Klipsch R-3800-C vs MartinLogan 839ML55AWW
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Choosing between the Klipsch R-3800-C 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 R-3800-C scores higher in audio quality, volume/SPL, form factor. The MartinLogan 839ML55AWW leads in value, room fit.
For speaker performance, the Klipsch R-3800-C is more sensitive at 95 dB vs 90 dB. 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.
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 Klipsch R-3800-C is the stronger choice — it leads in 3 of 5 scored dimensions. The MartinLogan 839ML55AWW 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 R-3800-C
MartinLogan 839ML55AWW
Detailed Specifications
| Specification | ||
|---|---|---|
| Price | N/A | N/A |
| Driver Config | 2-way | — |
| Sensitivity | 95dB | 90dB |
| Impedance | 8Ω | 8Ω |
| Freq Response Low | 48Hz | 85Hz |
| Freq Response High | 20000Hz | 20000Hz |
| Crossover | 2600Hz | 2300Hz |
| Bi-Amp Capable | No | No |
| Rec. Power Min | — | 120W |
| Rec. Power Max | — | — |
| Mounting Type | tower | outdoor |
| Mounting Depth | 4.5" | — |
| Cutout Diameter | 11" | — |
| 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 | 12AWG | — |
| 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 Low: Klipsch R-3800-C at 48Hz vs MartinLogan 839ML55AWW at 85Hz. Determines how much bass a speaker handles on its own versus relying on a subwoofer for low-end support.
- Crossover: Klipsch R-3800-C at 2600Hz vs MartinLogan 839ML55AWW at 2300Hz
- Sensitivity: Klipsch R-3800-C at 95dB 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.
- Driver Config: Klipsch R-3800-C at 2-way vs MartinLogan 839ML55AWW at —. 3-way speakers use dedicated drivers for bass, midrange, and treble, reducing crossover interference. Coaxial designs (KEF Uni-Q) mount the tweeter inside the woofer for better time-alignment.
- Rec. Power Min: Klipsch R-3800-C at — vs MartinLogan 839ML55AWW at 120W
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Klipsch R-3800-C 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 R-3800-C 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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