Dayton Audio B652-AIR vs. MartinLogan Motion 20i

Speaker Comparison

In the realm of affordable, high-performance audio equipment, Dayton Audio has established a niche with products that often defy their price points. Among these, the B652-AIR 6-1/2” Bookshelf Speakers are a standout, offering a level of auditory satisfaction that belies their modest cost. With a compact form factor and a no-nonsense aesthetic, these speakers are designed to fit into any room without drawing undue attention. However, once the music starts, the B652-AIRs demand notice with their AMT tweeter that delivers clear, extended highs and a respectable midrange that punches well above their weight class.

Design and Build Quality

While the Dayton Audio B652-AIR sports a simple, functional design with a focus on performance over luxury, MartinLogan's Motion 20i Tower Speakers present a different proposition. The Motion 20i towers exude elegance and premium craftsmanship, with their slender, sleek cabinets that not only look stunning but are also acoustically engineered for optimal performance. The real wood veneer or high-gloss finishes of the Motion 20i speakers are indicative of their position in a higher echelon of home audio equipment—a far cry from the more utilitarian appearance of the Dayton offerings.

Sound Quality

When it comes to sound, the MartinLogan Motion 20i towers are in a league of their own. They feature MartinLogan's signature Folded Motion Tweeter, which delivers exceptionally precise and smooth high-frequency response, providing an airy and detailed soundstage. The dual woofers in these towers ensure that the lows are not only deep but also tight and well-defined. In contrast, the Dayton Audio B652-AIR, while commendable for its clarity and soundstage at the price point, cannot quite match the refinement or the depth of bass that the Motion 20i effortlessly produces.

Performance in Different Settings

The B652-AIRs, with their smaller footprint, are remarkably versatile and can deliver satisfying sound in various settings, from small apartments to medium-sized rooms. However, when placed in larger spaces or pushed to fill a room with sound, the B652-AIRs may start to show their limits. On the other hand, the MartinLogan Motion 20i towers are built to perform. They have the power and presence to fill even substantial rooms with immersive, high-fidelity audio. Whether in a dedicated listening space or as part of a premium home theater system, the Motion 20i speakers stand tall, both in stature and in sonic delivery.

Value Proposition

Ultimately, choosing between the Dayton Audio B652-AIR and the MartinLogan Motion 20i Tower Speakers will come down to the listener's priorities and budget. The B652-AIRs offer an incredible value for those seeking to dip their toes into the audiophile world without breaking the bank. For the seasoned audiophile or someone looking for a more comprehensive audio experience, the investment in the MartinLogan Motion 20i towers could be well justified by their superior performance and build quality. Both sets of speakers have their merits, and both serve different segments of the audio enthusiast community with distinction.