Wharfedale Linton (1965–late 1970s)

Name: Wharfedale Linton
Brand: Wharfedale

A large-format three-way stand-mount loudspeaker introduced in 1965, known for a warm, rich, natural sound.

Overview

The Wharfedale Linton is a well-documented classic loudspeaker, introduced in 1965 as a larger stand-mount model for more serious listeners. It gave fuller bass and higher output than the Denton, with the same musical values. The Linton belongs to Wharfedale's "Famous Series" alongside the Denton and Diamond. It is recognized as one of the brand's best-known models, and it carries the warm, natural tonality associated with classic British loudspeakers.

Specifications

Driver configuration	Three-way stand mount
Frequency response (+/-3dB)	40Hz ~ 20kHz
Bass extension (-6dB)	35Hz
Tweeter	1" woven textile soft dome
Bass driver	8" (200mm) black woven Kevlar® cone
Midrange driver	5"
Dimensions	Approx. 56cm H × 30cm W × 33cm D

Design

The Linton is a three-way design. The original 1965 model is classed as a large-format stand-mount. The modern reissue keeps the classic form but uses contemporary materials, so the styling is old-school and the construction is updated.

Context

Introduced in 1965, the Linton sat a step up from the Denton in Wharfedale's "Famous Series." It became one of the best-known models in the brand's history, with a warm, rich, natural sound that people took as the British sound. The model was reissued in recent years as the Linton Heritage, or 85th Anniversary edition.

Market

The reissued Wharfedale Linton was tested at £1000 / $1198, which puts it in accessible high-end territory. It is praised for combining vintage tonality with modern clarity, and for being suitable for building an affordable high-end audio system.