Edifier R1280T vs Edifier R1700BT: A Comparison

When it comes to bookshelf speakers, Edifier is a brand that consistently delivers high-quality audio products with a stylish design. Among their offerings, the R1280T and R1700BT stand out as popular options, each catering to different audio needs and preferences. While both speakers provide excellent sound quality and feature sleek wooden enclosures, they differ in key aspects like connectivity, sound power, and design. In this comparison, we will dive deep into the similarities and differences between the Edifier R1280T and Edifier R1700BT, helping you decide which speaker best fits your home audio setup.

1. Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers

The Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers offer a great balance between classic design and modern sound performance. With a wooden enclosure and retro aesthetic, these speakers are a perfect fit for any home decor while providing excellent audio quality. The 42 watts RMS power output ensures clear and well-balanced sound, whether you’re listening to music, watching movies, or playing games. These speakers are particularly popular with users who connect their turntables, delivering warm, rich sound for vinyl enthusiasts. The convenience of dual AUX inputs allows users to connect two devices simultaneously, eliminating the need for constant plugging and unplugging. Additionally, the built-in tone control with adjustments for bass and treble provides versatility, ensuring that you can fine-tune the sound to your liking.

In terms of functionality, the Edifier R1280T excels in ease of use. The included remote control makes adjusting the volume and muting the speakers simple from a distance. The side panel knobs offer easy access to volume and EQ controls, allowing you to customize the sound with a range of -6 to +6 dB. The package comes with all the necessary cables, including RCA and AUX, making it easy to set up right out of the box. On the downside, while the speakers offer solid sound quality for their price, they may not provide the deep bass or extensive volume that audiophiles might crave.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

1. 42 watts RMS power output for clear, balanced sound.
2. Dual AUX inputs for simultaneous connection to two devices.
3. Built-in tone control (bass and treble adjustments from -6 to +6 dB).
4. Convenient remote control for volume and mute adjustments.
5. Classic wooden enclosure with a retro design.

Pros:

1. Great sound quality for the price.
2. Easy setup with all necessary cables included.
3. Solid construction with a premium wood finish.
4. Dual AUX inputs for easy switching between devices.
5. Remote control for convenient volume adjustments.

Cons:

1. Lacks deep bass for audiophiles.

2. Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speaker

The Edifier R1700BT 66-Watt-RMS Amplified Bluetooth Bookshelf Speaker System provides excellent value for those looking for high-quality audio without needing external equipment. With a built-in amplifier offering 66 watts of power (33 watts per speaker), these speakers deliver a clear, balanced sound that is neither too bass-heavy nor too sharp. The Bluetooth connectivity allows for seamless streaming from a variety of devices, making it incredibly convenient for modern users who want to easily connect their phones, tablets, or computers. The speakers’ 10° tilt angle directs sound towards your ears, improving the listening experience, especially for tabletop setups. Whether you’re listening to music, watching movies, or gaming, these speakers offer a satisfying audio performance that rivals other options in the same price range.

In addition to their solid sound performance, the R1700BT speakers boast a sleek design with a wood finish that enhances any room’s aesthetics. Customers particularly appreciate the dual RCA inputs, which allow for simultaneous connection to multiple devices without the hassle of unplugging and re-plugging cables. The overall setup process is straightforward, with no need for an external amplifier, making them a plug-and-play solution. On the downside, while the sound quality is great for casual listening, audiophiles may find the bass lacking depth.

Key Features, Pros, and Cons

Key Features:

1. Built-in 66-watt amplifier for easy setup without external equipment.
2. Bluetooth connectivity for wireless streaming from compatible devices.
3. 10° tilt angle directs sound towards the listener for an improved audio experience.
4. Dual RCA inputs allow simultaneous connection of multiple devices.
5. Frequency response range from 55 Hz to 20 kHz for clear, balanced sound.

Pros:

1. High-quality sound for the price, with clear and balanced output.
2. Convenient Bluetooth streaming from various devices.
3. Easy setup with no need for an external amplifier.
4. Stylish design with a wood finish that fits most home decors.
5. Dual RCA inputs reduce the need for constant unplugging.

Cons:

1. Bass may lack depth for those seeking powerful low-end sound.

Edifier R1280T vs Edifier R1700BT: A Comprehensive Comparison

When considering bookshelf speakers, two models from Edifier stand out: the R1280T and the R1700BT. Both speakers offer a solid performance, stylish design, and ease of use, but each has its unique features that may appeal to different users.

Sound Quality and Performance

Both the R1280T and R1700BT offer a good balance of sound quality, but the R1700BT stands out with its higher power output and modern features.

• R1280T: The R1280T delivers 42 watts RMS (42 watts in total), which is sufficient for casual listening and smaller to medium-sized rooms. It produces clear, balanced sound with minimal distortion, with a frequency response range of 80 Hz to 20 kHz. However, while the treble and mid-range are well-defined, the bass may not be as deep or pronounced as more powerful models.
• R1700BT: With a built-in amplifier that delivers a total of 66 watts RMS (33 watts per speaker), the R1700BT is louder and more dynamic than the R1280T. Its frequency response spans 55 Hz to 20 kHz, allowing for more detailed bass reproduction. The sound is warm and full without being overly bass-heavy or shrill, making it ideal for a broader range of audio content, including music, movies, and gaming.

