Choosing the Right Bookshelf Speakers: Martin Logan Motion B10 vs Edifier R1280TS

Let's dive into the world of bookshelf speakers and help you decide between two very different options. I've spent time with both of these speakers and can help explain what makes each unique and who they're best suited for.

Understanding Bookshelf Speakers in 2024

Bookshelf speakers remain one of the most versatile and popular choices for both music and home theater. Despite their name, they're not necessarily meant to sit on a bookshelf - they're just compact enough that they could. These speakers typically handle the crucial midrange and high frequencies that make up most of what we hear in music and movies.

The category has seen significant evolution in recent years, particularly in driver technology and amplification options. We're now seeing traditional passive speakers competing with powered "smart" options, which is exactly what we have in this comparison.

The Contenders

The $599 Martin Logan Motion B10 represents the audiophile approach - it's a passive speaker (meaning it needs a separate amplifier) released in 2023 as part of Martin Logan's refreshed Motion series. The speaker features their latest Gen2 Obsidian Folded Motion tweeter, which works like a high-tech accordion to produce detailed high frequencies.

In contrast, the $119 Edifier R1280TS is a powered speaker pair that includes built-in amplification. Released in 2019 and recently updated, it represents the modern trend toward all-in-one solutions that don't require additional equipment.

Deep Dive into Sound Quality

Martin Logan Motion B10

The B10's standout feature is its Folded Motion tweeter, which handles high frequencies differently than traditional dome tweeters. Instead of moving back and forth like a traditional speaker, it squeezes air between pleated surfaces - think of it like a tiny accordion. This design allows for faster, more precise movement, which translates to clearer, more detailed high frequencies.

In my listening tests, this technology really shines with acoustic music and vocals. You can hear subtle details like fingers sliding on guitar strings or the breath between vocal phrases. The 5.5-inch woven fiberglass woofer handles midrange frequencies exceptionally well, though bass is somewhat limited - you'll want a subwoofer for home theater use.

Edifier R1280TS

The R1280TS takes a more traditional approach with a silk dome tweeter and 4-inch woofer. While this doesn't match the B10's detail retrieval, it produces a pleasant, balanced sound that works well for casual listening. The built-in 42-watt amplifier is well-matched to the speakers, preventing you from overwhelming them with too much power.

One clever feature is the "Soundfield Spatializer" which electronically enhances the stereo image. While not as natural as the B10's actual soundstage, it can make movies and games more immersive in smaller rooms.

Real-World Performance

Having used both speakers in different settings, here's how they perform in common scenarios:

Music Listening

• B10: Excels with high-resolution audio, revealing subtle details in complex recordings. Classical and jazz sound particularly impressive.
• R1280TS: Provides enjoyable, balanced playback that works well for background music and casual listening sessions.

Home Theater

• B10: Excellent dialog clarity and precise sound placement, but requires a subwoofer for full-range movie playback.
• R1280TS: Good for small room setups, with clear dialog and decent performance for TV and movies. The subwoofer output makes adding bass easy.

Gaming

• B10: Precise positional audio helps locate enemies in competitive games.
• R1280TS: Convenient for desktop gaming setups, with good overall performance for most games.

Setup and Connectivity

The Martin Logan B10 requires an external amplifier or receiver, connecting via standard speaker wire. The binding posts accept banana plugs or bare wire, and the speakers work well with amplifiers rated between 20-200 watts.

The Edifier R1280TS is much simpler - just plug into power and connect your source via RCA inputs. It includes a remote control for volume, input selection, and sound field adjustment. The dual inputs let you connect two devices simultaneously.

Value Consideration

While the B10 costs significantly more, it's important to consider the long-term value:

• The B10 can be part of a growing system, working with different amplifiers as your budget allows.
• Build quality suggests a longer lifespan.
• Higher resale value if you decide to upgrade.

The R1280TS offers immediate value:

• Complete solution out of the box
• No additional equipment needed
• Excellent performance for the price

Who Should Buy Which?

Choose the Martin Logan Motion B10 if:

• You value audio quality above all
• You have or plan to buy a good amplifier
• You're building a long-term audio system
• Precise imaging and detail are priorities

Choose the Edifier R1280TS if:

• You want a simple, complete solution
• You're setting up a desktop system
• Budget is a primary concern
• You prefer easy setup over ultimate performance

Conclusion

Both speakers excel in their intended use cases. The Motion B10 represents the audiophile approach, offering superior sound quality and upgrade potential at a premium price. The R1280TS provides a complete, user-friendly solution that performs well above its price point.

For home theater use, both speakers would benefit from a subwoofer, but the B10's superior detail retrieval and imaging make it the better choice if budget allows. The R1280TS remains an excellent option for smaller rooms or when simplicity is paramount.

Consider your specific needs, budget, and future plans when making your choice. Either way, both speakers represent solid values in their respective categories and will provide years of enjoyable listening.

Martin Logan Motion B10 Bookshelf Speaker Deals and Prices

Edifier R1280TS Powered Bookshelf Speakers Deals and Prices