Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
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EFX
reviews
Manufacturer details
- Frequency Response: 68–22,000 Hz ±3dB
- Recommended Amplifier Power: 20—300 watts per channel
- Horizontal Dispersion: 30°
- Vertical Dispersion: 28" (71cm) line source
- Sensitivity: 90 dB/2.83 volts/meter
- Impedance: 6 Ohms, 1.3 @ 20kHz
- Crossover Frequency: 530Hz
- High Frequency Transducer: XStat™ CLS™ electrostaic transducer
- Panel Dimensions: 28" x 8.6" (71 x 22cm)
- Radiating Area: 241 in² (1,562 cm²)
- Low Frequency Transducer: 6.5" (16.5cm)
- Power Draw: Max: 2W each, Standby: <1W each
- Weight: 24.5 lbs. (11.1 kg)
- Dimensions: 48.8" x 9.4" x 6.5" (123.9cm x 23.8cm x 16.5cm)
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- MartinLogan's defining CLS (Curvilinear Line Source) electrostatic panel technology provides exceptionally wide horizontal high-frequency dispersion, exceeding that of traditional flat panels and offering a more immersive soundstage.
- The brand uniquely integrates powered dynamic woofers with its electrostatic panels, employing custom DSP engines and advanced crossover designs to achieve seamless blending and extended, well-defined bass response.
- MartinLogan's commitment to full-range sound reproduction, even in smaller models, results in a "large" sound that defies the speaker's physical size, projecting height and scale often unmatched by comparably sized speakers.
- They provide Anthem Room Correction (ARC) as an option, allowing users to tailor the bass response to their specific listening environment and achieve optimal integration between the speakers and the room's acoustics.
Select products
Motion Series
- Positioning: The entry-level lineup, offering a balance of performance and affordability.
- Description: Uses the Gen2 Folded Motion Tweeter, which provides clear and detailed sound. Compared to the Motion XT Series, it uses Woven Fiberglass midrange drivers, making it more budget-friendly while still delivering quality sound for small to medium-sized rooms.
Motion XT Series
- Positioning: A step up from the Motion Series, offering enhanced performance and features.
- Description: Stands out with its high-performance Nomex-Reinforced Kevlar midrange drivers and Gen2 Folded Motion XT Tweeter, delivering more detail and power than the standard Motion Series.
ElectroMotion Series
- Positioning: Positioned as a mid-range option, combining advanced technologies for a superior audio experience.
- Description: Features advanced thin film transducer technologies, including electrostatic and Folded Motion designs, offering greater accuracy and style compared to the Motion XT Series.
Masterpiece Series
- Positioning: The flagship lineup, representing the pinnacle of MartinLogan's electrostatic loudspeaker design.
- Description: Renowned for its groundbreaking electrostatic loudspeakers, which provide the most immersive and detailed sound experience in the lineup. It surpasses the ElectroMotion Series with its larger soundstage and advanced engineering.
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Used
Martin Logan
What if you spend more?
Who says in-ceiling speakers are always a compromise? The S3ic is the perfect in-ceiling match for any S-Series Home Theater, where sacrifices to the perfect audio experiences are unacceptable, and perfection is the only path forward. Patent pending design, with directivity control derived from our patent pending DPC, creating a frequency response that matches and sounds like a world class speaker.
Featuring the same Beryllium tweeter, Textreme TPCD midrange and TPCD 7" woofer as our in-walls and highly regarded in-room speakers. This enables a flat frequency response angled for 30-degree main listening window with off axis and power response to match our in-wall S-Series speakers for flawless timber matching needed for true immersive audio.
A solid 4mm thick aluminum back box for consistent sound with limited sound transmission into other rooms. This ability to be used not only for in-ceiling surround but in-ceiling LCR or in-wall wide speakers and THX Certified Dominus for surrounds. Better coverage for even response across more seats with no compromises!
The perfect solution for high end Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, and Auro-3D applications. Featuring an innovative new waveguide array controlling Mid/High frequencies, centered by our finest 28mm Beryllium dome tweeter and 28mm TPCD ultra-lightweight dome mid. Optimized for in-ceiling applications where a 30 degree reference axis is desired as well as larger a listening window in the direction towards the listening space.
