This is the 5" woofer version that retails for US$450/pair.
Erin's review:
Video review
---------
Yes, this the same model that Amir reviewed:
https://www.audiosciencereview.com/...wharfedale-diamond-12-1-review-speaker.26780/
Discuss!
Erin's review:
Update:Parting / Random Thoughts
As stated in the Foreword, this written review is purposely a cliff’s notes version. For details about the performance (objectively and subjectively) please watch the YouTube video. But a couple quick notes based on my listening and what I see in the data:
The on-axis response is quite linear up until a peak in response around 12kHz. The horizontal and vertical radiation both show a directivity mismatch in the 1-2kHz region which results in a “mellow” sound. The vertical directivity issue means you’ll want to be pretty dead on with the tweeter when listening. Above or below this by even as little as 5° can result in a steep drop in the 1-2kHz energy making the above concern more noticeable.
If you like a speaker that has a lot of pizazz/sparkle/edge then this speaker is not for you. The Wharfedale 12.1 is a much more “mellow” sounding speaker that - while close to neutral - tends to lean a bit more toward the less aggressive side thanks to the dip in the crosover region. This dip results in a sound that doesn’t quite have “attack” and is more “laid back”. If you find you generally prefer that kind of characteristic then this speaker is for you. I personally prefer something more in between but I’d take this sound signature over a “bright” speaker.
As for output capability, this speaker does OK but is not intended to get really loud/low. This is a 5.25-inch midwoofer. The compression data shows clear compression issues at the highest of output. And the multitone distortion data shows some harshness in the midrnage that I heard when listening at higher output. At more reasonable volume (80dB for a pair at 4 meters) I didn’t have an issue. But going into the 90dB region the distortion was evident. Just consider this and how loud you’ll need to listen. If you sit closer then you may not have a problem. A subwoofer will also help; I’d recommend crossing around at least 80Hz if not higher toward 100Hz. Just my two cents.
The build quality is a nice step up from speakers in this price category thanks to the gloss front and other aspects.
Video review
Yes, this the same model that Amir reviewed:
https://www.audiosciencereview.com/...wharfedale-diamond-12-1-review-speaker.26780/
Discuss!
Last edited: