🛒 KLH Model 5: howl.me/chIMMdYA1lM 🛒 Wharfedale Linton: howl.me/ckfhw91LaKD ^ any purchases you make using these helps earn me a small commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions help me keep this channel going through paying for new gear to test or miscellaneous hardware needed for reviews.
thanks. I just updated the links (they’re pretty old now and may not go to the right place) so if you don’t mind clicking on it again before you buy I’d appreciate it.
The reason why many people feel the KLH is a brighter speaker than the Linton is due to the how flat the KLH is from 1-4khz where the Wharfedales have a dip there. I dont think it has so much to do with the dip at the end of the spectrum. I for one definitely felt the KLH is a leaner and brighter sounding speaker next to the Linton.
Really good format for comparing similar speakers. I think Erin's precise description of the sound characteristics of each speaker backed up by data is very helpful. The trick is to pick interesting speakers for comparison. I'd like to see more comparisons.
Thanks for the feedback. I actually intended to do a comparison of some speakers under $500. But I realized I didn’t have many I could recommend. So I ordered a few more. Hopefully they don’t all stink. 🤨
@@ErinsAudioCorner Erin, I personally applaud your intense effort..👏 Kudos, and all the best to you. All the data supporting the performance of the speaker systems is really going the extra miles!
The Lintons have a wide sweet spot, more like a sweet area. Very convenient. But in the vertical, it's at its best when standing, not sitting. Easy to fix by tilting the Lintons a little bit forward on their stands. 2 or 3 mm extra rubber 'feet' at the back is enough.
Great video Erin. Comparing speakers that are likely to be cross-shopped is a great idea. My issue is that I am still rocking my Definitive Technology BP10s from 1995 and, short of going through the hassle of buying and returning many sets of speakers, I am unable to relate your, albeit wonderful, reviews to my current setup. I would love to have you speak to these specific speakers, or at least bipolar speakers, in a 90% home theater application, especially in the imaging versus dispersion debate since I fell in love with the BP10s due to their ability to fill the room with a wide soundstage, but again, that was 1995 and things have changed. Thanks for all you do!
I had to get beyond the look of the Model 5's, but did get them into my home along with a pair of borrowed Linton's. Both are solid designs. But the difference for me was when I went to higher end amps. The KLH was insanely transparent at the price point. NuPrime, Rogue, Manley and even my Cambridge EVO 150 sounded superbly musical with the 5's. The Linton's did less when it came to transparency. The 5's handled female vocals with greater realism and detail. They were also less kind to some older recordings, which is a price you'll pay for that capability. The Linton's were less transparent, both to the same vocals as well as my different sources. Hooking up the the Model 5's to a Rogue Cronus Magnum III sent them to a level that surprised me. With the same amp the Linton's took less advantage of the excellent Rogue power. After some extended listening I determined that the Model 5's are good enough to exploit higher end electronics while the Linton's can't. Moving out of my listening room and into a common "against the wall" placement situation, the Linton's were in trouble. They sounded like boxes and the mid base muddied, unless I pulled them out. But the Model 5's performed even better in some respects. Overall it was no contest. The Model 5's are serious audiophile speakers for under 3K. The Linton's sound more like an entry level design. A lot will depend on your space, but the Model 5's are more tunable and likely earn some years in any given system. I like them as much as my Magnepan .7's (mated to a pair of SVS SB3000 subs), but in different ways. My buddy, who runs Magnepan 3.7's, was equally in favor of the model 5's. They're just more musical!
Robert, thanks for your detailed review and listening impressions! been debating about both speakers... it seems the KLH will be the way to go...despite being more expensive. Thanks!
Room might matter to an expert but then there's practicality for most of us. I have a CAD station on my desk shoved up into a corner and I have the left KLH directly up against that corner about 45 degrees and the other on the opposite side of my desk. That one is against a window or within a few feet. My face is about 24" from the right one and 48" from the other. It sounds spectacular, I have to stop working because it puts me in a trance sometimes. I can't really tell about all the frequency specifics just that it's magical at near field. One review said that were poor at near field. So subjective it's hard to grasp. I'm sure others would sound good too but the 10" suspension driver and paper cones sold me. I just like the pure round tone that paper provides. Synthetic and ported speakers I also have but this is so nice. I'll buy a pair of Lintons one day to compare. Unless it's a perfectly flat monitor, a speaker is an instrument same as a guitar amp cabinet.
"I was that person once, then I tried starting a youtube channel" HAHAHAH. Man, your honesty is so refreshing. I can't get enough of your videos, and I'm learning so much. Thank you.
Awesome work putting the video together!! I’ve owned both speakers for months at a time and VERY impressed!! My basic thoughts after months with each speaker. First I love the Lintons. Could live with them forever. But 5s are shockingly good. Just as smooth but a good degree more life and detail to the sound. So far bass is very similar. Little faster and powerful on the 5s? No need for a sub with these. Super TIGHT bass. I had a sub with the Lintons and it helped but with the 5s I turned it off as it barely added anything. Maybe just our room? Bigger at 22x26’ with a slight vaulted ceiling. Lintons have awesome bass but slightly “relaxed” which is better for 70s music? Linton 7/10 KLH. 8/10 Mid range similar tonality. Super easy to listen and life like. But the 5s has better/wider soundstage which makes the mid range feel even more life like. Feels like it reaches a few feet further on the right and left and has ridiculous centre image. Easy to place too. Very smooth. Linton 8/10 KLH. 9/10 Upper mid and treble is where I felt the 5s pull away. The transitions from mid range up into the treble to my ears is close to perfect. With the Lintons I never loved the treble. It was totally fine just “boring” and flatter. The 5s are more airy - somewhere in between Lintons and a Klipsch horn. But never fatiguing surprisingly. Linton 5/10 KLH. 9/10 Also I’d say the 5s have excellent center image and 3D qualities. Linton 6/10 KLH. 9/10 Amp pairings I’ve tried the clinical solid state Yamaha AS1200, tubes on the PrimaLuna 100, and the warm solid state Hegel H95 and H120. Honestly both speakers pair awesome with all those amps which have very different characteristics. KLH 5s showed more of the amp differences in my opinion? But not in a bad way. For the price difference of each I’d say the value is identical. Both are unreal and could live with either forever.
Good detailed comparison of listening w/measurements. Based on my personal preference and all I’ve read on both speakers and the price, I’m going w/the Wharfedale Lintons. I heard a pair of speakers in a store as a teen that literally stopped me in my tracks. They were a pair of early edition Lintons. They sounded so rich & full, unlike any speaker I had heard. The Lintons will be my next speaker and my last most likely. Background in radio broadcasting and as a musician. I do extensive research when buying audio gear. For the performance at the price, they are the best value for my money. 👍🏼😎
Well, here I am again writing on your You Tube channel to tell you that once again, I have purchased speakers that you have recommended. I owe you at least a couple of beers for taking the confusion level down and doing the hard work. I bought a set of the Wharfedale Lintons, they are not even broken in and I am ecstatic over the sound they produce. I have been without premium sound for a long time so these damn near brought tears to my eyes Harman Kardon 730 Twin powering these along with a vintage Technics TT, and tube phono preamp. Unbelievable, it may be me not hearing great sound for so long, but I am very pleased and relistening to everything I own Once again, I sincerely hope you come back. Other things in life are more important and should be. I have enjoyed your videos, I've learned from them. Then bought a sub and now the Linton's with your recommendations. Thanks mate.
