Wharfedale Unveils The Aston: Limited-Edition Standmount Speakers for Audiophiles
Wharfedale has just dropped something special that's got the audiophile scene buzzing. The Aston—a limited-edition standmount speaker—is turning heads with its blend of vintage aesthetics and modern acoustic engineering. Limited to only 500 pairs, this isn't a reissue of an old classic but a fresh design that's been four years in the making.
Crafted under the guidance of Peter Comeau, Wharfedale's Director of Acoustic Design with over four decades of experience, the Aston is handmade in the UK. It embodies a philosophy of natural, detailed, and full-bodied sound that punches well above its compact size.
The cabinet measures 34 cm high, 20 cm wide, and 25.5 cm deep, giving it that classic British bookshelf vibe. Constructed from layers of high-density particle board and MDF bonded with a special damping adhesive, the design minimizes unwanted resonance for a cleaner sound. The real wood veneer finish—available in walnut, mahogany, or black oak—adds a touch of elegance, hand-polished to a satin sheen.
Under the hood, the Aston features a two-way bass reflex design with custom-built drivers:
- Mid/Bass Driver: A 15 cm carbon fiber cone housed in a sturdy die-cast chassis delivers impressive bass that extends below 50Hz when positioned properly. The gold-colored phase plug isn't just for show—it smooths out the midrange and ensures consistent sound across different listening spots.
- Tweeter: Borrowed from the flagship Dovedale model, the 25 mm fabric dome tweeter uses a ceramic magnet motor system and a damped rear chamber. This setup offers detailed high frequencies without any harshness, keeping the treble smooth and enjoyable.
The crossover network is meticulously engineered with premium air-core inductors and polypropylene capacitors, ensuring seamless integration between the drivers and a balanced power response.
One standout feature is the magnetically attached, vintage-inspired grille. It's not just an aesthetic choice; the grille is designed to reduce edge diffraction and improve the overall sound quality. Plus, it stays put during those high-energy listening sessions.
For optimal performance, Wharfedale has designed dedicated open-frame stands crafted from British steel. Filled with damping material to minimize vibrations, they also feature built-in cable management for a clean setup. While the stands are available separately at £499, bundling them with the Aston makes for a cohesive system.
Priced at £1,699 per pair without stands and £1,999 with them included, the Aston is poised to become a collector's item. Given the limited production run, these speakers are likely to be snapped up quickly by those who appreciate a blend of classic design and modern audio excellence.
