Edifier R1700BT vs. MartinLogan Motion 35XTi

Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers MartinLogan Motion 35XTi Bookshelf Speaker
MSRP
$180 $1500
Dimensions (H × W × D)
9.75” × 6.00” × 8.00”
248mm × 152mm × 203mm
13.50” × 7.60” × 11.80”
343mm × 193mm × 300mm
Power Type
Powered Passive
Frequency Response
60-20,000 Hz 50-25,000 Hz
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: In the realm of bookshelf speakers, the Edifier R1700BT offers a budget-friendly, Bluetooth-enabled option with a warm, satisfying sound, appealing to casual listeners and convenience-seekers. Meanwhile, the MartinLogan Motion 35XTi stands in the high-end spectrum, delivering an audiophile experience with its signature Folded Motion tweeter and luxurious build quality. The R1700BT wins on affordability and ease of use, while the Motion 35XTi, with its superior soundstage and detail retrieval, caters to the discerning ear. Your choice hinges on whether you prioritize cost and convenience or sonic excellence and premium craftsmanship.

Speaker Comparison

When it comes to finding the right pair of bookshelf speakers for your listening space, the choices can feel overwhelmingly varied. However, today's comparison between the Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers and the MartinLogan Motion 35XTi Bookshelf Speaker will certainly help to clarify the strengths and distinctions between these two popular options. Whether you're looking to fill your room with rich sound or seeking the finesse of high-resolution audio, these speakers offer compelling features for different audiences.

The Allure of Affordability vs. Audiophile Ambitions

The Edifier R1700BT is a speaker that strikes a fine balance between affordability and performance. It's a fantastic entry-level option for those who are just starting to explore the world of high-quality audio without breaking the bank. Equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, these speakers appeal to the modern listener who values wireless convenience. Meanwhile, the MartinLogan Motion 35XTi represents the lofty heights of the audiophile dreamscape. With its hand-built construction, premium materials, and the brand's renowned Folded Motion XT tweeter, it's aimed squarely at the discerning ear that's willing to invest in superior acoustic refinement.

Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers
Edifier R1700BT arrow (at Amazon.com)

Design Aesthetics and Build Quality

Design-wise, the Edifiers present a classic aesthetic with a modern twist, featuring a wood veneer that gives them a warm, inviting look suitable for most decors. The build quality is impressive for the price point, showing that Edifier didn't skimp on construction. In contrast, the MartinLogan 35XTi boasts a sleek, high-end design that complements its audiophile-grade components. The speaker’s precision-engineered cabinet is not just about looks – it's part of the intricate design that helps deliver its exceptional sound quality.

Sound Signature and Performance

On the acoustic front, the Edifier R1700BT speakers deliver a well-rounded sound profile with decent bass response and clear mids. It's the kind of performance that's pleasantly surprising for a set of speakers at this price, satisfying casual listeners and budding audiophiles alike. The highs are crisp without being overly bright, and there's enough warmth to make for an enjoyable listening experience across various genres. The MartinLogan 35XTi, however, is on another level. Its sound signature is exquisitely detailed, with the Folded Motion XT tweeter providing airy, lifelike highs that reveal the subtle nuances in recordings. The bass is tight and controlled, thanks to the sturdy and well-damped cabinet, and the midrange is articulate, ensuring that vocals and instruments are rendered with astonishing clarity.

MartinLogan Motion 35XTi Bookshelf Speaker
MartinLogan Motion 35XTi arrow (at Amazon.com)

Where the Edifier R1700BTs are versatile and user-friendly, the MartinLogan 35XTi demands a bit more from its user. Source components and amplification need to be of a certain quality to truly unlock the potential of these speakers. Pairing them with high-resolution audio files and a capable amplifier will yield an auditory experience that's rich, dynamic, and deeply satisfying. Despite their differing demands, both speakers have a place in the homes of audio enthusiasts, depending on the level of fidelity desired and the willingness to invest in additional equipment.

Conclusion: Distinct Choices for Different Listeners

In conclusion, both the Edifier R1700BT and the MartinLogan Motion 35XTi bookshelf speakers stand out in their respective fields. The Edifier R1700BTs are an excellent choice for those who seek quality sound, ease of use, and modern features like Bluetooth connectivity without spending a fortune. They represent a sound investment for the budget-conscious listener. On the other side of the spectrum, the MartinLogan Motion 35XTi is crafted for the audio purist who craves the depth and detail that only high-end speakers can provide. It's a speaker that asks you to sit down, listen, and truly hear the music as it was meant to be heard, with all its emotional impact and sonic intricacies laid bare. Choosing between these two comes down to personal priorities: is it the convenience and value of the Edifiers, or the uncompromising quality of the MartinLogans that resonate with your audiophile heart?


Check Current Prices:

Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers
Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers
MartinLogan Motion 35XTi Bookshelf Speaker
MartinLogan Motion 35XTi Bookshelf 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.