Klipsch Reference R-41M vs. MartinLogan Motion 40i

Klipsch Reference R-41M Bookshelf Speakers MartinLogan Motion 40i Tower Speaker
MSRP
$150 $2600
Dimensions (H × W × D)
11.30” × 5.75” × 7.90”
287mm × 146mm × 201mm
42.50” × 7.60” × 12.80”
1080mm × 193mm × 325mm
Power Type
Passive Passive
Frequency Response
68-21,000 Hz 40-25,000 Hz
ASR Score
2.8 n/a
ASR Score w/Subwoofer
5.7 n/a
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: Klipsch's R-41M bookshelf speakers bring dynamic, lively sound to a compact space, with their trademark horn-loaded tweeter and punchy bass for their size. In contrast, the MartinLogan Motion 40i tower speakers offer a more full-range experience, with their signature Folded Motion tweeter providing crisp highs and larger drivers delivering deeper bass extension. The R-41M suits smaller rooms or as part of a multi-speaker setup, while the Motion 40i is designed for those seeking a more commanding presence and richer soundstage in larger spaces, perfect for audiophiles ready to invest in a more immersive experience.

Speaker Comparison

When it comes to high-fidelity audio, enthusiast circles often buzz with the names Klipsch and MartinLogan. These brands are renowned for their dedication to sonic excellence, each with a unique philosophy and sound signature. Today, we're comparing two of their offerings: the compact Klipsch Reference R-41M Bookshelf Speakers and the sleek MartinLogan Motion 40i Tower Speakers. The former is a gateway into the revered Klipsch sound, offering a dynamic performance in a small package, while the latter is an impressive floor-standing model from MartinLogan, embodying the brand's commitment to audio innovation and immersive sound.

Design and Build

The Klipsch R-41M speakers sport the classic Klipsch design, with a small footprint that allows for easy placement in any room. Their rigid, MDF construction coupled with a stylish, textured-wood veneer gives them a timeless appeal. In contrast, the MartinLogan Motion 40i speakers are towering figures of elegance, with a slim profile that's deceptively simple. The real wood veneer finish and the signature perforated steel grille give the 40i a sophisticated appearance befitting modern living spaces.

Klipsch Reference R-41M Bookshelf Speakers
Klipsch Reference R-41M arrow (at Amazon.com)

Sound Quality

Klipsch is known for their horn-loaded tweeters, and the R-41M is no exception. These bookshelf speakers offer a lively sound that is both crisp and clear, with an emphasis on the high frequencies. This makes them particularly good for vocal-centric music and detailed instrumental tracks. On the other hand, the MartinLogan Motion 40i towers are equipped with the brand’s famous Folded Motion® tweeters and robust woofers, delivering an expansive soundstage and detailed imaging. The bass response is rich and deep, thanks to the well-designed cabinet and driver configuration, which is ideal for a wide range of music genres and cinematic experiences.

Power Handling and Efficiency

When it comes to power handling, the R-41M speakers are quite efficient, performing well with a wide range of amplifiers and receivers, thanks to their high sensitivity rating. They can handle up to 50 watts RMS, making them suitable for small to medium-sized rooms. The MartinLogan Motion 40i, with its larger drivers and floor-standing design, has a greater power handling capacity and is suited for larger spaces. They can effortlessly fill a room with sound without the need for exceedingly high volumes, ensuring a clean and dynamic listening experience even at peak levels.

MartinLogan Motion 40i Tower Speaker
MartinLogan Motion 40i arrow (at Amazon.com)

The difference in the size of these speakers also plays a role in their stereo imaging and sound dispersion. The Klipsch R-41M, with its compact design, offers precise imaging and a focused sweet spot, which can be perfect for near-field listening or smaller room setups. Conversely, the Motion 40i towers provide a much broader soundstage, which can engender a more enveloping experience, particularly advantageous in larger rooms or when used as part of a home theater setup.

Value and Versatility

In terms of value, the Klipsch R-41M bookshelf speakers offer an affordable entry into high-fidelity audio, perfect for the budding audiophile or those with space constraints. They are also versatile, functioning well as standalone stereo speakers or as part of a larger surround sound system. The MartinLogan Motion 40i, on the other hand, represents a higher investment, but for the discerning listener, they offer a step into premium audio with the promise of impeccable performance for music and home cinema alike.

Choosing between the Klipsch Reference R-41M Bookshelf Speakers and the MartinLogan Motion 40i Tower Speakers ultimately comes down to personal preference, listening habits, and space considerations. Both sets offer the quality and audio fidelity that their respective brands are known for, and each could be the perfect addition to a well-curated sound system. Whether you lean towards the compact dynamism of the R-41M or the room-filling elegance of the 40i, both choices are a testament to the joys of high-performance audio.


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Klipsch Reference R-41M Bookshelf Speakers
Klipsch Reference R-41M Bookshelf Speakers
MartinLogan Motion 40i Tower Speaker
MartinLogan Motion 40i Tower Speaker
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.