There is a unique frustration inherent in setting up a quality audio system in a modern, space-constrained environment. For years, audiophiles were forced into complex configurations: passive speakers, giant external amplifiers, miles of speaker cable, and multiple source components. The result was often fantastic sound quality, but at the expense of desk space, aesthetic appeal, and simplicity. We encountered this problem constantly in our testing lab—the need for speakers that could handle the precise requirements of near-field studio monitoring while seamlessly transitioning to high-quality wireless streaming for everyday leisure.
The core challenge is balancing compact size with genuine power and sonic fidelity. Many smaller active speakers sacrifice bass extension or clarity at high volumes. If you are a creator, a dedicated gamer, or simply someone who appreciates music as it was intended, settling for tinny, weak desktop audio is not an option. Ignoring this crucial need for capable, powered speakers leads to ear fatigue, missed sonic detail, and ultimately, a less enjoyable experience. We began our investigation into the Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers precisely because they promise to deliver professional performance without demanding a professional setup or price tag, offering a powerful, elegant, and versatile solution designed for the modern desktop environment. We were keen to discover if they could truly bridge the gap between audiophile precision and plug-and-play simplicity.
The market is flooded with active speakers, but finding one that integrates advanced features like high-fidelity Bluetooth streaming (aptX) and, crucially, a dedicated subwoofer output for future expansion, is rare in this category. The Edifier R1700BTs aims to be the definitive answer for those looking to upgrade their audio experience without compromising space or sound quality. You can see its full feature set and impressive connectivity options, which immediately set it apart from its lower-tier siblings.
- BLUETOOTH 5.0 WITH QUALCOMM APTX - Easily connect to your phone, laptop or tablet for wireless listening enjoyment, suitable for iOS, Android, Mac, or Windows devices.
- SUB OUT - Sub-out port for connecting an external subwoofer. Dual RCA inputs for phone, TV, DVD, PC connection, support connect to two devices at the same time, no plugging needed.
Crucial Considerations Before Investing in Bookshelf Speakers
A Bookshelf Speaker is more than just an item; it is a key solution for integrating high-quality, continuous sound into compact or near-field settings without requiring complex outboard amplification. This product category solves the inherent issues of PC speakers (which lack depth and soundstage) and passive Hi-Fi systems (which require an external receiver). The main benefits include superior stereo imaging, robust power delivery, and specialized driver technology tailored for detailed reproduction.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the challenge of limited space, such as a studio apartment dweller, a dedicated desktop musician needing accurate near-field monitoring, or a media consumer who requires simple connectivity for multiple devices (PC, TV, Bluetooth source). These speakers are excellent for rooms up to medium size (20-30 square meters). Conversely, the Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers might not be suitable for those who require massive sound pressure levels to fill a very large, open-plan living space or those seeking complex multi-room network connectivity (which often requires different, proprietary wireless ecosystems). For those users, we would generally recommend larger passive tower speakers paired with a high-wattage receiver, or specialized wireless multi-room alternatives like Sonos.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Active bookshelf speakers, by their nature, contain the amplifier within one of the cabinets (the active or master speaker). This means they require power access and cable management between the two units. The Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers are surprisingly compact at 21.4 x 15.4 x 25.4 cm, but they must be placed on solid, level surfaces, ideally away from walls to prevent boominess from the rear porting. Pay close attention to the depth (21.4 cm) to ensure they fit comfortably on your desktop or bookshelf without jutting out.
- Capacity/Performance: When evaluating active speakers, the RMS (Root Mean Square) power output is a key metric, as it represents continuous, undistorted power. The Edifier R1700BTs boast a robust 66 Watts RMS. This power is split, delivering 15W per channel to the 19mm silk dome tweeters and 18W per channel to the 4-inch woofer. This headroom ensures that the speakers can handle sudden dynamic changes in music or film soundtracks without clipping or strain. Furthermore, look for frequency response; with a range up to 20 KHz, these speakers provide exceptional high-end clarity. It is this combination of power and driver quality that provides the system’s value. You can check the latest price and availability for a system packing this much acoustic punch.
