B&W 607 S2 Anniversary vs. MartinLogan Motion 40i

Speaker Comparison

When it comes to high-fidelity audio, choosing the right speaker is a nuanced and deeply personal decision. Two standout options in the market are the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition Speakers and the MartinLogan Motion 40i Tower Speaker. Each offers a unique approach to sound reproduction, catering to different tastes and preferences. The following comparison delves into their characteristics to help audiophiles discern which might be the right addition to their listening space.

Design and Build Quality

The Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition, a bookshelf speaker, is a testament to the brand's commitment to compact yet robust design. B&W's attention to detail is evident in the solid construction and the quality of materials used. The MartinLogan Motion 40i, on the other hand, is a floor-standing tower that exudes elegance and presence. With a sleek, slender profile, it is designed not only to sound spectacular but also to serve as a visual centerpiece in any room. The substantial size of the Motion 40i allows for a larger internal volume, which generally provides a deeper bass response compared to the more diminutive 607 S2.

Sound Characteristics

In terms of sound, the B&W 607 S2 excels in delivering remarkable clarity and detail for its size. Its Continuum cone technology offers a pristine midrange performance, while the decoupled dome tweeter ensures a spacious and airy high-frequency response. Meanwhile, the MartinLogan Motion 40i boasts a Folded Motion tweeter which is known for its extremely fast transient response and minimal distortion. This results in a high-end that is both articulate and smooth. The larger woofers and the additional midrange driver in the 40i provide a fuller, more well-rounded sound with greater dynamic range and bass extension.

The soundstage and imaging of the two speakers are distinctively different. The 607 S2 Anniversary Edition, with its precise driver alignment and smaller cabinets, offers a focused and pinpoint stereo image, making it easier for listeners to place instruments within a three-dimensional space. The MartinLogan Motion 40i, with its larger size and unique driver configuration, creates a wider and more enveloping soundstage, potentially offering a more cinematic experience, especially in larger rooms.

Amplification and Setup

Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 speakers have the advantage of being easier to accommodate in various spaces due to their bookshelf size. They can perform admirably with a wide range of amplifiers, but they do benefit from high-quality amplification to truly shine. In contrast, the MartinLogan Motion 40i speakers, being more substantial, may require careful consideration of placement to achieve optimal performance, and their power-hungry nature means they pair best with robust amplifiers capable of delivering ample current to realize their full sonic potential.

The 607 S2 Anniversary Edition is quite forgiving in terms of room placement, while the Motion 40i might demand some fine-tuning. The Motion 40i's bass ports and larger drivers mean that room interaction plays a bigger role in shaping the bass response, so some trial and error in positioning will likely be necessary to avoid unwanted bass reinforcement or nulls.

Value Proposition

When it comes to value, both speakers present strong cases, but in different ways. The B&W 607 S2 Anniversary Edition offers an entry into high-end audio at a price that is accessible to many enthusiasts, providing outstanding performance in a compact package. The MartinLogan Motion 40i represents a larger investment, but for that, you receive a full-size, floor-standing speaker that not only delivers impressive sound quality but also makes a statement in any room it occupies.

In conclusion, choosing between the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition and the MartinLogan Motion 40i Tower Speaker comes down to personal preferences in sound, aesthetics, and space considerations. The 607 S2 is perfect for those who prefer a smaller footprint and detailed sound, while the Motion 40i is tailored for audiophiles seeking a grander scale of both visuals and acoustics. Whichever you choose, both are capable of delivering a rich and satisfying audio experience that will delight any audiophile's ears.