ELAC Uni-fi UB5 vs. MartinLogan Motion 40i

ELAC Uni-fi UB5 Bookshelf Speakers MartinLogan Motion 40i Tower Speaker
MSRP
$500 $2600
Dimensions (H × W × D)
12.81” × 7.94” × 12.19”
325mm × 202mm × 310mm
42.50” × 7.60” × 12.80”
1080mm × 193mm × 325mm
Power Type
Passive Passive
Frequency Response
46-25,000 Hz 40-25,000 Hz
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: In the world of high-fidelity audio, the ELAC Uni-fi UB5 brings a sterling reputation for value, offering a three-way design and a concentric midrange/tweeter that delivers a coherent and detailed soundstage in a compact bookshelf form. In contrast, the MartinLogan Motion 40i, a floor-standing speaker, showcases its signature Folded Motion tweeter, which yields a precise and airy treble, coupled with a robust bass response from its larger cabinet and additional woofers. Both speakers cater to the discerning ear, but the choice hinges on space, design preference, and whether one values the ELAC's bookshelf convenience against the MartinLogan's full-range presence.

Speaker Comparison

When it comes to high-fidelity audio, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing the pros and cons of bookshelf speakers versus floor-standing models. The ELAC Uni-fi UB5 bookshelf speakers and the MartinLogan Motion 40i tower speakers are both remarkable in their own right, yet they cater to different preferences and listening environments. ELAC's Uni-fi UB5 brings the intricacies of sound to a compact form, while the MartinLogan Motion 40i emanates an aura of grandeur with its floor-standing presence.

The Design Aesthetics

The ELAC Uni-fi UB5 boasts a sophisticated, clean design that is both modern and unobtrusive. The custom-designed concentric driver technology is a standout feature that blends seamlessly into most living spaces. In contrast, the MartinLogan Motion 40i is a visual and physical statement piece. Its larger size and the signature MartinLogan design, including the Folded Motion Tweeter, give it a distinct appeal, which is not just about sound but also about the aesthetic complement to one's living environment.

ELAC Uni-fi UB5 Bookshelf Speakers
ELAC Uni-fi UB5 arrow (at Amazon.com)

Sound Quality and Performance

Sound-wise, the ELAC Uni-fi UB5's concentric driver delivers an impressively coherent and detailed soundstage, which is quite an achievement for a speaker of its size. The midrange is particularly luscious, providing a warmth that breathes life into vocals and strings. Conversely, the MartinLogan Motion 40i, with its larger bass drivers and Folded Motion Tweeter, offers a more expansive soundstage coupled with a level of detail that is almost palpable. Bass response is deep and controlled, allowing for a full-bodied listening experience that bookshelf speakers typically cannot match.

Room Considerations and Placement

For smaller rooms or spaces where a discrete audio setup is preferred, the ELAC Uni-fi UB5 shines. Its compact size allows for more flexible placement without sacrificing audio quality. On the other hand, the MartinLogan Motion 40i requires a more generous spatial allocation to perform optimally. These tower speakers are designed to breathe and project sound across larger areas, which means they are more suited to spacious rooms where they can be positioned adequately away from walls to minimize reflections and maximize their soundstage capabilities.

MartinLogan Motion 40i Tower Speaker
MartinLogan Motion 40i arrow (at Amazon.com)

The ELAC Uni-fi UB5 is quite efficient, but to get the most out of them, they do require a decent amplifier. This is where the sensitivity of the speaker comes into play. Similarly, the MartinLogan Motion 40i benefits from a robust amplifier to control its dynamic drivers and to exploit its true potential. However, due to the larger drivers and the need to move more air, it might command a bit more power than the UB5 to reach its optimum performance.

When we delve into value and cost, the ELAC Uni-fi UB5 presents itself as an excellent choice for audiophiles on a budget who do not want to compromise on sound quality. In contrast, the MartinLogan Motion 40i represents a higher price point, but with that comes a level of performance and refinement that justifies the investment for those willing to go the extra mile.

Concluding, the choice between the ELAC Uni-fi UB5 and the MartinLogan Motion 40i tower speaker often hinges on personal preferences, room characteristics, and budget considerations. The UB5's offer exceptional performance in a compact package, ideal for intimate listening sessions and smaller rooms. The Motion 40i's cater to the audiophile who desires a more immersive experience, with floor-standing speakers that fill the room with sound and double as an elegant piece of furniture. Whichever you choose, both are capable of transporting you to the very heart of the music.


Check Current Prices:

ELAC Uni-fi UB5 Bookshelf Speakers
ELAC Uni-fi UB5 Bookshelf Speakers
MartinLogan Motion 40i Tower Speaker
MartinLogan Motion 40i 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.