Aperion Audio Intimus 5B vs. MartinLogan Motion 2i

Aperion Audio Intimus 5B Bookshelf Speakers MartinLogan Motion 2i Bookshelf Speakers
MSRP
$450 $200
Dimensions (H × W × D)
12.00” × 6.75” × 8.00”
305mm × 171mm × 203mm
10.00” × 4.70” × 4.60”
254mm × 119mm × 117mm
Power Type
Passive Passive
Frequency Response
80-20,000 Hz 110-23,000 Hz
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: In the realm of bookshelf speakers, the Aperion Audio Intimus 5B and MartinLogan Motion 2i present intriguing options. The Intimus 5B impresses with its warm, natural sound profile, delivering a robust performance that belies its modest footprint. Aperion's silk-dome tweeter provides crisp highs without fatigue, while the woven-fiberglass woofer ensures articulate bass. Meanwhile, the Motion 2i boasts MartinLogan's signature Folded Motion tweeter for detailed highs and a lightning-fast response, coupled with a punchy, precise bass that challenges the listener's perception of compact speakers. Both offer distinct acoustic signatures, catering to different preferences within the audiophile community.

Speaker Comparison

When it comes to high-fidelity sound from a compact form factor, the Aperion Audio Intimus 5B and MartinLogan Motion 2i bookshelf speakers are two remarkable contenders that have caught the attention of audiophiles. Both promise an immersive audio experience but follow different design philosophies and technical approaches to sound reproduction. The Intimus 5B, with its traditional boxy design and dynamic driver configuration, offers a warm and natural sound. The Motion 2i, on the other hand, stands out with its sleek, modern aesthetics and the inclusion of MartinLogan's renowned Folded Motion tweeter, which is designed to deliver a more detailed high-end response.

Design and Build Quality

Regarding build quality, Aperion's Intimus 5B exudes a classic charm with its wood veneer finish and robust cabinet construction. Their attention to detail ensures that the speakers are not only sonically pleasing but also visually appealing in a variety of settings. In contrast, MartinLogan's Motion 2i features a high-gloss finish and the signature perforated steel grille, which gives it a contemporary look that is often preferred in modern interiors. The Motion 2i's curved lines and compact profile are indicative of MartinLogan's commitment to combining form with function.

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

Sound Performance

The sound signature of the Intimus 5B is characterized by its warm midrange, which is capable of delivering rich vocals and a full-bodied audio experience. Aperion has fine-tuned the 5B speakers to ensure a balanced sound across various music genres, making them versatile performers. In contrast, the Motion 2i's Folded Motion tweeter offers an astonishingly clear and precise reproduction of high frequencies. This clarity allows for exceptional detail in music and an airy soundstage that can make audio seem to float in the space around the listener.

However, bass response is one area where listener preference will heavily influence the choice between these two models. The Intimus 5B bookshelf speakers, with their larger woofers, are capable of producing deeper bass without the need for a subwoofer. The Motion 2i speakers, despite their advanced tweeter technology, might require the addition of a subwoofer for those who demand a profound low-end response in their listening experience.

MartinLogan Motion 2i Bookshelf Speakers
MartinLogan Motion 2i arrow (at Amazon.com)

Integration and Setup

Both the Intimus 5B and the Motion 2i are relatively easy to set up and integrate into an existing home theater or stereo system. Aperion's Intimus 5B speakers offer a seamless match with a range of A/V receivers, ensuring they can be easily accommodated in most setups. The Motion 2i speakers also boast a user-friendly nature, but due to their unique tweeter design, they may benefit from slight positioning adjustments to optimize the sweet spot and take full advantage of the Folded Motion technology's dispersion characteristics.

Price also plays a role in the decision-making process. The Aperion Audio Intimus 5B speakers often come in at a lower price point than the Motion 2i, making them an attractive option for those who seek quality sound on a more modest budget. Yet, the premium price of the MartinLogan Motion 2i can be justified by its exceptional high-frequency detail and the brand's reputation for innovative audio technology.

In conclusion, both the Aperion Audio Intimus 5B and MartinLogan Motion 2i bookshelf speakers stand out in their respective rights as excellent choices for audio enthusiasts. The decision between them will ultimately come down to personal preferences regarding aesthetic design, the type of sound that resonates with the listener, and budget considerations. Whether one prefers the classic, rich tones of the Intimus 5B or the detailed, modern clarity of the Motion 2i, either choice is likely to elevate one's home audio experience.


Check Current Prices:

Aperion Audio Intimus 5B Bookshelf Speakers
Aperion Audio Intimus 5B Bookshelf Speakers
MartinLogan Motion 2i Bookshelf Speakers
MartinLogan Motion 2i Bookshelf Speakers
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.