MartinLogan Motion 4i vs. Polk Audio TSi200

MartinLogan Motion 4i Bookshelf Speakers Polk Audio TSi200 Bookshelf Speakers
MSRP
$250 $300
Dimensions (H × W × D)
12.60” × 5.60” × 5.70”
320mm × 142mm × 145mm
15.44” × 8.00” × 11.75”
392mm × 203mm × 298mm
Power Type
Passive Passive
Frequency Response
70-23,000 Hz 50-24,000 Hz
ASR Score
1.5 n/a
ASR Score w/Subwoofer
5.1 n/a
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: When comparing the MartinLogan Motion 4i and Polk Audio TSi200 bookshelf speakers, audiophiles face a clash of titans. The Motion 4i, with its distinct Folded Motion tweeter, delivers a crisp, detailed high-end that's hard to beat, matched with a nuanced mid-range for a sonically rich experience. In contrast, the TSi200 offers a more traditional design with a dynamic balance dome tweeter, yielding a warm and robust sound that's both inviting and expansive. Both excel in their domains: the Motion 4i in precision and clarity, the TSi200 in warmth and power, leaving listeners to choose based on personal taste and the genres they favor.

Speaker Comparison

When it comes to high-fidelity audio, the world of bookshelf speakers is fiercely competitive, with each brand vying for the spotlight. Two notable contenders that consistently draw the attention of audiophiles and casual listeners alike are the MartinLogan Motion 4i and the Polk Audio TSi200. Both of these compact speakers are designed to deliver a satisfying sonic experience, but they approach their task with different philosophies and technical executions.

Design Aesthetics and Build Quality

Starting with the presentation, the MartinLogan Motion 4i exudes a sleek and modern appeal, characterized by its unique curved design that isn't just for looks—it's a deliberate choice that helps eliminate diffraction and improve sound dispersion. The build quality is robust, with a luxurious high-gloss finish that suggests a premium product. The Polk Audio TSi200, on the other hand, opts for a more traditional look with a wood grain vinyl finish that blends seamlessly into most home decor. Its build is sturdy, and while it may not scream high-end like the Motion 4i, it conveys reliability and durability.

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

Sound Signature and Performance

The sonic signatures of the MartinLogan Motion 4i and Polk Audio TSi200 could not be more distinct. The Motion 4i is renowned for its Folded Motion tweeter, which delivers an incredibly fast transient response, resulting in crystalline highs and a detailed soundstage. This tweeter technology is not commonly found in speakers at this price point, giving the Motion 4i an edge in treble clarity and openness. In contrast, the TSi200 uses a more traditional 1-inch silk/polymer composite dome tweeter, which provides a warm and smooth high-frequency performance that many listeners find pleasing and non-fatiguing during extended listening sessions.

The Motion 4i also features a punchy, controlled low-end, thanks to its 4-inch aluminum cone woofer. The bass is tight and articulate, ensuring that the speakers perform admirably across various genres. The TSi200 steps up the game in the lower frequencies with its dual 5.25-inch bi-laminate organic fiber cone woofers. These drivers offer a fuller bass response that can fill a room with ease, making them well-suited for those who like their music with a bit more weight in the low end.

Polk Audio TSi200 Bookshelf Speakers
Polk Audio TSi200 arrow (at Amazon.com)

Power Handling and Efficiency

When it comes to driving these speakers, the MartinLogan Motion 4i's are relatively efficient with a sensitivity rating of 90 dB, allowing them to be powered by modestly sized amplifiers. However, they truly shine when paired with high-quality amplification that can take advantage of their detailed and transparent sound. The Polk Audio TSi200's are slightly less sensitive at 89 dB but still perform admirably with a wide range of amplifiers. Their power handling capability is quite impressive, allowing them to deliver dynamic and robust sound without requiring excessive power.

The room-filling capabilities of each speaker are also noteworthy. The Motion 4i's are designed to project a large and convincing soundstage that belies their compact size, making them an excellent choice for small to medium-sized rooms. The TSi200's, with their larger cabinets and dual woofer design, have a natural advantage in larger spaces, providing substantial sound that can easily carry throughout the room.

Final Thoughts

In the end, choosing between the MartinLogan Motion 4i and Polk Audio TSi200 bookshelf speakers will largely depend on personal preferences and the specific requirements of one's listening space. The Motion 4i offers a more detailed and airy presentation that appeals to those seeking an audiophile-grade experience from a bookshelf speaker. The TSi200's deliver a warm and inviting sound combined with a fuller bass that will likely appeal to a broader range of listeners. Regardless of the choice, both options uphold the standards of their respective brands and promise to provide countless hours of listening enjoyment.


Check Current Prices:

MartinLogan Motion 4i Bookshelf Speakers
MartinLogan Motion 4i Bookshelf Speakers
Polk Audio TSi200 Bookshelf Speakers
Polk Audio TSi200 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.