Extremely versatile – Can be used as L,C,R, surround, height, or wide channel speaker. Once again, All transducers are developed ground up by our engineers sharing largely from with S-Series, formed from decades of research, culminating in this worlds class design.
Utilizing advanced Cosmos acoustical modeling, the result is one of the most technologically advanced in-ceiling loudspeakers available. This new tweeter/waveguide DPC-Array delivers amazing accuracy, smoothness, and directivity control to handle the critical vocal range and delicate treble. The S3ic also benefits from our unique and proprietary timbre matching technique across the entire S-Series.
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Product Strengths
- A DPC array includes a 1.1-inch Beryllium dome tweeter and a 1.1-inch Textreme TPCD ultra-lightweight dome midrange driver, helping match the timbre of other S-Series speakers
- The first in-ceiling model able to achieve THX Certified Dominus, especially one designed for the largest private theaters of up to 6,500 cubic feet
- Promises staggeringly good frequency response across a wide listening area for great sound
- Has a flat surface when installed, leading to less diffraction and reflections
- Has a back box that's four millimeters thick and bituminously damped, to reduce sound leakage
Product Considerations
- The flagship and most expensive offering in the Perlisten in-ceiling speaker line
- Using in-ceiling speakers for bed-layer channels is not ideal and should generally be discouraged
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Offers a more ideal frequency response in the listening position, compared to typical in-ceiling speakers
- Offers sonic advantages due to less diffraction and reflections, compared to on-ceiling speakers
Takeaway: The S3ic is a technologically advanced in-ceiling speaker that delivers excellent sound quality and broad coverage. It is a great choice for creating a high-performance home theater experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
I am the overperforming little guy who will demand your respect after your first audition. I can be a serious 2 channel system with a subwoofer, an LCR, or a surround channel. Effortless dynamics and lightspeed transients remain the common thread of all Signature series speakers including the S4b. A bookshelf with this much technology is hard to find and can literally be the Ninja of any system. Bookshelf, main for a 2.1 system, LCR, Dominus Surround, it can transform into anything you need.
Features including our proprietary DPC-Array controlling Mid/High frequencies and centered by our finest 28mm Beryllium dome and dual 28mm TPCD ultra-lightweight domes. All transducers are developed ground up by our engineers bringing decades of research and culminating in this world class design. All S-Series speakers share the same DPC-Array and benefit from our unique timbre matching technique across the entire series utilizing Beryllium and our advanced Carbon fiber.
These speakers are an acoustic suspension to meet the demands of any listening room with unparalleled dynamic range and musical finesse. Very impressive system alone or when combined with a PERLISTEN subwoofer. Great for use in 2.1 systems or any channel of theater system utilizing subwoofers. Can be used as surround, height or LCR. Bookshelf, stand or on-wall mounting with keyhole or available bracket.
Featuring our DPC-Array as for controlling Mid/High frequencies, centered by our finest 28mm Beryllium dome and dual 28mm TPCD ultra-lightweight domes. This new tweeter/waveguide DPC-Array delivers amazing accuracy, smoothness, and directivity control to handle the critical vocal range and delicate treble. The S4b shares the same DPC-Array and benefits from our unique timbre matching technique as found in the entire S-Series range of speakers. Unparalleled dynamic range, low distortion and musical finesse. The PERLISTEN S4b continues the lineup of speakers that have the distinguished honor to be the world's first and only loudspeakers to be certified for THX Dominus – their highest rating.
