B&W 607 S2 Anniversary vs. MartinLogan Motion 8i

Speaker Comparison

When considering a speaker upgrade, audiophiles often find themselves comparing apples to oranges, so to speak. Such is the case when we look at the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition bookshelf speakers against the MartinLogan Motion 8i center channel speaker. At the outset, it's important to note that we're comparing a pair of stereo speakers meant for a broad range of audio frequencies to a single speaker designed primarily for clear vocal reproduction in a home theater setting. Yet, within that comparison, we find a fascinating study in acoustic design and the prioritization of different audio elements.

Legacy and Innovation

Bowers & Wilkins, a name synonymous with premium audio fidelity, celebrates its storied heritage with the 607 S2 Anniversary Edition. These bookshelf speakers are the latest iteration in a lineage of exceptional audio products, showcasing the brand's commitment to continual improvement. The 607 S2 features upgraded crossovers and a refined aesthetic that speak to both the audiophile's ear and eye. On the other hand, MartinLogan's Motion 8i, a relatively newer entrant, offers a different kind of innovation. With its Folded Motion tweeter technology, the Motion 8i promises precise and clear dialogue delivery—a must-have for any serious home theater.

Sound Signature and Performance

The Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition excels in delivering a well-rounded sound profile. The speaker's Continuum cone technology and Decoupled Double Dome tweeter work in concert to produce a clear and detailed soundstage that's as faithful to live recordings as it is invigorating in studio-mixed tracks. In comparison, the MartinLogan Motion 8i is a dialogue powerhouse. Its focused design ensures that movie lines are delivered with crisp articulation, cutting through complex soundtracks without missing a beat. The Motion 8i's Air Motion Transformer tweeter boasts a responsiveness that traditional dome tweeters struggle to match.

Design Aesthetics and Build Quality

Visually, the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition is a testament to classic speaker design, with a clean, boxy shape that's softened by elegant detailing and high-quality finishes. Built to last, the cabinets resonate with the quality one expects from Bowers & Wilkins. Meanwhile, the MartinLogan Motion 8i opts for a more futuristic look, sporting a curved design that not only adds a modern flair but also serves to enhance audio dispersion. The build quality is solid, with precision engineering that supports the unique demands of the Motion tweeter technology.

Placement versatility is another key factor in this comparison. The Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 speakers, being bookshelf models, offer flexibility in room positioning. Whether on stands, a shelf, or even mounted to a wall, these speakers adapt well to various environments, always aiming to fill the room with their dynamic sound. The MartinLogan Motion 8i, being a center channel speaker, is typically anchored to a central position beneath or above the TV screen, focusing its auditory prowess on enhancing the on-screen action with crystal-clear dialogue.

In terms of powering these speakers, the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition shows a friendly face to a variety of amplifiers, with a nominal impedance of 8 ohms and a sensitivity of 84dB. These speakers are not overly demanding, but they will certainly shine with a high-quality amplifier behind them. In contrast, the MartinLogan Motion 8i is also quite accommodating, designed to integrate seamlessly with most A/V receivers, allowing for a straightforward setup in a home theater system.

Ultimately, the choice between the Bowers & Wilkins 607 S2 Anniversary Edition speakers and the MartinLogan Motion 8i center channel speaker falls to the intended use. The 607 S2 is a versatile stereo pair that lends itself to both music aficionados and those looking to build a full-fledged surround sound system. On the flip side, the Motion 8i is a specialized tool, honed for the cinema lover who craves impeccable dialogue clarity as part of a multi-speaker home theater setup. Whichever you choose, you'll be bringing home a piece of audio excellence that reflects the care and expertise of its creators.