Klipsch Reference R-820F vs. MartinLogan Motion 8i

Klipsch Reference R-820F Tower Speakers MartinLogan Motion 8i Center Channel Speaker
MSRP
$1000 $450
Dimensions (H × W × D)
43.00” × 10.94” × 17.50”
1092mm × 278mm × 444mm
5.60” × 22.00” × 5.20”
142mm × 559mm × 132mm
Power Type
Passive Passive
Frequency Response
35-21,000 Hz 70-23,000 Hz
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: In the arena of dynamic listening, Klipsch Reference R-820F towers deliver robust, room-filling sound with their iconic horn-loaded tweeter and dual 8-inch woofers, catering to those who crave vivid, impactful audio. Conversely, the MartinLogan Motion 8i, serving as a center channel, specializes in clear, precise dialogue and midrange thanks to its Folded Motion tweeter. While not a direct comparison—as one is a floor-standing model and the other a center channel—they both exemplify audio excellence in their respective roles, with Klipsch offering sheer power and MartinLogan focusing on detail and clarity for a well-rounded home theater experience.

Speaker Comparison

When delving into the world of high-fidelity audio, the discerning audiophile knows that the selection of speakers is paramount to the ultimate sound experience. We're setting our sights on two distinct offerings from reputable brands: the Klipsch Reference R-820F Tower Speakers and the MartinLogan Motion 8i Center Channel Speaker. With different design philosophies and sonic signatures, these two contenders cater to different aspects of the audio spectrum to fulfill the needs of any sound enthusiast.

Design and Build Quality

The Klipsch Reference R-820F Tower Speakers boast a bold and assertive design, characteristic of Klipsch’s synergy of form and function. The copper-spun IMG woofers not only provide a distinctive look but also contribute to the speakers' robust build quality. Conversely, the MartinLogan Motion 8i exhibits a more refined and minimalist design with its sleek, black gloss finish and the brand’s signature perforated steel grille, which conceals the precision-built drivers. The Motion 8i, while compact, exudes a premium feel that is both sophisticated and timeless.

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

Sound Characteristics

In terms of sound, Klipsch speakers are known for their lively and dynamic character, and the Reference R-820F towers are no exception. They deliver a punchy and energetic performance, thanks to the proprietary Tractrix horn technology paired with the aluminum tweeter which ensures high-frequency responses are both crisp and detailed. In comparison, the MartinLogan Motion 8i is centered around delivering crystal-clear dialogue and a wide soundstage, courtesy of its Folded Motion tweeter. This design results in nuanced and articulate highs, making the Motion 8i an excellent choice for the vocal clarity needed in a center channel speaker.

Stereo and Home Theater Applications

The Klipsch R-820F towers are mainly tailored for stereo listening and as front channels in a multi-channel setup. They fill the room with sound, providing an expansive and immersive listening experience that is perfect for music enthusiasts and those seeking a cinematic feel in their living room. On the other hand, the MartinLogan Motion 8i, while it can certainly contribute to music listening, is specifically engineered to excel in home theater applications. It anchors on-screen action with precision and depth, ensuring that every line of dialogue is conveyed with impeccable clarity, which is crucial in a center channel speaker.

MartinLogan Motion 8i Center Channel Speaker
MartinLogan Motion 8i arrow (at Amazon.com)

Regardless of their different purposes, both Klipsch and MartinLogan have engineered their speakers to blend seamlessly within their respective ecosystems. The R-820F towers work well alongside other Klipsch Reference series speakers to create a cohesive and compelling surround sound environment. Similarly, the Motion 8i integrates effortlessly with MartinLogan's Motion series to construct a sonically matched home theater system that delivers an enveloping sound that is both balanced and engaging.

While the Klipsch R-820F and MartinLogan Motion 8i might serve different roles in an audio setup, they both represent the pinnacle of their brand’s craft. The R-820F towers are designed to stand alone as the stars of the show in a stereo system, or to lead a full Klipsch ensemble in a home theater setup. The Motion 8i, in its role as a center channel, is intended to complement and enhance, carefully engineered to ensure that the most critical element of a cinematic soundtrack, the dialogue, is delivered with the utmost precision.

Ultimately, the choice between the Klipsch Reference R-820F Tower Speakers and the MartinLogan Motion 8i Center Channel Speaker boils down to the listener's needs and preferences. For those seeking robust, room-filling sound with an emphasis on the musicality and the thrill of live performance, the Klipsch towers are a tempting proposition. However, for the home theater aficionado who prioritizes dialogue and the subtleties of a film's soundtrack, the Motion 8i is likely to be the linchpin in delivering an unparalleled cinematic experience. No matter the choice, each brings a unique set of strengths to the table, promising to elevate any audio system to new heights of sonic bliss.


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Klipsch Reference R-820F Tower Speakers
Klipsch Reference R-820F Tower Speakers
MartinLogan Motion 8i Center Channel Speaker
MartinLogan Motion 8i 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.