Let's dive into the fascinating world of audio revival with a unique twist! Wharfedale, a name synonymous with audio heritage, has taken us on a nostalgic journey with their latest venture, the Denton 1S. This small standmount speaker is not just a throwback to the past; it's a reimagined masterpiece that blends vintage charm with modern audio innovation.
A Blast from the Past, with a Twist
The original Denton 1 from 1974 was an oddity, to say the least. Its white plastic cabinet and coaxial driver, developed by Raymond Cooke before he founded KEF, were ahead of their time. Now, Wharfedale has given this iconic design a modern makeover, and the result is an intriguing blend of old and new.
Redefining the Coaxial Experience
The Denton 1S takes a bold step away from its predecessor's design. It features an all-new 2-way coaxial unit, a far cry from the original's 'whizzer' cone. The mid/bass driver, a robust 6.5" polypropylene powerhouse, is paired concentrically with a 1" silk-dome tweeter. This setup, according to Wharfedale, ensures a time-aligned and phase-coherent sound, a significant upgrade from the original's design.
Engineering Excellence
The crossover inside the Denton 1S is a masterpiece in itself. It employs Linkwitz-Riley 4th-order acoustic slopes at 2.6kHz, utilizing a silicon-iron-core bass inductor and polypropylene capacitors. An air-core treble inductor on a "short-path" PCB ensures minimal signal degradation. This attention to detail is a testament to Wharfedale's engineering prowess.
Cabinet Evolution
Gone is the iconic moulded plastic cabinet of the Denton 1. In its place, we find an MDF cabinet with bracing to minimize panel resonances. The front baffle is mildly recessed, and the die-cast driver chassis adds rigidity to the entire front face. A bass reflex port, lined with soft rubber to reduce port noise, completes the rear panel, along with binding posts and the 'Brilliance switch' for close-to-wall placement.
Technical Specifications
The Denton 1S boasts an internal volume of 11.5 litres, with bass response reaching down to 45Hz (-6dB). Sensitivity is rated at 88dB (2.83V at 1m), and the nominal impedance is 8 ohms (minimum 4.5 ohms). It can handle up to 100W of power, thanks to its 44mm voice coil.
Color Options and Pricing
The Denton 1S will be available in three matte finishes: black, blue, and white, with the latter paying homage to the original. The magnetically attached grilles feature the Heritage Series badge in silver. Priced at £649/pair, the Denton 1S is set to ship in late May 2026, with US and EU pricing yet to be announced.
Final Thoughts
Wharfedale's Denton 1S is more than just a revival; it's a celebration of audio innovation. By blending the best of both worlds, Wharfedale has created a speaker that not only pays tribute to its heritage but also offers a modern audio experience. It's a testament to the brand's ability to stay relevant while honoring its past. Personally, I can't wait to hear these speakers in action and experience the unique sound they promise to deliver.