Starting at 4:15 for like the next three minutes is like an expert sommelier discussing two fine wines. It honestly gave me goosebumps. I love the words Erin chooses to describes what he heard. Erin is such an everyday guy who also has a one in a million ear. He deserves way more subscribers.
Erin, great job once again. When you emphasized that the KLH is designed for near wall placement the first thought that came to my mind was Bose 901 direct/reflect engineering. Now I am not saying the KLH sound like Bose (I've yet to hear any KLH speaker but am familiar with the Wharfedale house sound). I think based on my preferences and your excellent review that I would find the KLH a lot more fun to listen to.
Oh by the way I have gone through 10 pairs of speakers. Polk Audio Legends, B&W 702 Signature, JBL L100 Classic, completely restored AR3a, Harbeth C7, Klipsch Heresy IV, Linton's, Forte 3 , Yamaha NS 1000, Buchardt s400mk2. The 5 beats them all except for the Buchardt s400mk2. I would give 5hem a tie. So take this in consideration when you listen to these reviews. Cheers.
With age, my hearing sucks but still good. 13khz is my limit. I don’t know how it’s still that high? Anyway, I brought out my Polk Monitor 7 speakers for HT mains. They don’t sound as harsh as they did years ago. I say all this because of the KLH sound that I hear. KLH sound so clear and balanced to me. This is because of two things, in my opinion: Room placement and my hearing. Maybe the both are horrible, or maybe my brain is just happy with KLH?
I would like to see a comparison between the lintons and the elysian 2. The difference in price build components and sound may surprise. The amt tweeter may be star and be more linear and less of a dip at the higher frequencies. Maybe better sounding than both
Interesting, I am required by the room to have the speakers no more than 15" from the wall. I had both the lintons and the KLH in my room and the lintons came off bassier but less "clear" for the treb;e amd even dialog. Interesting to hear the things you heard, it sort of lines up. I kept the KLHs as I could easily fix the midbass with EQ but I didn't find I could make that dialog clearer.
Great video, but it raises a question for me. You mention a couple of times that wider dispersion speakers just can’t image as precisely as narrow dispersion speakers can. Does this also apply to true omnidirectional speakers like MBLs, Duevels, German Physiks, etc.? I’ve often heard those described as having the most lifelike and accurate imaging, but maybe those reviewers mean sound stage dimension rather than imaging?
Me encantan los dos altavoces… de aspecto lookool clásico. Y sus sonidos. Muy muy buena explicación detallada… Gracias. Soy un apasionado de los altavoces…tengo los Linton pero en un futuro probaría los KLH 5 … la sala donde oírlas afecta mucho al sonido. Por eso utilizo pink noise en ecualizer. Gran trabajo por usted…
A year later. just one observation from here in the UK. Currently the KLH is more than double the price of the Wharfedale (with stands) and cost is definitely a big factor. By my standards the price of both of these is a major factor, but the Wharfedale presents as something of a 'bargain' by comparison. £1199 v £2519
@@dropthehammer1360the Linton's used to sell for $1250 but sadly they increased the price significantly after I made that comment. Currently you can buy a pair for $1500, which is still $1k less than the KLH 5.
I have had quite a lot Wharfedale speakers and I have seen how much they have come better. Mainly the Diamond series. Wharfedale used to make expensive Opus series and that was fantastic, but I could not afford it. And of course they now have flagship Elysian series what looks stunning. I bet Linton would be my choice also because my speakers are placed far away from the wals.
Really great descriptions. This channel is so much more clear and helpful than those other channels that do nothing but recite fancy adjectives, metaphors, and similes. You got yourself a subscriber.
In Europe the Lintons are much cheaper. So Linton all the wa for me as well. I was however surprised how well these kinds of speakers can measure, expected much less.
Actually, a CSD can be easily altered depending on the time. Off-axis measurements show resonance just as well. Actually, impedance sweeps are pretty much bulletproof for this, too, and the easiest measurement there is.
I for some reason can’t get enough Model 5 and Linton content. You’ve been spoiling me 😂 Now if you can only get your hands on the L100 at some point. I’m just viewing for enjoyment though, so don’t mind my DREAMS.
I think Wharferdale put a typical BBC-dip in the Lintons. Gives a more linear listning experience since it compensate for the non-linear human hearing. We are more sensitive to sound around 1 khz (female voice).
My choice has to be Linton but that's mainly because that's the one I own, lol! I was thinking hard about the KLH but the Linton won out, due to price and looks. Even if the KLH were better they aren't $1000 better.
Haha. In Europe the model 5's are over double the price of Lintons. So despite never having heard the KLH, I know they can't be twice as good as my fantastic sounding and gorgeous Lintons:)
@@Bob.martens In Denmark more than 3 times at the moment - Model 5: 25.600 DKK a pair, Lintons: 7.499 DKK a pair and JBL L100 26.999 DKK a pair without stands which are: 2.895 DKK, which basically equals 4.000 $ and 4 times the price of the Stantons...
Can you please also review the Magnat Transpuls 1500 or the 1000. Or the Eltax Vintage PWR 1959 or MTR 1959? Because they are competing with KLH Model 5 and Wharfedale Linton. Thanks!
Measurements are interesting and helpful but ultimately as you say the only way to know if you like the speakers is to audition them in your home. At which point measurements don’t really matter. Speakers behave differently in room. So yes. Home audition and keep the one you like…but for me KLH all the way!
@@ErinsAudioCorner I'm aiming to try out one of these well measuring, modern speakers. But I have to say, I have a speaker that I'm sure doesn't measure as well as another of mine, but it has a lot of "audiophile" qualities that can make it more intriguing than my technically better speaker. Would be interesting to get it measured, but I could buy a pair of Lintons for the shipping costs to someone with a Klippel machine lol
@@jeremyelliott9831Yup. Long story, I had mine replaced and moved house in the meantime. Was debating if I should unbox the new pair or try to sell for a better price still in box 😄 A lack of body and forward/harsh midrange was what I found when I used my original pair. Possibly running them in would have helped with some of that. But I need my full lower mids/upper bass.
Great comparison Erin, hope to see more of this type of content in the future 👍 Easy pick for me, if I was buying, as the Linton's are only around 1000 euro here, making them much better value.
Could have mentioned that they are both excelling at different genres of Music maybe, the Linton with their warm, voluptous Character are good for Oldschool Rock and Classic music, where the 5's may come across a bit too analytical. On the flip-side, the 5's due to their more lively, punchier nature will excell in Modern Pop, Hip Hop, Techno / Electronic Music. I'am more interested in the KLH due to my Music genre preference matching the Nature of those speakers. Both are priced very competitively, even the 5's are currently discounted and available under 2000 EUR.
Cant assume everyone would agree with your genre statement. I prefer KLH for pop, EDM, and rap, though sometimes paired with dual subs. Do you believe they were designed for a certain genre? They arent marketed that way.
