Review! The Wharfedale Evo 4.2 Bookshelf Loudspeaker.

[@ZeroFidelity]

Here's some additional info that you may find useful: Need help with finding the right stand height for your room? I measured the distance between the bottom of the speakers and a couple key points on the speaker for your reference. Note that the measurements are in inches. Distance is 11” from bottom of speaker to center of the midrange dome. Distance is 14” from bottom of speaker to the bottom of the AMT driver. Distance is 15.5” from the bottom of the speaker to the middle of the AMT driver. Meanwhile, here are three things that I mentioned in the review that need to be reenforced: I. The review may have come across as lukewarm, but I truly do feel like the Evo 4.2 sets a new standard in build, fit, and finish for the price. Once you accommodate the speakers properly, the same can arguably be said about the sound. II. I only just now realized that the price for a (new) set of Buchardt Audio S300 MK II's went up to around $1400 USD. In the video, I quoted the price of a B-stock pair (d'oh!) Had I been aware of the price hike, I would have mentioned it the video. While this has zero impact over the strengths that the S300's have over the Evo 4.2's, I think the value proposition now heavily weighs in favor of the Evo's. III. Seriously though. I cannot tell you how your gear will pair up to the Evos. I won't even be able to guess beyond what I laid out in the review. These are the kind of speakers where you have to “suck it and see”.

[@MrWslindsay]

I recently picked up a pair of the 4.1's while I was selling my BRO3's (liked those but they actually got fatiguing after a bit of listening and they sat most of the time). I noticed differences in sound as well with different equipment for sure with the 4.1's. They like room to breathe in my experience with placement. They do sound decent up against a wall, everything just collapses about two sizes down. I was using them for orchestral soundtracks and jazz mostly. I haven't had genuine "whoa" moments in a while. The 4.1's provided that. You're right though, they have been a little picky with placement. That being said, I'm trying the 4.2's next because I liked these so much. Might have to sell something else now...Good honest review. 👍 Update 10/5/20 ordered the 4.2's and with a month's time of using them decided I couldn't live with them. I enjoyed the 4.1's more even though they are smaller. They share the same sound as the bigger brother but their tonality won me over. They are not as mid-range forward as the 4.2's. So, you never know where you are going to end up. This hobby is so annoying but I love it anyways. Happy listening

[@darpanbhuyan1909]

Hi Sean! Great Review! I am an avid follower of your content and I've much to thank you for helping me along on this wonderful hobby. I think you were spot on about the performance of the Evo 4.2s. I could relate to every word you said about them. One interesting note about the not so substantial bass performance of the Evos, they really benefit from tone control. Most speakers sound bloated and the bass dominates other frequencies when tone for bass is set to maximum gain (at least in my humble Marantz PM6006 and the Crown XLS1502). Not the Evos. They have plenty of low end in their reserves and just give more however much you ask of them. Coincidentally, (rather an amazing coincidence as another youtuber - Tharbamar was doing the review of the Quad S2s) I was doing an A & B (& C) comparison of the Wharfedale Evo 4.2s, KEF Q350s and the Quad S5s earlier in the day. SEAN! YOU HAVE TO HEAR THE QUAD S2s! Switching from the Evo 4.2 and the KED Q350 to the Quad S5s were a revelation. I believe the Quad S2s go for the same money as the Wharfedales and come from the same parent company so they should make for an interesting comparison. And if the floorstander S5s are anything to go by, the S2s will also impress (or blow your socks off!). I can bet you haven't heard better vocals and imaging on a sub 1000$ speaker. I think the viewers deserve to be introduced to this masterpiece! Here's to hoping a review of them from you soon! :)

[@mnmlist1454]

Thx for the review, Sean. These Evos were also on my shortlist but decided on the Sound Artist LS3/5a coz they lean more towards my budget & I've always loved the LS3/5a sound. So, how would you compare them ? Btw, I forgot to ask you about suitable stands for the SA LS3/5a.

[@gw61]

Hey Sean thanks for the review. I have the emotiva T2+. Do you think the 4.4 would be an upgrade? I have a wyred4sound integrated with 350wtc ice modules.

[@sebulbathx]

Great review! After hearing the review I got really excited to hear an EMT tweeter some day. Btw where have you gotten that diffuser behind the speaker?

[@Pitbull0669]

Love Wharfedale been a fan for the last 20 years.

[@waheezaramjaun6131]

Maybe you listen to direst rails clapton Floyd etc. I'd like to know cause I am a fan myself

[@mmdusa]

Excellent review my friend! One of your best. Felt like you really took your time and fleshed out everything you wanted to highlight. The pacing was spot on and the way you described each part of the different drivers and the way they came across was concise and easy to understand even though we couldn't hear them. No, I'm not blowing smoke at you. Honest feedback on a great review. Thanks Sean. You rock!

[@eporresnyc]

Great review, I purchased the 4.2's from Crutchfield a month ago, placed them on 22" stands (re: AMT at ear level), have them bi-wired to two Emotiva UPA-1 mono block amps (200W each...don't need THAT much power), the USP-1 preamp, and a Bluesound Node 2i for Ultra HD audio from Amazon. They are remarkable - especially the bass - could not believe that there wasn't a sub behind the music. No sibilance at high volume (~ 90-95db), and really excellent range - from Chopin to Miles Davis to Michael Jackson to Dzihan & Kamien. Very happy so far, and have my sights set on the Elysians one day.

[@marko-182]

Hi. Are they that bad off axis like people mention? I mean if i clean house in front of tham will they sound any good. Tnx

[@eporresnyc]

@@marko-182 has not been my experience but your results will vary based on room acoustics - in my case I have a cathedral ceiling so they really sound good outside of just the 'sweet spot'

[@holdencaulfied7492]

This is great information, I have an Emotiva Basx A2 (160 wpc, stereo amp) and I'm looking at the 4.2's. I'm also looking at the Wharfedale Evolution 2-50, a much older speaker than the 4.2. Do you think I need to get the 4.2 or are the 2-50's close enough?

