HTD Level TWO vs. Wharfedale Denton 85th

HTD Level TWO Bookshelf Speakers Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary Bookshelf Speakers
MSRP
$300 $1000
Dimensions (H × W × D)
11.88” × 7.13” × 10.00”
302mm × 181mm × 254mm
13.44” × 9.44” × 11.94”
341mm × 240mm × 303mm
Power Type
Passive Passive
Frequency Response
60-20,000 Hz 45-20,000 Hz
HTD.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: In the realm of mid-range bookshelf speakers, the HTD Level TWO and Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary editions present compelling choices. The HTD offers a modern aesthetic and a sound signature that caters to clarity and spatial imaging, bolstered by their ribbon tweeter. Conversely, the Wharfedale Dentons exude a classic charm with their vintage design and warm, rich tones, courtesy of their heritage-inspired construction. While the HTD aims at detail-oriented listeners, the Wharfedales appeal to those craving a lush, musical experience. Each serves a distinct listener profile, with the choice hinging on personal taste between contemporary precision and nostalgic warmth.

Speaker Comparison

Greetings, audio aficionados. If you're in the market for bookshelf speakers that won't break the bank but promise to deliver an auditory experience that punches well above their weight, you might find yourself comparing the HTD Level TWO Bookshelf Speakers with the Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary Bookshelf Speakers. These two contenders, while situated in a similar market segment, offer distinct sonic signatures and aesthetics that cater to different preferences and listening environments. Today, we'll dive into the nitty-gritty of these two competitors to help you decide which pair might be the right fit for your sonic sanctuary.

Design Philosophy and Build Quality

Starting with design, the HTD Level TWO speakers boast a modern aesthetic with clean lines and a compact form factor. They're built to blend effortlessly into a contemporary living space without drawing undue attention to themselves. The Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary speakers, on the other hand, exude a classic charm with their vintage-looking veneer and traditional design cues that pay homage to Wharfedale's storied history. The build quality of the Dentons is superb, featuring a hand-veneered finish that feels as premium as it looks, while the Level TWOs, although well-constructed, don't quite exude the same level of craftsmanship.

HTD Level TWO Bookshelf Speakers
HTD Level TWO arrow (at HTD.com)

Sound Signature and Performance

When it comes to sound, the HTD Level TWO speakers deliver a crisp and clear presentation that's well-suited for a variety of genres. The mids are articulate, the highs have a nice sparkle without being sibilant, and the bass is surprisingly robust for speakers of their size. The Dentons, in contrast, have a warm and rich sound signature that's characteristic of Wharfedale's house sound. The midrange is lush and full-bodied, making them an excellent choice for vocal-centric music. The bass is controlled and deep, but perhaps not as tight as the Level TWOs, and the highs are rolled off slightly for a smooth, non-fatiguing listening experience.

In terms of performance, both speakers are relatively efficient and easy to drive, though the Wharfedales may benefit from a bit more power to truly shine. The HTD Level TWOs are a bit more forgiving with lower-powered amplifiers, which can be a plus if you're not looking to invest in a high-powered amp. Imaging is a strong point for both pairs, but the Dentons take the lead with their ability to create a more enveloping and three-dimensional soundstage, likely due to their superior cabinet design and damping.

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

Value and Versatility

Value-wise, both sets of speakers offer significant bang for the buck, but they cater to different budgets. The HTD Level TWOs are the more affordable option and provide an excellent entry point for those new to high-fidelity sound. They are also versatile in terms of room placement, thanks to their front ported design, which allows for more forgiving positioning relative to rear-ported designs like the Dentons. This makes the Level TWOs a great choice for smaller spaces or where placement options near walls are necessary.

The Denton 85th Anniversary speakers, while more expensive, justify their price tag through their superior build quality and a sound that's reminiscent of higher-end Wharfedale models. They're less about technical prowess and more about a warm, enveloping sound that encourages long listening sessions. This could limit their versatility slightly, as their richer sound may not be to everyone's taste, especially those who prefer a more neutral or analytical listening experience.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the choice between the HTD Level TWO Bookshelf Speakers and the Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary Bookshelf Speakers will hinge on personal preference, budget, and intended use. The Level TWOs are a solid choice for those who want a modern, unassuming design with a sound that's clear and energetic. They're excellent all-rounders that will serve a wide array of musical tastes and spaces. The Dentons, with their classic appeal and warm tonal balance, are aimed at the traditionalist who wants to inject a touch of nostalgia into their listening space whilst still enjoying a high level of audio fidelity. Both are commendable contenders in their own right, and whichever you choose, you're in for an acoustic treat that will elevate your listening experience to new heights.


Check Current Prices:

HTD Level TWO Bookshelf Speakers
HTD Level TWO Bookshelf Speakers
Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary Bookshelf Speakers
Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary Bookshelf Speakers
HTD.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.