I would have a hard time deciding between these two speakers, assuming they were the only two options. They are kind of yin and yang. Having "heard" these speakers on less than optimal RUclips demos, I find the warmth of the Lintons to be appealing at first but dull and unengaging over the long haul. In contrast, the Model 5 is more engaging but I find the upper midrange emphasis to be fatiguing after a while. (The Model 3s are even worse in this regard.) The Wharfdales measure slightly better but we must not ignore the fact that the Wharfdales achieve their "warmth" by rolling off the highs a bit. Both speakers are a little bit colored but in different ways. Not to discount the importance of measurements but I would want to audition these side-by-side before making a decision.
Great Job Erin , I like how you say its a matter of taste basically but amp pairing and our room accoustics matter also 😆 I been told that the KLH sound 🔥 with The big Yamahas' AS- 1200/2200/3200 And I been told the Audiolab 8300a sounds amazing with the Wharfdales funny I own both amps 😆 well 1100/8300 thanks again Erin your doing a great job !!!!
@@Bob.martens I can see that pairing up good , I have My Triangle 40th Comete hooked up to my AS-1100 sounds great but my Doge 10 with Kt120 power tubes us just levels above me Yammy but Yammy is bullet proof and built dam good ! Hell yeah thanks for the Share
Quality video as usual! Please make a comparison between R3 and Linton. I know you where amazed by R3's soundstage, imaging and overall sound quality. Really, rrrreeeeaaallyy curious how you would compare R3 and Linton which one you would prefere.
Yes. I would be curious too!. I have R300 (earlier model) and Lintons. They are both great. I think I prefer the lintons overall presentation but the KEFs are more revealing and image much better. Opposite ends of the spectrum really but KEFs seem perfect for DSD surround listening and HT because of their clarity and Wharfedales are better for stereo with more emphasis on bass and subtler details. When played loud, the KEFs sound loud throughout the house but Wharedales are kind of polite once you leave the room. KEFs are better at showing the differences between various sources. I highly recommend both really cause I wouldn't want to give up either one.
I currently have R3 and will have Linton very soon(on the way). You really need eq for the low frequency range(40-150hz) for r3 otherwise it would not sound very enjoyable. However with eq (pulled down around 125hz and lifted up around 60hz) r3 sounds really amazing. It's insanely clear and transparent thanks to the insanely low distortion. Also although it's a bookshelf it doesn't work very well in small room(mid size is fine), plugging the port only makes the sound worse. Wharfedale should sound better without eq. But I have not heard it yet. The drawback is probably the higher distortion these have. For the price I think it's hard to beat just by seeing the measurements.
Just got the Linton today. I would say, the bass is really good on these and it doesn't require EQ to sound good. The tonality and overall sound is very good. The highs and the lows are really good. The issue/drawback, if you are listening at or lower than 81/82dBSPL then it will be great. The sound is nice, smooth, detailed and great separation. If you likes to push it over 90dB I would say the sound kinda breaks down, the distortion is kinda high. Kef R3 does much better at higher level and the sound is overall more solid and cleaner. The caveat is the bass, you really need a big room for it to sound at least decent without eq. Or better you need to boost 60hz and pull back 120hz. Then it would sound basically perfect with a bit toe out.
That mid range dip on the Linton’s is not as audible as people think. Based on everything you’ve presented, the Wharfedales are the better value. I’d rather hear the impact of the compression at 100 dBA avg at one meter with recordings I like before buying, but the 2-4kHz harshness of the KLH’s at that volume would annoy me at my listening position. I don’t think the compression would be as annoying as it might seem from data. So many recordings have dynamics problems as it is.. Nice job. .
@@jeremyelliott9831 that's the thing about speakers.. depending on your preferences, your hearing response, what SPL levels, the speaker's abiliity, the system that drives it, and the environment you're actually listening to them, all fsctor into how happy you are with the speakers. Your hearing, the speaker's capability, and the room being the most important, I'd say just go for whatever you find pleasing if the other variables are not going to change in the short term. Also, make sure you evaluate the speakers with whatever type of music you may listen to. Some speakers sound better with specific musical genres. I prefer a versatile speaker that's EQ'able when required, as recordings can be the bottleneck at times. I never understood the purist logic of avoiding preamp control. It is merely pushing a concept to its extreme. I want to enjoy music, not just own "perfect recordings." 😉
@@jeremyelliott9831 one other thing I forgot.. I would tend to try to look past cosmetics, because ultimately when you realize something is just right, it will naturally become beautiful.. to evaluate its beauty at the outset is always a bad way to go with anything.😉
Love these reviews! Hoping maybe just maybe you will end up reviewing a pair of SVS Ultra Towers just for a dollar value / quality / data rundown. Pretty sure SVS does affiliate links if that’s a motivating factor. Would love to watch your honest take!
Erin, always learn something from your videos. The Wharfedales do look good, but I like something that can play loud. That compression would concern me a little. Thanks for the video.
I've been drooling over those Wharfedales. And these reviews have been super-helpful in pushing my thinking. BUT (! and there is always one with me), both speakers are too heavy. So, I'll move on..... But these are GREAT videos, so THANKS!!!
@@ErinsAudioCorner "Son," do you know HOW many times I've heard that joke, and variation upon it"" Oh well, it's a name folks NEVER forget!! Thanks again for your work. It's super important that you TEACH your data.
New subscriber . I really appreciate how you review…seems so impartial and lack prejudice towards or away from a position. I was looking to build a system around the model 5 (I’m new to audio) but thinking the wharf hit the spot. Question is how to they compare to the kef meta 2 / elac uni ref / gelacs
That's tough, man. They're all so different. You'd need to try to order them from someone that has a good return policy so you can try them out yourself.
Erin is the kind of skillful, highly intelligent and knowledgeable guy who could make you change your mind about which speaker you prefer by using his equalization skills. Very talented.
Most reviewers are saying that the lintons need to be pulled at least 400 mm out from the wall. And angled in towards the listener. If not they sound a bit boomy and flat. So they are unsuitable for many people who wont be allowed to leave them sitting out that far by their partner.
Had the Lintons for a month or so. Sound was dull and warm, lacked sparkle, depth and inside. Stereopicture wasn't very stabil. Bass quantity/quality was hard to get right. Too close to wall and big boom, too much and it was thin. Not my cup of tea.
Does anybody here have any experience with the Linton’s vs Kef R3’s? I know thats a whole other topic but really dying for a thorough comp between these two
Kef r3 is hifi, linton just basic stereo. Dont go over youtube reviews for that question, find a way to audition both. So much bull in reviews, it is crazy. All of a sudden linton is great .....great my ass.
I have the earlier model R300's and Lintons. I'd imagine my R300 may be similar to R3. Wharfdales have a wonderful character I love for jazz and classic rock. Big speaker sound that really fills the room and is much more polite in the treble than the KEFs with their uni Q that is more pronounced, coherent, and clear with precise imaging. They are both excellent but for different reasons and I wouldn't say the Wharefdales are lacking in these qualities but they are subtler in presenting the details. The KEFs are amazingly big sounding for a bookshelf and sounds solid and stout as it looks with great imaging (source dependent). The Lintons are not as revealing to the source which makes them not as interesting for comparing dacs but for everyday listening just have more of a throwback sound that appeals to me but maybe don't quite have the wow look at me factor of the KEFs when played through better equipment.