[@CM-dw3gh]

​@@eporresnyc3 years on. Are they still in your main set up? 😊

[@eporresnyc]

@@CM-dw3gh yep

[@justanotheryoutubeuser5029]

So i got these a couple of days ago. Everything sean said about the speakers are spot on. Seriously, that break in period was tough. Its like listening to each driver individually and the harshness is just bad. After about 3-4 hours, it sounded pleasant and all my frustration went away. I paired it with ps audio sprout 100. Few things i want say for people planning to get this based on my experience. 1. Dont put them against a wall, it sounds horrible. Even half a foot is miles better. Ill say 1 foot or more is really good. 2. It integrates well with subwoofers. Although the bass is strong, it cant go down very low. Good news is i didnt have a problem setting up my sub. It took maybe 10 mins and all is good. 3. I thought i could get away setting them 3-4 feet apart but yes sean is right, you need more space. In my small room, 6 feet apart is where it started to sound good. Anything closer sounds congested. 4. Low level listening is anemic to say the least. Yes around 75db and higher is good 5. I found new joy in listening to music. Now i know what sean means by unforced resolution. Thanks for the review sean. Btw got audioquest type 4 wires with the evo 4.2 and have to say anyone who says cables dont matter needs to get these cables. Lol

[@ikromtamat1681]

I got the brother of the EVO 4.2, the EVO 4.4 and pair it with the big brother of the Sprout, PS Audio M700.. All the things that you mention about the EVO4.2 are on point for the big brother as well It sounded great and sometimes I cannot stop myself from listening to musics. But they got very good when played loudly, the louder seems to be the better..

[@IainMacUK]

Very interest comments. I was about to get the Sprout and the 4.2s plus an entry level sub like the Wharfedale SW-150. I need to research about the bass management on the Sprout, but I saw it's "variable". Would you say they are a good match? Especially at high SPL...

[@mostyles328]

Very helpful review until you mentioned how much your expensive cables made a difference and lost all credibility!

[@nothingleft777]

I strongly agree with point 5. On the first day i got them, i listen to all my favourite tracks until morning came. I fell in love again with music ❤

[@nothingleft777]

I strongly agree with point 5. On the first day i got them, i listen to all my favourite tracks until morning came. I fell in love again with music ❤

[@BadMonkeyFinger_Audio]

Thumbs up to all your vids, but especially this one, where you acknowledge break-in of the speakers. I still can't get over how so many people are still in denial that it occurs. Keep up the good work.

[@titntin5178]

Interesting hearing an american break down of these! Really informative review and i dont feel you missed anything of relevance. Well worth a sub. The differences between our respective cultures (im british) and what we desire for our sound are well noted, but its fun to see it directly. Ive not met a british audiophile who would ever leave grilles on, there is no such thing as accoustically transparent and its pretty easy to measure how you change the response curve if you leave them on. Ive bought the 4.4s after being an audiophile for 35 years i never thought id get anything at this price that sounds this good. Though the sound starts to improve after 2 hours, they will continue to improve for at least 50 hours or more. Im also amazed by the imaging on the 4.4s which is better and more precise than almost anything ive heard. Im quite concerned by your comments on the 4.2s imaging, its difficult to rationalise that. Thanks for an interesting view, ill watch more, but i doubt ill ever develop 'american tastes', but im prepared to try!

[@CercaTrova13]

Hi! What amp do u listen with your evos 4.4?

[@thorstenamesoder4803]

Perfect, waiting so long zeros reviewing the evos.

[@hi-fihaven2257]

Hi Sean! I have been a Wharfedale fan since probably before you were born! This particular speaker model has really caught my attention.This pair has a beautiful cabinet finish. I really like the height, and depth. I also love the speaker driver array. Love the AMT, I have been a big fan since receiving my Emotiva T1+ speakers. I am a big fan of soft dome mid range drive. I had my first experience with them with my Infinity RS-6 Kappa speakers in the 1980's. Love that they added the phase plug, awesome for even dispersion. But what I like most about them, is that I already possess the electronics to hook up to them! Have a great day man!

[@rkbk1969]

Hi, liked your comment and that prompted a question that I thought I will pose to you. Would you be able to give some insights on how these speakers will pair with the Pioneer SC LX82 receivers?

[@edlily4185]

Hi, I'm looking at Emotiva T1+, since you own them wanted to see your + & - on them. Thank you!

[@hi-fihaven2257]

@@edlily4185 I absolutely love my T1+’s. I have had them for over a year and a half now. I listen to many types of music, and the the speakers perform excellently. The lows, mids and highs are well balanced. They do not add any coloration to the music that I can hear. They are very easy to drive. They are built to last the ages, very sturdy construction. I play vinyl, CD’s, SACD’s, and I stream high-res a lot. The T1+ speakers love all those formats.

[@samlee2562]

Living in the UK I've just realised how much better value it is buying UK brands 🙃 usually if something a US reviewer mentions cost $1000 it costs £1000 over here but these $1000 evo's are £599 in the UK 👍🤖👍

[@redrock425]

I picked up some ex demo for £350, absolute bargain. Also got a 4.C for £300 in mint condition. I'm not usually that lucky!

[@InspectorSmeg]

@@redrock425b stock as new with warentee is the way to go

[@ItalianCJM8232]

I’ve always liked Wharfedale and I like how they manufacture everything in house, even the drivers. You’re never getting an off the shelf driver, you’re getting something truly engineered for the application. They have also have great in house engineering and cabinet making.

[@ItalianCJM8232]

behexen250 made in China but made by Wharfedale in their own factory. Much better quality control. It’s like a Sony or Pioneer factory; still China but they own and operate the factory.

[@stevenpatterson794]

Thanks again. You've saved me fortune! Every time I'm about to buy something you come out with a new review and I start dreaming all over!, Also, thanks for mentioning piano!

[@darpanbhuyan1909]

The evos sound really good with piano music as per my own experience. For everything else, try looking at the Quad S2s. They simply blow the Evos out of the water. Again, same parent company but the Quads are in that category of "special" whereas the Evos are just very good.

[@larsv6144]

Darpan Bhuyan yeah for twice the price they should

[@darpanbhuyan1909]

@@larsv6144 - nope. same price. 999$

[@afrojoe24]

Another fantastic breakdown. Will you be reviewing the Wharfdale Lintons?

