When building a great audio system, choosing the right bookshelf speakers can make or break your listening experience. Today we're comparing two popular options: the Martin Logan Motion B10 ($599/pair) and the Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M ($349/pair). Both offer distinct approaches to sound reproduction, and understanding their differences will help you make the right choice for your setup.
Bookshelf speakers serve as the sonic foundation for many modern audio systems. Unlike tower speakers, they offer a compelling mix of performance and practicality, fitting easily into most rooms while still delivering impressive sound. What's changed in recent years is the level of technology packed into these smaller cabinets - from advanced driver materials to sophisticated crossover networks that help the speakers distribute different frequencies more accurately.
The Motion B10 uses Martin Logan's signature Folded Motion tweeter - imagine an accordion-like ribbon that squeezes air to create high frequencies. This design moves air more efficiently than traditional dome tweeters, resulting in clearer, more detailed high frequencies with less distortion. The rest of the B10's housing contains a 5.5" woven fiberglass woofer for handling mid and low frequencies.
In contrast, the RP-600M employs Klipsch's horn-loaded tweeter technology (think of a horn like a megaphone that helps project sound more efficiently) paired with their distinctive copper-colored Cerametallic 6.5" woofer. The horn design helps the speaker play louder with less power while maintaining clarity.
Released in 2021 as part of Martin Logan's refreshed Motion series, the B10 delivers a refined, detailed sound signature. The folded motion tweeter excels at reproducing subtle details - you'll hear the fingers sliding on guitar strings and the natural decay of cymbal hits. The midrange presents vocals with exceptional clarity, though bass response is modest compared to larger speakers.
In my experience testing these speakers, they excel with acoustic music, jazz, and classical recordings where detail retrieval matters most. They create an impressively wide and deep soundstage - the acoustic space between instruments feels natural and three-dimensional.
Introduced in 2018 (with an updated II version in 2022), the RP-600M takes a different approach. The horn-loaded tweeter and larger woofer combine to create a more dynamic, immediate sound. Bass response is notably stronger than the B10, and the speaker can play louder with less amplifier power thanks to its higher sensitivity (96dB vs. the B10's 92dB).
I've found these speakers particularly engaging with rock, pop, and movie soundtracks where impact and excitement take priority over absolute refinement. They bring energy to the music that can make listening more fun, though some might find them less subtle than the B10s.
Both speakers can work well in home theater applications, but they have different strengths:
The Motion B10 excels at dialog clarity and subtle atmospheric effects. Its precise imaging helps place sounds accurately in the soundstage, which is great for modern object-based surround formats like Dolby Atmos. However, you'll definitely want a subwoofer to handle the low-end requirements of movie soundtracks.
The RP-600M offers more dynamic range and impact, which can be beneficial for action movies and dramatic scenes. Its higher sensitivity makes it easier to drive to theater-like volumes, and the stronger bass response means it can work without a subwoofer in smaller rooms (though a sub is still recommended for full home theater impact).
The B10s tend to work best in small to medium-sized rooms where their refined sound can shine. They benefit from careful placement away from walls and proper toe-in (angling toward the listening position). Quality amplification is important - while they don't need massive power, they do appreciate clean, capable amplifiers.
The RP-600Ms are more forgiving of placement and room acoustics. Their horn design helps control sound dispersion, reducing problematic room reflections. They're also easier to drive, working well with mid-range receivers and amplifiers.
At $599/pair, the Motion B10s represent a significant investment. You're paying for sophisticated driver technology and refined sound quality. This price point puts them in competition with several excellent speakers, including some floor-standing models.
The RP-600Ms, at $349/pair, offer exceptional value. Their performance rivals speakers costing significantly more, especially in terms of dynamics and bass response. The recent II version added $100 to the price but brought improved materials and refined sound quality.
Choose the Motion B10 if:
Choose the RP-600M if:
Both speakers represent different philosophies in sound reproduction. The Motion B10 aims for sophistication and detail, while the RP-600M delivers excitement and value. Neither approach is inherently better - it's about matching the speaker to your preferences, room, and system.