@@gorancho1 Oh yes, exactly. Simply put...KEFs are more hifi but for the majority of the classic rock, jazz, and blues I'm streaming to the Lintons through my tube dac I'm really enjoying the special character of the Lintons.
I’ve seen mention of it on forums when people have talked about the Lintons also sounding “warm”. Which threw me for a loop. Frankly, I don’t necessarily think that either of these sound “warm“ based on the way I’ve defined it but out of the two I could see were maybe some might think the KLH is or they might describe it as that way. Subjective commentary in a valuations are always a funny thing because what means something to one person may mean something else to another. Again, that’s why I like having data. At least helps get everyone on the same page.
Depending upon the DAC and amplification, I can make my KLH's sound like a tin can and a string or rich and inviting. It is all in equipment matching, and source material. I have no idea what Erin was listening to, or his gear, but this is not even a decent description of the Model 5's I own. And lacking in mid-bass? Seriously?
I can't agree with how you are using the term "warm". A speaker is warm if the 100 to 200 Hz region is generally higher than let's say 1 to 5 KHz region. The KLH is lacking in output above 7 KHz and especially above 10K most would describe it as lacking in "air" or top end. If it was just above 10K it would make it sound like you are farther back in the hall, generous output above 10K is often described as a front row presentation as long as the rest of the response is reasonably flat. I know many people who like less output above 7K with the view that it sounds more accurate to a live performance. More like the Celestion, British sound.
I have not heard the Linton's, but I own a pair of Model 5's. Was he playing music through his voltmeter? Not the speakers I own. And lacking in mid bass? My God man, ridiculous.
@@ErinsAudioCorner Very happy with my 5's, your findings are so far off base in regards to the 5's I own. Sure, I can make them sound thin, no mid bass, like a tin can and a string, but why would I want to listen to them like that? And it is easy to do with the wrong gear. You never said what gear you were running. I find they sound great, at least to my ear, on class A/B amplification and an R2R DAC. The DAC makes all the difference in the world.
@@michaelwright1602 well, good. I didn’t like them. I could say the same things you said about me but what’s the point? Being petty because someone doesn’t like what you do is not a character trait I’d want.
Linton isnt even Wharfedales best £1200 speaker. That would be the Evo 4.4 which royally trounces the Linton for SQ. The Linton tweeter is amongst the worst ive ever heard. Like the Denton 85th.
With the caveat that I haven't heard either of them in person, only on YT, I much prefer the KLH, because it sounds much more dynamic, lively, natural, musical, and realistic to my ears, and the Linton sounds softer and less lively and dynamic, resulting in more artificial sound quality, IMO. I believe that the reason the KLH sounds livelier to me and doesn't to you is because of the broad dip in the midrange on the Linton, which the KLH doesn't have, which I believe makes it sound more lively, open, and forward through the midrange, which makes it sound brighter to me than the Linton
Neither. Don't give companies money who are using archaic designs and not either pushing the state of the art forward or offering an incredible value. A blind test might change my mind by I think I'd take a Kali or Devialet setup over these. If you're buying speakers for aesthetics, stop. Buy art.
If I want art I'll buy pcture and hang in on the wall. For listening purpuse will buy speakers. Devialet is a definite no go for me. Looks and sound wise.
Model 5 is truly ugly, unless you found cheap Technics speakers of the 80s good looking. I can't have something that looks like Radio Shack stuff in my house.
To technical review...wish you would speak more to the natural sound of the speaker...sound stage, bass, treble warmth...what amplification works best with it...👎
@@ErinsAudioCorner Not quite a good comparison...nobody shops for toys in the grocery store...I think I could speak for many...I watch many hi-fi reviews and to me this review is a little boring...combined with your mono tone voice...just my opinion...it's like going to church and falling asleep to a mono tone pastors voice...just keeping it real... wish the review was more real...have you watched the video all the way through? I couldn't make it that far...
@@briancampbell7712 well, the good news for you is there are tons of other channels who talk about feelings and use audiophile buzzwords to get views. I provide something else. Enjoy those if that’s what you want. Peace.
🛒 KLH Model 5: howl.me/chIMMdYA1lM
🛒 Wharfedale Linton: howl.me/ckfhw91LaKD
^ any purchases you make using these helps earn me a small commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions help me keep this channel going through paying for new gear to test or miscellaneous hardware needed for reviews.
thanks. I just updated the links (they’re pretty old now and may not go to the right place) so if you don’t mind clicking on it again before you buy I’d appreciate it.
The reason why many people feel the KLH is a brighter speaker than the Linton is due to the how flat the KLH is from 1-4khz where the Wharfedales have a dip there. I dont think it has so much to do with the dip at the end of the spectrum. I for one definitely felt the KLH is a leaner and brighter sounding speaker next to the Linton.
Really good format for comparing similar speakers. I think Erin's precise description of the sound characteristics of each speaker backed up by data is very helpful. The trick is to pick interesting speakers for comparison. I'd like to see more comparisons.
Thanks for the feedback. I actually intended to do a comparison of some speakers under $500. But I realized I didn’t have many I could recommend. So I ordered a few more. Hopefully they don’t all stink. 🤨
@@ErinsAudioCorner Erin, I personally applaud your intense effort..👏
Kudos, and all the best to you.
All the data supporting the performance of the speaker systems is really going the extra miles!
I have the 5's and love them so much.
The Lintons have a wide sweet spot, more like a sweet area. Very convenient. But in the vertical, it's at its best when standing, not sitting. Easy to fix by tilting the Lintons a little bit forward on their stands. 2 or 3 mm extra rubber 'feet' at the back is enough.
Great video Erin. Comparing speakers that are likely to be cross-shopped is a great idea. My issue is that I am still rocking my Definitive Technology BP10s from 1995 and, short of going through the hassle of buying and returning many sets of speakers, I am unable to relate your, albeit wonderful, reviews to my current setup. I would love to have you speak to these specific speakers, or at least bipolar speakers, in a 90% home theater application, especially in the imaging versus dispersion debate since I fell in love with the BP10s due to their ability to fill the room with a wide soundstage, but again, that was 1995 and things have changed. Thanks for all you do!
I had to get beyond the look of the Model 5's, but did get them into my home along with a pair of borrowed Linton's. Both are solid designs. But the difference for me was when I went to higher end amps. The KLH was insanely transparent at the price point. NuPrime, Rogue, Manley and even my Cambridge EVO 150 sounded superbly musical with the 5's. The Linton's did less when it came to transparency. The 5's handled female vocals with greater realism and detail. They were also less kind to some older recordings, which is a price you'll pay for that capability. The Linton's were less transparent, both to the same vocals as well as my different sources. Hooking up the the Model 5's to a Rogue Cronus Magnum III sent them to a level that surprised me. With the same amp the Linton's took less advantage of the excellent Rogue power. After some extended listening I determined that the Model 5's are good enough to exploit higher end electronics while the Linton's can't. Moving out of my listening room and into a common "against the wall" placement situation, the Linton's were in trouble. They sounded like boxes and the mid base muddied, unless I pulled them out. But the Model 5's performed even better in some respects. Overall it was no contest. The Model 5's are serious audiophile speakers for under 3K. The Linton's sound more like an entry level design. A lot will depend on your space, but the Model 5's are more tunable and likely earn some years in any given system. I like them as much as my Magnepan .7's (mated to a pair of SVS SB3000 subs), but in different ways. My buddy, who runs Magnepan 3.7's, was equally in favor of the model 5's. They're just more musical!
