MartinLogan Motion Foundation B2
Best bookshelf speaker for listeners seeking detailed, room-filling audio performance.
The MartinLogan Motion Foundation B2 is the largest bookshelf speaker in its series, delivering impressive detail and scale. It features a 6.5" aluminum midbass driver for robust bass and a Gen2 Obsidian Folded Motion® Tweeter S with a Folded Motion® Waveguide for clear, controlled sound. Designed for versatility, it can be shelf-mounted or stand-mounted with compatible stands. This speaker is recognized for its award-winning performance, offering exceptional value and redefining expectations for bookshelf speakers in its class.
$359.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
1974
/ 7255
#1974 in Speakers
Price vs Category Average
-75%
Below average
Frequency response
48233
/ Hz-kHz ± dB
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking crisp, immersive high-frequency detail
- Apartment dwellers needing flexible, space-saving audio solutions
- Design-conscious homeowners prioritizing modern, sophisticated aesthetics
Who should skip it
- Bass enthusiasts requiring deep, cinematic low-end impact
- Budget-focused buyers avoiding additional high-end amplification costs
- Fans seeking the specific, airy signature of electrostatic panels
Performance breakdown
High-Frequency Clarity
The Gen2 Obsidian tweeter delivers crisp, articulate highs with remarkable precision.
Bass Impact
The 6.5-inch aluminum driver provides surprisingly robust and punchy low-end response.
Soundstage Dispersion
Folded Motion waveguide technology creates a wide, consistent listening sweet spot.
Acoustic Integration
McCracken-Vojtko crossovers ensure seamless transitions between the woofer and tweeter.
Room Versatility
Controlled dispersion design minimizes unwanted reflections in challenging acoustic environments.
Build Quality
Sturdy construction and secure-lock grilles offer a premium, durable aesthetic.
Key Specs
Frequency response
48Hz-23kHz ± 3 dB
Sensitivity
89dB
Folded Motion® Waveguide Enhanced Tweeter Dispersion
90° x 90°
Impedance
5 ohms
Crossover frequency
3800 Hz
Recommended Amp Power
15 - 100 watts
Dimensions
15.01" x 7.75" x 11.49"
Weight
15 lb.
Features
- Award-winning performance recognized by avsforums.com
- Gen2 Obsidian Folded Motion® Tweeter S for exceptional detail and clarity
- Folded Motion® Waveguide enhances sound consistency and controlled dispersion
- 6.5" aluminum cone woofer for robust bass performance
- McCracken-Vojtko Crossovers for refined sound profile
- Controlled Dispersion minimizes room acoustic effects
- Secure-Lock Grilles for customizable appearance
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the MartinLogan Motion Foundation B2 for its exceptional sound quality and sophisticated design. Listeners frequently highlight the clarity and detail in the audio reproduction, noting a rich, immersive experience that exceeds expectations for its category. The speakers' elegant aesthetic also receives high marks, seamlessly blending into various home environments. Many perceive these speakers as offering remarkable value, delivering premium audio performance and build quality typically found in much higher priced systems. This combination of superior sound and appealing design makes them a standout choice.
Know before you buy
The B2 is designed for versatility and can be placed on a bookshelf or a sturdy media console. However, for the best sonic performance and imaging, we recommend using dedicated speaker stands to position the tweeters at ear level.
These speakers are quite efficient with a sensitivity of 89dB. They perform well with amplifiers rated between 15 and 100 watts per channel, making them compatible with most modern integrated amplifiers and receivers.
The waveguide helps control the dispersion of sound, ensuring a consistent audio experience across a wider seating area. It minimizes unwanted reflections from your walls and ceiling, resulting in clearer, more focused sound.
With a 6.5-inch aluminum woofer, the B2 reaches down to 48Hz, which provides a solid foundation for most music. If you are using them in a home theater setup or prefer deep, cinematic bass, adding a dedicated subwoofer will provide that extra low-end extension.
Yes, the speakers feature Secure-Lock grilles that are easily removable. You can choose to leave them on for a clean, protected look or remove them to showcase the aluminum drivers.
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