Product Strengths
- Solidly built with an inert cabinet, contributing to overall performance
- Crazy linear/neutral sound from about 100Hz upwards
- The beryllium tweeter provides nuanced, airy, and extended highs with a hint of shimmer for realistic metallic instruments
- It creates a three-dimensional soundstage, making the speakers disappear sonically
Product Considerations
- It does not have a great deal of bass on its own and may require a subwoofer for full-range playback, starting its roll-off at around 100Hz
- While placement is flexible, a solid amplifier is required
- The styling might be an acquired taste and could be considered overcomplicated by some
- The high gloss finishes may not appear different from less expensive speakers, making it harder to justify the luxury price tag
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Bowers & Wilkins 805 D4: The S4B is more neutral/accurate, while the 805 D4 adds bass and treble energy
- Vs Focal Canta No. 1: The S4B outperforms the Canta No. 1, which has chestiness in its bass and midrange due to its cabinet
- Vs Revel Studio 2: The S4B reminded the reviewer of the Revel Studio 2, though the Revels had more bass
- Vs Focal Diablo Utopia: The Perlisten are a great alternative if the Utopias are outside of your reach and are a more neutral and less bright speaker
- Vs EgglestonWorks Nico Evo: The EgglestonWorks presentation is a little more mid-forward and less 3D than the Perlisten
Takeaway: The Perlisten S4b is a high-performing speaker that offers excellent clarity and a neutral sound, making it a great choice for audiophiles and home cinema enthusiasts alike. The speaker's ability to create a detailed and immersive soundstage can bring music and movies to life.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Rock-solid build quality with die-cast aluminum construction leading to a durable and rigid design without resonances
- Precise and balanced sound, suitable for all musical styles without emphasis, with warm vocals and good intimacy
- Powerful dynamics and serious SPL capability from a small cabinet, delivering decent sound even in larger rooms
- Features Genelec's GLM room correction system, which is flexible, fast, and provides a comprehensive report about the listening space with recommendations
- Elegant and unique design that looks good from any angle, and doesn't take up much footprint in the room
Product Considerations
- All connections use professional standards, and balanced outputs are preferred
- The GLM kit is an additional cost
- The professional XLR cable connections can seem cumbersome
- There is no wireless connectivity or network option
- The manual is quite involved and detailed for GLM, and could be improved with a quick start manual
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Reference Techniques SBR1: The SBR1 has better bass insight and space and more 'hifi glossy silkiness,' while the 6040R is a better 'music communicator'
- Vs ATC SCM40 actives: The ATC is better in timbre and bass-treble coherence, but the 6040R is more precise, dynamic, and easier to integrate
- Vs KEF LS50 Metas and a Buchardt i150 amplifier: The 6040R has greater drive and greater soundstage precision
Takeaway: The 6040R is a well-built speaker system with great sound, room correction, and built-in power amps, making it a long-lasting music system with all-round sound. It is a compact, elegant design that delivers an exceptional and uncolored listening experience, and it has enough power and nuance to play any type of music in any situation.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Many customers asked for a smaller speaker, so the development group created a smaller baby EPOS. This speaker should be a real bookshelf with a size small enough to go into typical IKEA designs for example. But how to make it? Smaller speakers are especially giving the designer some severe headaches. This has something to do with the size of the front baffle and the small baffle’s influence on a speaker’s response curve. A design for free space should be different from one that plays close to a wall or inside a bookshelf. In order to work in a semi-free space (some distance from a wall) and on a wall, the crossover filter can be changed with a switch on the backside of the speaker. Now, you are free to choose the place of your speakers without making compromises in tonal balance.
Product Strengths
- Excellent separation within the soundstage conveys a lifelike image
- A switch on the rear changes the crossover to suit different speaker placements—optimizing the speaker for on-wall or free-standing positions
- Overwhelming, tight, dry, and dynamic bass with a detailed and room-filling soundstage
- A well-made compact speaker with high efficiency, especially on the shelf
- Lively and realistic music rendering creates an authentic listening experience
Product Considerations
- While the ES-7N looks neat, it isn't particularly luxurious in appearance
- Placement needs to be considered because of the speaker's asymmetrical design
- The manual provides a suggestion for the placement of the tweeter
- Clarity and precision of sound and stereo imaging are slightly diminished if not placed optimally
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Neat Petite Classic: It is good enough to make the Neat sound a little blurred and soft
- Vs Dynaudio Heritage Special: Epos' mids were wonderfully fine and tidy, while the Dynaudio had richer bass and more generous spatial imaging—the Epos seemed more lively and multi-faceted
- Vs BBC LS 3/5a: The 7N was much more balanced and precise in the bass with lively reproduction and higher dynamics
- Vs KEF LS50: They sound much more open and dynamic, even 'bigger', especially at low volume