Robert, thanks for your detailed review and listening impressions! been debating about both speakers... it seems the KLH will be the way to go...despite being more expensive. Thanks!
@@themastroiannis Good move. These speakers are fairly far apart in resolution. KLH is really a much more audiophile oriented design.
Room might matter to an expert but then there's practicality for most of us. I have a CAD station on my desk shoved up into a corner and I have the left KLH directly up against that corner about 45 degrees and the other on the opposite side of my desk. That one is against a window or within a few feet. My face is about 24" from the right one and 48" from the other. It sounds spectacular, I have to stop working because it puts me in a trance sometimes. I can't really tell about all the frequency specifics just that it's magical at near field. One review said that were poor at near field. So subjective it's hard to grasp. I'm sure others would sound good too but the 10" suspension driver and paper cones sold me. I just like the pure round tone that paper provides. Synthetic and ported speakers I also have but this is so nice. I'll buy a pair of Lintons one day to compare. Unless it's a perfectly flat monitor, a speaker is an instrument same as a guitar amp cabinet.
"I was that person once, then I tried starting a youtube channel" HAHAHAH. Man, your honesty is so refreshing. I can't get enough of your videos, and I'm learning so much. Thank you.
Awesome work putting the video together!! I’ve owned both speakers for months at a time and VERY impressed!!
My basic thoughts after months with each speaker.
First I love the Lintons. Could live with them forever. But 5s are shockingly good. Just as smooth but a good degree more life and detail to the sound.
So far bass is very similar. Little faster and powerful on the 5s? No need for a sub with these. Super TIGHT bass. I had a sub with the Lintons and it helped but with the 5s I turned it off as it barely added anything. Maybe just our room? Bigger at 22x26’ with a slight vaulted ceiling. Lintons have awesome bass but slightly “relaxed” which is better for 70s music?
Linton 7/10
KLH. 8/10
Mid range similar tonality. Super easy to listen and life like. But the 5s has better/wider soundstage which makes the mid range feel even more life like. Feels like it reaches a few feet further on the right and left and has ridiculous centre image. Easy to place too. Very smooth.
Linton 8/10
KLH. 9/10
Upper mid and treble is where I felt the 5s pull away. The transitions from mid range up into the treble to my ears is close to perfect. With the Lintons I never loved the treble. It was totally fine just “boring” and flatter. The 5s are more airy - somewhere in between Lintons and a Klipsch horn. But never fatiguing surprisingly.
Linton 5/10
KLH. 9/10
Also I’d say the 5s have excellent center image and 3D qualities.
Linton 6/10
KLH. 9/10
Amp pairings I’ve tried the clinical solid state Yamaha AS1200, tubes on the PrimaLuna 100, and the warm solid state Hegel H95 and H120.
Honestly both speakers pair awesome with all those amps which have very different characteristics.
KLH 5s showed more of the amp differences in my opinion? But not in a bad way.
For the price difference of each I’d say the value is identical. Both are unreal and could live with either forever.
Good detailed comparison of listening w/measurements. Based on my personal preference and all I’ve read on both speakers and the price, I’m going w/the Wharfedale Lintons. I heard a pair of speakers in a store as a teen that literally stopped me in my tracks. They were a pair of early edition Lintons. They sounded so rich & full, unlike any speaker I had heard. The Lintons will be my next speaker and my last most likely. Background in radio broadcasting and as a musician. I do extensive research when buying audio gear. For the performance at the price, they are the best value for my money. 👍🏼😎
What amp?
Well, here I am again writing on your You Tube channel to tell you that once again, I have purchased speakers that you have recommended. I owe you at least a couple of beers for taking the confusion level down and doing the hard work.
I bought a set of the Wharfedale Lintons, they are not even broken in and I am ecstatic over the sound they produce. I have been without premium sound for a long time so these damn near brought tears to my eyes
Harman Kardon 730 Twin powering these along with a vintage Technics TT, and tube phono preamp.
Unbelievable, it may be me not hearing great sound for so long, but I am very pleased and relistening to everything I own
Once again, I sincerely hope you come back. Other things in life are more important and should be. I have enjoyed your videos, I've learned from them. Then bought a sub and now the Linton's with your recommendations.
Thanks mate.
Starting at 4:15 for like the next three minutes is like an expert sommelier discussing two fine wines. It honestly gave me goosebumps. I love the words Erin chooses to describes what he heard. Erin is such an everyday guy who also has a one in a million ear. He deserves way more subscribers.
Erin, great job once again. When you emphasized that the KLH is designed for near wall placement the first thought that came to my mind was Bose 901 direct/reflect engineering. Now I am not saying the KLH sound like Bose (I've yet to hear any KLH speaker but am familiar with the Wharfedale house sound). I think based on my preferences and your excellent review that I would find the KLH a lot more fun to listen to.
Oh by the way I have gone through 10 pairs of speakers. Polk Audio Legends, B&W 702 Signature, JBL L100 Classic, completely restored AR3a, Harbeth C7, Klipsch Heresy IV, Linton's, Forte 3 , Yamaha NS 1000, Buchardt s400mk2. The 5 beats them all except for the Buchardt s400mk2. I would give 5hem a tie. So take this in consideration when you listen to these reviews. Cheers.
Im ur opinion in your listening room😊
With age, my hearing sucks but still good. 13khz is my limit. I don’t know how it’s still that high? Anyway, I brought out my Polk Monitor 7 speakers for HT mains. They don’t sound as harsh as they did years ago. I say all this because of the KLH sound that I hear. KLH sound so clear and balanced to me. This is because of two things, in my opinion: Room placement and my hearing. Maybe the both are horrible, or maybe my brain is just happy with KLH?
I would love if you do the Sonus Faber Lumina II. They are similar in price, smaller speaker of course, but can't find measurements.
Hello Erin, do they put a 3 dimensional Soundstage? If so wich one do best?
Such precision hearing is unheard of...
I would like to see a comparison between the lintons and the elysian 2. The difference in price build components and sound may surprise. The amt tweeter may be star and be more linear and less of a dip at the higher frequencies.
Maybe better sounding than both
comparing 7000 $ speakers is kinda unfair to both of the Speakers discussed here
@@ManuelMedellin. I am just saying what you would expect if price was not a issue makers can use better components and few comprises can be made
Interesting, I am required by the room to have the speakers no more than 15" from the wall. I had both the lintons and the KLH in my room and the lintons came off bassier but less "clear" for the treb;e amd even dialog. Interesting to hear the things you heard, it sort of lines up. I kept the KLHs as I could easily fix the midbass with EQ but I didn't find I could make that dialog clearer.
Yea, it does make sense wrt to the "bassier" part of the Linton vs KLH. See... data can help! :D
Compression data is awesome! Thanks for including it and commenting on it.
Thank you for your efforts, really interesting comparison with data to back it up. Hopefully go next week to sound test them at the dealers.
Great video, but it raises a question for me. You mention a couple of times that wider dispersion speakers just can’t image as precisely as narrow dispersion speakers can. Does this also apply to true omnidirectional speakers like MBLs, Duevels, German Physiks, etc.? I’ve often heard those described as having the most lifelike and accurate imaging, but maybe those reviewers mean sound stage dimension rather than imaging?
