When you're ready to step into serious audio territory, bookshelf speakers can deliver incredible sound while fitting into real-world spaces. Today we're comparing two compelling options: the brand new SVS Ultra Evolution ($1,200/pair) and the established Martin Logan Motion B10 ($600/pair).
Bookshelf speakers are compact but powerful audio components that sit on stands, shelves, or furniture. Despite their modest size, modern bookshelf speakers can produce remarkable sound quality that rivals much larger towers, especially when paired with a subwoofer for the lowest bass notes.
The key advantages of bookshelf speakers include:
The SVS Ultra Evolution just launched in March 2024, bringing several technological advances to the category. Its diamond-coated tweeter (the speaker part that produces high frequencies) represents a significant step forward, using industrial diamond dust to make the tweeter incredibly rigid and distortion-free. This is technology that was previously only found in speakers costing many times more.
The Martin Logan B10 takes a different approach with its distinctive folded motion tweeter, which moves air like an accordion rather than a traditional dome. This design has proven very successful in delivering clean, detailed highs while being easier to power than conventional tweeters.
The Ultra Evolution delivers exceptional detail and imaging - you can precisely place where each instrument or sound is coming from in space. The diamond-coated tweeter produces incredibly pure high frequencies without the harshness that sometimes comes with extreme detail. Bass extension is impressive for the size, reaching down to 24Hz compared to the B10's 56Hz.
The B10's folded motion tweeter has its own magic, producing airy and natural highs with excellent dispersion (how widely the sound spreads out). While it doesn't quite match the Ultra Evolution's ultimate refinement, it's remarkably good for its price point. The B10's midrange (where voices and most instruments live) is particularly natural and engaging.
Here's where things get interesting: The B10 is notably more sensitive at 92dB versus the Ultra Evolution's 88dB. In practical terms, this means the B10 will play louder with the same amount of amplifier power. If you have a modest receiver or amplifier, the B10 might be the better choice.
The Ultra Evolution isn't difficult to drive, but it benefits more from high-quality amplification. Its more sophisticated design can reveal both the strengths and weaknesses of your other equipment.
Both speakers excel in home theater applications, but in different ways. The Ultra Evolution's precise imaging and deeper bass extension make it exceptional for movies, creating a highly immersive experience. It's also timbre-matched with other SVS speakers, making it easy to build a matched surround system.
The B10 works beautifully in home theater too, especially in smaller rooms. Its efficient design means it can get plenty loud with typical AV receivers, and its clear midrange makes dialogue especially intelligible.
For dedicated music listening, the Ultra Evolution pulls ahead with its ability to reproduce subtle details and create a more three-dimensional soundstage. It's the kind of speaker that lets you hear new elements in familiar recordings.
The B10 is no slouch though - its folded motion tweeter and natural midrange make it especially enjoyable with vocals and acoustic music. While it might not reveal every last detail like the Ultra Evolution, it presents music in a very engaging and enjoyable way.
At twice the price, the SVS Ultra Evolution needs to deliver twice the performance to justify its cost. In absolute terms, it does provide superior sound quality, better build quality, and more advanced technology. SVS also offers an industry-leading customer service package with a 45-day in-home trial and 5-year warranty.
The Martin Logan B10 represents excellent value, delivering much of what makes high-end audio special at a more accessible price point. It's particularly compelling as an entry into serious audio or for smaller rooms where its strengths shine.
Consider these key factors when choosing:
For those seeking the absolute best performance and planning to keep their speakers for many years, the SVS Ultra Evolution represents the better long-term investment. Its advanced technology and superior build quality will provide lasting enjoyment.
The Martin Logan B10 hits a sweet spot of performance and value that makes it an excellent choice for many listeners. It's especially compelling if you're building your first serious system or if maximum value is a priority.
