Klipsch Reference R-820F vs. MartinLogan Motion 6i

Klipsch Reference R-820F Tower Speakers MartinLogan Motion 6i Center Channel Speaker
MSRP
$1000 $300
Dimensions (H × W × D)
43.00” × 10.94” × 17.50”
1092mm × 278mm × 444mm
5.20” × 17.50” × 4.00”
132mm × 444mm × 102mm
Power Type
Passive Passive
Frequency Response
35-21,000 Hz 120-23,000 Hz
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: Comparing Klipsch Reference R-820F towers and the MartinLogan Motion 6i center channel is an apples-and-oranges scenario – the former delivers dynamic, room-filling sound with its large 8-inch woofers and signature horn-loaded tweeter, excelling in stereo and home theater systems. The Motion 6i, on the other hand, is a compact, articulate center speaker designed to anchor dialogue and on-screen action with its Folded Motion tweeter. For a fully immersive experience, enthusiasts might pair Klipsch towers for left/right channels with the Motion 6i at the center, blending Klipsch's punchy dynamics with MartinLogan's detail and clarity.

Speaker Comparison

When it comes to audio fidelity, the conversation often veers towards the significance of synergy between various components of a sound system. Today, we look at two rather distinct offerings that cater to different aspects of the home audio spectrum: the Klipsch Reference R-820F Tower Speakers and the MartinLogan Motion 6i Center Channel Speaker. While one commands the floor standing domain, the other excels in anchoring dialogues and action directly from the screen's center. However, it's crucial to discern how these two fare in their respective roles and how they might complement or contrast each other within a larger system.

Design and Build Quality

The Klipsch R-820F Tower Speakers stand tall with a bold, yet traditional design aesthetic. Featuring the iconic Tractrix horn-loaded technology paired with copper-spun IMG woofers, they boast a sturdy MDF cabinet construction with a textured wood grain vinyl finish. In contrast, the MartinLogan Motion 6i, though a center channel speaker, does not shy away in terms of build quality, presenting an elegant, high-gloss finish and the brand's signature perforated steel grille. Despite their different functions, both exude a sense of quality that's expected at their respective price points.

Klipsch Reference R-820F Tower Speakers
Klipsch Reference R-820F arrow (at Amazon.com)

Sound Performance

The R-820F towers are designed to deliver a powerful and dynamic soundstage. Their dual 8-inch woofers and 1-inch aluminum LTS tweeter ensure a wide frequency range with deep, punchy bass and crisp highs. In the opposite corner, the MartinLogan Motion 6i excels in clarity and precision, primarily due to its Folded Motion Tweeter, which ensures the dialogue cuts through the most complex soundtracks with ease. It also holds its ground with a respectable bass response for a center channel, but understandably, it can't rival the depth provided by the Klipsch floor standers.

In a home theater setup, the center channel is the workhorse, delivering over half of the film's soundtrack, including the all-important dialogue. The Motion 6i's articulate and nuanced delivery ensures that every word is heard with pristine clarity. However, without the support of robust floor standers like the Klipsch R-820F, the system may lack the immersion that only a full frequency sweep can provide. Ideally, the Motion 6i would anchor the dialogue and on-screen effects, while the R-820Fs would fill the room with the soundtrack's scale and energy.

MartinLogan Motion 6i Center Channel Speaker
MartinLogan Motion 6i arrow (at Amazon.com)

Compatibility and Integration

Speakers from different families can sometimes lead to an incohesive sound, but the Klipsch R-820F and MartinLogan Motion 6i bring to the table their respective strengths that can be meshed effectively. The Klipsch's sensitivity and energetic delivery would require the Motion 6i to be matched with a receiver that can handle its intricate detail without allowing it to be overpowered. When integrated thoughtfully, with attention to levels and placements, these speakers can work in tandem to deliver a balanced and engaging listening experience.

It's also worth considering the room dynamics when pairing such distinctive speakers. The R-820F, with its commanding presence, is well-suited for larger rooms where its sound can breathe and envelop the listener. Conversely, the Motion 6i, while still effective in larger spaces, is designed to deliver focused and detailed performance, often ideal for medium-sized rooms where dialogue clarity is paramount.

In conclusion, the Klipsch Reference R-820F Tower Speakers and the MartinLogan Motion 6i Center Channel Speaker can both hold their ground as standalone units. However, when considering them as part of a broader system, it's the harmonious integration and understanding of their individual strengths that will yield the most satisfying sonic results. For the audiophile looking to build or upgrade their home theater, the pairing of these two might just be the ticket to an enthralling audio experience.


Check Current Prices:

Klipsch Reference R-820F Tower Speakers
Klipsch Reference R-820F Tower Speakers
MartinLogan Motion 6i Center Channel Speaker
MartinLogan Motion 6i Center Channel Speaker
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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.