Me encantan los dos altavoces… de aspecto lookool clásico. Y sus sonidos. Muy muy buena explicación detallada… Gracias. Soy un apasionado de los altavoces…tengo los Linton pero en un futuro probaría los KLH 5 … la sala donde oírlas afecta mucho al sonido. Por eso utilizo pink noise en ecualizer. Gran trabajo por usted…
A year later. just one observation from here in the UK. Currently the KLH is more than double the price of the Wharfedale (with stands) and cost is definitely a big factor. By my standards the price of both of these is a major factor, but the Wharfedale presents as something of a 'bargain' by comparison. £1199 v £2519
In your opinion, what would be the ideal size for Wharfedale KLH Model 5 speakers? Thanks
I had considered both but am very happy with my BMR’s
Erin thanks for explaining why you need support. Makes me wanna help! Keep up the honest work, youre the man
Given that the Linton speakers cost 50% less than the Model 5, they seem like great value.
50%?
@@dropthehammer1360the Linton's used to sell for $1250 but sadly they increased the price significantly after I made that comment. Currently you can buy a pair for $1500, which is still $1k less than the KLH 5.
Love to see you compare Ascend Acoustics Sierra line, Bower and Wilkins, and other high-end speakers.
Great review! What type of amp(s) did you use and were the test results different for the various power sources?
How Linton goes with metal, punk or hardcore? Are they have tendencies to sound boomy?
Good video. Would like to see a comparison video between the Wharfedale Linton and Polk Reserve R700.
The Polk R700 has a narrow radiating pattern and drops off real quick off axis at ~6khz.
@@AbsoluteFidelity what does this mean in SQ?
@@allenwilliams8962 basically wider soundstage on the Lintons.
Bought a KLH Model 5 speaker, do I need a tube or transistor integrated amplifier, which one would you recommend?
Hi ...thank for the video.. do you have a video explaining what compression is with respect to speakers?
I have had quite a lot Wharfedale speakers and I have seen how much they have come better. Mainly the Diamond series. Wharfedale used to make expensive Opus series and that was fantastic, but I could not afford it. And of course they now have flagship Elysian series what looks stunning. I bet Linton would be my choice also because my speakers are placed far away from the wals.
What would be minimum distance to front wall in order for Lintons to perform?
Really great descriptions. This channel is so much more clear and helpful than those other channels that do nothing but recite fancy adjectives, metaphors, and similes. You got yourself a subscriber.
Cool! Thanks for the kind words and welcome aboard!
Miss your reviews......Hope things get good for you! God Bless!
Hi, if the price between KLH Model Five and Wharfedale Linton, where the same, do you still choose the Linton?
Yes. Without a doubt. I like the Linton a lot.
In Europe the Lintons are much cheaper. So Linton all the wa for me as well.
I was however surprised how well these kinds of speakers can measure, expected much less.
I did, too. The Linton especially.
Incredibly inciteful and awesome as always.
A cumulative spectral decay (CSD) plot takes out any guesswork regarding speaker resonances.
Actually, a CSD can be easily altered depending on the time. Off-axis measurements show resonance just as well. Actually, impedance sweeps are pretty much bulletproof for this, too, and the easiest measurement there is.
I for some reason can’t get enough Model 5 and Linton content.
You’ve been spoiling me 😂
Now if you can only get your hands on the L100 at some point.
I’m just viewing for enjoyment though, so don’t mind my DREAMS.
I think Wharferdale put a typical BBC-dip in the Lintons. Gives a more linear listning experience since it compensate for the non-linear human hearing. We are more sensitive to sound around 1 khz (female voice).
Wharfedale usually does this, you can see the BBC Dip on the Diamond 12s too.
My choice has to be Linton but that's mainly because that's the one I own, lol! I was thinking hard about the KLH but the Linton won out, due to price and looks. Even if the KLH were better they aren't $1000 better.
Haha. In Europe the model 5's are over double the price of Lintons. So despite never having heard the KLH, I know they can't be twice as good as my fantastic sounding and gorgeous Lintons:)
@@Bob.martens In Denmark more than 3 times at the moment - Model 5: 25.600 DKK a pair, Lintons: 7.499 DKK a pair and JBL L100 26.999 DKK a pair without stands which are: 2.895 DKK, which basically equals 4.000 $ and 4 times the price of the Stantons...
Can you please also review the Magnat Transpuls 1500 or the 1000. Or the Eltax Vintage PWR 1959 or MTR 1959?
Because they are competing with KLH Model 5 and Wharfedale Linton.
Thanks!
i have the 10.1 diamonds and they rock and i bet the lintons rock as well
Measurements are interesting and helpful but ultimately as you say the only way to know if you like the speakers is to audition them in your home. At which point measurements don’t really matter. Speakers behave differently in room. So yes. Home audition and keep the one you like…but for me KLH all the way!
Measurements do matter. You just have to understand them to know how to use them. And that’s what I demonstrated in this review. 👍
@@ErinsAudioCorner I'm aiming to try out one of these well measuring, modern speakers. But I have to say, I have a speaker that I'm sure doesn't measure as well as another of mine, but it has a lot of "audiophile" qualities that can make it more intriguing than my technically better speaker. Would be interesting to get it measured, but I could buy a pair of Lintons for the shipping costs to someone with a Klippel machine lol
Exactly! Blind test 4 pairs and pick your favorite. Kinda like wine.
Windows if placing the KLH Model 5 up against a floor to ceiling window provide any of the needed low mid/upper bass reinforcement?
@@jeremyelliott9831Yup. Long story, I had mine replaced and moved house in the meantime. Was debating if I should unbox the new pair or try to sell for a better price still in box 😄 A lack of body and forward/harsh midrange was what I found when I used my original pair. Possibly running them in would have helped with some of that. But I need my full lower mids/upper bass.
Great comparison Erin, hope to see more of this type of content in the future 👍 Easy pick for me, if I was buying, as the Linton's are only around 1000 euro here, making them much better value.
But you also need a sensible amp and cables. Maybe a streamer. So they’re not really 1000. Meanwhile amazing active speakers in the market.
Bruv we badly needed a sound comparison like you did in the linton review to the heresy
Another fair and straight forward review. Very helpful. 👍🏻👍🏻
Great video, I love your style, kudos.
Could have mentioned that they are both excelling at different genres of Music maybe, the Linton with their warm, voluptous Character are good for Oldschool Rock and Classic music, where the 5's may come across a bit too analytical. On the flip-side, the 5's due to their more lively, punchier nature will excell in Modern Pop, Hip Hop, Techno / Electronic Music. I'am more interested in the KLH due to my Music genre preference matching the Nature of those speakers. Both are priced very competitively, even the 5's are currently discounted and available under 2000 EUR.
Good post , although I’ve found my rap/hip hop/electronic/dub/reggae from yesteryear (70s to late 90s) renders better on the Linton’s.
Under 2000€ where? Spain?
@@justoutlaw6423 Yes
Cant assume everyone would agree with your genre statement. I prefer KLH for pop, EDM, and rap, though sometimes paired with dual subs. Do you believe they were designed for a certain genre? They arent marketed that way.