Remember that both speakers will benefit from proper placement, quality amplification, and good source material. Either choice represents a serious step into high-quality audio that will bring years of musical enjoyment.
| SVS Ultra Evolution ($1,200/pair) | Martin Logan Motion B10 ($600/pair) |
|---|---|
| Frequency Response - Determines bass depth and overall range | |
| 24Hz - 40kHz (exceptional range for bookshelf) | 56Hz - 25kHz (typical for size) |
| Sensitivity - How loud they get with given power | |
| 88dB (needs more power) | 92dB (easier to drive) |
| Tweeter Technology - Impacts high frequency detail and clarity | |
| Diamond-coated aluminum dome (ultimate detail) | Gen2 Folded Motion (excellent clarity) |
| Mid/Bass Driver - Affects midrange clarity and punch | |
| 6.5" glass fiber composite (superior detail) | 5.5" woven fiberglass (good detail) |
| Power Handling - Amount of amplification they can use | |
| 20-300W (very flexible) | 20-200W (suitable for most amps) |
| Cabinet Construction - Impacts resonance and durability | |
| Time-aligned curved MDF with extra bracing (premium) | Standard MDF with rear port (good) |
| Dimensions - Important for placement flexibility | |
| 49.6" x 11.8" x 18.1" (larger) | 12.5" x 7" x 9.8" (more compact) |
| Weight - Indicates build quality and materials | |
| 20 lbs each (substantial) | 14.5 lbs each (standard) |
| Warranty - Shows manufacturer confidence | |
| 5-year with 45-day trial (excellent) | Standard warranty (typical) |
| Best Use Case - Where each speaker excels | |
| Critical listening, larger rooms, premium systems | Smaller spaces, budget-conscious, entry to high-end |
The SVS Ultra Evolution ($1,200/pair) has an edge for home theater use due to its deeper bass extension and superior imaging capabilities. However, the Martin Logan B10 ($600/pair) is still excellent for home theater, especially in smaller rooms. Both speakers work well in surround sound setups.
For optimal home theater performance, a subwoofer is recommended with both speakers. The SVS Ultra Evolution extends to 24Hz and the Martin Logan B10 to 56Hz, but a dedicated subwoofer will provide fuller bass impact for movies.
The Martin Logan B10 is easier to drive with typical AV receivers due to its higher 92dB sensitivity. The SVS Ultra Evolution requires more power but still works well with most modern receivers rated at 80+ watts per channel.
Neither speaker is designed for wall mounting. Both are intended for placement on stands or shelves, with the SVS Ultra Evolution being larger and requiring more substantial support.
The SVS Ultra Evolution offers superior detail and imaging for critical music listening, while the Martin Logan B10 provides excellent musical performance at a lower price point. Both excel with vocals and acoustic music.
The Martin Logan B10 is more suitable for small rooms due to its compact size. The SVS Ultra Evolution performs better in medium to large rooms where it can fully showcase its capabilities.
The SVS Ultra Evolution offers more refined highs with its diamond-coated tweeter and better bass extension, while the Martin Logan B10 provides clear, detailed sound with excellent midrange performance through its folded motion tweeter.
Yes, both speakers are versatile performers. The SVS Ultra Evolution offers higher-end performance for both movies and music, while the Martin Logan B10 provides excellent value for mixed-use scenarios.
The Martin Logan B10 offers excellent value at $600/pair, while the SVS Ultra Evolution justifies its higher $1,200 price with superior performance and build quality. Choose based on your budget and performance needs.
Yes, but the SVS Ultra Evolution is specifically timbre-matched with other SVS speakers, making it ideal for matching surrounds. The Martin Logan B10 can also be mixed with other speakers but may require more careful matching.
Both speakers perform best when placed at least 12 inches from walls. The SVS Ultra Evolution may benefit from even more space due to its larger size and rear port design.
The SVS Ultra Evolution comes with a superior 5-year warranty and 45-day trial period. The Martin Logan B10 comes with a standard manufacturer's warranty. Consider warranty coverage as part of the overall value proposition.
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: futureaudiophile.com - svsound.com - youtube.com - avgadgets.com - dreamediaav.com - dreamediaav.com - outlawaudio.com - svsound.com - audiolab.com - crutchfield.com - audioadvice.com - audioadvice.com - skybygramophone.com - audiosciencereview.com - crutchfield.com - audiojunction.com.au - bestbuy.com - audioadvice.com - safeandsoundhq.com - dreamediaav.com - crutchfield.com - nfm.com - audioadvisor.com
