Dellichord FR35 Bookshelf Speakers Review: A Modern Classic Reimagined
In the world of high-fidelity audio, few speakers have achieved the legendary status of the BBC LS3/5A. Today, we're excited to bring you our Dellichord FR35 Bookshelf Speakers review, a product that pays homage to this classic design while incorporating modern technologies and sensibilities. As audiophiles and HiFi enthusiasts, we at The Audio Tailor are always on the lookout for products that push the boundaries of sound reproduction, and the FR35 has certainly piqued our interest.
A Nod to the Past, A Leap to the Future
The Dellichord FR35 is not just another bookshelf speaker; it's a labour of love designed and manufactured right here in Australia. Andrew Hutchison, the mastermind behind this project, has a long-standing history with the LS3/5A monitor, and it shows in every aspect of the FR35's design. Working in collaboration with celebrated loudspeaker designer Brad Serhan on crossover design and development, the team at Dellichord has created a full-range speaker that delivers outstanding sound quality in full colour.
Sonic Performance That Astounds
From the moment you first power up the FR35, it's clear that these speakers are something special. The remarkable transparency and fine detail they provide are truly astonishing, especially considering their price point. The FR35 fills any sized room with musical joy, offering wonderful texture and instrument placement that will have you rediscovering your favourite recordings.
The midrange frequencies, particularly the human voice, are reproduced with an authenticity that's hard to come by in speakers of this size. It's here that the FR35's heritage shines through, with the team at Dellichord clearly understanding what made the original LS3/5A so revered.
Modern Technologies, Timeless Sound
While the FR35 takes inspiration from a classic design, it's far from being stuck in the past. The use of neodymium magnets, hybrid cone materials, and self-damped cabinet materials brings this speaker firmly into the 21st century. The bass response has been tuned lower and flatter by increasing the cabinet depth, resulting in a small, sealed box that punches well above its weight in terms of low-end performance.
Versatility and Expandability
One of the most impressive aspects of the FR35 is its versatility. While it's a full-range speaker in its own right, it can also be paired with the Dellichord FR20 to create the FR2035 IsoActive System. This pairing takes the already impressive FR35 and elevates it to new heights, blending seamlessly with the twin 265mm isobaric bass units of the FR20.
Build Quality and Aesthetics
The attention to detail in the construction of the FR35 is evident from the moment you lay eyes on them. Available in your choice of real wood Maple or Walnut with a premium satin clear coat, these speakers are as much a visual treat as they are an auditory one. The 150mm poly hybrid cone bass/midrange driver is mounted on an acoustically isolated front baffle, minimising vibration interaction with the main enclosure. The 20mm soft textile dome tweeter, made in Denmark by Scanspeak, features a neodymium magnet assembly and a very low resonant frequency, contributing to the speaker's exceptional high-frequency performance.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional sound quality and detail retrieval
- Versatile design, works as standalone or part of a larger system
- Australian designed and manufactured
- Modern technologies in a classic form factor
- Choice of beautiful real wood finishes
- 5-year manufacturer's warranty
Cons:
- May require careful placement for optimal performance
- Premium price point (though justified by the quality)
- Limited colour options compared to some competitors
Who Are These Speakers For?
The Dellichord FR35 bookshelf speakers are perfect for the discerning audiophile who appreciates the classics but demands modern performance. They're ideal for smaller to medium-sized rooms, though they have the capability to fill larger spaces with ease. If you're someone who values accuracy, detail, and a true-to-life soundstage, these speakers should be at the top of your audition list.
A Sound Investment
At The Audio Tailor, we believe that great audio is an investment in joy. The Dellichord FR35 bookshelf speakers represent exactly that – a sound investment that will bring years of musical pleasure. Their ability to unveil hidden details in recordings without inducing fatigue means you can enjoy long listening sessions, constantly discovering new aspects of your favourite music.
If you're intrigued by the Dellichord FR35 and want to learn more or arrange an audition, we encourage you to reach out to our team. Our experts would be delighted to discuss how these remarkable speakers might fit into your audio setup and enhance your listening experience.
The Verdict: A New Australian Classic
In conclusion, the Dellichord FR35 bookshelf speakers are a triumph of Australian audio engineering. They manage to capture the essence of a beloved classic while pushing the boundaries of what's possible in a modern bookshelf speaker. Whether you're a longtime audiophile or just beginning your journey into high-fidelity sound, the FR35 offers a level of performance that's sure to impress.
We at The Audio Tailor are proud to offer products of this calibre, and we're confident that the Dellichord FR35 will find a cherished place in many Australian homes. If you're ready to take your listening experience to the next level, give us a call or drop by our Brisbane showroom. We'd be thrilled to help you discover the magic of the Dellichord FR35 for yourself.