MartinLogan Motion 5.1-Channel Surround System (TPV 91)

Tiny Hot Rods

June 29th, 2010 -- by Chris Martens
Source: The Perfect Vision

The Heil-type Folded Motion driver is incredibly simple and clever, and it offers two key benefits: excellent efficiency (because the pleated driver diaphragm can displace large volumes of air without actually having its surfaces move very far) and terrific transient response (because the pleated diaphragm is light and flexible enough to respond even to very subtle textural shifts in the music). What is more, Heil-type drivers can also be used as dipoles, meaning that in principle they can radiate sound in both forward and backward directions; some manufacturers, like ESS, take advantage of the driver’s dipolar capabilities, while others, like MartinLogan, use it solely in a forward-firing configuration.

Comments

najib.dajani@gm... -- Wed, 07/07/2010 - 18:06

This review reads like marketing copy.

Also, you know better than to use "Frequency Response" instead of "Frequency Range" in the specifications. Frequency Response must has a +/- XdB so one can judge.

Chris Martens -- Fri, 07/09/2010 - 14:22

najib.dajani

One question: Have you actually heard the Motion system in action? If not, then I encourage you to suspend judgment until you have done so. I think you will be surprised (as I was) by how much it has to offer for the money. On the other hand, if you have heard the Motion system, I'd be interested to know which sub-$2000 systems you think are better, and why.

I can name a couple of systems that might be included in that discussion, but I unequivocally stand by my statement that Motion system "is one of the most—if not the most—accomplished sub-$2000 surround rigs I’ve ever heard" (and I've heard--and reviewed--quite a few of them).

Re: Frequency Range vs. Frequency Response. The fact is that both specifications can potentially be misleading (depending on how measurements are taken, and under what conditions, etc.). Even so, many readers like to see the frequency range figures that manufacturers choose to quote, if only because they give at least some idea of each speaker's low-frequency extension limits. That's why we include them.

Best,

Chris Martens

Chris Martens
Editor, Avguide.com/Playback/The Perfect Vision

najib.dajani@gm... -- Wed, 07/14/2010 - 02:32

I was not commenting on the sound of the speakers, or their perceived value. It struck me as odd that the whole tone of the review reminded me of a brochure.

As for Frequency Range, what you list in the specs is the Frequency Range; so call it that. It is not a Frequency Response.

You probably did not get that from my comment but I follow your reviews and your guide. My first "good speakers" was a pair Martin Logan Aerius and I have loved their stuff ever since.

caballerosensual -- Sun, 08/08/2010 - 11:06

Chris, I have auditioned the ML Source and I'm positive that I'll go this route for my home theater, along with Matinee ctr channel. I'm curious to know, in your opinion, how do the Motions match up with electrostats for surrounds. I've also considered using a dipole/bipoles, however I'm curious to know if the blend of speakers will give me the seamless audio that I desire. Thank you for the reply.

Galajerson -- Tue, 07/13/2010 - 01:14

I get a different total: $1,994.75, still under $2K.

john195 -- Sat, 07/17/2010 - 23:52

Exotic Heil tweeters are unheard of at this price, Nice!

mariuscmorar@ya... -- Mon, 07/19/2010 - 17:55

What would be a good amplification match for this speakers?

I'm looking at Marantz SR7005. Does that work well? Would you have any other recommendations?

Thanks!

mariuscmorar@ya... -- Mon, 07/19/2010 - 18:01

What about the Marantz AV8003 separate amp/preamp. Is that too much for these speakers