If you're building a serious music system and appreciate subtle details in recordings, the B10s might be worth their premium price. If you want engaging, dynamic sound that works well for both music and movies without breaking the bank, the RP-600Ms are hard to beat at their price point.
| Martin Logan Motion B10 - $599/pair | Klipsch Reference Premiere RP-600M - $349/pair |
|---|---|
| Sensitivity - Determines how much amplifier power you need to reach desired volume | |
| 92dB (requires more power) | 96dB (easier to drive, works well with modest amplifiers) |
| High Frequency Driver - Affects detail and clarity in music | |
| Gen2 Obsidian Folded Motion Tweeter (exceptional detail and air) | 1" Titanium LTS Vented Tweeter with Horn (dynamic, exciting sound) |
| Woofer Size - Impacts bass response and overall fullness | |
| 5.5" Woven Fiberglass (refined but limited bass) | 6.5" Cerametallic (stronger bass response) |
| Frequency Response - Shows how low and high the speaker can reproduce | |
| 56Hz - 25kHz (will benefit from subwoofer) | 45Hz - 25kHz (better standalone bass performance) |
| Size - Consider your space limitations | |
| 12.5" x 7" x 9.75" (compact footprint) | 15.7" x 8" x 11.9" (larger, needs more space) |
| Power Handling - Shows speaker durability and amplifier compatibility | |
| 20-200 watts (needs quality amplification) | 100-400 watts (more flexible with amplifier matching) |
| Construction Features - Affects sound quality and durability | |
| Premium MDF cabinet, rear port (refined build) | Tractrix port, reinforced baffle (excellent value construction) |
| Best Use Cases - Where each speaker excels | |
| Acoustic, jazz, classical music; smaller rooms | Rock, pop, home theater; larger rooms; better value |
The Klipsch RP-600M ($349/pair) is generally better for home theater use due to its higher sensitivity, stronger bass response, and better dynamic range. While the Martin Logan B10 ($599/pair) offers excellent detail, the RP-600M's horn-loaded design handles movie soundtracks more impressively and can play louder with less power.
The Motion B10 speakers offer superior detail and refinement, particularly for music. However, at nearly twice the price of the RP-600M, they're harder to justify unless you primarily listen to acoustic, jazz, or classical music and have high-quality amplification.
Yes, both speakers benefit from a subwoofer for home theater use. The RP-600M has better bass extension down to 45Hz compared to the Motion B10's 56Hz, but neither reaches the deep bass required for full movie sound effects.
The Klipsch RP-600M is significantly easier to drive with its 96dB sensitivity rating, making it ideal for most AV receivers. The Motion B10 at 92dB sensitivity requires more power for the same volume level.
Both can work as surrounds, but the RP-600M might be overkill for surround duty due to its size. The more compact Motion B10 could be a better physical fit for surround placement.
The Motion B10 excels at detailed, refined music reproduction, especially for acoustic genres. The RP-600M offers a more dynamic, exciting presentation that works particularly well with rock and pop music.
The Motion B10 is more compact and works better in small spaces, while the larger RP-600M might overwhelm very small rooms with its more powerful output.
The Motion B10 benefits from higher quality amplification to sound its best. The RP-600M is more forgiving and works well with a wider range of amplifiers and receivers.
Both are well-built, but the RP-600M uses more robust materials like its Cerametallic woofer and reinforced cabinet. The Motion B10 requires more careful handling due to its delicate folded motion tweeter.
Neither speaker is designed for wall mounting. Both the Motion B10 and RP-600M perform best when properly positioned on stands or shelves away from walls.
Klipsch offers a 5-year warranty on the RP-600M, while Martin Logan provides a 5-year warranty on the Motion B10. Both companies have strong reputations for customer support.
The RP-600M excels for gaming due to its dynamic sound and impact. While the Motion B10 offers precise positioning of gaming effects, the RP-600M's broader dynamics and stronger bass make it more engaging for gaming sessions.
We've done our best to create useful and informative comparisons to help you decide what product to buy. Our research uses advanced automated methods to create this comparison and perfection is not possible - please contact us for corrections or questions. These are the sites we've researched in the creation of this article: audiosciencereview.com - crutchfield.com - audiojunction.com.au - bestbuy.com - audioadvice.com - safeandsoundhq.com - dreamediaav.com - crutchfield.com - nfm.com - audioadvisor.com - f072605def1c9a5ef179-a0bc3fbf1884fc0965506ae2b946e1cd.ssl.cf2.rackcdn.com - erinsaudiocorner.com - stereophile.com - klipsch.com - adorama.com - assets.klipsch.com - bhphotovideo.com