@@patrickmiller4987He just said that klh for the genres you listen to
Love my Linton 😍
If one were to get the Lintons, what center would timbre match them?
I would say Denton 85, but they always come per pair. Voices are more clear on the Dentons than on the Lintons.
Excellent and precise review. Many thanks for this great info.
I would have a hard time deciding between these two speakers, assuming they were the only two options. They are kind of yin and yang. Having "heard" these speakers on less than optimal RUclips demos, I find the warmth of the Lintons to be appealing at first but dull and unengaging over the long haul. In contrast, the Model 5 is more engaging but I find the upper midrange emphasis to be fatiguing after a while. (The Model 3s are even worse in this regard.) The Wharfdales measure slightly better but we must not ignore the fact that the Wharfdales achieve their "warmth" by rolling off the highs a bit. Both speakers are a little bit colored but in different ways. Not to discount the importance of measurements but I would want to audition these side-by-side before making a decision.
I would never make a buying decision off RUclips sound demos. That’s for sure.
Great Job Erin , I like how you say its a matter of taste basically but amp pairing and our room accoustics matter also 😆
I been told that the KLH sound 🔥 with
The big Yamahas' AS- 1200/2200/3200
And I been told the Audiolab 8300a sounds amazing with the Wharfdales funny I own both amps 😆 well 1100/8300 thanks again Erin your doing a great job !!!!
I have Lintons with a Yamaha AS-1100. Sounds nice:)
@@Bob.martens I can see that pairing up good , I have My Triangle 40th Comete hooked up to my AS-1100 sounds great but my Doge 10 with Kt120 power tubes us just levels above me Yammy but Yammy is bullet proof and built dam good ! Hell yeah thanks for the Share
Great review and very valuable to your viewers.
Quality video as usual! Please make a comparison between R3 and Linton. I know you where amazed by R3's soundstage, imaging and overall sound quality.
Really, rrrreeeeaaallyy curious how you would compare R3 and Linton which one you would prefere.
The R3s will wipe the floor with the Lintons, all day every day, IMO
Yes. I would be curious too!. I have R300 (earlier model) and Lintons. They are both great. I think I prefer the lintons overall presentation but the KEFs are more revealing and image much better. Opposite ends of the spectrum really but KEFs seem perfect for DSD surround listening and HT because of their clarity and Wharfedales are better for stereo with more emphasis on bass and subtler details. When played loud, the KEFs sound loud throughout the house but Wharedales are kind of polite once you leave the room. KEFs are better at showing the differences between various sources. I highly recommend both really cause I wouldn't want to give up either one.
I currently have R3 and will have Linton very soon(on the way).
You really need eq for the low frequency range(40-150hz) for r3 otherwise it would not sound very enjoyable.
However with eq (pulled down around 125hz and lifted up around 60hz) r3 sounds really amazing. It's insanely clear and transparent thanks to the insanely low distortion. Also although it's a bookshelf it doesn't work very well in small room(mid size is fine), plugging the port only makes the sound worse.
Wharfedale should sound better without eq. But I have not heard it yet. The drawback is probably the higher distortion these have. For the price I think it's hard to beat just by seeing the measurements.
Just got the Linton today.
I would say, the bass is really good on these and it doesn't require EQ to sound good. The tonality and overall sound is very good. The highs and the lows are really good.
The issue/drawback, if you are listening at or lower than 81/82dBSPL then it will be great. The sound is nice, smooth, detailed and great separation. If you likes to push it over 90dB I would say the sound kinda breaks down, the distortion is kinda high.
Kef R3 does much better at higher level and the sound is overall more solid and cleaner. The caveat is the bass, you really need a big room for it to sound at least decent without eq. Or better you need to boost 60hz and pull back 120hz. Then it would sound basically perfect with a bit toe out.
That mid range dip on the Linton’s is not as audible as people think. Based on everything you’ve presented, the Wharfedales are the better value. I’d rather hear the impact of the compression at 100 dBA avg at one meter with recordings I like before buying, but the 2-4kHz harshness of the KLH’s at that volume would annoy me at my listening position. I don’t think the compression would be as annoying as it might seem from data. So many recordings have dynamics problems as it is.. Nice job. .
Nailed it
measurements are valuable but the problem is imo..the focus is placed too much on db response, its just a small part of how a speaker actually sounds
@@hotdog9262 Yes, that’s
very true! 👨🏻
@@jeremyelliott9831 that's the thing about speakers.. depending on your preferences, your hearing response, what SPL levels, the speaker's abiliity, the system that drives it, and the environment you're actually listening to them, all fsctor into how happy you are with the speakers. Your hearing, the speaker's capability, and the room being the most important, I'd say just go for whatever you find pleasing if the other variables are not going to change in the short term. Also, make sure you evaluate the speakers with whatever type of music you may listen to. Some speakers sound better with specific musical genres. I prefer a versatile speaker that's EQ'able when required, as recordings can be the bottleneck at times.
I never understood the purist logic of avoiding preamp control. It is merely pushing a concept to its extreme. I want to enjoy music, not just own "perfect recordings." 😉
@@jeremyelliott9831 one other thing I forgot.. I would tend to try to look past cosmetics, because ultimately when you realize something is just right, it will naturally become beautiful.. to evaluate its beauty at the outset is always a bad way to go with anything.😉
Love these reviews! Hoping maybe just maybe you will end up reviewing a pair of SVS Ultra Towers just for a dollar value / quality / data rundown. Pretty sure SVS does affiliate links if that’s a motivating factor. Would love to watch your honest take!
Erin, always learn something from your videos. The Wharfedales do look good, but I like something that can play loud. That compression would concern me a little. Thanks for the video.
I've been drooling over those Wharfedales. And these reviews have been super-helpful in pushing my thinking. BUT (! and there is always one with me), both speakers are too heavy. So, I'll move on..... But these are GREAT videos, so THANKS!!!
Yea, they're not light. BUT, I've definitely Lugged (ha! get it!?!) heavier speakers.
Sorry... terrible dad joke, I know. LOL
@@ErinsAudioCorner "Son," do you know HOW many times I've heard that joke, and variation upon it"" Oh well, it's a name folks NEVER forget!! Thanks again for your work. It's super important that you TEACH your data.
That means the linton are better ?
Would have liked to see the JBL L100 thrown into the comparison. Although more expensive they are all going for the same market.
I'd like to review that one as well. You have one to loan for review? If so, send them on in and I'll review them. :)
Wharfedale Linton for sure
I also enjoy a wider radiation pattern.
Amazing review man, great job, thanks!
New subscriber . I really appreciate how you review…seems so impartial and lack prejudice towards or away from a position. I was looking to build a system around the model 5 (I’m new to audio) but thinking the wharf hit the spot. Question is how to they compare to the kef meta 2 / elac uni ref / gelacs
That's tough, man. They're all so different. You'd need to try to order them from someone that has a good return policy so you can try them out yourself.
Erin is the kind of skillful, highly intelligent and knowledgeable guy who could make you change your mind about which speaker you prefer by using his equalization skills. Very talented.
Most reviewers are saying that the lintons need to be pulled at least 400 mm out from the wall. And angled in towards the listener. If not they sound a bit boomy and flat. So they are unsuitable for many people who wont be allowed to leave them sitting out that far by their partner.
