kHz, but the Dentons are all about clarity and musicality over brute force.

Integration into Your Audio System

Integrating the Bic Acoustech PL-200 II into your system would be about enhancing the bottom end. Its adjustable crossover and volume controls allow you to tailor the bass output to match your main speakers and room acoustics. However, it's worth noting that the PL-200 II's presence is significant, both in physical size and sonic impact, so it's not the best fit for more modest spaces or for those who prefer a more subtle bass presence. In contrast, the Wharfedale Dentons can be a stand-alone solution for small to medium-sized rooms, offering a well-rounded sound that can be further complimented with a subwoofer, should you desire a deeper bass extension.

Choosing between the two would depend largely on your listening preferences and the content you consume. If your passion lies in movies and electronic music where bass plays a leading role, the Bic Acoustech PL-200 II will not disappoint. However, if you're more inclined towards jazz, classical, or vocal-centric music, the nuanced performance of the Wharfedale Dentons could be more to your liking.

Design and Build Quality

In terms of design, the Bic Acoustech PL-200 II has a modern aesthetic that may blend well with contemporary home theater setups. It's robustly built, with a black pica vinyl finish that's quite resistant to scratches and scuffs. The Wharfedale Dentons, on the other hand, ooze classic appeal with their walnut veneer finish and quaint tungsten cloth grille. They're constructed with attention to detail and a nod to craftsmanship that's become rarer in today's market. The Dentons aren't just speakers; they're conversation pieces that pay homage to Wharfedale's heritage.

Ultimately, the Bic Acoustech PL-200 II Subwoofer and the Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary Bookshelf Speakers are both stellar in their respective domains. The PL-200 II is for those who prioritize earth-shaking bass above all else, while the Dentons are for the audiophile who appreciates the subtleties of sound and the beauty of a speaker that tells a story. Whichever you choose, remember that the best audio system is the one that brings you the most enjoyment and connection to your favorite music and movies.