Comparison Table: Sound Quality

Feature	Edifier R1280T	Edifier R1700BT
RMS Power	42 watts (total)	66 watts (total, 33 watts per speaker)
Frequency Response	80 Hz – 20 kHz	55 Hz – 20 kHz
Bass Performance	Balanced but not deep	Better bass response with more depth
Sound Clarity	Clear treble and mid-range	Clear across all frequencies

Connectivity Options

When it comes to connectivity, the R1700BT has the edge due to its Bluetooth functionality.

• R1280T: The R1280T offers two AUX inputs, which are convenient for connecting devices with a 3.5mm or dual RCA output. While these connections work well for most traditional devices like computers, TV, or turntables, the lack of Bluetooth may be a limitation for users who want wireless streaming. The setup process is simple, but it requires wired connections for all devices.
• R1700BT: In contrast, the R1700BT has Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to stream audio wirelessly from compatible devices like smartphones, tablets, or laptops. This eliminates the need for cables and makes it much more versatile, especially for users who prefer wireless setups. The speaker also includes dual RCA inputs, so you can connect two devices simultaneously without needing to unplug and swap cables.

Comparison Table: Connectivity

Feature	Edifier R1280T	Edifier R1700BT
Bluetooth Connectivity	No	Yes
RCA Inputs	2	2
AUX Input	1 (3.5mm and RCA)	1 (3.5mm and RCA)
Additional Connections	None	Bluetooth and dual RCA

Design and Build

Both speakers boast a classic, stylish design, but the R1700BT adds a modern twist with some user-friendly features.

• R1280T: The R1280T features a retro design with a high-quality MDF wood enclosure finished with a wood-effect vinyl. The warm wood finish is perfect for home decor, and the 10° tilt angle directs sound towards the listener for a better audio experience. The side panel controls for volume and tone adjustment add convenience, but the speaker’s size and aesthetic give it a more vintage appeal.
• R1700BT: The R1700BT shares a similar wooden finish, but its modern Bluetooth functionality and higher build quality provide a more refined design. The speakers’ 10° tilt angle is also present here, optimizing the sound direction. The R1700BT’s overall look is slightly more contemporary, and it comes with a remote control, adding ease of use for volume control and muting from a distance.

Comparison Table: Design and Build

Feature	Edifier R1280T	Edifier R1700BT
Finish	MDF wood with vinyl wood effect	MDF wood with vinyl wood effect
Tilt Angle	10° angle	10° angle
Remote Control	No	Yes
Design Style	Retro/Vintage	Modern with retro elements

Price and Value for Money

In terms of price, the R1280T is generally more affordable than the R1700BT, making it a great choice for budget-conscious buyers. The R1700BT’s added Bluetooth functionality, remote control, and higher power output justify its higher price point, but for users who don’t need Bluetooth and can settle for wired connections, the R1280T offers excellent value at a lower cost.

FAQ

What is the difference in sound quality between the Edifier R1280T and the R1700BT?

The Edifier R1280T provides a more balanced sound with 42 watts of total output, making it ideal for smaller to medium-sized rooms. It has clear midranges and treble but may lack depth in the bass department. The R1700BT, on the other hand, offers a higher power output of 66 watts, producing richer bass and a more dynamic overall sound profile. It also has a wider frequency response range (55 Hz to 20 kHz), which allows it to capture more detail in the low-end frequencies, making it a better option for those who enjoy fuller bass and a more robust sound experience.

Can I connect multiple devices to these speakers at once?

Yes, both the Edifier R1280T and R1700BT offer multiple input options. The R1280T has two AUX inputs, allowing you to connect two devices at the same time without needing to unplug one to use another. The R1700BT also offers dual RCA inputs in addition to its Bluetooth functionality. This allows for seamless switching between devices, making it convenient for users who want to connect both wired and wireless devices without hassle.

How easy is it to set up the Edifier R1280T and R1700BT?

Both the R1280T and R1700BT are very easy to set up. The R1280T requires no external amplifier and only needs to be plugged into your audio source using either the AUX or RCA inputs. The setup is simple, especially for users who are connecting to traditional devices like computers or turntables. The R1700BT is similarly easy to set up, and in addition to wired RCA connections, it also offers Bluetooth pairing, allowing for wireless connection to devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops. This makes the R1700BT a more versatile and user-friendly option for modern audio setups.

Is Bluetooth connectivity available on both models?

No, the Edifier R1280T does not have Bluetooth connectivity, so it requires a physical wired connection to your devices. If you’re looking for a speaker that offers wireless streaming from your phone or tablet, the R1700BT is the better choice as it includes Bluetooth pairing capability. This makes the R1700BT more convenient for users who prefer a wireless audio experience.

Which speaker is better for listening to vinyl records?

Both the Edifier R1280T and R1700BT are excellent for vinyl enthusiasts. The R1280T is often favored for its vintage design and clear, warm sound, making it a great companion for turntables. However, the R1700BT provides a more powerful output and enhanced bass performance, which may appeal to users who want more dynamic sound when playing vinyl. The choice will depend on your personal preference for either a more traditional, balanced sound or a more modern, powerful listening experience.

Final Verdict

Both the R1280T and R1700BT are fantastic bookshelf speakers, but they cater to different needs. If you’re looking for a more affordable, wired solution with solid sound quality for casual listening, the R1280T is a great option. However, if you want a modern, wireless setup with more power and the convenience of Bluetooth streaming, the R1700BT is the better choice.

Key Differences:

• R1280T is more budget-friendly, with wired connections only.
• R1700BT offers Bluetooth, higher RMS power, and a remote control for added convenience.