Klh for me, fuller sound for rock music preference! Or more sound stage more colorful! Not as refined as you might want with classical music!
Had the Lintons for a month or so. Sound was dull and warm, lacked sparkle, depth and inside. Stereopicture wasn't very stabil. Bass quantity/quality was hard to get right. Too close to wall and big boom, too much and it was thin. Not my cup of tea.
Does anybody here have any experience with the Linton’s vs Kef R3’s? I know thats a whole other topic but really dying for a thorough comp between these two
Kef r3 is hifi, linton just basic stereo. Dont go over youtube reviews for that question, find a way to audition both. So much bull in reviews, it is crazy. All of a sudden linton is great
.....great my ass.
I have the earlier model R300's and Lintons. I'd imagine my R300 may be similar to R3.
Wharfdales have a wonderful character I love for jazz and classic rock. Big speaker sound that really fills the room and is much more polite in the treble than the KEFs with their uni Q that is more pronounced, coherent, and clear with precise imaging. They are both excellent but for different reasons and I wouldn't say the Wharefdales are lacking in these qualities but they are subtler in presenting the details. The KEFs are amazingly big sounding for a bookshelf and sounds solid and stout as it looks with great imaging (source dependent). The Lintons are not as revealing to the source which makes them not as interesting for comparing dacs but for everyday listening just have more of a throwback sound that appeals to me but maybe don't quite have the wow look at me factor of the KEFs when played through better equipment.
@@gorancho1 Oh yes, exactly. Simply put...KEFs are more hifi but for the majority of the classic rock, jazz, and blues I'm streaming to the Lintons through my tube dac I'm really enjoying the special character of the Lintons.
@@gorancho1lol ok buddy
This is the first KLH being called warm?? Have you read any other reviews?
I’ve seen mention of it on forums when people have talked about the Lintons also sounding “warm”. Which threw me for a loop. Frankly, I don’t necessarily think that either of these sound “warm“ based on the way I’ve defined it but out of the two I could see were maybe some might think the KLH is or they might describe it as that way. Subjective commentary in a valuations are always a funny thing because what means something to one person may mean something else to another. Again, that’s why I like having data. At least helps get everyone on the same page.
Depending upon the DAC and amplification, I can make my KLH's sound like a tin can and a string or rich and inviting. It is all in equipment matching, and source material. I have no idea what Erin was listening to, or his gear, but this is not even a decent description of the Model 5's I own. And lacking in mid-bass? Seriously?
One hell of a review 👍
Excellent thankyou
Mini Drago always looks like he's about to attack Erin. Stop him!
According to gr research, it's the exact opposite. Wharfedale measured much worse than the klh
Cool.
I can't agree with how you are using the term "warm". A speaker is warm if the 100 to 200 Hz region is generally higher than let's say 1 to 5 KHz region. The KLH is lacking in output above 7 KHz and especially above 10K most would describe it as lacking in "air" or top end. If it was just above 10K it would make it sound like you are farther back in the hall, generous output above 10K is often described as a front row presentation as long as the rest of the response is reasonably flat. I know many people who like less output above 7K with the view that it sounds more accurate to a live performance. More like the Celestion, British sound.
Thats your definition of warm.
I have not heard the Linton's, but I own a pair of Model 5's. Was he playing music through his voltmeter? Not the speakers I own. And lacking in mid bass? My God man, ridiculous.
Try the Lintons.
@@ErinsAudioCorner Very happy with my 5's, your findings are so far off base in regards to the 5's I own. Sure, I can make them sound thin, no mid bass, like a tin can and a string, but why would I want to listen to them like that? And it is easy to do with the wrong gear. You never said what gear you were running. I find they sound great, at least to my ear, on class A/B amplification and an R2R DAC. The DAC makes all the difference in the world.
@@michaelwright1602 well, good. I didn’t like them. I could say the same things you said about me but what’s the point? Being petty because someone doesn’t like what you do is not a character trait I’d want.
@@ErinsAudioCorner I said nothing about you, I questioned your test and my experience with the same speakers. See ya.
Linton isnt even Wharfedales best £1200 speaker. That would be the Evo 4.4 which royally trounces the Linton for SQ. The Linton tweeter is amongst the worst ive ever heard. Like the Denton 85th.
Get the better looking one because I’m already hard of hearing 🧏♀️
Which one is that (to you)?
Is that why you focus on visuals FOMO? 🤔😇😂
Its gotta look good next to that big TV!
That's would be the Linton as the klh look homemade cheap shit American retro crap
@@mikemcguinness1304 ooooh tuff
With the caveat that I haven't heard either of them in person, only on YT, I much prefer the KLH, because it sounds much more dynamic, lively, natural, musical, and realistic to my ears, and the Linton sounds softer and less lively and dynamic, resulting in more artificial sound quality, IMO. I believe that the reason the KLH sounds livelier to me and doesn't to you is because of the broad dip in the midrange on the Linton, which the KLH doesn't have, which I believe makes it sound more lively, open, and forward through the midrange, which makes it sound brighter to me than the Linton
I believe the Klh will get fatigueing
Are you serious? What a freeking caveat!!!
I would have thought the same thing until I heard both. Linton is more natural sounding and less fatigueing. Better low end bass as well.
@@jeremyelliott9831 I sent mine back and got the Forte IV's and am very happy after break-in
It's clear that he puts the Lintons on a higher pedestal than the KLH....ok I'll leave now
В Линтоне - нет баса. Нет совсм. Звук неважный.
Mpla mpla mpla
Wow I think the klh kill the Wharfdale. No bass no top end dull and boring. Oh well to each his own. Glad I don't have your ears. LOL.
Hi audiophiles Someone help me
🇷🇺 wins😎
Neither. Don't give companies money who are using archaic designs and not either pushing the state of the art forward or offering an incredible value.
A blind test might change my mind by I think I'd take a Kali or Devialet setup over these.
If you're buying speakers for aesthetics, stop. Buy art.
If I want art I'll buy pcture and hang in on the wall. For listening purpuse will buy speakers. Devialet is a definite no go for me. Looks and sound wise.
@@justoutlaw6423 That's too bad. Their Phantom Reactor sounds better than the majority of speakers.
Model 5 is truly ugly, unless you found cheap Technics speakers of the 80s good looking. I can't have something that looks like Radio Shack stuff in my house.
To technical review...wish you would speak more to the natural sound of the speaker...sound stage, bass, treble warmth...what amplification works best with it...👎
LOL. My entire channel is technical. That’s like going to a grocery store and complaining there’s too many fruits and not enough toys. 🤦♂️
@@ErinsAudioCorner
Not quite a good comparison...nobody shops for toys in the grocery store...I think I could speak for many...I watch many hi-fi reviews and to me this review is a little boring...combined with your mono tone voice...just my opinion...it's like going to church and falling asleep to a mono tone pastors voice...just keeping it real... wish the review was more real...have you watched the video all the way through? I couldn't make it that far...
@@briancampbell7712 but you watched. And you replied. So, thanks.
Just a little bit...hoping it would get better...if that's what keeps you going, glad I could help👍🏼
@@briancampbell7712 well, the good news for you is there are tons of other channels who talk about feelings and use audiophile buzzwords to get views. I provide something else. Enjoy those if that’s what you want. Peace.