Edifier R1700BT vs. MartinLogan Motion 30i

Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers MartinLogan Motion 30i Center Channel Speaker
MSRP
$180 $900
Dimensions (H × W × D)
9.75” × 6.00” × 8.00”
248mm × 152mm × 203mm
6.90” × 16.50” × 10.50”
175mm × 419mm × 267mm
Power Type
Powered Passive
Frequency Response
60-20,000 Hz 65-25,000 Hz
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: In the realm of detailed soundscapes, the Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth speakers are an accessible entrée, offering a robust stereo experience with the convenience of wireless connectivity. They're a solid pick for casual listeners craving simplicity and versatility. On the other hand, the MartinLogan Motion 30i center channel speaker, with its exquisite Folded Motion tweeter, caters to the audiophile's pursuit of cinematic clarity and depth in a home theater setup. It's less about versatility and more about precision, enhancing dialogue and screen action with finesse. Choose Edifier for an all-around performer or MartinLogan for a specialized, high-end audio centerpiece.

Speaker Comparison

When it comes to an immersive audio experience, the choice of speakers can dramatically shape what you hear and feel. Two interesting contenders that exemplify high-quality sound but cater to different audio needs are the Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers and the MartinLogan Motion 30i Center Channel Speaker. Both bring to the table a reputation for quality, but they serve distinctly different roles within a sound system.

Design and Build Quality

The Edifier R1700BT speakers boast a classic bookshelf design that complements any room aesthetic. They are compact, which makes them ideal for small to medium-sized rooms. The build quality is quite impressive for the price range, with MDF wood construction giving them a sturdy feel. On the other hand, the MartinLogan Motion 30i has a sleek and modern design, with a high-gloss finish that screams premium. It's designed to anchor the audio stage as a center channel in a larger, possibly more sophisticated, home theater setup. The build quality here is impeccable, with attention to detail that MartinLogan is known for.

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

Connectivity and Versatility

Edifier's R1700BT speakers shine in the connectivity department. They come with Bluetooth capability, which means you can pair them with any Bluetooth-enabled device for a seamless wireless experience. This feature makes the R1700BTs significantly more versatile for casual listening from smartphones, tablets, or laptops. Conversely, the MartinLogan Motion 30i is a passive speaker, which requires an AV receiver or amplifier to function. It's not about wireless convenience here but rather about integration into a larger, wired sound system that's optimized for home theater performance.

Sound Performance

The R1700BTs offer a surprisingly warm and balanced sound for their size and price. The bass is punchy and the highs are clear, but they might lack the detail and openness that an audiophile-grade speaker can deliver. These speakers are more suited for casual listening and can handle a variety of music genres well. The MartinLogan Motion 30i, however, is in a different league. It's crafted to excel in clarity and detail, providing crisp dialogue and a wide soundstage that enhances movie-watching experiences. The Motion 30i uses advanced technologies like the Folded Motion tweeter to articulate the finest nuances in soundtracks and dialogue.

MartinLogan Motion 30i Center Channel Speaker
MartinLogan Motion 30i arrow (at Amazon.com)

Furthermore, when it comes to power handling, the Edifier R1700BT is relatively modest, with an RMS of 15 watts per channel. This is sufficient for most casual listening scenarios. The MartinLogan Motion 30i, designed for more demanding applications, can handle up to 200 watts, ensuring that it will never be the weak link in a high-powered home theater system. Its ability to reproduce sound at high volumes without distortion is a testament to its superior engineering.

Price is also a significant factor in any comparison. The Edifier R1700BT speakers are positioned as an affordable entry-level option for those who want good sound without breaking the bank. They offer a lot of value for their price, making them accessible to a wide range of consumers. The MartinLogan Motion 30i, however, is an investment piece. It's priced much higher, reflecting its premium build and sound quality, and is aimed at enthusiasts who are willing to pay for top-notch audio performance.

In conclusion, the decision between the Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers and the MartinLogan Motion 30i Center Channel Speaker comes down to the intended use and budget. The R1700BTs are excellent for everyday use and offer great functionality with Bluetooth connectivity. They're a terrific choice for those who value convenience and good sound at a reasonable price. On the flip side, the MartinLogan Motion 30i is for the serious audiophile who desires center channel excellence to anchor their home theater experience. It's a high-end speaker that offers unmatched sound quality for those prepared to invest in their audio enjoyment.


Check Current Prices:

Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers
Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers
MartinLogan Motion 30i Center Channel Speaker
MartinLogan Motion 30i 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.