ReviewFinder Floorstanding Speakers

MartinLogan Motion 40

TLDR: The MartinLogan Motion 40 speakers offer clear, dynamic, and precise sound with minimal distortion, making them ideal for audiophiles and home theater setups.
Ranking:  
Consumer sentiment:
In comparison:
MartinLogan Motion 40 rank #7 out of 80. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
10.0
Amazing

The product receives amazing reviews on average (consumer score 10.0). This is slightly above the median speakers score of 9.0.

About consumer score

Price:
The lowest price we found for MartinLogan Motion 40 is $599.99, available here. This is above the median speakers price of $499.99.
  • Lowest price: $39.99
  • Median price: $499.99
  • Highest price: $16498
  • MartinLogan Motion 40 price: $599.99
Shop now
Expand
ReviewFinder: reviews, prices and alternatives summarized by a powerful AI engine.

Expert consensus

The MartinLogan Motion 40 speakers offer clear, dynamic, and precise sound with minimal distortion, making them ideal for audiophiles and home theater setups.

The MartinLogan Motion 40 speakers are highly praised for their clear, dynamic, and precise sound with minimal distortion, making them ideal for audiophiles who prioritize high-quality sound and appreciate elegant design. They are also suitable for home theater setups, as they can provide a cinematic experience with their clear and dynamic sound.

The speakers have a power handling capability of 20-300 watts, making them suitable for a wide range of audio setups, and a sensitivity rating of 92 dB, which is considered high compared to average stereo speakers. The MartinLogan Motion 40 is a floorstanding speaker with a frequency range of 40Hz-25kHz, ±3dB, and offers very good bass response for its small footprint, but if you want to reproduce really deep bass, you'll need a subwoofer.

The speakers are compatible with a variety of amplifiers and components, but users should be mindful of potential impedance issues when using certain receivers. The MartinLogan Motion 40 is a solid choice for those looking for a high-quality, traditional speaker setup.

Sound quality

The MartinLogan Motion 40 speakers offer clear, dynamic, and precise sound with minimal distortion, making them ideal for audiophiles who prioritize high-quality sound and appreciate elegant design.

The MartinLogan Motion 40 speakers are highly praised for their clear, dynamic, and precise sound with minimal distortion, thanks to their folded motion tweeter technology and advanced topology Vojtko crossover. The bass response is good for the size of the drivers and small footprint, but pairing with a subwoofer may be necessary for really deep bass.

The tonal balance favors the highs, but the overall performance and quality remain consistent across different genres of music and volume levels. These speakers are ideal for audiophiles who prioritize high-quality sound and appreciate elegant design. They are also suitable for home theater setups and music enthusiasts who want to enjoy their favorite songs with clarity and precision.

What are the key features and specifications of the MartinLogan Motion 40 speakers?

The MartinLogan Motion 40 is a 3-way Passive Bass Reflex Floor-standing speaker with the following key features and specifications: - 1.0 x 1.4" Folded Motion Tweeter - 1 x 5.5" Midrange - 2 x 6.5" Aluminum Woofer - Frequency range of 40-25k Hz - Sensitivity of 92 dB - Rear-ported cabinet measuring 42.5”H x 7.6”W x 12.8”D and weighing 49 pounds - Elegant high-gloss finish - Precision built advanced topology Vojtko crossover - Audiophile-grade 5-way bi-wire binding posts - Energy Transfer Coupler (ETC) spikes for solid bass performance According to reviews, the folded motion tweeter provides clear, highly dynamic and precise sound with minimal distortion and a lightning-fast response time. The midrange and woofers provide good bass response for the speaker's size, and the overall output or efficiency of the speaker is quite high at 92db @ 1m.
Based on 12 quotes from 5 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the bass response of the MartinLogan Motion 40?

According to a review from Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity, the bass response of the MartinLogan Motion 40 by itself is very good considering the size of the drivers and small foot print. However, the same review suggests that if you want to reproduce really deep bass, you may need to pair the speaker with a subwoofer since few floorstanding speakers can play with any sort of authority into the low 20Hz range.
Based on 3 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the overall balance of sound for the MartinLogan Motion 40?

According to Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity, the MartinLogan Motion 40 has a tonal balance that favors the highs, which is likely due to the fine tweeter and two 6” woofers. However, the bass response is still very good for the size of the drivers and small footprint. If you prefer a fuller sound, it may be beneficial to pair the speaker with a good subwoofer.
Based on 4 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Are there any notable differences when playing different genres of music with MartinLogan Motion 40 speakers?

