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History of Wharfedale Loudspeakers

Wharfedale is a British loudspeaker manufacturer with a long and storied history. Founded in 1932 by Gilbert Briggs, Wharfedale has grown to become one of the most respected and well-known brands in the world of audio. Over the years, the company has been responsible for numerous innovations and developments in loudspeaker technology. This article will provide an overview of the history of Wharfedale loudspeakers.

1930s: The Early Years

Gilbert Briggs, a music enthusiast and engineer, founded Wharfedale Wireless Works in the small town of Ilkley, West Yorkshire, England. The company's name was inspired by the nearby Wharfedale Valley. Briggs started by producing public address systems and later moved on to manufacturing loudspeakers for home use.

In 1933, Wharfedale introduced its first two-way loudspeaker system, which featured a separate woofer and tweeter. This design allowed for better sound reproduction and set the stage for future advancements in loudspeaker technology.

1940s: Expansion and Innovation

During World War II, Wharfedale shifted its focus to producing communication equipment for the military. After the war, the company returned to its roots and continued to innovate in the world of loudspeakers.

In 1945, Wharfedale introduced the first-ever three-way loudspeaker system, which included a woofer, midrange driver, and tweeter. This design allowed for even more accurate sound reproduction across a broader range of frequencies.

1950s: The Golden Age of Hi-Fi

The 1950s saw the rise of the "golden age of hi-fi," and Wharfedale was at the forefront of this movement. In 1952, the company released the groundbreaking Corner Cabinet, a loudspeaker designed to fit snugly into the corner of a room for optimal sound dispersion.

In 1958, Wharfedale introduced the innovative "sandwich" woofer, which used a sandwiched layer of foam and plastic to reduce distortion and improve bass response. This design would become a staple in many of Wharfedale's future loudspeakers.

1960s-1970s: Continued Success and Growth

Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Wharfedale continued to produce high-quality loudspeakers for both home and professional use. The company's products were well-regarded for their performance, durability, and value.

During this period, Wharfedale also expanded its product offerings to include headphones, amplifiers, and other audio components.

1980s-1990s: A New Era

In 1981, Wharfedale was acquired by the Rank Organisation, a British entertainment conglomerate. This acquisition allowed the company to invest in new technologies and expand its global presence.

In the 1990s, Wharfedale introduced several new product lines, including the Diamond Series, which quickly became one of the best-selling loudspeaker lines in history. The Diamond Series combined high-quality sound reproduction with affordable pricing, making it a popular choice for both audiophiles and casual listeners.

2000s-Present: Modern Innovations

In recent years, Wharfedale has continued to innovate and push the boundaries of loudspeaker technology. The company has released several new product lines, including the Jade Series, which features advanced materials and design techniques to deliver exceptional sound quality.

Conclusion

Today, Wharfedale remains a respected and influential brand in the world of audio. With a rich history of innovation and a commitment to quality, the company continues to produce some of the finest loudspeakers available on the market.

For More Info Contact:

For more information on the ranges of Wharfedale Loud Speakers or If you have any questions or queries or would like to have a demonstration and listen to your favourite vinyl and your favourite tracks in our demonstration rooms, please get in touch with our team of experts on 02476 631707 or 02476 525200 or use our Contact Form. We would love to hear from you.

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