[@Randommmmm204]

I bought a pair of these for $480 brand new 2 months ago and I can honestly say that I don't think there's any speaker out there that can even come close to it for that price. I paired them with an SVS PB-1000 subwoofer crossed over at 40Hz and a Pioneer VSX-415 AV receiver. The receiver is rated at 120W, exactly the maximum power the Evo 4.2s are rated for. The thing that surprised me the most about them is actually the weight. They're big speakers but somehow they're even heavier than they look. I asked the delivery guy to help me bring the box to my room just to make sure I didn't somehow drop it on accident. As for the sound, it's incredible. I find the midrange the most impressive, but the bass just feels effortless even if I max out the volume. If I closed my eyes and I didn't know what I had in front of me I could swear they were towers. Very impressive speakers If any of you find these at anything under $600 it's a must buy.

[@fatcatpeople]

Ok how did you find them.

[@juanmillaruelo7647]

Best practical data on how you can extract the most of the Evo! Clears things up a lot.

[@DrinkMoreWhiskyy]

Nice review! Glad to see some Wharfedale on the channel.

[@billbones1000]

Sean I just want to thank you again for helping me settle on a set of spatial audio speakers. It's been a few years now and I'm only more happy with them every day. Thanks dude!

[@MichaelLivingston-me]

Before you started the review, I looked at these and said, unless they make a mess of the crossover and use a too thin cabinet, these are going to sound good. Everytime I've built a speaker with a dome midrange, I've been pleased. They usually don't go deep, so lower midrange or upper bass is critically supported by a woofer with a bit of smooth extension. That didn't always work as well as I liked it because I would pair them with a 10 or 12 inch woofer. That large of a woofer cone seldom are fast enough on the attack for the next thing I look for in a good speaker. I too look for midrange presence without honkiness. (Is that a word?) I want a clear midrange so I listen for these elements. Does the female vocalist sound too prominent, with an almost spitting quality to her higher frequency consonants? If I want to check that balance in that region, I listen for brushes on a symbol while she sings. Can I still distinguish those brushes when she's vocalizing? Next, for me is the piano. You mentioned fast attack. There are a lot of mediocre piano recordings, but a good one, you can hear the felt hammers strike the piano wires. It's distinctive and mostly not heard when the midrange is unable to resolve midbass quickly. Male voices will challenge that lower end of midbass with a chestiness. Going down into the lower bass, I'm also interested in quickness. Double bass tests whether it's just flabby deep bass or it resolves to the finger plucks from the musician's hand. Combine that with a kick drum. It needs to be a clear, purcussive thwack. (Perhaps another made up word?) Anyway, I really like what I see here. The components used, the rounded cabinet. It just looks like they raised the bar, and now I want a pair. As usual, you give excellent explanations in your reviews. Thanks.

[@subsonicbass]

Listening to this description set me on a search for some nice jazz/bebop, every word you used to describe the sound you hear is how I hear it as well. Cheers!

[@ramprasadprabhudesai6832]

There are many reviews available on KZbin on Wharfdale Evo 4.2 , but this one is the best review for sure.

[@victorpirsoul3979]

Very good review with tons of useful information, not just on these speakers but the ideal placement and the best gear with which they match. Thanks Sean!

[@nothingleft777]

I just got them today! I paired them with a Denon X4300H. The highs are so crisp and clear. The mids are full and rich. Unfortunately they lack mid-bass punch on some recordings, especially older rock recordings. I don’t know whether it’s because of my room or because they are not fully broken in yet (i bought them used). I think they are a nerd‘s loudspeakers because they are fussy when it comes to positioning and listening position. You have to experiment quite a lot with them They go down low enough to put a smile on my face! I listen to techno, house and minimal house a lot. Their tonal characteristics remind me of Funktion-One loudspeakers (also from the U.K.), which are highly regarded in the club/rave/festival scene. I guess because both of them are from the U.K, it's not a coincidence that they both have that great "British" sound. Pure, clean, and crisp. They are so transparent in the sweet spot that even if they are playing loud, i don’t have to scream to talk. And that’s the quality i always get from a well-configured Funktion-One system.

[@theeverydayaudiophile4147]

Very intricate review here Sean. Thanks for all of your observations and notes. I recently acquired a pair of these and they are pretty stellar. I haven't experienced the placement issues you describe in the review but I attribute that to our rooms (Being very different) contributing to the way we perceive the sound from these stand mount speakers. If I am listening throughout the apartment, they sound amazing, even if I am off-axis / nowhere near the sweet spot. I noticed that the sound is quite holographic and enveloping while painting a very accurate picture of the musicians on the stage; more so than any speaker I've heard anywhere near this price point. I do feel that, as a general rule, it is best to have the tweeters (or air motion transformers) at ear height and that is true with the EVO 4.2 as well.

[@JamesKirk1988]

Great review! I just got my Evo 4.2's a couple of weeks ago. Like your distributer, I too am surprised you found them bright at first. Mine were very subdued in the treble range, and I had to equalize them up to have them really shine. As they broke in, they've gotten even brighter, so I will be toning them down a little soon. I am using mine in a Home Theater setup that is also for music, and unfortunately, the Evo 4.C Center I ordered is back ordered, so my old Polk Monitor is still serving Center channel duty. It is much brighter in the highs, but more dull in the mid range than the Wharfs, and I can't wait to get my 4.C to complete the front set. At that point, I'll re-EQ these speakers, but I think I'll be adding a 1 to 4 dB boost at different points in the treble range in the end to get the highs where I like them But what I really love about these speakers is the clarity and imaging. Mine are fairly far apart, and the sound stage they provide is fantastic. I hope this translates well into movies with the new Center as well, but we'll see. But my biggest complaint with my old Polk set was the lack of clarity in the mid range, especially when a lot is going on. While they were good for the money, they tend to sound chaotic in complex situations, especially at higher volumes. The Wharfdales don't just give a wall of sound, but are actually providing individual sounds, even at higher listening volumes. One last thing I'd like to point out: I found I needed to EQ down a little bit in the Upper bass & lower frequency range. This may break in eventually, but I found female vocalist "nasally" and similar issues in this range. Again, after I get the center and break it in, I'll be re-evaluating the EQ, but for now, I lowered this area to provide a much more true to life sound to my ear. Overall, I'm loving these speakers so far. I was originally going to go Klipsch or B&W, but after all the great reviews, I decided to go this route in hopes of more clarity to the sound. So far, I'm not disappointed, but they do have a different sound than the brighter speakers I normally use. Luckily, with a bit of treble boost, the AMTs can really sing! Eqiupment used with: Onkyo TX-SR676

[@tcc5750]

I also found them bright. I think source, amp, and placement really affect these more than my usual speakers.