According to The Sound Junky, MartinLogan Motion 40 speakers are built to minimize distortion across the board, which helps in delivering high-quality sound regardless of the frequencies. Users have also reported that these speakers are capable of producing clear, dynamic, and precise sound with a lightning-fast response time. While there may be some minor differences in sound quality when playing different genres of music, the overall performance and quality should remain consistent.

How is the sound quality of MartinLogan Motion 40 affected by different volume levels?

According to expert reviews, MartinLogan Motion 40 speakers maintain their sound quality even at high volume levels, thanks to their precision-built advanced topology Vojtko crossover and high-performance aluminum cone woofers. The folded motion tweeter technology also provides clear and highly dynamic sound with minimal distortion, even at high volumes. However, as with any speaker, the sound quality may be affected by the quality of the source material and the acoustics of the room in which they are placed.

Size and design

The MartinLogan Motion 40 speakers have an elegant and understated design with a flawless high-gloss finish, advanced technology, and high-performance features that deliver clear, highly dynamic, and precise sound, making them ideal for music and home theatre enthusiasts.

The MartinLogan Motion 40 speakers have external dimensions of 41-1/2 x 7-9/16 x 13-1/16 inches and feature an elegant yet understated design with a flawless high-gloss finish. The front baffle is matte, and the black aluminum drivers produce a sleek and modern look. The mounting screws are invisible, giving the speakers a clean and seamless appearance.

The cabinet feels and sounds solid, and the metal front grilles attach magnetically to the baffle. The folded motion tweeter requires almost 90% less excursion than a typical 1" dome tweeter, providing a lightning-fast response time while minimizing distortion. The speaker also has precision-built advanced topology Vojtko crossover and high-performance aluminum cone woofers and audiophile-grade 5-way bi-wire binding posts that provide a secure connection.

The MartinLogan Motion 40 is suitable for different styles of home decor due to its elegant and understated design with a flawless high-gloss finish that can blend with any decor. Its slim and sleek floor-standing speaker has a small footprint, making it welcome in the finest of music and home theatre systems.

Overall, the MartinLogan Motion 40 is a high-performance speaker that delivers clear, highly dynamic, and precise sound, making it ideal for music enthusiasts and home theatre enthusiasts alike.

What are the physical dimensions of the MartinLogan Motion 40?

According to SpeakerDecision, the external dimensions of the MartinLogan Motion 40 speakers are 41-1/2 x 7-9/16 x 13-1/16 inches (1055.0 x 193.0 x 332.0mm).
Based on 2 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What materials are used in the construction of MartinLogan Motion 40 speakers, and how do they affect the overall design and aesthetic?

The MartinLogan Motion 40 speakers feature an elegant yet understated design with a flawless high-gloss finish. The front baffle is matte, which, in combination with the black aluminum drivers, produces a sleek and modern look. The mounting screws are invisible, giving the speakers a clean and seamless appearance. The cabinet feels and sounds solid, and the metal front grilles attach magnetically to the baffle. The overall design is certain to blend with any decor. The materials used in the construction of these speakers include high-performance aluminum cone woofers, a precision-built advanced topology Vojtko crossover, and audiophile-grade 5-way bi-wire binding posts.
Based on 11 quotes from 6 sources [show quotes and sources]

What are the design features or elements of the MartinLogan Motion 40 speaker?

The MartinLogan Motion 40 speaker has a folded motion tweeter, which requires almost 90% less excursion than a typical 1" dome tweeter, providing a lightning-fast response time while minimizing distortion. The tweeter is engineered with a large surface area, eight times that of a typical 1" dome tweeter, creating clear, highly dynamic, and precise sound. The speaker also has elegant and understated styling with a flawless high-gloss finish that can blend with any décor. The top panel slopes down toward the rear, giving the speaker a distinctive profile, and the black aluminum drivers' mounting screws are invisible, creating a sleek and modern look. The speaker also has precision-built advanced topology Vojtko crossover and high-performance aluminum cone woofers and audiophile-grade 5-way bi-wire binding posts that provide a secure connection.
Based on 6 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

What are the design features and aesthetics of the MartinLogan Motion 40 that make it suitable for different styles of home decor?

The MartinLogan Motion 40 has an elegant yet understated design with a flawless high-gloss finish, making it suitable for different styles of home decor. Its matte front baffle and black aluminum drivers produce a sleek look overall. The speaker also comes with black perforated metal grilles that attach magnetically to the baffle and fit perfectly flush with the speaker, providing an option for those who require them. The slim and sleek floor-standing speaker has a small footprint, which will be welcome in the finest of music and home theatre systems.
Based on 4 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Power handling

The MartinLogan Motion 40 speakers have a high power handling capability and sensitivity rating, making them ideal for larger rooms and those who prefer louder volumes.

