British hi-fi brand Wharfedale has refreshed its flagship Elysian loudspeaker range, with the new Elysian R Series set to land in Australia from late June.

The five-model line-up replaces the existing Elysian Series and includes the Elysian 1R two-way standmount, Elysian 2R three-way standmount, Elysian 3R and 4R floorstanders, and the Elysian CR centre channel speaker.

Wharfedale is pitching the range as an evolution rather than a complete redesign, with upgrades across drivers, crossovers and cabinet construction aimed at delivering higher resolution, lower distortion and greater musical realism.

A key change is the updated Air Motion Transformer tweeter, which uses a new ultra-light pleated diaphragm and damped rear chamber. Wharfedale claims this improves openness, speed and high-frequency accuracy.

The larger models also gain refined 150mm woven glass fibre matrix midrange drivers, while 180mm or 220mm bass drivers are used depending on the model. Wharfedale’s Slot-Loaded Profiled Port system returns, designed to improve bass extension and reduce placement sensitivity.

The crossover network has also been revised, with shorter signal paths, upgraded components and layouts intended to reduce electromagnetic interference.

Cabinet construction now uses Wharfedale’s latest Panel Resonance Optimisation System, combining multi-layer woods and strategic bracing to cut unwanted resonance.

The Elysian R Series will be available in matt black, matt grey and piano lacquered walnut veneer finishes.

Australian pricing starts at $7,999 for the Elysian 1R standmounts, rising to $15,999 for the flagship Elysian 4R floorstanders. The Elysian 2R is priced at $11,999, the Elysian 3R at $13,999, and the Elysian CR centre channel at $7,999.