Takeaway: The ES-7N is a small but capable speaker that is flexible in its placement options. If a speaker that sounds good in different spaces is desired, the ES-7N could be a good choice.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Versatile design allows for vertical or horizontal mounting, on-wall or freestanding configurations
- Clear dialog and well-sorted audio elements are produced for movies
- Accurate imaging creates a strong phantom center channel effect
- Sleek and modern aesthetics fit well in various spaces
- Clear midrange and spirited highs provide good sound quality for both movies and music
- Connectivity options are available
Product Considerations
- Bass response may not satisfy bass enthusiasts without a subwoofer
- Small hole for speaker wire in the stand pole may be too small for some speaker cables with spade connectors
- Speakers need to be closer to the wall to reinforce bass
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Focal On Wall 302 offers more versatility in application, while the Focal Vestia No. 2 has more designer finish
Takeaway: The Focal On Wall 302 is a versatile speaker that delivers excellent sound quality and offers a modern, sleek design that fits into various home theater or music setups. These speakers are a great choice for those looking for unobtrusive, elegant speakers that perform well for both movies and music.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Nice bass extension down to about 40, 45 Hertz in the room
- Very low distortion and good dynamic range
- Excellent resolution throughout the frequency range
- Hybrid tweeter widens the sweet spot and opens up the soundstage
- Well-constructed and well-engineered
Product Considerations
- The speaker sounds a little too laid back in the mid-range
- High frequency has a lot of sizzle or pop, the level of the tweeter stands out more above the mid-range
- Without some equalization or some sidewall absorption, it is a tough sell
- SMC material reduces third harmonic distortion, and some people may feel that it is too polite
- May need a cooler and livelier amplifier to get the best sound
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Neat Elite Classics are only just a little less capable at shifting air at low frequencies and are a little more balanced tonally, whereas the Dali's are a little recessed in the upper mid-range
Takeaway: The Dali Rubicon 6s are well-engineered speakers that offer excellent resolution throughout the frequency range. The hybrid tweeter widens the sweet spot and opens up the soundstage.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Great sound and is considered one of the greatest audio bargains
- Even tonal balance, very neutral, and offers a balance of detail and exceptional musicality
- Creates a credible soundstage and reveals detail in well-recorded material, with a wide stage extending beyond the speakers and conveying depth
- Can play loudly with minimal effort due to its 89dB sensitivity and 8-ohm impedance
- Superb imaging, especially with two-channel listening
Product Considerations
- High-end finishes increase the price significantly
- Some reviewers find the grills flimsy
- Some reviewers found the speaker install difficult
- The height of the tweeter was a bit low for one reviewer, causing the soundstage to feel low at times
- Some reviewers find Axiom speakers as a whole as unforgiving or too bright
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to PSB Platinum M2 and Usher X-718, the Axiom M60 v2 could play much louder and go far lower in the bass
- Compared to Onix Rocket RS450s, there's a considerably increased size of the soundstage
Takeaway: The Axiom M60 v2 speakers are a great value for their excellent performance and ability to draw one into their music. With a seemingly boundless dynamic range, they bring music to life and can be a solid choice if space allows.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Smooth, spacious sound with good weight
- Excellent build and finish quality
- Slim design allows it to be hung on the wall like a picture
- Employs true 3-way full range drivers with pivoting Inverted Dual Concentric mid-range/tweeter modules, and C-CAM bass drivers
- Clever drive unit arrangement ensures that imaging is excellent
Product Considerations
- Midrange colouration can harm timing, potentially leading to a slightly congested presentation with complex rhythms
- Bass presence is limited due to the sealed-box design
- Without the grilles, the speakers have a stark, industrial look
Takeaway: The SoundFrame offers both stylish design and impressive sound quality, making it a good choice for those who want their speakers to blend seamlessly with their home decor. Its innovative features and well-built construction make it a worthwhile investment.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Technically the best speakers the reviewer has ever reviewed, based on objective measurements
- Optimized with a six and a half inch driver, the transition from the mid-range to the tweeter is seamless
- Great directivity index, making them EQable and sound good even without EQ
- Precise imaging creates a wide soundstage and a strong center image
- Well-made with HDF enclosure, rhodium binding posts, and good crossover components for the price
Product Considerations
- Requires a subwoofer for deep bass extension
- Aesthetics are plain, and may not appeal to those seeking visually striking speakers
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Philharmonic Audio BMRs, the Arendal 1723 has more precise imaging, while the BMRs have a wider but softer soundstage
Takeaway: The Arendal 1723 speakers offer top-notch technical performance and precise imaging, making them great for both two-channel and home theater setups when paired with a subwoofer. Their neutral sound and EQ-ability make them a versatile and high-performing choice.
Video review
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