The MartinLogan Motion 40 speakers have a power handling capability of 20-300 watts, making them suitable for a wide range of audio setups. With a sensitivity rating of 92 dB, these speakers are considered high compared to average stereo speakers, making them ideal for use in larger rooms or for those who prefer louder volumes.

Whether you're looking to create a home theater system or simply want to enjoy high-quality audio in your living room, the MartinLogan Motion 40 speakers are a great choice for those who want powerful, high-fidelity sound.

What is the maximum wattage of the MartinLogan Motion 40 speakers?

According to SpeakerDecision, the MartinLogan Motion 40 speakers have a power range of 20-300 watts.
Based on 3 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the sensitivity rating of the MartinLogan Motion 40?

The MartinLogan Motion 40 has a sensitivity rating of 92 dB, which is considered high compared to average stereo speakers, according to SpeakerDecision and SoundStage! Hi-Fi.
Based on 4 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

What is the power handling capability of the MartinLogan Motion 40 speaker?

According to SpeakerDecision, the MartinLogan Motion 40 speaker has a power range of 20-300 watts.
Based on 3 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Frequency response

The MartinLogan Motion 40 is a floorstanding speaker with a frequency range of 40Hz-25kHz, ±3dB, offering accurate and dynamic sound reproduction with very good bass response for its small footprint.

The MartinLogan Motion 40 is a floorstanding speaker with a frequency range of 40Hz-25kHz, ±3dB, making it capable of accurately reproducing sounds within that range with a tolerance of plus or minus 3 decibels. It offers very good bass response for its small footprint, but if you want to reproduce really deep bass, you'll need a subwoofer.

The Folded Motion Tweeter technology drastically minimizes distortion while providing a lightning-fast response time, and the precision-built advanced topology Vojtko crossover and high-performance aluminum cone woofers contribute to the Motion 40's impressive frequency response.

Overall, the MartinLogan Motion 40 is a great choice for those who want accurate and dynamic sound reproduction in a floorstanding speaker.

What is the frequency range of the MartinLogan Motion 40?

The MartinLogan Motion 40 has a frequency range of 40Hz-25kHz, ±3dB.
Based on 6 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

How accurate is the frequency response of the MartinLogan Motion 40 speaker?

According to SpeakerDecision and SoundStage! Hi-Fi, the MartinLogan Motion 40 speaker has a frequency response range of 40-25kHz at ±3dB. This means that the speaker can accurately reproduce sounds within that range with a tolerance of plus or minus 3 decibels. However, it's worth noting that if you want to reproduce really deep bass, you'll need a subwoofer.
Based on 3 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

How does the MartinLogan Motion 40 handle low frequencies, such as bass?

According to SpeakerDecision, the MartinLogan Motion 40 has a frequency response range of 40-25k Hz at ±3dB and offers very good bass response for its small footprint. However, if you want to reproduce really deep bass, you’ll need a subwoofer. This is something that’s quite common even with floorstanding speakers, few of which can actually play with any sort of authority into the low 20Hz range.
Based on 6 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the MartinLogan Motion 40 have any built-in technology or features that enhance its frequency response?

Yes, the MartinLogan Motion 40 has a Folded Motion Tweeter that "squeezes" air and requires almost 90% less excursion than the typical 1" dome tweeter. This technology drastically minimizes distortion while providing a lightning-fast response time. The innovative Folded Motion Tweeter is also engineered with a large surface area (8-times that of a typical 1" dome tweeter) to create clear, highly dynamic, and precise sound. Additionally, the precision-built advanced topology Vojtko crossover and high-performance aluminum cone woofers contribute to the Motion 40's impressive frequency response.
Based on 4 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Compatibility

The MartinLogan Motion 40 speakers have a high sensitivity of 92dB and are compatible with different types of amplifiers, but users should be cautious when pairing them with certain receivers due to potential impedance issues.

The MartinLogan Motion 40 speakers have a high sensitivity of 92dB, making them easy to drive from a sensitivity perspective and compatible with different types of amplifiers, including tube, solid-state, or hybrid amplifiers. However, it is recommended to not pair them with an AVR due to potential difficulty when the speakers dip below the 4 Ohms levels, and instead use an Integrated Amplifier.

When using a receiver, it is important to check its specifications to ensure it can handle the 4 Ohms impedance of the speakers. There are no known compatibility issues with DACs, preamps, or subwoofers. The speakers have custom 5-way bi-wire tool-less binding posts type connectors that allow bi-amping/bi-wiring, which can provide improvements in overall transparency and dynamic range.

