MartinLogan Motion 50XTi vs. Polk Signature Elite ES20

MartinLogan Motion 50XTi Center Channel Speaker Polk Audio Signature Elite ES20 Bookshelf Speakers
MSRP
$1800 $400
Dimensions (H × W × D)
7.60” × 22.80” × 12.80”
193mm × 579mm × 325mm
14.80” × 8.50” × 13.80”
376mm × 216mm × 351mm
Power Type
Passive Passive
Frequency Response
50-25,000 Hz 44-40,000 Hz
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Speaker Comparison

When it comes to building an immersive home theater or a high-fidelity music setup, the choice of speakers becomes paramount. Two standout options for discerning audiophiles are the MartinLogan Motion 50XTi Center Channel Speaker and the Polk Audio Signature Elite ES20 Bookshelf Speakers. Each brings its unique strengths to the table, promising to elevate the listening experience.

The Heart of Dialogue: MartinLogan Motion 50XTi

The MartinLogan Motion 50XTi is designed to serve as the central anchor in a home theater system, with a focus on delivering clear, precise dialogue. The speaker features MartinLogan's renowned Folded Motion XT tweeter, which reproduces the higher frequencies with astonishing accuracy. This tweeter, along with the well-designed midrange drivers, ensures that the Motion 50XTi delivers a sound that is both articulate and dynamic, making it a perfect choice for movie enthusiasts who prioritize speech intelligibility and a broad soundstage in their cinematic experiences.

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

Polk Audio Signature Elite ES20: Versatile Performers

In contrast, the Polk Audio Signature Elite ES20 bookshelf speakers are versatile performers designed to handle a wide range of frequencies. Equipped with Polk's proprietary Dynamic Balance drivers and a high-resolution Terylene dome tweeter, the ES20s can serve as both main and surround speakers in a multi-channel setup. Their well-balanced sound profile suits various genres of music and movie soundtracks, providing a rich and expansive audio landscape that can fill the room with ease.

Build Quality and Aesthetics

The build quality of the MartinLogan Motion 50XTi is exceptional, with a luxurious finish and a solid construction that resonates with the brand's commitment to excellence. The Motion 50XTi has a modern, sophisticated look that appeals to those who appreciate both sound and design. In comparison, the Polk Audio Signature Elite ES20 speakers, while robustly built, have a more traditional aesthetic with their beautifully crafted cabinets. They blend well into various decors, offering a seamless integration into any living space without drawing unnecessary attention to themselves.

When considering power handling, the Motion 50XTi is capable of dealing with a substantial amount of power from an amplifier, allowing it to maintain clarity even at higher volumes. This makes it an ideal candidate for larger rooms where a powerful, unyielding center channel is essential. The Polk Audio ES20, while less focused on sheer power, still provides an efficient and dynamic performance that can surprise many with its capacity to handle complex audio passages without distortion.

One must also consider the footprint of each speaker. The MartinLogan Motion 50XTi, being a center channel, is designed to be placed under or above a TV or projector screen, making its horizontal orientation a key factor in its placement. On the other hand, the Polk Audio ES20s are more flexible in terms of placement, as their bookshelf design allows them to be positioned on stands or shelves, giving the user more options for creating the desired sound field in a room.

In conclusion, the choice between the MartinLogan Motion 50XTi and the Polk Audio Signature Elite ES20 depends heavily on the intended use and personal preferences in sound signature and aesthetics. For a dedicated home theater system where dialogue and screen-centric sound are crucial, the Motion 50XTi shines as a center channel. For a more versatile setup that caters to both music and movies, with an emphasis on room-filling sound, the ES20s offer great flexibility and performance. Whatever the choice, both speakers are a testament to their manufacturers' dedication to audiophile-grade sound quality and are worthy contenders for any high-end audio system.


Check Current Prices:

MartinLogan Motion 50XTi Center Channel Speaker
MartinLogan Motion 50XTi Center Channel Speaker
Polk Audio Signature Elite ES20 Bookshelf Speakers
Polk Audio Signature Elite ES20 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.