Klipsch R-52C vs. MartinLogan Motion 4i

Klipsch R-52C Center Channel Speaker MartinLogan Motion 4i Bookshelf Speakers
MSRP
$350 $250
Dimensions (H × W × D)
7.30” × 18.75” × 7.60”
185mm × 476mm × 193mm
12.60” × 5.60” × 5.70”
320mm × 142mm × 145mm
Power Type
Passive Passive
Frequency Response
89-21,000 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 arena of home audio, the Klipsch R-52C center channel speaker asserts its presence with a bold, dynamic sound profile, optimized for clear dialogue and robust performance within a home theater setup. Meanwhile, the MartinLogan Motion 4i bookshelf speakers offer a refined listening experience with their signature Folded Motion tweeter, ensuring articulate highs and a broad soundstage ideal for music enthusiasts. While the R-52C focuses on anchoring a surround sound system, the Motion 4i excels in stereo precision, presenting a classic case of targeted brilliance versus versatile finesse in the speaker world.

Speaker Comparison

When you're putting together a home theater system, the center channel speaker is often the unsung hero, anchoring the on-screen action with clear, articulate dialogue. That being said, not all center channel speakers are crafted equally, and we see this exemplified when we compare the Klipsch R-52C to the likes of the MartinLogan Motion 4i bookshelf speakers, which can also serve as an unconventional, yet capable, center channel alternative. The Klipsch R-52C, a dedicated center channel speaker, is designed to seamlessly blend into the Klipsch Reference series, whereas the MartinLogan Motion 4i is a versatile bookshelf speaker that offers the sweet, high-tech allure of an advanced tweeter design.

Klipsch R-52C: Robust and Ready

The Klipsch R-52C center channel speaker boasts the company's signature Tractrix horn-loaded technology, which aims to deliver a more efficient, detailed, and emotional soundstage. The copper-spun IMG woofers provide a warm yet punchy bass that underpins vocals with authority. This robust construction results in a sound that's dynamic and clear, with a focus on making dialogue pop – a vital feature for any center channel speaker.

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

MartinLogan Motion 4i: The Audiophile's Dream

In contrast, the MartinLogan Motion 4i may be a bookshelf speaker by design, but it's an audiophile favorite for its Folded Motion tweeter, which delivers a lightning-fast response with minimal distortion. This translates to a remarkably detailed and nuanced treble that can bring a sense of realism to any vocal performance, even when utilized as a center channel. The Motion 4i's elegance is in its ability to render even the subtlest details in the sound mix, ensuring that you catch every breath and intonation.

Design Aesthetics

Visually, the two contenders couldn't be more different. The Klipsch R-52C with its textured wood grain vinyl finish and strong, geometric lines is a statement piece that demands attention in any home theater setup. Conversely, the MartinLogan Motion 4i, with its sleek, high-gloss finish and the distinctive curve of its Folded Motion tweeter, exudes a modern and sophisticated presence that appeals to a minimalist aesthetic.

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

Another key difference is in size and placement. The larger footprint of the R-52C requires a decent amount of space on your TV stand or entertainment center, whereas the more compact MartinLogan Motion 4i offers greater flexibility in placement. The Motion 4i can be easily mounted on walls, placed on stands, or tucked into a bookshelf, making it a preferable option for those with space constraints.

Integration into Home Theater Systems

Integration into an existing system is where the Klipsch R-52C might have an edge, especially if you're already invested in the Klipsch ecosystem. The timbral matching across the Reference series ensures a seamless sonic transition between the speakers, which is crucial for a cohesive surround sound experience. The MartinLogan Motion 4i, while an outstanding performer, may require more careful pairing with other speakers to achieve a similar level of integration, although it has the advantage of a more universal sound that can blend well with various brands.

In the final analysis, choosing between the Klipsch R-52C and the MartinLogan Motion 4i comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If your priority is crystal-clear dialogue and a powerful, room-filling presence, the R-52C is a natural choice. However, if you're an audiophile who treasures intricate detail and a speaker that can double as both a stellar bookshelf and a competent center channel, the Motion 4i's versatility and high-end performance are hard to beat. Each speaker represents the pinnacle of its respective design philosophy, making either a worthy addition to your home theater arsenal.


Check Current Prices:

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