However, the speakers do not have built-in impedance matching. Overall, the MartinLogan Motion 40 speakers are compatible with a variety of amplifiers and components, but users should be mindful of potential impedance issues when using certain receivers.

What is the compatibility of MartinLogan Motion 40 with different types of amplifiers, such as tube, solid-state, or hybrid?

According to SpeakerDecision, the MartinLogan Motion 40 has a high sensitivity of 92dB, which makes it easy to drive from a sensitivity perspective. This means that it can work well with different types of amplifiers, including tube, solid-state, or hybrid amplifiers. However, based on the same source, many AVRs in the market may have difficulty when the speakers dip below the 4 Ohms levels, so it is recommended not to pair the MartinLogan Motion 40 with an AVR but to use an Integrated Amplifier instead.
Based on 6 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Does the MartinLogan Motion 40 work well with receivers from different brands, such as Yamaha, Denon, or Onkyo?

According to SpeakerDecision, many AVRs in the market may have difficulty when the speakers dip below the 4 Ohms levels, and this may cause clipping or even physical damage. Therefore, it is recommended to not pair the MartinLogan Motion 40 with an AVR but use an Integrated Amplifier instead. However, if you still prefer to use a receiver, it is important to check its specifications to ensure that it can handle the 4 Ohms impedance of the speakers.
Based on 1 quotes from 1 sources [show quotes and sources]

Are there any known compatibility issues with other components, such as DACs, preamps, or subwoofers, when using MartinLogan Motion 40 speakers?

There are no known compatibility issues with DACs, preamps, or subwoofers when using MartinLogan Motion 40 speakers. However, it's important to note that many AVRs (audio/video receiver) in the market may have difficulty when the speakers dip below the 4 Ohms levels (this may cause clipping or even physical damage), so we recommend using an Integrated Amplifier. Additionally, while the speaker provides a deep bass that will probably satisfy majority of listeners, movie lovers and music listeners who like to experience a full range response will still benefit from the use of a subwoofer.
Based on 3 quotes from 2 sources [show quotes and sources]

What specific features or technologies does the MartinLogan Motion 40 speaker have, such as bi-wiring, bi-amping, or impedance matching?

The MartinLogan Motion 40 has custom 5-way bi-wire tool-less binding posts type connectors that allow bi-amping/bi-wiring. Bi-wiring can provide improvements in the overall transparency of your loudspeakers by running separate speaker wires to the low & high-frequency drivers from a single amplifier. Bi-amping allows the use of separate amplifiers for the high & low-frequency drivers of your loudspeaker, which may result in greater dynamic range & lower distortion. However, this speaker does not have built-in impedance matching.
Based on 7 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

Connectivity

The MartinLogan Motion 40 is a passive floorstanding loudspeaker that delivers great sound quality for music and movies, but does not have any wireless or Bluetooth connectivity options.

The MartinLogan Motion 40 is a passive floorstanding loudspeaker that does not have any wireless or Bluetooth connectivity options. It can be connected to an amplifier or receiver via speaker wire and has five-way binding posts that allow for bi-wiring or bi-amping.

The speaker is suitable for use in a home theater system and delivers great sound quality for music and movies. While it may not have a wide range of connectivity options, the MartinLogan Motion 40 is a solid choice for those looking for a high-quality, traditional speaker setup.

What wired connectivity options are available on the MartinLogan Motion 40?

The MartinLogan Motion 40 speakers accept banana plugs or bare wire, and have terminals for single or bi-wiring. According to Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity, eliminating the common ground from the mid-range/tweeter driver and the bass drivers will deliver better sound by improving the amp to speaker electrical relationship, and avoiding any detrimental interface between the crossovers.
Based on 4 quotes from 4 sources [show quotes and sources]

What wireless connectivity options are available on the MartinLogan Motion 40?

I'm sorry, but MartinLogan Motion 40 is not a wireless speaker, it does not include any wireless connectivity options. It can be connected to an amplifier or receiver via speaker wire.

Does the MartinLogan Motion 40 speaker have Bluetooth connectivity?

Sorry, MartinLogan Motion 40 speaker does not have Bluetooth connectivity. It is a passive floorstanding loudspeaker that requires an external amplifier or receiver to power it.

What types of inputs and outputs are available on the MartinLogan Motion 40?

The MartinLogan Motion 40 has five-way binding posts that allow for bi-wiring or bi-amping. It does not have any other inputs or outputs.
Based on 4 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Can the MartinLogan Motion 40 be connected to a home theater system?

Yes, the MartinLogan Motion 40 can be connected to a home theater system. According to Secrets of Home Theater and High Fidelity, the MartinLogan Motion 40 is a great sounding slim, sleek floor standing speaker that will be welcome in the finest of music and home theatre systems.
Based on 6 quotes from 3 sources [show quotes and sources]

Expert Reviews

There are people on the Internet whose job is to review products. Below are their opinions.

