MartinLogan Motion 50XTi vs. Wharfedale Denton 85th

MartinLogan Motion 50XTi Center Channel Speaker Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary Bookshelf Speakers
MSRP
$1800 $1000
Dimensions (H × W × D)
7.60” × 22.80” × 12.80”
193mm × 579mm × 325mm
13.44” × 9.44” × 11.94”
341mm × 240mm × 303mm
Power Type
Passive Passive
Frequency Response
50-25,000 Hz 45-20,000 Hz
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Speaker Comparison

The heart of a home theater system lies in its ability to reproduce clear, engaging dialogue, and the central anchor for that is undoubtedly the center channel speaker. The MartinLogan Motion 50XTi, a heavyweight contender in this arena, is a formidable match for any audiophile’s center stage. Crafted with an eye for detail and a quest for clarity, the 50XTi steps into the ring with its Folded Motion XT tweeter, a technology that delivers lightning-fast response with minimal distortion. This makes for a speech intelligibility that is hard to rival, ensuring that every word spoken on screen is heard with crisp precision.

Design Aesthetics & Build Quality

When set beside the Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary Bookshelf Speakers, the MartinLogan Motion 50XTi presents a more modern aesthetic, with its sleek lines and a high-gloss piano black finish that screams contemporary. The Denton, on the other hand, embraces a classic look with its vintage design, walnut veneer, and traditional cloth grille. This retro charm has an appeal that transcends trends, resonating with those who have a taste for the timeless. These bookshelf speakers may not be designed as a center channel, but their robust build and attention to detail afford them a level of quality that can complement a variety of audio systems.

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

Soundstage & Imaging

Soundstage and imaging are where the MartinLogan Motion 50XTi really starts to distinguish itself. The precision of its Folded Motion XT tweeter and dual 6.5-inch aluminum cone woofers combine to create a soundstage that is both expansive and impeccably defined. The center channel speaker's job is to anchor the sound to the action on screen, and the 50XTi does this with a focus and clarity that brings every scene to life. The Wharfedale Dentons, while not designed with center channel duties in mind, offer an incredible soundstage for a bookshelf speaker, delivering a warm and inviting listening experience. Their Kevlar woofers and soft dome tweeters provide a delightful stereo image that is rich and full-bodied, making them excellent for music listening.

Performance Across Frequencies

The frequency response of the MartinLogan Motion 50XTi is expansive, reaching down to 65Hz and soaring up to 25kHz. This range ensures that from the deepest baritone to the highest soprano, everything is delivered with fidelity. The Motion 50XTi's bass is tight and controlled, a necessity for producing clear dialogue, while the highs are articulate without becoming sibilant. In comparison, the Wharfedale Dentons have a frequency response that is naturally geared towards a balance with a vintage warmth, their range is impressive for their size, reaching from 45Hz to 20kHz. The Dentons excel in delivering a smooth midrange that has become a signature of the Wharfedale sound, making musical performances especially engaging.

Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary Bookshelf Speakers
Wharfedale Denton 85th arrow (at Amazon.com)

In terms of power handling and efficiency, the MartinLogan Motion 50XTi is quite capable, with an efficient design that gets the most out of its power. This translates to easier pairing with a wide range of amplifiers and home theater receivers. The Wharfedale Dentons are similarly forgiving, though as bookshelf speakers, they are generally not subjected to the same dynamic range demands as a dedicated center channel. However, they handle power gracefully, ensuring that they perform admirably at both low and high volumes.

Ultimately, the MartinLogan Motion 50XTi Center Channel Speaker and the Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary Bookshelf Speakers cater to slightly different needs. The 50XTi is tailored for those seeking a dedicated home theater experience, with dialogue clarity and audio precision being paramount. Its Folded Motion XT tweeter places it at the forefront of technological innovation in speaker design. The Wharfedale Dentons, while versatile enough to handle movie soundtracks, are truly at home with music, where their warm, rich sound can be savored in full measure. Their classic design also means they will blend seamlessly into a range of decors, appealing to those who value both auditory and visual aesthetics.

When choosing between the MartinLogan Motion 50XTi and the Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary Bookshelf Speakers, it's important to consider the primary use of the audio system. For a dedicated home theater setup, the 50XTi’s focus on dialogue and cinematic sound may prove superior. However, for an audiophile whose heart lies with stereo music and the allure of a vintage aesthetic, the Dentons may be the perfect match. Both are outstanding in their own rights, and the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference and specific audio system goals.


Check Current Prices:

MartinLogan Motion 50XTi Center Channel Speaker
MartinLogan Motion 50XTi Center Channel Speaker
Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary Bookshelf Speakers
Wharfedale Denton 85th Anniversary 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.