MartinLogan Motion 50XTi vs. Micca COVO-S

MartinLogan Motion 50XTi Center Channel Speaker Micca COVO-S Compact 2-Way Bookshelf Speakers
MSRP
$1800 $80
Dimensions (H × W × D)
7.60” × 22.80” × 12.80”
193mm × 579mm × 325mm
5.10” × 4.20” × 5.10”
130mm × 107mm × 130mm
Power Type
Passive Passive
Frequency Response
50-25,000 Hz 90-20,000 Hz
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: In the clash of titans versus minnows, the MartinLogan Motion 50XTi center channel speaker brings a heft of audiophile clout, boasting a Folded Motion tweeter for crystalline highs and muscular bass from dual 6.5-inch woofers, designed for an immersive home theater experience. Meanwhile, the Micca COVO-S compact 2-way bookshelf speakers are the David to MartinLogan's Goliath; their diminutive form factor belies their competence with a coaxial design ensuring a small footprint and a sound that's unexpectedly robust for their size. The choice comes down to space, budget, and whether you're dressing a banquet or a cozy dinner.

Speaker Comparison

When considering a home theater upgrade, the center channel speaker often becomes a focal point for discerning audiophiles and casual listeners alike. The center channel's role in anchoring dialogue and on-screen action to the display cannot be overstated. In this evaluation, we examine two very different contenders: the commanding MartinLogan Motion 50XTi and the modest Micca COVO-S Compact 2-Way Bookshelf Speakers. Each offers a unique approach to sound reproduction, with the former catering to the high-end market and the latter serving as an entry-level or budget-friendly option.

Design Philosophy and Build Quality

The MartinLogan Motion 50XTi exudes sophistication and acoustic excellence, a hallmark of the brand's design philosophy. With a sleek cabinet that houses high-performance drivers, including a Folded Motion XT tweeter for crisp highs and a set of substantial aluminum cone woofers, this center channel is designed to impress both aesthetically and sonically. The attention to craftsmanship is evident in the build quality, with premium materials and finishes that reflect its upper-tier positioning. By contrast, the Micca COVO-S speakers present a more utilitarian design, with a focus on compactness and simplicity. They're unassuming in appearance, but their small footprint belies a well-engineered speaker that's built to offer respectable performance at an accessible price point.

MartinLogan Motion 50XTi Center Channel Speaker
MartinLogan Motion 50XTi arrow (at Amazon.com)

Sound Signature and Performance

The MartinLogan Motion 50XTi delivers an expansive soundstage that seamlessly integrates with other high-end components. Its sound signature is characterized by precision, clarity, and a wide frequency response that captures the nuances of complex soundtracks and musical arrangements. The high-resolution Folded Motion XT tweeter ensures that dialogue cuts through with crystal-clear articulation, making it a star performer in any home theater setup. On the other hand, the Micca COVO-S speakers, while not as acoustically potent as the MartinLogan, still surprise with their cohesiveness and balance. Given their size and price, they punch above their weight class, offering a sound that is warm and inviting, with a coaxial design that helps maintain a focused dispersion of sound.

Integration and Versatility

Integrating the MartinLogan Motion 50XTi into an existing audio system requires a bit of consideration. Its high-end nature means it pairs best with components of similar quality to truly shine. It also benefits from being part of a larger MartinLogan Motion series setup, providing a seamless sonic experience across the front channels. Conversely, the Micca COVO-S speakers are far more forgiving and versatile. They can be easily added to a variety of systems, from simple stereo setups to more elaborate home theaters, and their neutral sound profile allows them to complement a wide range of other speakers.

Micca COVO-S Compact 2-Way Bookshelf Speakers
Micca COVO-S arrow (at Amazon.com)

Regarding power handling, the MartinLogan Motion 50XTi is designed to accommodate the robust output of high-powered amplifiers, ensuring it maintains composure at higher volumes without distortion. The Micca COVO-S, with its modest power handling, is better suited for smaller rooms or systems with moderate amplification. This is not necessarily a limitation but rather a consideration for matching the speaker to the appropriate environment and equipment.

Value and Overall Experience

The MartinLogan Motion 50XTi comes with a price tag that reflects its premium status. It's a significant investment, but for those who prioritize audio quality and have the system to match, it's a worthy addition that can elevate the home theater experience to cinematic heights. The Micca COVO-S, with its budget-friendly price, represents an excellent value for those seeking to improve their sound without breaking the bank. It's an ideal choice for casual listeners, beginners, or anyone looking to enhance a secondary system.

Ultimately, the decision between the MartinLogan Motion 50XTi and the Micca COVO-S comes down to personal priorities, budget, and system compatibility. The MartinLogan offers a luxurious listening experience with an emphasis on detail and precision, while the Micca provides a surprisingly enjoyable performance from a compact and affordable package. Regardless of choice, both speakers have the potential to significantly improve the clarity and engagement of any home theater or audio setup.


Check Current Prices:

MartinLogan Motion 50XTi Center Channel Speaker
MartinLogan Motion 50XTi Center Channel Speaker
Micca COVO-S Compact 2-Way Bookshelf Speakers
Micca COVO-S Compact 2-Way 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.