Aperion Audio Intimus 5B vs. MartinLogan Motion 20i

Aperion Audio Intimus 5B Bookshelf Speakers MartinLogan Motion 20i Tower Speaker
MSRP
$450 $2000
Dimensions (H × W × D)
12.00” × 6.75” × 8.00”
305mm × 171mm × 203mm
36.60” × 6.80” × 11.70”
930mm × 173mm × 297mm
Power Type
Passive Passive
Frequency Response
80-20,000 Hz 46-25,000 Hz
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: In a battle of David and Goliath, the Aperion Audio Intimus 5B bookshelf speakers stand toe-to-toe with the towering MartinLogan Motion 20i. The Intimus 5Bs bring a warm, detailed sound signature in a compact, unobtrusive form, perfect for intimate listening spaces. Meanwhile, the Motion 20i towers ascend with a statuesque presence, delivering a broader soundstage and the signature MartinLogan clarity, powered by their innovative Folded Motion tweeters. Both offer superb build quality, but your choice may hinge on whether you prioritize space-saving elegance or an imposing auditory experience that fills the room.

Speaker Comparison

When it comes to high-fidelity audio, the landscape is rich with contenders vying for a place in our living rooms. Today, we delve into a comparison that pits the compact elegance of the Aperion Audio Intimus 5B Bookshelf Speakers against the commanding presence of the MartinLogan Motion 20i Tower Speakers. It's a showdown between the articulate precision of a bookshelf model and the authoritative depth of a floorstander.

Design and Build

The Aperion Audio Intimus 5B speakers boast a classic bookshelf design with a clean, understated aesthetic that belies their robust construction. The real-wood veneer finish exudes a warmth that invites the listener to sit back and indulge in their favorite tracks. On the other hand, the MartinLogan Motion 20i towers are statuesque, with a sleek, modernist look. Their AirFrame Blade design is not only visually striking but also functional, aiding in the reduction of distortion and enhancement of sound quality. The build quality of both speakers is impeccable, with each brand showcasing its unique take on speaker design.

Aperion Audio Intimus 5B Bookshelf Speakers
Aperion Audio Intimus 5B arrow (at Amazon.com)

Sound Quality

Sonically, the Aperion Intimus 5Bs impress with their clarity and detailed soundstage. These speakers are at home with a wide range of genres, offering a balanced profile that neither adds nor subtracts from the recording. The silk dome tweeter provides a smooth treble response that never verges into harshness, while the woven fiberglass woofer delivers tight and controlled bass. Conversely, the MartinLogan Motion 20i tower speakers display a more expansive soundstage, thanks to their larger cabinets and the Folded Motion tweeter's lightning-fast transient response. The bass is deeper and more pronounced, with the dedicated dual woofers providing a grounded and powerful low-end experience that can fill larger rooms with ease.

Room Integration

Room integration is another factor where these two contenders diverge. The Aperion Intimus 5Bs, with their compact form, are more versatile in placement. They can be tucked into a bookshelf or stand-mounted with relative ease, making them ideal for small to medium-sized rooms. The MartinLogan Motion 20is, being tower speakers, demand more space and benefit from a bit of breathing room to truly shine. However, they bring a sculptural element to a space, becoming a focal point of both sound and design.

MartinLogan Motion 20i Tower Speaker
MartinLogan Motion 20i arrow (at Amazon.com)

When considering power handling, the Aperion Intimus 5Bs are relatively efficient, easily driven by a modest amplifier to satisfactory listening levels. The MartinLogan Motion 20i speakers, with their more demanding nature, require a robust amplifier to unlock their full potential. This aspect should be taken into account when pairing your speakers with the rest of your audio system.

Value Proposition

On the value front, both Aperion and MartinLogan offer compelling reasons for investment. The Intimus 5Bs come in at a lower price point, making them accessible to audiophiles on a budget without compromising on quality. The MartinLogan Motion 20is, while pricier, justify their cost with premium materials, a sophisticated tweeter technology, and the ability to effortlessly command a room both visually and sonically. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preferences and the specific needs of your audio setup.

Whether you choose the intimacy and precision of the Aperion Audio Intimus 5B bookshelf speakers or the dynamic presence and depth of the MartinLogan Motion 20i tower speakers, both options stand as testaments to their manufacturers' dedication to audio excellence. Your final selection will depend on your space, your ears, and your soul's response to music—as any true audiophile knows, the best speaker is the one that disappears, leaving only the pure, emotive essence of the sound.


Check Current Prices:

Aperion Audio Intimus 5B Bookshelf Speakers
Aperion Audio Intimus 5B Bookshelf Speakers
MartinLogan Motion 20i Tower Speaker
MartinLogan Motion 20i Tower Speaker
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

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Disclaimer: the speaker data listed on this website are correct to the best of our knowledge, but we do not guarantee the accuracy of the data. Please double-check any measurements with the manufacturer before making a final purchasing decision.