Wharfedale Linton Heritage 85th Anniversary

@big_katydid , that's a very interesting point and it's where I am at too in some real ways.  There were a couple of loudspeakers I heard at AXPONA that were amazing but for the most part I have 3-4 sets of speakers that compete really well with much of what I heard.  And, the Linton's fit into the mix and they are my cheapest speakers but in no way the worst--just different.   Music Direct's return policy is solid.  The fact that you get custom made stands for this price is amazing.  

MoFi/Music Direct (the US Distributer that sponsored the room) could’ve given Wharfedale a Luxman, McInstosh or other more premium amp.

MoFi is getting aggressive. They also flew a couple of YouTube reviewers to Axpona to push their product lines, including this one.

Anyway, it will be interesting to see how close these speakers get to Harbeth for a fraction if the price. Competition is good. 

That's right, MoFi is getting aggressive.  They also paired this setup with a MoFi turntable and a nice cartridge that wasn't Lyra expensive.  I think it made a statement.   I was very impressed with the turntable too.  

Competition is really great right now.  There's so much in the $1-$2.5k range of all categories that can provide compelling and beautiful sound. 

I should, however, note that I am driving the Lintons with a pretty nice amp.  I only wish my 300B could drive them to louder volume because it is my best amp.  

How is the bass extension/quality compared to your other speakers?

@sumaato , I'm still breaking them in.  I like the bass alot.  I think it's more prominent than more Klipsch Forte IIIs, which is interesting.  The Forte IIIs use a passive radiator on the rear. The Wharfedale uses rear bass reflex ports.  I haven't gotten enough time with them to give a review of how the Linton's truly perform.  I will say, the 8" woofer gives a good sense of visceral presence to the mid lows and low end.  Unlike the Dentons, these are not small bookshelf speakers.  I'd feel more comfortable give you more opinions if I heard them in different size rooms too.  They certainly aren't bass shy to me. Let me see if I can put some miles on them and get back to you.