[@glennelliott4989]

So a year on, how do you find the 4.2s in your HT setup? And how do you like the Evo center channel?

[@mickey1160]

Onkyo tx-nr676它本身的聲底就非常粗，wharfedale evo 4.2與676配對是個錯誤~

[@claudec2588]

Excellent structured review. I especially like that you gave recommendations as to what other equipment to match these speakers with. Thanks.

[@inputerase]

I’m using the EVO with the vintage 90’s Sony TA F770es and the Sony TA F630ES amplifiers the sound is fantastic! On the 770ES the sound is very stable and “controlled” more power! On the 630ES the sound is more “80’s” less “controlled” less power. On boat amplifiers the sound is really fantastic! It depends what you prefer! EVO with 630ES sounds 80’s EVO with 770ES sounds 90’s 770ES Damping factor: 100 630ES Damping factor: 50 That makes the difference. Amp’s with damping factor 100 sounds perfect with the EVO’s

[@tpilot61]

Thanks Sean for your in depth review, I think I will be satisfied when mine arrive..

[@HumanAction1]

I had the Wharfedale Diamond 10.2s. Dirt cheap but probably one of the best values out there at the time.

[@ManicChrille]

I have thoose to. Awesome speakers :-)

[@panblue43]

Hi! I was a wharfedale fan for a long time.. I had 10.2 too.I collected wharfedales for 15 years. These 10.2s were my dream but then I upgraded my system and found that the 10.2s has muddy, not enough clear in the bass range, and not enough clear and detailed at the high freqs. I was unhappy but ended the wharfedale line, but found Heco Elementa 300 loudspeakers and my smile is on.Not the same category, the heco's has bigger cabinet, die cast chassis-rubber surrounded woofers with double magnet, die cast front plated tweeter with also double magnet. Die cast plated huge terminals, phase optimized crossover with high quality parts.I loved the wharfedales but stepped in another world.The 4.2 is maybe a new possibility or target for me, need to try out! 😉👍

[@waheezaramjaun6131]

I had diamond 3 in 92 and loved them

[@franciscoortiz6980]

Great honest review. I borrowed my buddies pair. I had to set them up in my room. Short review for me... a big speaker that sounds like a loud small speaker. I was scratching my head how is a box this big so weak in low bass... compared to other speakers in this price range. Yes I liked the mid range and uppers, transparent and rich. I think the B&W 606 is a better option than these for about the same money. I ended up buying pair of Monitor Audio Silver 100s which are just a little more expensive but had deeper more pleasing bass.

[@mattkalis1567]

Hi Sean, Great review! While I have never listened to them, the Evo 4.2 has always been my favorite speaker by design and "on paper". It is incredibly insightful to hear your take on how delicate these can be to setup and equipment matching. Thank you. I am going to ask you two questions, and I promise that will be the end. Here is the background. I am a sucker for AMT tweeters. The smoothness just agrees with my ears. Some silk and soft domes are good too. I have yet to hear a metal dome tweeter that doesn't rip my ears off. While I tend to like mids that are on the warm side, I am a sucker for imaging and I don't want any warmness to degrade imaging. I typically listen in the 55-70db range. I'd rather have bass that is controlled and tight than warm or boomy. I don't mind a bit of color, as long as vocal, acoustic guitar, and piano tone are accurate. Like you, I listen to a BROAD range of music. I will always use a sub for the low frequencies anyway. I have a set of Emotiva T0+ and B1+. I love them. My two questions are: 1)Do you have a suggestion on loudspeakers that would be even better for my taste? Budget to be less than $800/pair for bookshelves of short towers. 2)This is my main question. Do you have a suggestion for an integrated amp that would pair well with my Emotiva's and my taste? Something with a sub out, a phone moving magnet in would be great. If it had a decent built in DAC, that would be a bonus. I have an OLD 1999 Onkyo 30W/ch amp that needs to be replaced. Thanks!

[@veertjee]

Hi all, Good review/test Sean. I bought them after hearing your review. Well what can i say. I did not test and listen to the quantity of speakers you did. I owned mostly mid class speakers such as Klipsch RP series, Elac 180 series, SVS Ultra/Prime and Totem Mite's/ Rainmakers. I am very picky on harsh sounding speakers. All have been coupled to an Pioneer SC LX 58 receiver and i use an SVS SB 2000 sub. The Warfedales are for me the speaker for what i was missing in all the others i owned. I put them just an my tv table not even on a stand and i hear things i never heard in the other speakers i owned. They are very detailed, wide soundstage, not harsh sounding. This is a real big bookshelf and good looking. I have fallen in love with them. Thank you. Greetings Erwin

[@massimilianozeni1848]

nice review Sean. I bought the 4.3 which I preferred to the KEF R5 and many other speakers which were at least twice the price. In terms of sound I probably liked the PMC 5.24 more but where I live they were almost 4 times the price. The only thing I personally have to disagree with is the fact that the evo 4 don't image well or they are not holographic enough. In my listening session it was one of their strongest point and it was kinda ccnfirmed when I brought them home. Maybe the soundstage isn't the largest if I have to find a caveat in my own set-up but as you pointed out maybe even the imaging can change more than with other speakers according to set-up and room. Honestly I had to check the price twice the first time I listened to them, they weren't even in my list, it happened by chance when I went to listen to the KEFs. I found what you pointed out here below a fundamental part of the review since in my opinion they really blow a lot of the competition away. That of course if someone likes a neutral or slightly warm presentation. ciao

[@110776remco]

Hey buddy. I know this is an old comment but what amplifier do you use with your 4.3? With what music?

[@massimilianozeni1848]

@@110776remco eheh I have already upgraded the speakers. Anyway I powered them with an NAD M10 first and then with an Hegel H190. The Hegel sounded much better to my ears but the M10 was much more practical and the streaming software much better. I only stream tidal

[@saltaormina9404]

@@110776remco realize too this is an old review with old comments. I have the Evo 4.3. Had it paired with an Elex-R. Scored a deal on KEF R3 and upgraded to the Aethos amp which I use to drive the 4.3 as well. Dialed up with a REL sub it sounds really good. But this hobby is a rabbit hole. After 18 months gonna trade in the 4.3 for possible the Evoke 30. But Elex-R is a great match!

