In our Wharfedale Diamond 12.C Centre Speaker Review, we explore how this centrepiece elevates any home theatre with cinema-grade vocal clarity and deep bass impact, all in a compact, precisely engineered enclosure.

Compact by Design, Colossal in Performance

Despite its modest footprint (180 × 480 × 208 mm), the Diamond 12.C packs dual 130 mm Klarity™ cone drivers that deliver a refined mid-range and authoritative bass response down to 80 Hz (-6 dB). The precision-tuned rear-ported cabinet, reinforced with intelligent spot bracing, virtually eliminates cabinet resonance, offering low colouration and tight, controlled low end — ideal for anchoring dialogue in movies and live sports.

Precision Tweeter and Magnet System

The 25 mm woven polyester dome tweeter, with its high-loss coating, extends smoothly to 20 kHz, uncovering subtle harmonics and ambient detail. An aluminium compensation ring in the motor system minimises distortion, while the high-power epoxy/glass fibre bobbin voice coil effortlessly handles peaks, delivering a dynamic and engaging performance.

Premium Build and Advanced Crossover

The Klarity™ cone—an expertly blended polypropylene-mica compound—combines rigidity with minimal mass for lightning-fast transient response. Internally, an acoustic LKR 24 dB crossover network utilises top-tier air-core inductors, ensuring seamless driver integration and distortion-free bass.

Seamless System Integration

Designed to complement the rest of the Diamond 12 Series, the 12.C centre speaker pairs effortlessly with standmount and floorstanding models. With a sensitivity of 90 dB, an 8 Ω nominal impedance (4 Ω minimum), and amplifier compatibility from 20 W to 120 W, setup is straightforward. For full specifications, visit the product page.

Who Should Choose the Diamond 12.C?

If you demand crystal-clear dialogue, precise vocal reproduction and an engaging mid-range, the Diamond 12.C is your go-to centre channel. It’s perfect for audiophiles building a high-performance three-channel home theatre, or music enthusiasts seeking accurate voice reproduction without compromise.

Pros and Cons

• Pros:
  • Outstanding dialogue clarity from dual 130 mm Klarity™ drivers
  • Extended, detailed treble courtesy of a 25 mm woven dome tweeter
  • Low distortion via aluminium compensation ring and high-power voice coil
  • Premium LKR 24 dB crossover with air-core inductors
  • Compact, versatile cabinet finishes (Black, White, Walnut, Light Oak)
  • Exceptional value for an audiophile-grade centre speaker
• Cons:
  • Bass extension down to 80 Hz may require a subwoofer for very low frequencies
  • Closed-box design offers less deep bass compared to larger ported enclosures

Why the Diamond 12.C Shines in Our System

In our listening sessions, the Wharfedale Diamond 12.C delivered a natural, uncoloured performance that brought every line of dialogue into sharp focus and every cinematic moment to life. Its combination of high-quality materials, advanced motor design and precise crossover architecture rivals much more expensive centre speakers.

Ready to experience the Diamond 12.C yourself? Speak with our team of experts at The Audio Tailor today. Call us on 1300 308 711 or email sales@theaudiotailor.com.au for personalised advice and to tailor the perfect audio solution to your space and budget.