Edifier R1280T vs. MartinLogan Motion 50XTi

Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers MartinLogan Motion 50XTi Center Channel Speaker
MSRP
$120 $1800
Dimensions (H × W × D)
9.50” × 5.75” × 7.00”
241mm × 146mm × 178mm
7.60” × 22.80” × 12.80”
193mm × 579mm × 325mm
Power Type
Powered Passive
Frequency Response
75-18,000 Hz 50-25,000 Hz
ASR Score
1.9 n/a
ASR Score w/Subwoofer
4.5 n/a
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: Comparing the Edifier R1280T and MartinLogan Motion 50XTi is like pitting a charming up-and-comer against a seasoned audiophile virtuoso. The Edifier offers a delightful entry-level experience with its warm, balanced sound and user-friendly features, tailored for budget-conscious enthusiasts. Meanwhile, the Motion 50XTi, with its sophisticated Folded Motion XT tweeters, caters to the high-end segment by delivering detail and clarity that can elevate any home theater setup. While both serve different markets, each promises to enrich your listening journey, be it through the lush musical landscapes or the intricate layers of cinematic dialogues.

Speaker Comparison

When we dive into the world of high-fidelity audio, the conversation often pivots to finding the best sound at the best price. The Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers and the MartinLogan Motion 50XTi Center Channel Speaker are both revered in their own right, but for quite different reasons. The Edifier R1280T speakers are often celebrated for their straightforward approach to quality sound, offering a compelling entry-level experience for audiophiles. On the other hand, the MartinLogan Motion 50XTi is a high-end center channel speaker that commands attention in a more sophisticated audio setup, particularly in home theater configurations.

The Affordable Vs. The High-End

The Edifier R1280T speakers are about making high-quality audio accessible. They're an investment for those teetering on the edge of the audiophile world, looking for a taste without breaking the bank. With a friendly price point, these speakers deliver a warm and balanced sound that can pleasantly surprise newcomers to the scene. Meanwhile, the MartinLogan Motion 50XTi represents the upper echelon of sound fidelity, designed for a discerning ear that can appreciate nuanced audio detail. The Motion 50XTi, with its Folded Motion tweeter and high-performance drivers, delivers crystal-clear highs and mids that truly stand out.

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

Design and Build Quality

Structurally, the Edifier R1280T speakers have a classic bookshelf design with a modern twist, featuring a wood veneer paneling that offers a touch of elegance to any room. Their sturdy MDF construction and straightforward control scheme cater to both durability and user-friendliness. In contrast, the MartinLogan Motion 50XTi center channel is a statement piece with its unique curved design, luxurious finishes, and the iconic perforated steel grille. The build quality is impeccable, designed to not only sound superb but to fit seamlessly into the aesthetic of a high-end audio or home theater system.

Sound Characteristics

Sound-wise, the Edifier R1280T speakers are known for their warm and natural sound profile. The 4-inch bass drivers combined with calibrated, flared bass reflex port contribute to a sound that is room-filling and pleasing to the ears. These bookshelf speakers showcase a cohesiveness in sound that's exceptional at their price range. The MartinLogan Motion 50XTi, however, is a force to be reckoned with. It's engineered with precision for a highly articulate sound, especially in vocal clarity, which is paramount for a center channel speaker. The Motion 50XTi boasts advanced topology Vojtko crossover network that ensures a refined and balanced sound that can easily become the centerpiece of a premium audio setup.

MartinLogan Motion 50XTi Center Channel Speaker
MartinLogan Motion 50XTi arrow (at Amazon.com)

In the end, the choice between the Edifier R1280T and the MartinLogan Motion 50XTi depends largely on the user's needs and budget. For someone just wading into the waters of high-fidelity audio, the Edifier R1280T speakers offer a fantastic value proposition. They're compact, easy to set up, and provide an immediately noticeable upgrade from run-of-the-mill built-in speakers or low-tier systems.

On the flip side, for the audiophile with a taste for exceptional audio performance and a budget to match, the MartinLogan Motion 50XTi center channel speaker is a no-brainer. Its ability to render dialogue and intricate sounds with extreme clarity makes it a perfect fit for high-end home theater systems where the center channel plays a critical role in the overall listening experience.

Ultimately, whether it's the accessible performance of the Edifier R1280T or the uncompromising quality of the MartinLogan Motion 50XTi, both speakers stand as testaments to their respective philosophies on sound. They cater to different audiences but share the same passion for delivering authentic and enjoyable audio experiences. As for me, I believe there's a place for both in the diverse landscape of audio gear - the Edifier R1280T for the budding audiophile and the MartinLogan Motion 50XTi for the seasoned listener seeking sonic perfection.


Check Current Prices:

Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers
Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers
MartinLogan Motion 50XTi Center Channel Speaker
MartinLogan Motion 50XTi Center Channel 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.