[@Diploization]

You are an exceptional reviewer.Thumbs up.

[@lwdp74]

I have EVO 4.3s, similar just no stands and an extra woofer. Positioning was not as critical as yours but the warmup is definitely worth mentioning. The speakers warm up with every listening session. I start with reduced volume to avoid harshness and it just keeps getting bigger, louder and more dynamic with no harshness whatsoever. They also enunciate vocals more naturally than any 2-way speaker I’ve heard. When warmed up and singing they’re wonderful.

[@eamonnbrown7877]

Purchased mine in 2022 along with a Marantz PM8006 amp and Marantz 6006 CD player, I have asmallish living room with a lot of furniture so had to experiment with speaker placement before finding the sweet spot and boy do they entertain . I have them fully bi wired with pure 6mm copper cables and I can listen for hours on end without being fatigued. I have a Denon DNP 800 NE Streamer and low res music through these speakers is offensive to my ears but decent stuff sounds truly wonderful, I also run my TV via optical cable through a topping D50s Dac to listen to music on You tube , sounds great with hi res audio. just wish I had a larger room . I highly recommend these speakers, great value for the price.

[@Andrea-qx6rf]

Hello. I have the same amplifier and CD set up. Do you suggest me EVO 4.2. The room is small 4 meters for 2.5 meters, with a lot of furniture. These speakers sound clear? Thank you very much

[@Andrea-qx6rf]

Hello have you feedback?

[@rklmbd2934]

Great to hear that the classic Cambridge./ Wharfdale combination still holds after all these years. I think its slightly misleading to imply wall positioning has to do with port placement on the cabinet. Yes its a factor, maybe 10%. Bass radiates in 360 degrees and wall placement matters even for fully sealed cabinets.

[@jeremyphilander8833]

Speakers are getting brighter every year. While midrange are suffering. Some folks never get to hear a good midrange

[@NaveenKumar-uh2gk]

Totally agree

[@handokosetiawan2803]

Are you talking about Evo 4.2? Wow...i have to listen them first before i buy. I always buy audio by online market.

[@loubano]

Hello All, I received my Wharfedale EVO 4.2 in walnut yesterday, wasn’t my 1st choice in color but I do not regret this choice since the finition is so beautifull !!! My Room is a « L » Shape, my stereo system is set in one branch of this « L » in a 4x4m square. I place EVO 4.2 at almost 2.3m from eachother. They got wall begind them at about 15cm, and wall on their side is at about 50cm. They replace a Q Acoustics Concept 20, on 1st track played from spotify (do not even remember what it was) I Was surprised by the fullness and precence of bass in a good way !!!! I needed weeks to get decent bass on my concept 20 after the Break-in. But after 30 minutes compare do my Concept 20, I felt : - Bass are too much present and « BOOMY » in some tracks not as tight that my litle concept 20 - Midrange is Thinner - Less impactfull in drums restitution (I was surprised, due to break in not done ?) - For the moment I prefer the voice representation on concept20 By toe EVO 4.2 in, is a little less Boomy and I also set Bass to zero on my Marantz PM7000N (they were set at +1 from Concept 20). I do prefer this restitution So far I do not know to much what to think about their performance and sound restitution since my tracks no sounds like I used to. I will let time for the Break in speaker and work on speaker placement after it. I got some question/help for you all : - How long do you think the break in could last ? - May Midrange and bass reponse should change ? - I am surprised that midrange sound thinner and shyier than Concept20 - Should I get the speakers closer to eachothers ? Thanks

[@loubano]

@Hoy Sum they sound like another speaker ! What I mean it’s a never seen so much change in sounding after a break in from another speaker that I owned. The bass is now more full and clean. The midrange is more balance and well place is the soundstage. For the the treble provide much more detail. The overall sounding is much more balanced. Now I really enjoy them.

[@kevinoleary6941]

Great review Sean. Curious to know if you might review the Wharfedale Linton sometime.

[@R1Zig]

Excellent review! Very thorough and I love the equipment pairing part. Liked & Subscribed.

[@shumba_the_don]

Yeah thanks for this review. I have been waiting for this

[@kjbiz]

Great review Sean. I have just purchased KEF LS50’s Now having buyers remorse watching reviews as the availability of gear is limited where I live. Thx for always giving informative reviews Cheers

[@darpanbhuyan1909]

if you have buyer's remorse after watching this review, checkout Tharbamars review of the Quad S2s. FYI, i have the Evo 4.2s and the Quad S5s. The Quads blow the Evos out of the water. The evos only do bass better (and piano music). Thats it!

[@kjbiz]

Darpan Bhuyan yeah watched that today

[@TorToroPorco]

These are fascinating speakers with a range of characteristics that could prove to be very useful for buyers with specific needs or constraints. Judging by their popularity the fact that they are particular about equipment and placement/positioning doesn’t seem to be a deterrent. Another great and useful review. Since their price is not outlandish I’m tempted to build a 2nd system around them. The fact that they pair well with the CXA81 is also intriguing, the 2 in tandem hits a sweet spot for my budget especially when the Cambridge goes on sale.

[@FarHagh]

Wow! This was one of the greatest reviews from you, with lots of information. Interesting that you had said your review of this would probably be short (was it before the break in?) but it seems you couldn't (or didn't want it to) easily go :) Thanks for the great work.

[@amb3cog]

Awesome review! As usual. Seems they have some things in common with my Wharfedale Denton 80th Anniversary speakers. Like warmth, not good at low volumes, rolled off top end, great micro dynamics, etc. I was expecting a different presentation, with the different drivers, and cabinet design. But I guess that's the signature sound of theirs. I like it myself, but it doesn't work with every piece of equipment, or every type of music. Really makes me want to hear some of their higher end ones, and the floorstanding versions of these and maybe the Diamond series too. I was also quite happy to see you compare them to my speakers at the end. So I can just move along and forget about them now. That was until you mentioned how the frickin Triangles, which I've been lusting after since your review, are better then my Buchardts. I can't win. It just never ends in this hobby I guess? 🤦🏻‍♂️ 😁😂 ✌️

[@darpanbhuyan1909]

apparently they sound different than the Dentons. checkout Tharbamar and Pursuit Perfect Systems review on these.

