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Edifier R1280DB vs R1700BT – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Edifier R1700BT & Edifier R1280DB share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the Edifier R1700BT  rather than the  Edifier R1280DB. 

Why Do I Recommend The Edifier R1700BT

  • The Edifier R1700BT features a total 66 W RMS output power for stronger room-filling sound and better dynamic range, whereas the Edifier R1280DB produces only 42 W RMS.
  • Edifier R1700BT comes with larger 0.75-inch silk dome tweeters for smoother and more open high-frequency detail, while the Edifier R1280DB uses smaller 0.5-inch tweeters.
  • It includes a 10-degree angled front cabinet design to project sound more directly toward the listener’s ears for improved clarity, whereas the Edifier R1280DB has a flat, forward-facing design.
  • The Edifier R1700BT features higher input sensitivity on its main line input for stronger signal response and easier pairing with lower-output sources, while the Edifier R1280DB has lower input sensitivity values.
  • Edifier R1700BT has slightly higher distortion control at ≤ 0.5 % for cleaner playback at higher volumes, while the Edifier R1280DB lacks a specified distortion rating.
  • It includes a larger and heavier cabinet structure to enhance internal air volume for deeper and more stable mid-bass performance, whereas the Edifier R1280DB uses a smaller, lighter enclosure.
  • The Edifier R1700BT comes with more powerful internal amplifiers to maintain consistent performance at higher sound levels, while the Edifier R1280DB’s amplifiers are tuned for moderate listening volumes.
  • Edifier R1700BT features a higher power headroom design to handle demanding dynamic peaks in music and movie playback without compression, while the Edifier R1280DB reaches its maximum level earlier.

Maybe the Edifier R1280DB can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Edifier R1700BT. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

Side By Side Comparison

FeatureEdifier R1700BTEdifier R1280DB
Total RMS Power66 W42 W
Power per Speaker33 W21 W
Driver (Tweeter)0.75″ / 19 mm silk dome0.5″ / 13 mm silk dome
Frequency Response60 Hz – 20 kHz55 Hz – 20 kHz
InputsDual RCA, BluetoothOptical, Coaxial, Dual RCA, Bluetooth
Noise Level≤ 25 dB (A)
Distortion≤ 0.5 %
Dimensions (W × H × D)154 × 254 × 214 mm146 × 234 × 196 mm
Net Weight (pair)~6.6 kg~4.9 kg
Input Sensitivity (Line In)In1: 700 ±50 mV; In2: 550 ±50 mVIn1: 450 ±50 mV; In2: 550 ±50 mV
Enclosure Angle~10° tilt upwardFlat / standard
PriceCheck Edifier R1700BT PriceCheck Edifier R1280DB Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Speaker Type: Both are powered bookshelf speakers, meaning they have built-in amplifiers and do not require an external amp or receiver. This makes setup simpler and ideal for desktop or small-room use.
  • Configuration: Each model uses a 2.0 stereo configuration, producing separate left and right channels for accurate sound imaging and balanced stereo separation.
  • Amplifier Type: Both feature Class D amplifiers, known for high efficiency and low heat output, ensuring consistent performance with minimal power consumption.
  • Woofer Size: Each unit uses a 4-inch mid-bass driver, giving a similar tonal balance and mid-range warmth suitable for music and multimedia playback.
  • Tweeter Type: Both employ silk dome tweeters, which deliver smooth and natural high-frequency response without harshness, enhancing long-term listening comfort.
  • Cabinet Material: The enclosures of both speakers are made from MDF wood, which reduces unwanted resonance and improves overall sound clarity and acoustic stability.
  • Bass Reflex Port: Both use front-firing bass reflex ports, improving low-frequency output and allowing flexible placement closer to walls without muffling the sound.
  • Tone Controls: Each speaker provides physical bass and treble adjustment knobs, enabling users to fine-tune tonal balance to their listening environment or preference.
  • Remote Control: Both models include a remote for quick access to volume and playback functions, offering convenience for users who listen from a distance.
  • Bluetooth Connectivity: Each supports Bluetooth wireless streaming, allowing effortless pairing with phones, tablets, and laptops for cable-free music playback.
  • RCA Inputs: Both come with dual RCA analog inputs, permitting simultaneous connection of multiple devices such as a computer and turntable.
  • Signal-to-Noise Ratio: Each maintains a signal-to-noise ratio of at least 85 dB, ensuring a clean audio output with minimal background hiss or distortion.
  • Frequency Range Upper Limit: Both extend to 20 kHz at the high end, providing full coverage of the audible frequency spectrum for crisp treble detail.
  • Compatible Devices: Both can easily integrate with PCs, TVs, laptops, and mobile devices, making them versatile options for mixed entertainment setups.
  • Power Supply: Each model operates on standard 100–240 V AC input, supporting global voltage standards and ensuring consistent power delivery.
  • Design Finish: Both speakers share a wood veneer finish that adds a premium aesthetic while complementing a range of interior styles.

