Edifier R1700BTs Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers review powerful sound with subwoofer output

Description

Pros of the Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers

I’ve been testing the Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers, and I must say, these speakers deliver a lot for their size and price point. From sound clarity to design, they tick a lot of boxes. Let me dive into what stood out during my experience.

• Exceptional Sound Quality: The 19mm silk dome tweeter and 4-inch woofer work together to provide a clean, natural sound. Whether I was streaming music, watching movies, or playing games, the 66W RMS power output ensured an immersive, distortion-free audio experience.
• Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD: Connecting my phone and laptop was seamless, and the aptX HD codec delivered high-quality 24-bit audio that felt almost lossless. It’s a game-changer for wireless audio.
• Subwoofer Output with Auto Detection: I loved that I could easily add a subwoofer via the SUB OUT port. The built-in crossover made integration hassle-free, automatically detecting the subwoofer for optimal performance.
• Customizable EQ Controls: The side panel knobs let me tweak treble and bass to my liking. It’s a small feature, but it adds a layer of personalization that’s highly appreciated.
• Dual RCA Inputs: Having the ability to connect two devices at once without constantly unplugging cables is such a small convenience, but it made a big difference in my setup.

Flaws in the Edifier R1700BTs Speakers

While these speakers are impressive, no product is without its quirks. Here are a few things I think could be improved:

• Limited Bluetooth Range: Despite the 10-meter range, I noticed occasional signal drops when I moved between rooms. It’s not a dealbreaker, but something to keep in mind if you plan to use them in a larger space.
• No Waterproofing: Although it’s not a major issue for bookshelf speakers, the lack of waterproofing means they’re strictly for indoor use. Be cautious about placement near drinks or in humid environments.
• Bulky Design for Some Spaces: At 6.06″ x 8.43″ x 10″, these speakers might feel a bit large for compact desks or shelves. They look great, but they do demand some real estate.

Design and Build Quality

The aesthetic of these speakers is a major highlight. The wooden finish gives them a retro yet sophisticated look, making them a great addition to any room decor. They feel sturdy, and at 14.55 pounds, they’re solid without being overly heavy. The tactile side panel controls are easy to use and add to the overall user-friendly design.

One aspect I appreciated was the inclusion of a wireless remote control. It’s simple but effective, allowing me to switch between Bluetooth and line-in modes or adjust volume from across the room. That said, the remote does feel a bit lightweight, and I occasionally worried about its durability.

Performance and Soundfield Spatializer

The Soundfield Spatializer button was a fun feature to test. When I activated it, it created a wider soundstage, making the audio feel more immersive. It’s particularly great for movies or live concert recordings. However, I found that for music with heavy bass, the effect could sometimes feel artificial. Still, it’s a nice touch that adds versatility to the speakers.

The signal-to-noise ratio of 85 dB ensures minimal background noise, allowing the rich audio details to shine through. Whether it was soft vocals or booming basslines, the speakers handled everything with impressive clarity.

Competing Products

Compared to competitors like the Audioengine A5+ and Klipsch R-15PM, the Edifier R1700BTs offer a strong balance of features at a more affordable price. The Audioengine A5+ is known for its superior sound quality, but it comes with a hefty price tag and lacks some of the convenience features like a built-in subwoofer output. On the other hand, the Klipsch R-15PM delivers punchy bass and a sleek design, but it doesn’t include aptX HD for high-quality Bluetooth streaming.

Where the Edifier R1700BTs really shines is its value-packed feature set. The dual RCA inputs, customizable EQ, and Bluetooth 5.0 make it a versatile option for home audio setups. However, if you prioritize raw sound performance over features, you might prefer one of the alternatives.

Affordable Quality

For what they offer, these speakers are a solid investment. The combination of high-quality sound, modern connectivity options, and classic design makes them a great choice for anyone looking to upgrade their audio setup without breaking the bank. While they aren’t the cheapest option out there, the balance of features and performance ensures you’re getting your money’s worth.

Considering the subwoofer output, aptX HD support, and customizable controls, these speakers provide a level of versatility that’s hard to find in this price range. If you’re looking for a mix of style, functionality, and sound quality, these might just be worth every penny.

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