[@juanmillaruelo7647]

Excellent review. Clear, well structured, accurate, 'no fluff' with very effective delivery. You are getting to be a master at this. And you don't use 'hocus pocus' words ;-) No spin, just facts. Excellent.

[@McgarickWAstate]

Your my favorite reviewer on you tube. There's no stupid (humor?) that goes on and on..dont get me wrong, I enjoy humor...in proportion. You hit all the points I care about and...more. You can organize and articulate, too the point, with good insightful and USEFUL info. THANKS!

[@markcaruso815]

Wow that was intimidating but thank you. I'm just getting into this so decision making is very intimidating. I was struggling with my speaker purchase because my logic was I liked the look of the ribbon tweeters. Hardly a logical reason to spend a thousand bucks. I'm hoping my choice in amps will drive the speakers properly. I just pulled the trigger on the following: -Emotiva PT-100 -Emotiva A-300 -Wharfedale EVO4.2 (Black) -Pair of ST-1 speaker stands -Pangea Audio Vulcan Audio Rack.... I guess I need somewhere to set the stuff. Didn't realize an audio rack was a whole nother subject wow. The CD and the turntable are going to have to wait a while. Appreciate all the help. If you have any opinions about my system good or bad please share. Thanks and keep up the good work

[@amazoidal]

I've been waiting for your review.

[@greebuh]

I have the some Emotiva T1s and love them,, but i think the Evo is about the most perfect configuration I can think of, AMT with a dome tweeter and woven woofer. AMT tweets and ring rads are what I prefer for tweeter, I dont like dome tweeters really and I think domes are for mids, so I've been thinking about the Evos myself.

[@amazoidal]

I have had lots of speakers with "alternative" tweeters. Starting with AMT Towers (Heil) in 1974. Then Infiniti speakers with the EMIT tweeter. I have 4 Lineaum Extremes with strange tweeters. I just bought a LCR setup similar to the Emotiva called HTD Level 3 for my Home Theater. For my stereo setup, I have 4 ELAC B6.2 Now I'm lusting after the Triangle Genesis Trio for $1400.

[@Economist96]

How about a review of the Wharfedale EVO 4.4 floor standing speaker?

[@titntin5178]

Got them last week. My review: Buy it!

[@antonyalumkal1526]

If you don't bi-wire, it's better to hook the wires to the treble end, not the bass end. And ALWAYS replace the stock jumpers. Anti-Cables makes some nice ones (I recommend going with banana plug jumpers if you are hooking up bare wire. The AC spades tend to oxidize quickly.) PS: Some amps, like the Creek Audio Evolution 50A/100A come with bass and treble controls. You can creation your own V shape.

[@stonefree1911]

Good review, but I'm not really sure if you liked them or not.... I have EVO 4.2's with REL subs and I really love them. And I do listen at low and moderate volumes and think they sound great.

[@darpanbhuyan1909]

I have paired my Evo with a REL suyb as well. and if you think the Evos sound good, try out the Quad S2s for the same price. I have the Quad S5s and they are so much more special than the Evos. But the Evos do bass better. again, a non-factor if you're using a REL except the crossover point has to be a bit higher.

[@rizalahmad4207]

My long awaited speaker review

[@brucemitchell5092]

Another interesting review Sean. Really appreciate the contrasts at the end. A couple of months back you indicated that some high end reviews were coming. With the advances in lower cost speakers like these and the Buchardts I’d love to hear your opinions on how these stack up against speakers from ProAc, Harbeth, and Revel for instance. Has the gap in sound quality narrowed much over the past 10 years?

[@bella3008]

Here, the 6.5" drivers not 6.5", they are in fact 5.25" driver in a 6.5" mounting

[@andreassouth1523]

Big truth!

[@Audioloon]

Thanks for your review and suggestions. The speaker shape, fit and finish, and color of the vinyl wrap are very remindful of the Wharfedale Diamond 9.1's that I used to own a long time ago.

[@RFIDemocracy]

What makes you say "vynil wrap"? These look like they are real walnut veneer to me.

[@redrock425]

@@RFIDemocracy I recently bought a pair of 4.2s and yes it is real veneer not vinyl wrap. Very good quality for £600, I was lucky and got some ex demo for £350.

[@calaf_725]

Great review, it will help people who buy these speakers to utilize them to their true potential.

[@zeissiez]

Great review Sean, as usual

[@glubb23]

Thanks for this great review. I have been looking at these speakers for a few months. I would love to see you review the Dynaudio M20 😉

[@EvoCarl]

I have my eyes on the Dynaudio M20 for my small movie room setup... but these look great, can’t find a review of them being used for movies though.

[@stevec3526]

Seriously thinking about the EVO 4.4.

[@darpanbhuyan1909]

Think seriously about the Quad S5s as well. same parent company (IAG), same designer, same price. Evo does bass better, Quad S5s do everything else.

[@1997inspire]

Got the audio bug in 1970 after visiting an audio store.The speakers they sold were Goodmans, Leak, Celestion, Jensen, Sony and Wharfdale.Wharfdale has been making excellent speakers at reasonable prices for a long time.

[@swiftraider759]

Finally! Man I'm glad you were listening to you're viewers man. Now to get those Sierra 2EX up for review! Lol. I've been wanting to see you're take on these Bookshelves !

[@ZeroFidelity]

Who knows? Maybe pigs will fly and the right planets will align to make it happen. :)

[@swiftraider759]

@@ZeroFidelity you never know, the Evos came as a good surprise and will more than likely reinforce my thoughts on giving these speakers a try. Thanks again!

[@louiesipes2257]

Ditto on the ascend acoustics Sean. Would love to see you review those. Not that I’m unhappy with my original Sierras😀

[@Gary_M]

Does Ascend even send out review samples? They are one of those "forum speakers" you never hear about anywhere else. Chane is another one you never see on KZbin.

[@spursdynasty7378]

I'd like to see a sound comparison between these, Kef Ls50 and Svs Ultra bookshelves?