Common Features

FeatureEdifier R1280DBEdifier R1280DB
Speaker TypePowered BookshelfPowered Bookshelf
Configuration2.0 Stereo2.0 Stereo
Amplifier TypeBuilt-in Class DBuilt-in Class D
Woofer Size4″4″
Tweeter TypeSilk DomeSilk Dome
Cabinet MaterialMDF WoodMDF Wood
Bass Reflex PortFront-FiringFront-Firing
Tone ControlsBass and TrebleBass and Treble
Remote ControlYesYes
Bluetooth ConnectivityYesYes
RCA InputsYesYes
Signal-to-Noise Ratio≥ 85 dB≥ 85 dB
Frequency Range Upper Limit20 kHz20 kHz
Compatible DevicesPC, TV, Laptop, SmartphonePC, TV, Laptop, Smartphone
Power Supply100–240 V AC100–240 V AC
Design FinishWood VeneerWood Veneer
Price Check Edifier R1280DB Price
Check Edifier R1280DB Price

FAQ

Are the Edifier R1700BT and R1280DB powered speakers or passive speakers?
Both the Edifier R1700BT and R1280DB are powered speakers, meaning they include built-in amplifiers and do not need an external amp or receiver. This design makes them easy to set up directly with most devices.

Do both speakers support Bluetooth connectivity?
Yes, both models come with built-in Bluetooth functionality, allowing wireless streaming from smartphones, tablets, or laptops without needing any cables.

What is the difference in total power output between the two models?
The Edifier R1700BT has a higher total power output of 66 watts RMS, while the R1280DB delivers 42 watts RMS, making the R1700BT slightly more powerful for larger rooms.

Do both speakers include remote controls?
Yes, both come with remotes that allow volume control and input switching from a distance. However, the R1280DB remote includes buttons for digital input modes such as optical and coaxial.

Can either of these speakers connect to a TV?
Both can connect to TVs, but the R1280DB is more suitable for modern setups because it includes optical and coaxial inputs for digital connections, while the R1700BT relies on analog RCA or Bluetooth.

Do they both have adjustable tone controls?
Yes, both speakers feature physical knobs for bass and treble adjustments located on the side panel, giving users control over sound tuning.

What size are the drivers used in both models?
Each speaker uses a 4-inch mid-bass driver for low and mid frequencies and a silk dome tweeter for smooth high-frequency reproduction.

Are the enclosures made from real wood?
Both models use MDF wood enclosures with a wood veneer finish. This material helps minimize acoustic resonance and contributes to a natural look.

Do the R1700BT and R1280DB support multiple audio inputs?
Yes, both have dual RCA inputs, allowing you to connect two analog devices at the same time. The R1280DB also adds optical and coaxial digital inputs.

Can they be used for computers and laptops?
Yes, both are compatible with PCs and laptops through RCA-to-3.5 mm cables or Bluetooth. They can function as desktop speakers for everyday use.

Do both models produce stereo sound?
Yes, both the R1700BT and R1280DB operate as stereo 2.0 systems, delivering clear left and right channel separation for balanced sound imaging.

Do these speakers include any subwoofer output?
Neither model includes a dedicated subwoofer output, so they function as full-range bookshelf speakers without external bass expansion.

Are the frequency ranges similar between both models?
Yes, both extend up to 20 kHz on the high end, with only a small difference on the low end—60 Hz for the R1700BT and 55 Hz for the R1280DB.

Are these speakers suitable for gaming setups?
Both models work well for gaming on PCs or consoles due to their clear stereo separation and Bluetooth or wired connectivity options. The R1280DB’s digital inputs can be especially useful for console gaming.

Which model is better for users with multiple devices?
The R1280DB is better suited for users who switch between multiple sources like TVs, consoles, and PCs, thanks to its additional optical and coaxial inputs, while the R1700BT is ideal for simpler analog or Bluetooth setups.