MartinLogan Motion 35XTi vs. MartinLogan Motion 4i

MartinLogan Motion 35XTi Bookshelf Speaker MartinLogan Motion 4i Bookshelf Speakers
MSRP
$1500 $250
Dimensions (H × W × D)
13.50” × 7.60” × 11.80”
343mm × 193mm × 300mm
12.60” × 5.60” × 5.70”
320mm × 142mm × 145mm
Power Type
Passive Passive
Frequency Response
50-25,000 Hz 70-23,000 Hz
ASR Score
n/a 1.5
ASR Score w/Subwoofer
n/a 5.1
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: In the realm of high-fidelity audio, the MartinLogan Motion 35XTi and Motion 4i bookshelf speakers represent two nuanced takes on pristine acoustic performance. The 35XTi, with its larger Folded Motion XT tweeter and 6.5-inch aluminum cone woofer, offers a more expansive soundstage and deeper bass extension, tailored for the discerning audiophile seeking an immersive listening experience. In contrast, the more compact Motion 4i, with its standard-sized Folded Motion tweeter and 4-inch woofer, delivers MartinLogan's signature clarity and precision, yet in a smaller form factor suitable for space-conscious listeners. Both embody the brand's ethos of sonic excellence but cater to different spatial and auditory preferences.

Speaker Comparison

The MartinLogan Motion series has long been a staple in the audiophile community, offering a blend of high-end craftsmanship and performance. The Motion 35XTi and Motion 4i bookshelf speakers, while both true to the MartinLogan pedigree, cater to different listening needs and preferences. The 35XTi stands as the more robust selection in the Motion lineup, a testament to the company's commitment to delivering uncompromising sound quality. The Motion 4i, on the other hand, serves as a more compact and budget-friendly alternative, without sacrificing the trademark precision that MartinLogan is known for.

Design Aesthetics and Build Quality

The 35XTi boasts a sleek, large cabinet design that is immediately striking, available in luxurious high-gloss finishes that exude elegance. MartinLogan's attention to detail is evident, with premium-grade materials that not only add to the visual appeal but also contribute to its acoustic performance. In contrast, the Motion 4i presents a more modest footprint, ideal for those with space constraints or seeking a discreet audio setup. Despite its smaller size, it too features high-quality construction and finish, consistent with the MartinLogan brand.

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

Sound Performance and Technical Features

When it comes to sound, the Motion 35XTi is a force to be reckoned with. The speaker is equipped with a larger Folded Motion XT tweeter and a 6.5-inch aluminum cone woofer, producing expansive soundstages and dynamic, detailed audio. Its bass response is particularly impressive for a speaker in its class, delivering deep lows that are both articulate and powerful. The Motion 4i, with its more compact design, includes a smaller Folded Motion tweeter paired with a 4-inch woofer. While it may not match the 35XTi's low-end prowess, it still offers a balanced sound with excellent clarity and precision that MartinLogan fans have come to expect.

Frequency response is another area where these two speakers diverge. The 35XTi has a wider frequency range that extends further into both the high and low ends, giving it an edge in reproducing the full spectrum of sound with minimal coloration. The Motion 4i, while respectable in its performance, has a slightly narrower frequency response, which is a common compromise for its size and price point.

MartinLogan Motion 4i Bookshelf Speakers
MartinLogan Motion 4i arrow (at Amazon.com)

Room Integration and Versatility

Integrating the 35XTi into a listening environment is an exercise in flexibility. With its robust output, this speaker can fill larger rooms with ease and can serve as the cornerstone of a high-fidelity stereo setup or a multichannel home theater system. The Motion 4i, while suitable for smaller rooms, also performs admirably in a variety of setups, and its size allows it to be mounted on a wall or tucked away on a shelf, making it a versatile option for urban living spaces or secondary listening areas.

Value Proposition

While the Motion 35XTi comes with a higher price tag, the investment is justified for those seeking a premium listening experience. Its performance and build quality align with the expectations for its cost, making it a solid choice for serious audiophiles who demand nothing less than sonic excellence. Conversely, the Motion 4i offers an appealing value proposition for those looking to enter the high-end audio world without the steep entry fee. It delivers much of the MartinLogan magic but in a more accessible package, striking a balance between performance and affordability.

In conclusion, the choice between the MartinLogan Motion 35XTi and the Motion 4i bookshelf speakers will ultimately hinge on the listener's space, sonic preferences, and budget. The 35XTi stands apart for those desiring expansive, detailed sound and have the room to accommodate its presence. Meanwhile, the Motion 4i is an excellent contender for space-conscious individuals or those just beginning their high-fidelity journey. Both models uphold the MartinLogan tradition of acoustic excellence, ensuring that no matter the selection, the listener's experience will be nothing short of extraordinary.


Check Current Prices:

MartinLogan Motion 35XTi Bookshelf Speaker
MartinLogan Motion 35XTi Bookshelf Speaker
MartinLogan Motion 4i Bookshelf Speakers
MartinLogan Motion 4i Bookshelf Speakers
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.