[@williamfoster1034]

I was bored with the LS50s and bought a pair of these. After about six months, the LS50s are back on the stands and these are collecting dust in a closet. It's not to say that these are not good speakers, but there is no comparison, especially the imaging. I realize that speaker sound is very subjective, but if you're on the fence, I would suggest the KEFs. There is a reason those speakers have won countless awards. The Wharfedales simply do not match up to the KEFs, in my humble opinion. I have never heard the SVS speakers, but I do own four of their subs and they are awesome.

[@marcopignone9386]

Heard these at Capitol Audiofest last year and was very impressed. Front end was the Mofi Studiodeck I believe, but it may have been the ultradeck. Fantastic system and it was my favorite that I heard up to the $12k Jansen active Valentinas. Amp was a Rogue Sphinx which doesn't seem to get great reviews, but maybe the speakers had good synergy, or perhaps the 4.2s just sound good with a wide variety of amps.

[@ZeroFidelity]

I don't mind saying that by itself, the Sphinx is just so-so for the cash. However, as pointed out in the review, it has the exact type of presentation that pairs up well to these speakers. Class-D amps have a home in the Wharfedale Evo line. :).

[@darpanbhuyan1909]

@@ZeroFidelity i couldn't agree more! The sound with my Marantz PM6006 was just a little laidback for my taste and the Crown XLS 1502 fixed that and gave them a much nicer presentation.

[@Atlquotl]

@@darpanbhuyan1909 You know, I have a pair of these and have considered selling them but have also wondered what they'd sound like set up with a crown amp, and maybe a tube preamp (schiit) I'll have to try that combination, and spend a little bit more time on setup and actually try to get them placed 100% before I decide to let them go.

[@darpanbhuyan1909]

@@Atlquotl - to me, they don't impress a whole lot. They are very good speakers, no doubt. But they don't shine in any particular respect except, perhaps, when you're playing piano music through them. Another thing, they respond very well to tone controls. Even if you aren't a basshead, try increasing the bass tone control to the maximum allowed by your amplifier. The bass of the evos don't harden up, sound bloated or dominate other frequencies when the bass is increased. it lends a whole new flavour to the sonic presentation of the Evos. Without bass turned up, they sound a little unexciting. try it and see.

[@Atlquotl]

@@darpanbhuyan1909 Fascinating. Well, we'll see what happens with them in a week or so, I'm going to be upgrading a little bit anyway. Some wires, and the crown 1500 is only like 370$ so, that'll be a spot to start as I was planning on getting that amp anyway. I'll take my time setting up the room too, since I'll have that opportunity. I really did like the speakers, and as you'd said piano music, one of my go to albums for testing speakers is jurassic park, so that'll be one I'll play with to see just how much I can coax out of them.

[@starker1971]

Boy Listening db level habits is a vastly important data point. I appreciate you addressing it. I finally measured my habits and found I am typically happy at only 65 db and rarely get to 70db over long periods of time. I am starting to wonder if this is why I often do not notice issues noted in speaker reviews. I have started to list this as a caveat when I comment on how I think something sounds.

[@RFIDemocracy]

10/10 for the lovely enclosures

[@diebackmischung503]

It doesnt matter where they were made It matters how they were made

[@williamfoster1034]

Great review, as always. I bought a pair of these in January in white oak from Music Direct for my den. I was bored with the LS50s and stuffed those into a closet. I find these speakers to be lifeless at low volumes. When cranked up, the sound comes alive in a very "neutral" manner. I agree on the imaging. These are not the best unless directly in the sweet spot. After six months, these are now in the closet and the KEFs are back in the den. I will find some use for them (I love my toys) but in the end it was a $1,000 experiment that left me a little underwhelmed.

[@frankpandolfi6662]

Hi - are you planning to do a review of the Wharfedale Linton? It's one of the speakers I'm interested in. I really like your reviews and trust your judgement. We seem to have similar tastes in what we like in a speaker. I appreciate all you do. Thanks.

[@RFIDemocracy]

Totally disagree about pleated ribbon (AMT) tweeters, I would choose nothing else, with some possible exceptions.

[@sreckomilanic5396]

Hi, Sean. You recommend class D amps with Evo 4.2. Why? Are they supposed to sound smoother with class D or for some other reason. I do own a pair of Evo 4.1, but with a class AB amp...

[@datdudeinred]

Great review especially the intro where you give brief sound impressions which simplifies sound. BTW is it me or the midrange looks like atc mid drivers? Is it same as atc sm75-150?

[@yuckysamson]

We should start giving Peter Comeau the same level of praise as Andrew Jones. Guy is AWESOME. Not only did he design the Linton's (and I'm GUESSING these)....he also designed the famed Heybrook HB-3's of yesteryear. The man ROCKS the 3-way bookshelves.

[@ZeroFidelity]

Agreed!

[@darpanbhuyan1909]

more importantly, he designed the Quad S range. simply blows the Evos away at the same price range. The Evos only do bass better. Thats it! Period!

[@fraula1]

Hello :) Should i considerate the Evo 4.2 instead of BOREA BR03 ?

[@yippie6862]

Excellent Review Sean

[@sujaybhat]

What about pairing with Audiolabs 6000A

[@madcrabber1113]

They look amazing 👏

[@GodfreyMann]

Sean your review is spot on...but try driving it with the Vista Spark 2 - sweet match at distances of 3-5 feet. I’m finding them far more dynamic than LS50s with quiet classical passages jumping up to 84 dB with plenty of additional headroom left in the amp. Your tip on toe-in changed their performance on a number of key tracks for me...Improved the tweeter performance (I’m used to LS50s).

[@f1shb0n3d]

Amplifiers don’t change the frequency response, not in any significant way unless broken.

[@jimmyhills4238]

I have the 4.1 and I really like them. I did pair them with the Sprout100 and felt that it really over powered them with base. I finally set them up with a Sony AV receiver and the combo has been nice. Overall great speakers. Id recommend Nirvana's unplugged MTV show as they make it sound like you are there.

[@GregorMima]

Told ya, Evo rock. And 2h breakin? Even Adam suggests "only" 8h breakin for their monitors. For the avrg speaker it´s more like 20+h. Any chance you check out 4.1 EVOs?

[@dragonstone6594]

Great review. If these speakers aren't great at whisper quiet listening, which speakers would you recommend for that kind of listening?

