Klipsch CMS-4 vs MartinLogan 839ML55AWW
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Choosing between the Klipsch CMS-4 and MartinLogan 839ML55AWW? Both compete in the Speaker (L/R) segment. Here’s how they compare across the specs that matter most for your home theater.
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Looking at overall performance dimensions: The Klipsch CMS-4 scores higher in audio quality, volume/SPL. The MartinLogan 839ML55AWW leads in value, form factor, room fit.
For speaker performance, the Klipsch CMS-4 is more sensitive at 92 dB vs 90 dB, and impedances of 6Ω vs 8Ω. Higher sensitivity means your receiver works less hard, leaving more headroom for dynamic peaks in movie soundtracks. A speaker rated 3 dB higher in sensitivity needs half the amplifier power to reach the same volume. Lower impedance draws more current from your receiver. A 4-ohm speaker needs a receiver rated for that load, or you risk thermal shutdown during loud passages.
These two Speaker (L/R) options trade wins across different dimensions. The right choice depends on which specs matter most for your room and listening preferences — review the detailed table below to decide.
For most home theaters, the MartinLogan 839ML55AWW is the stronger choice — it leads in 3 of 5 scored dimensions. The Klipsch CMS-4 makes more sense if you prioritize the 2 dimensions where it leads.
Performance Overview
Scores based on specs and category benchmarks (0–100 scale)
Klipsch CMS-4
MartinLogan 839ML55AWW
Detailed Specifications
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
| Price | N/A | N/A |
| Driver Config | — | — |
| Sensitivity | 92dB | 90dB |
| Impedance | 6Ω | 8Ω |
| Freq Response Low | 51Hz | 85Hz |
| Freq Response High | 135000Hz | 20000Hz |
| Crossover | 4900Hz | 2300Hz |
| Bi-Amp Capable | No | No |
| Rec. Power Min | — | 120W |
| Rec. Power Max | — | — |
| Mounting Type | tower | outdoor |
| Mounting Depth | 11.25" | — |
| Cutout Diameter | 14.12" | — |
| Cutout Width | — | — |
| Cutout Height | — | — |
| Wall Thickness Min | — | — |
| Wall Thickness Max | — | — |
| Back Box Included | No | No |
| Back Box Required | No | No |
| Mounting Mechanism | — | — |
| Installation Type | — | — |
| Stud Spacing | — | — |
| Paintable Grille | No | No |
| Magnetic Grille | No | No |
| Grille Shape | — | — |
| Connector Type | — | — |
| Wire Gauge Max | — | — |
| Angle Adjustable | No | No |
| Pivot Angle | — | — |
| Treble Attenuation Switch | No | No |
| LCR Capable | No | No |
| Coaxial | No | No |
| IP Rating | — | — |
| Moisture Resistant | No | No |
| UV Resistant | No | No |
| Salt Spray Rated | No | No |
| Enclosure Material | — | — |
| Grille Material | — | — |
| Bracket Type | — | — |
| Bracket Included | No | No |
| Dual Voice Coil (SDI) | No | No |
Key Differences
- Freq Response High: Klipsch CMS-4 at 135000Hz vs MartinLogan 839ML55AWW at 20000Hz
- Crossover: Klipsch CMS-4 at 4900Hz vs MartinLogan 839ML55AWW at 2300Hz
- Freq Response Low: Klipsch CMS-4 at 51Hz vs MartinLogan 839ML55AWW at 85Hz. Determines how much bass a speaker handles on its own versus relying on a subwoofer for low-end support.
- Impedance: Klipsch CMS-4 at 6Ω vs MartinLogan 839ML55AWW at 8Ω. Lower impedance draws more current from your receiver. A 4-ohm speaker needs a receiver rated for that load, or you risk thermal shutdown during loud passages.
- Sensitivity: Klipsch CMS-4 at 92dB vs MartinLogan 839ML55AWW at 90dB. Higher sensitivity means your receiver works less hard, leaving more headroom for dynamic peaks in movie soundtracks. A speaker rated 3 dB higher in sensitivity needs half the amplifier power to reach the same volume.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Klipsch CMS-4 if you want:
- + better sensitivity — higher sensitivity means your receiver works less hard, leaving more headroom for dynamic peaks in movie soundtracks
- + better freq response low — determines how much bass a speaker handles on its own versus relying on a subwoofer for low-end support
See Where These Rank
Check our editorial rankings to see how Klipsch CMS-4 and MartinLogan 839ML55AWW compare to the rest of the field.
Best Speaker (L/R) RankingsRelated Calculators
Specifications sourced from manufacturer datasheets and verified against retailer listings. Prices updated hourly from authorized retailers. Scoring uses our open methodology — products are never ranked, promoted, or suppressed based on affiliate commission rates.
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