Wharfedale W3 floor standing speakers require attention. Help pls.... - UK Vintage Radio Repair and Restoration Discussion Forum

James Mac · 23rd Mar 2019, 10:19 pm

Hi, I am a complete novice and have been gifted a pair of W3s which sound incredible except for some crackling in the right side speaker at low volume. I'm using a modern Arcam alpha 8 amp and CD player but at low volume. This setup has powered these speakers for a few problem free years. Can anybody advise me on a course of action?
Thanks. James

snowman_al · 24th Mar 2019, 11:17 am

Hi James,
Nice gift!

First make sure the speaker is the problem.
Swap the right and left speaker connections round at the amplifier.
If the crackle moves to the left then the amplifier/source is the problem.
If the crackle stays on the right side, the speaker is the problem.

Sadly there are a few problems with the foam suspension on certain versions of the drivers in the W3s. Best post some pictures to help from there.
Alan

23rd Mar 2019, 10:19 pm	#1
James Mac Retired Dormant Member Join Date: Mar 2019 Location: Cupar, Fife, Scotland, UK. Posts: 1	Wharfedale W3 floor standing speakers require attention. Help pls.... Hi, I am a complete novice and have been gifted a pair of W3s which sound incredible except for some crackling in the right side speaker at low volume. I'm using a modern Arcam alpha 8 amp and CD player but at low volume. This setup has powered these speakers for a few problem free years. Can anybody advise me on a course of action? Thanks. James

24th Mar 2019, 11:17 am	#2
snowman_al Octode Join Date: Dec 2018 Location: Llandeilo, West Wales, UK. Posts: 1,092	Re: Wharfedale W3 floor standing speakers require attention. Help pls.... Hi James, Nice gift! First make sure the speaker is the problem. Swap the right and left speaker connections round at the amplifier. If the crackle moves to the left then the amplifier/source is the problem. If the crackle stays on the right side, the speaker is the problem. Sadly there are a few problems with the foam suspension on certain versions of the drivers in the W3s. Best post some pictures to help from there. Alan __________________ Never Leave Well Enough Alone...