[@doctorbritain9632]

These might be exactly what I'm looking for. I'll have to check them out.

[@marknickells6097]

Could someone please answer a general question. How would these compare to a pair of B%W 685's? THE 685's don't seem too picky, regardless to what's driving them. I have had them on a DENON AVR 5 channel receiver(90 W) to a Pioneer ELITE (115) WX 7 . At this point; I'm running them on a 135 W. basic SONY receiver. THE B%W's don't seem to have any issues with that receiver. I am concerned the Warfdale may require an equipment upgrade. AND, it may becomes an issue; then where do I go? > Thanks, Mark

[@mikesadowy7367]

Hey Sean Could you do a review on the Rogue Sphinx? Thanks

[@erikliterature8162]

Hi. Is the Wharfedale Evo 4.2 in any way similar to the Triangle Genése Trio? It's also smooth, according to your review, maybe a bit more treble focused. What about the old Linn Majik 109? Heard that? Also a 3-way bookshelf speaker. Haven't found any youtube videos presenting that one.

[@bryede]

I agree that AMTs often have problems when used down low in 2-way designs but I imagine it's crossed over pretty high in the Evo 4.2. I'd love to hear a pair of these.

[@titntin5178]

5k crossover point on the evo 4.4s, i think its 4.5k on the 4.2s.

[@clo5494]

great review. I only have a Denon 6700H AV AMP and use it for movies and music about 50:50 of the time, would you recommend Evo4.2, KEF LS50 Meta or some other bookshelf speakers? Currently I am using Linn Komponent 110 floorstand as my front speakers and mindful of changing. Many thanks

[@altops4490]

I rebuilt pair of Infinity R3s With upgraded carbon 8 in woofers and new paper mids gigantic magnets, used original polycell tweeters, db sensitivity is 91db. Sound is exceptional clean clear and loud enough for my master bedroom used in 2.1 configuration with a Velodyn subwoofer and an SMSL AD18 . Used original crossovers and performance is much better than expected considering unmatched components. 😎👍about $100 investment, value easily $1000. Even higher wen I upgrade crossover and connects.

[@Ciezarowy]

Great review! You've checked all the boxes

[@66brave]

How do they compare to SVS Ultra Bookshelfs?

[@markcaruso815]

what subwoofer compliments the Wharfedale EVO4.2 in your opinion? Thanks

[@Mak100ish]

I got these with the lyngdorf TDAI 1120. Super happy with my small form factor large sound build :)

[@ryanschipp8513]

Great review as usual but I think some listeners might be curious to know what you used to power the buchart and the Evo When comparing them.

[@khidu92]

Sean, I have been waiting for this review from you for a long time. Thank for your review, I get a pm5005 powering my Dali Oberon 1. Love them everyday. But when the EVO 4.2s come to Wharefedale in my country, I really want to audition them, however, I don't because I don't want to sell the Oberon 1 after 6 months. LOL. And today, my most favorite hifi reviewer talks about these speakers. May be, I'll get a pair on the new year holiday. Thank you, love all your works, best regards from Viet Nam.

[@darpanbhuyan1909]

they don't pair great with a marantz. It sounds a bit anaemic with my PM6006. Try out a class D amp as sean suggested. It pairs beautifully with my crown 1502.

[@FarHagh]

@@darpanbhuyan1909 Marantz Rubys? ;)

[@darpanbhuyan1909]

@@FarHagh - no idea!

[@khidu92]

@@darpanbhuyan1909 That's great, Thanks a lot for the recommendation, I might try with my marantz first and then I try xtz amp, I'm curious in them at the moment.

[@darpanbhuyan1909]

Raphael Cao - look at it this way. If you want thunderous bass, you can go for these. Tone controls add a wealth of deep bass without overpowering other frequencies. However, If you want a true upgrade and want the emotiva to be bested on all fronts, nothing comes close to the quad s5s which go for the same price, are from the same parent company (iag) and same designer (peter comeau) Wharfedale is better with piano music for sure and bass but thats about it. Add a REL to the S5s (i have a rel t9i paired to both my Evos as well as the Quad S5) and the one trump card that the evos possess gets negated.

[@DomRivers67]

Best amp for low volume listening with these are the Arcam SA20 and 30 range, the class A amplification really brings detail out way more than a straight class A/B design.

[@cartossin]

The fact that 2 hours of listening changed the sound means they don't run a lot of tests on each unit in the factory. Always blows my mind when I hear stuff like this.

[@richardwestmoreland4796]

Cory it doesn't necessarily mean that they don't run a lot of tests on each unit. What the change in sound could possibly mean after only 2 hours of listening is that the manufacturer or designer has performed tests on the speakers but they have failed to adequately communicate their findings to the public. It is well known that some speakers might need a break in period but not every manufacturer makes it crystal clear just what that break in period might possibly be. I have been buying speakers for over 50 years now and it has been my experience that the break in period is often something something that is either not mentioned at all or is only given a cursory mention by manufacturers. I think it might have something to do with the manufacturers not wanting to communicate a specification that doesn't have a precise measurement to it. The break in period can be arbitrary as it is and it would be great if every manufacturer would communicate that but for whatever reason I don't see that happening.

[@juliangst]

How do they compare to the Kef R3 in terms of resolution and scale of sound? Can these also sound 'like a tower speaker' as the Kef or are the Kef just better since they are double the price?

[@ZeroFidelity]

I hate to be lazy but check out what I had to say about the KEF and contrast that to what I said about the Evo's. 100% different sounding speakers. KEF has an emphasis on resolution. Wharfe has an emphasis on being full/easy to listen to. Neither sound like a full-on tower speaker.

[@ben23a31]

Nice review 👍🏽 However, remind me again what speaker did you review that was a perfect "drop & Plot" ?

[@IRQ1Conflict]

That's going to be most speakers with a more neutral presence that won't colour the signal post amplification. And have good off axis performance that also aren't too picky about wall boundaries.

[@terrywho22]

Great review. Thanks. Given that I often play at lower volumes and typically listen off-axis, seems like there are better choices for my setup. Plus, I'm not a fan of the sound of aramid fiber drivers.

[@bretts7037]

Quite the interesting step up from their previous Jade series.