Dayton Audio B652-AIR vs. MartinLogan Motion 60XTi

Dayton Audio B652-AIR 6-1/2” Bookshelf Speakers MartinLogan Motion 60XTi Tower Speaker
MSRP
$85 $3750
Dimensions (H × W × D)
11.81” × 7.06” × 6.44”
300mm × 179mm × 164mm
48.00” × 11.40” × 14.40”
1219mm × 290mm × 366mm
Power Type
Passive Passive
Frequency Response
70-20,000 Hz 35-25,000 Hz
ASR Score
1.5 n/a
ASR Score w/Subwoofer
4.6 n/a
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: In the realm of sonic fidelity, the Dayton Audio B652-AIR speakers bring remarkable value with their compact design and AMT tweeter delivering crisp highs. They're an accessible upgrade for the budget-conscious audiophile. In contrast, the MartinLogan Motion 60XTi towers stand as monuments of audio excellence, boasting Folded Motion XT tweeters and powerful woofers that enliven a room with rich, detailed soundscapes. While the Dayton Audio offers an impressive performance-per-dollar, the MartinLogan's immersive experience is tailored for the discerning ear, with a price to match its high-end aspirations. The choice hinges on budget, space, and the listener's pursuit of sonic perfection.

Speaker Comparison

When it comes to immersive home audio experiences, the speakers you choose are the front-line arbiters of quality. In the realm of audiophilia, the comparison between the modest Dayton Audio B652-AIR 6-1/2” Bookshelf Speakers and the commanding MartinLogan Motion 60XTi Tower Speakers is akin to a David and Goliath battle. These two contenders, while aiming at different sections of the market, both promise an enriching auditory journey, each with its own set of strengths.

Design and Build Quality

On the outside, the Dayton Audio B652-AIR boasts a no-frills, utilitarian design that is simple and straightforward. Their compact form factor allows these bookshelf speakers to fit unobtrusively in most spaces. Meanwhile, the MartinLogan Motion 60XTi speakers stand tall with their elegant and modern aesthetic, featuring a sleek finish and the brand's signature perforated steel grille. The build quality of the Motion 60XTi is immediately apparent, exuding luxury and durability that justifies its higher price bracket.

Dayton Audio B652-AIR 6-1/2” Bookshelf Speakers
Dayton Audio B652-AIR arrow (at Amazon.com)

Sound Signature and Performance

The Dayton Audio B652-AIR bookshelf speakers offer a surprisingly clear and detailed sound for their price, with the AIR tweeters lending some brightness to the high end. They're suitable for casual listening and can be quite forgiving of less-than-perfect recordings. In contrast, the MartinLogan Motion 60XTi towers deliver a sound that is as grand as their physical stature. With a bold, articulate bass response and the brand's renowned Folded Motion XT tweeters, the 60XTi's present a wide and detailed soundstage that can make well-recorded music sound breathtakingly lifelike.

Power and Range

Considering their size and power handling, the Dayton Audio B652-AIRs are modest performers, suitable for smaller rooms or as satellite speakers in a larger system. They'll do well with most modest amplifiers or receivers, making them a great starting point for the budding audiophile on a budget. However, the MartinLogan Motion 60XTi speakers, with their larger woofers and more capable crossovers, are built to fill even the most spacious rooms with powerful, high-fidelity sound. They require a more substantial amplifier to truly shine, but when properly powered, they provide an engulfing audio experience that's hard to match.

MartinLogan Motion 60XTi Tower Speaker
MartinLogan Motion 60XTi arrow (at Amazon.com)

Value and Audience

Value is subjective in the world of high-fidelity audio, but it's hard to argue against the fact that the Dayton Audio B652-AIR speakers pack a considerable punch for a modest investment. They are an excellent choice for those new to the hobby or anyone needing a solid set of speakers without breaking the bank. On the other hand, the MartinLogan Motion 60XTi speakers are a statement piece, both visually and sonically. They cater to the discerning listener who is willing to invest in premium sound quality and for whom the speakers themselves are a part of the room's decor.

In the end, choosing between the Dayton Audio B652-AIR and the MartinLogan Motion 60XTi comes down to one's personal audio goals and budget constraints. The B652-AIR is a gateway into the world of high-fidelity audio, offering a taste of clarity and detail that can be quite satisfying. The Motion 60XTi, on the other hand, is a destination for the audiophile journey, offering a transcendent listening experience that can be the centerpiece of a high-end audio system.

Both sets of speakers have their place in the pantheon of audio equipment. For the enthusiast looking for an affordable entry point, the Dayton Audio B652-AIRs are a commendable choice. However, for the audiophile seeking a sonic revelation and a visually striking component, the MartinLogan Motion 60XTi towers represent a lofty aspiration that, once attained, offers a truly exceptional listening experience that can last a lifetime.


Check Current Prices:

Dayton Audio B652-AIR 6-1/2” Bookshelf Speakers
Dayton Audio B652-AIR 6-1/2” Bookshelf Speakers
MartinLogan Motion 60XTi Tower Speaker
MartinLogan Motion 60XTi 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.