ReviewFinder database has 12 expert reviews of MartinLogan Motion 40. Out of the 12 reviews, 6 are video reviews. We value video reviews of products a bit more and rank them a bit higher.

Expert reviews [6]

80
Total expert reviews: 6
  • with a score: 1
  • without a score: 5

Score distribution:

80-100
60-80
40-60
20-40
0-20

Best Alternatives

3 best floorstanding speakers in the same price range as MartinLogan Motion 40

Scroll to see all options. Click on the speakers for more details.
Klipsch R-26FA SVS Prime Tower Triangle Borea BR08
Reviews
In comparison:
Klipsch R-26FA rank #10 out of 227. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
10.0
Amazing
Reviews
In comparison:
SVS Prime Tower rank #20 out of 227. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
9.6
Amazing
Reviews
We don't yet have enough review information for Triangle Borea BR08
Price
Price
The Klipsch R-26FA floor-standing speakers offer a balanced and powerful sound with built-in Dolby Atmos technology, making them ideal for music and movie enthusiasts looking for a premium audio experience.
Expert consensus not yet generated.
The Triangle Borea BR08 speakers are highly praised for their sound quality, sleek design, and versatile power handling capability, making them ideal for audiophiles who prioritize high-quality audio playback and integration into a home theater system.
More product details More product details More product details
Floorstanding Speakers above are offered because they are in the same price range as MartinLogan Motion 40. To browse more budget and premium floorstanding speakers go to our speakers ranking .

Position in ranking

We maintain a monthly ranking that sums up expert recommendations for all floorstanding speakers.

Rank Change Price Speakers
BestReviews
The Sound Junky
Gadget Review
What Hi-Fi
ZD Net
The Master Switch
Music Critic
Popular Mechanics
stereocheck.com
ABT
1
- $228
Sony SSCS3
The Sony SSCS3 floor-standing speakers offer decent sound quality, strong imaging, and respectable bass for a small tower speaker, making them a great budget-friendly option for music and movie enthusiasts.
3
-
5
-
5
2
-
2
-
-
2
+3 $1000
SVS Ultra Tower
The SVS Ultra Tower speakers offer exceptional sound quality, sleek design, and compatibility with various audio systems, making them a top choice for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts.
-
1
-
-
1
-
-
-
-
-
3
-1 $170
Dayton Audio T652
The Dayton Audio T652 tower speakers are a budget-friendly and versatile option for those looking for clear and dynamic audio reproduction with a sleek and modern design.
2
-
7
-
-
9
4
-
-
-
4
+2 $1499
Q Acoustics 5040
The Q Acoustics 5040 speakers receive high praise for their exceptional sound quality, compact size, and versatile compatibility, making them a recommended choice for those seeking powerful home theater sound in a compact package.
-
-
-
1
-
-
-
5
-
-
Show all rows

Highest recommended floorstanding speakers this month

ReviewFinder ranks based on a combination of customer reviews, expert reviews / mentions and popularity. Expert recommendations carry the highest weight in the ranking. We do not rank based on price, our commission or brand. floorstanding speakers below are at the top of our ranking this March.

Scroll to see all options. Click on the speakers for more details.
Sony SSCS3 SVS Ultra Tower Dayton Audio T652 Q Acoustics 5040
Reviews
In comparison:
Sony SSCS3 rank #1 out of 227. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
9.6
Amazing
Reviews
In comparison:
SVS Ultra Tower rank #2 out of 227. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
9.3
Amazing
Reviews
In comparison:
Dayton Audio T652 rank #3 out of 227. Very high levels of customer satisfaction.
Go to rankings
8.8
Great
Reviews
We don't yet have enough review information for Q Acoustics 5040
Price
The Sony SSCS3 floor-standing speakers offer decent sound quality, strong imaging, and respectable bass for a small tower speaker, making them a great budget-friendly option for music and movie enthusiasts. The SVS Ultra Tower speakers offer exceptional sound quality, sleek design, and compatibility with various audio systems, making them a top choice for audiophiles and home theater enthusiasts. The Dayton Audio T652 tower speakers are a budget-friendly and versatile option for those looking for clear and dynamic audio reproduction with a sleek and modern design. The Q Acoustics 5040 speakers receive high praise for their exceptional sound quality, compact size, and versatile compatibility, making them a recommended choice for those seeking powerful home theater sound in a compact package.
More product details More product details More product details More product details
ReviewFinder: reviews, prices and alternatives summarized by a powerful AI engine.