Active and wireless loudspeakers may be the future of the category but the desire for old has never been stronger in audio. Vinyl, audio cassettes and reel-to-reel have all made a comebacks in recent years. So, too, have high-end loudspeakers that look like they were plucked straight out of the 1970s.
JBL, Klipsch and Wharfedale are three brands at the tip of the spear, where they’ve been for more than 75 years โย outlasting myriad format wars, advancements in amplification technology, the home theater revolution and the shift to active and wireless loudspeakers.
Each company also makes new-age versions of its classic loudspeakers, catering to audiophiles who love the look of retro gear but still want modern technology and state-of-the-art sound. (Shag carpeting sold separately.)
Wharfedale Linton Heritage
Wharfedale Linton Heritage
Specs
Frequency Response | 40-20,000 Hz (ยฑ3dB) |
Power Handling | 25-200 watts |
Sensitivity | 90 dB |
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$1,998 (10% off)
Wharfedale introduced the original Linton in 1965. The loudspeaker utilized three drive units and developed a strong following with its smooth midrange, punchy low end and sense of scale.
The model disappeared from its lineup in the ’70s, but it was recently reintroduced as the stand-mounted Linton Heritage. Wharfedale also makes a custom stand for the Linton Heritage that puts the tweeter around 36 inches from the floor and includes room for records.