Klipsch R-52C vs. MartinLogan Motion 35XTi

Klipsch R-52C Center Channel Speaker MartinLogan Motion 35XTi Bookshelf Speaker
MSRP
$350 $1500
Dimensions (H × W × D)
7.30” × 18.75” × 7.60”
185mm × 476mm × 193mm
13.50” × 7.60” × 11.80”
343mm × 193mm × 300mm
Power Type
Passive Passive
Frequency Response
89-21,000 Hz 50-25,000 Hz
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: In the realm of home audio, center channel and bookshelf speakers serve distinct roles. The Klipsch R-52C, with its horn-loaded technology, brings dialogue and screen action to life with clarity and dynamic power, anchoring a home theater setup. Conversely, the MartinLogan Motion 35XTi, with its Folded Motion XT tweeter, offers audiophile-grade nuances, excelling in stereo imaging and musicality. While the 35XTi shines for music lovers seeking high-resolution detail, the R-52C is the go-to for cinema enthusiasts wanting vocal precision and punch, each speaker reflecting its brand's heritage and design philosophy.

Speaker Comparison

When it comes to building a high-fidelity home theater or audio system, the choice of speakers can be a daunting journey through an array of brands, models, and specifications. Two notable contenders in the arena of delivering crystal-clear dialogue and robust sound are the Klipsch R-52C Center Channel Speaker and the MartinLogan Motion 35XTi Bookshelf Speaker. Both have their own set of strengths and are designed to meet slightly different needs within an audio setup.

Klipsch R-52C: A Center Channel Powerhouse

The Klipsch R-52C is engineered to provide clarity and accuracy to the all-important center channel, which is responsible for carrying the bulk of dialogue in movies and television. With Klipsch's proprietary Tractrix Horn technology and dual 5.25-inch spun-copper IMG woofers, the R-52C is designed to deliver a broad, room-filling soundstage with a focus on vocal clarity. Its linear travel suspension tweeter minimizes distortion for enhanced, detailed performance.

Klipsch R-52C Center Channel Speaker
Klipsch R-52C arrow (at Amazon.com)

MartinLogan Motion 35XTi: Audiophile Agility in Compact Form

On the other hand, the MartinLogan Motion 35XTi serves as a bookshelf speaker that can fill multiple roles, including that of a stereo pair or as part of a larger surround sound system. The Motion 35XTi is outfitted with MartinLogan's signature Folded Motion XT tweeter, which provides astonishingly fast response and a broad yet precise soundstage. Its 6.5-inch aluminum cone woofer and low-turbulence rear-firing port contribute to tight, well-defined bass, making it versatile for both music and movie audio.

Design and Build Quality

The Klipsch R-52C boasts a classic, robust design synonymous with the brand's aesthetic, featuring a textured wood grain vinyl wrap that's both durable and elegant. The magnetic, removable grille adds a clean, streamlined look when in place or can be removed to display the iconic copper woofers. In contrast, the MartinLogan Motion 35XTi flaunts a more contemporary design with its high-gloss finish and subtle curves. The solid cabinet construction reduces sonic resonances, and the precision-engineered perforated steel grille adds to its sophisticated appearance.

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

Both speakers are well-made, but the design philosophies are distinct: Klipsch exudes a more traditional vibe, while MartinLogan leans towards a sleek, modernistic approach. Preferences in design are subjective, and prospective buyers will gravitate towards the aesthetic that best matches their personal tastes and their home's decor.

Sound Signature and Performance

When it comes to sound, the Klipsch R-52C's sound signature is lively and dynamic, with an emphasis on vocal clarity that makes it ideal for the spoken word. It's particularly well-suited for movie enthusiasts who want to ensure that every piece of dialogue is heard crisp and clear, without having to strain through action sequences or musical scores. The R-52C also offers high sensitivity, meaning it can achieve impressive volume with relatively modest amplifier power.

The MartinLogan Motion 35XTi, however, is renowned for its audiophile-grade sound with a smooth, refined high-end that's never fatiguing, even over extended listening sessions. Its sound is characterized by an open, airy quality that's a hallmark of the Motion series, making it well-suited for a variety of musical genres. The Motion 35XTi can also serve as an excellent home theater speaker, but it shines brightest in a well-thought-out stereo setup where its full range can be truly appreciated.

In conclusion, the Klipsch R-52C and MartinLogan Motion 35XTi cater to different aspects of the audio experience. The R-52C is a dedicated center channel speaker designed to anchor a home theater's dialogue and action, while the Motion 35XTi offers a more versatile approach, excelling in both stereo and surround setups. Ultimately, the choice between them will come down to the specific role the speaker is to play in the user’s system and the type of listening experience one is seeking to create.


Check Current Prices:

Klipsch R-52C Center Channel Speaker
Klipsch R-52C Center Channel Speaker
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.