B&W 607 S2 Anniversary vs. MartinLogan Motion 30i

Speaker Comparison

When we enter the domain of high-fidelity audio, we are not merely talking about sound; we are discussing an experience. In this sonic realm, the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition bookshelf speakers and the MartinLogan Motion 30i center channel speaker both represent a dedication to audio excellence, but with distinct paths to audiophile nirvana. As we juxtapose these two contenders, it's crucial to appreciate the nuances that each brings to the table, or more appropriately, to the listening room.

An Anniversary Achievement

The Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition speakers celebrate an important milestone for the esteemed brand, which is known for its commitment to sonic detail and lush soundscapes. These compact bookshelf speakers are renowned for their Continuum cone technology—a material innovation designed to render midrange performances with pristine clarity. With this technology, the 607 S2 provides an open and transparent window to the music, offering a listening experience that is as close to the original recording as possible.

Electrostatic Elegance

In contrast, the MartinLogan Motion 30i is an embodiment of the brand's unique approach to sound reproduction, featuring their signature Folded Motion tweeter. This distinct element is a calling card for MartinLogan, providing an airy and lightning-fast response that captures the delicacy of high frequencies with uncanny precision. The result is a center channel speaker that not only anchors the all-important middle frequencies in a surround setup but does so with an effortlessness that is almost ethereal.

A Tale of Two Soundstage Philosophies

Delving into soundstaging, the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 speakers impress with their ability to project an expansive and layered soundstage from such a compact frame. The precise imaging allows audio enthusiasts to pinpoint the exact placement of instruments within the soundscape, thus providing a truly immersive listening session. Whether you're enveloped in the complexities of a symphony or the raw energy of a live rock concert, the 607 S2 speakers transport you to the heart of the performance.

The MartinLogan Motion 30i, on the other hand, serves a slightly different role. As a center channel speaker, it is not typically tasked with creating a wide soundstage on its own. However, it excels in providing coherence and integration within a multi-speaker system, ensuring that dialogue and on-screen action are anchored firmly and presented with remarkable clarity. It complements its satellite speakers, creating a seamless sonic bridge that enhances the overall cinematic experience.

Bass Response and Power Handling

One cannot overlook the bottom end when evaluating speakers. The 607 S2 may be a smaller bookshelf speaker, but its bass response is taut and controlled, offering enough low-end heft to satisfy most genres of music. However, for those craving earth-shattering bass, pairing them with a subwoofer would unleash their full potential. In terms of power handling, these speakers are also remarkably efficient, delivering a compelling performance even with modestly powered amplifiers.

The Motion 30i, while primarily focused on midrange and treble frequencies, still presents a balanced bass response that is well-suited for its role in a surround sound system. When integrated with a complementing subwoofer and satellite speakers, it can handle a powerful home theater setup without breaking a sweat. The Motion 30i's ability to handle dynamic shifts in movie soundtracks ensures that it never misses a beat, no matter how intense the action gets.