WHARFEDALE DIAMOND 12.1

Surprisingly sophisticated standmounters for their size and price

The Wharfedale Diamond was introduced in 1982 and was such a success that it started a dynasty that remains at the core of the brand to this day. More than 40 years on, the 12.1 is a far more sophisticated design, but its mission remains the same: to offer top class sound at an affordable price.

Standing just 31cm tall, this neat and compact box won’t dominate any room. While the older generation of Diamond benefitted from a near-wall placement, these sound balanced even when positioned out into a room. But, importantly for a product of this type, the sound stays listenable if that isn’t possible.

The cabinet feels reassuringly solid. The engineers have chosen to make the panels up from differing thicknesses of MDF bonded together to control resonances. Add strategic bracing and the result is a rigid but well controlled box.