Klipsch Reference R-820F vs. Wharfedale Denton 85th

Klipsch Reference R-820F Tower Speakers Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary Bookshelf Speakers
MSRP
$1000 $1000
Dimensions (H × W × D)
43.00” × 10.94” × 17.50”
1092mm × 278mm × 444mm
13.44” × 9.44” × 11.94”
341mm × 240mm × 303mm
Power Type
Passive Passive
Frequency Response
35-21,000 Hz 45-20,000 Hz
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: In the vibrant audio landscape, the Klipsch Reference R-820F towers and the Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary bookshelf speakers represent two contrasting philosophies. The R-820F delivers dynamic, room-filling sound with a lively presence, courtesy of its horn-loaded tweeter and sizable dual woofers, ideal for those craving cinematic scale. In contrast, the Dentons, with their rich wood veneer and classic design, offer a refined, warm sound signature that's a nod to audiophile nostalgia. These bookshelf units excel in intimate listening spaces, highlighting the artisanal craftsmanship that Wharfedale celebrates in its anniversary series, perfect for the detail-oriented listener.

Speaker Comparison

The quest for the perfect speaker can be a journey through a maze of specs, design philosophies, and brand legacies. In the worlds of floor-standing and bookshelf speakers, few brands carry the reputation and history of Klipsch and Wharfedale. Today, we'll be taking a closer look at two of their offerings: the Klipsch Reference R-820F Tower Speakers and the Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary Bookshelf Speakers. Although they occupy different categories in the speaker hierarchy, both sets aim to offer a premium listening experience for the discerning audiophile.

Design & Build Quality

The Klipsch Reference R-820F is a towering presence in any room, with a sleek, modern design that commands attention. The build quality is solid, featuring a textured wood grain vinyl finish that is both visually appealing and durable. The copper-spun IMG woofers are not only distinctive in appearance but also contribute to the speaker’s robust sound. On the other hand, the Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary speakers exude a vintage charm, with a traditional bookshelf design that pays homage to the brand's long-standing history. The mahogany veneer and "Tungsten" cloth grille give it a timeless look, whilst the construction is reassuringly sturdy – a nod to Wharfedale's commitment to craftsmanship.

Klipsch Reference R-820F Tower Speakers
Klipsch Reference R-820F arrow (at Amazon.com)

Sound Characteristics

When it comes to sound, the Klipsch R-820F is renowned for its dynamic range and efficiency. The hallmark Klipsch Tractrix horn-loaded tweeter delivers a crisp, detailed high end, while the dual 8-inch woofers provide a punchy and deep bass response. The result is a lively sound signature that can fill large spaces with ease. Contrastingly, the Wharfedale Dentons offer a more laid-back, warm sound that is characteristic of British speakers. The 6.5-inch woven Kevlar cone woofer, combined with the soft dome tweeter, ensures a balanced midrange with smooth treble. The bass is ample for a speaker of its size, but it's more about the quality than the sheer output.

Performance & Versatility

The Klipsch R-820F towers are designed to perform in both stereo and home theater setups. Their sensitivity is high, meaning they can be driven to significant volumes with relatively little power. This makes them versatile and suitable for a wide variety of amplifiers and receivers. The Wharfedale Dentons, due to their more compact size and design, are better suited for small to medium-sized rooms. They're an excellent choice for those who value a natural soundstage and precise imaging, often outperforming many floor-standers when placed in the right environment.

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

Despite their differences, both speakers can be the centerpiece of a high-fidelity audio system. The Klipsch R-820F's efficiency and power make them fantastic for those who enjoy the visceral impact of music and movies. Meanwhile, the Dentons, with their more conservative power handling, are perfect for audiophiles who prefer listening at moderate volumes and are looking to capture the nuances of their favorite recordings.

It's also worth considering the type of music you prefer. The Klipsch R-820F can handle the extremes of heavy rock, electronic, or orchestral music with aplomb, delivering the energy and scale that such genres demand. The Wharfedale Denton, with its warm and rich sound, might be more suited for jazz, vocal, and acoustic recordings, where subtlety and warmth are more appreciated than sheer force.

In the end, choosing between the Klipsch Reference R-820F Tower Speakers and the Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary Bookshelf Speakers is a matter of taste and space. The Klipsch will delight those looking for an invigorating and powerful listening experience, with the visual aesthetics to match. The Wharfedale, celebrating 85 years of acoustic refinement, will charm those who yearn for the elegance of classic design and a sound that's as warm and inviting as a well-worn armchair. No matter your choice, both are a testament to their makers' dedication to the art of sound.


Check Current Prices:

Klipsch Reference R-820F Tower Speakers
Klipsch Reference R-820F Tower 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.