Edifier R1280T vs. MartinLogan Motion 2i

Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers MartinLogan Motion 2i Bookshelf Speakers
MSRP
$120 $200
Dimensions (H × W × D)
9.50” × 5.75” × 7.00”
241mm × 146mm × 178mm
10.00” × 4.70” × 4.60”
254mm × 119mm × 117mm
Power Type
Powered Passive
Frequency Response
75-18,000 Hz 110-23,000 Hz
ASR Score
1.9 n/a
ASR Score w/Subwoofer
4.5 n/a
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: In the realm of bookshelf speakers, the Edifier R1280T delivers remarkable value, offering a warm, vibrant sound and user-friendly features at a budget price. Its wooden finish befits a classic setup, while the inclusion of dual RCA inputs ensures versatility. Conversely, the MartinLogan Motion 2i, a step into the audiophile territory, boasts a sophisticated design with its Folded Motion tweeter, ensuring a precise, high-resolution audio experience. The Motion 2i's build quality and sonic clarity cater to a discerning ear, positioning it at a higher price point. Choosing between the two ultimately hinges on your budget and fidelity aspirations.

Speaker Comparison

In the realm of sound auditions, bookshelf speakers often offer an impressive balance between space efficiency and audio performance. Today's sonic face-off features the Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers, a budget-friendly contender, against the more upscale MartinLogan Motion 2i Bookshelf Speakers. Though both speakers aim for high fidelity, their approach to achieving sonic excellence is as distinct as their price points.

Design and Build

From a design perspective, the Edifier R1280T speakers wear a classic aesthetic with their MDF wood finish and gray grille fabric, exuding a retro charm that blends well with a variety of interiors. The MartinLogan Motion 2i, on the other hand, boasts a more modern look with its glossy piano black or white finish and signature perforated grille, which give it a sleek, contemporary edge. Additionally, the build quality of the Motion 2i, with its solid cabinet and high-quality components, reflects its premium status.

Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers
Edifier R1280T arrow (at Amazon.com)

Sound Quality

When it comes to sound, the Edifier R1280T offers a surprisingly rich and full audio experience considering its budget-friendly nature. Equipped with a 4-inch bass driver and a calibrated, flared bass reflex port, these speakers deliver a warm and balanced sound with decent lows and clear mids. However, the MartinLogan Motion 2i brings a more refined auditory experience courtesy of its advanced Folded Motion tweeter and a 3.5-inch aluminum cone woofer. The result is a crisper, more detailed sound, with a wider frequency response and superior stereo imaging.

The R1280T's simplicity in connection and operation, with its dual RCA inputs and straightforward control scheme, make it an accessible entry point for budding audiophiles. Contrastingly, the Motion 2i's engineering is geared towards a discerning audience, with features like the proprietary Vojtko crossover network and push-style speaker terminals that cater to the custom-install market or those with a penchant for high-resolution audio.

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

Power and Versatility

One cannot overlook the fact that the Edifier R1280T is an active speaker system, eliminating the need for a separate amplifier and making it a plug-and-play solution for casual listeners. Its built-in amplifier is well-suited for near-field listening in smaller rooms or desktop setups. The MartinLogan Motion 2i, being a passive speaker, requires an external amplifier or receiver, which adds to the cost but also grants audiophiles the flexibility to tailor their sound system with components of their choice.

Despite its entry-level status, the R1280T impresses with its ability to handle various genres of music with ease, though it might lack the finesse in the high frequencies and the control in the lower bass register when pushed at higher volumes. The Motion 2i's performance is consistently remarkable across different musical landscapes, excelling in delivering articulate bass and capturing the nuances in complex arrangements, which will certainly gratify the critical listener.

Ultimately, the choice between the Edifier R1280T and the MartinLogan Motion 2i bookshelf speakers comes down to the listener's priorities and budget. The R1280T is a commendable option for those seeking good performance without breaking the bank, while the Motion 2i is a testament to high-end audio craftsmanship, offering an uncompromising listening experience for the connoisseur willing to invest in superior sound quality. Both speakers have their merits, and in their respective classes, they shine as examples of how speaker design and engineering can bring different flavors of audio enjoyment to the table.


Check Current Prices:

Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers
Edifier R1280T Powered 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.