- Materials & Durability: The enclosure material is vital for acoustic performance. The Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers use a high-quality wooden enclosure (MDF). Unlike cheaper plastic or composite alternatives, wood significantly dampens internal resonance and standing waves, resulting in a cleaner, more accurate sound reproduction. The Oak finish also adds an element of classic, premium aesthetic appeal that often costs much more in competing brands. We found the overall construction to be extremely solid and confidence-inspiring, backed by a commendable 2-year full warranty.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: The true measure of a great active speaker is usability. Look for dedicated physical controls for volume, bass, and treble—features the Edifier R1700BTs provide conveniently on the side panel of the active speaker. Furthermore, source switching (Bluetooth/Line-in) should be simple, a task handled effortlessly by the supplied wireless remote control. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional dusting of the drivers (if the grilles are removed) and ensuring the speaker cables remain securely attached. The long-term advantage of active speakers is that there is no amplifier maintenance required.
While the Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- 【SMALL HIFI BOOKSHELF SPEAKERS】SW-208 is a small bookshelf speaker with HiFi sound quality. It adopts standard bookshelf speaker system design, i.e. direct/reflective speaker system. Can be placed...
- POWERFUL SOUND: With a combined total output power of 24W (RMS), these desktop speakers utilize a digital amplifier to deliver 15W to each stereo pair while offering dynamic range control (DRC). It...
- Premium compact HiFi sound: Designed for discerning listeners, KUPID delivers sophisticated, room-filling sound with crystal clear highs and rich lows – all in a sleek, compact form.
Unboxing the Precision: First Impressions and Key Design Features of the Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers
The arrival of the Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers suggests serious equipment. The box itself is substantial, reflective of the total weight of 7.32 Kilograms, largely due to the dense MDF wooden enclosure and the integrated amplifier. Upon unboxing, the immediate impression is one of high-value aesthetics. The Oak finish is warm and detailed, looking far more premium than many competitor models in this price bracket. They are elegantly angled upwards by 10 degrees, a critical design feature we immediately appreciated.
This deliberate angle is designed to optimize the near-field listening experience. When placed on a desktop, the drivers are naturally aimed toward the listener’s ears, ensuring superior soundstage and minimizing desktop reflections—a true mark of thoughtful acoustic engineering borrowed from studio monitors. Setup is exceedingly straightforward: connect the power cable to the master speaker, connect the proprietary speaker cable to the passive speaker, and you are ready to connect your sources. The controls are discreetly located on the side panel of the main unit, allowing for tactile adjustments to Bass, Treble, and Volume without needing the remote, which we found invaluable for quick tuning. Compared to earlier Edifier models which often lacked the crucial Sub-out port, the R1700BTs feels like the natural evolution, retaining the classic good looks while injecting essential modern functionality.
The inclusion of the dedicated subwoofer line-out is arguably the single most important physical change to this iteration. It future-proofs the system and fundamentally changes its performance ceiling, transforming it from a simple 2.0 system into a genuine 2.1 powerhouse if required. This feature alone makes the Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers a compelling consideration for any serious audio enthusiast planning long-term upgrades. When you look at the price point, this combination of build quality, power, and connectivity makes the R1700BTs stand out in a crowded market. If you are ready to elevate your desktop sound, we highly recommend you check the technical specifications and user insights before making your final decision.
Key Benefits
- Powerful 66W RMS Output provides significant audio headroom and clarity.
- Dedicated Subwoofer Line Out port enables future 2.1 expansion and improved bass performance.
- Bluetooth 5.0 with Qualcomm aptX ensures high-quality, seamless wireless streaming.
- Aesthetically pleasing and acoustically superior wooden MDF enclosure.
- 10-degree angled design optimized specifically for superior near-field desktop listening.
Drawbacks
- The included wireless remote control feels somewhat basic and flimsy compared to the quality of the speakers themselves.
- The 4-inch woofer requires the addition of a subwoofer for true, rumbling low-frequency effects in large rooms (though this is mitigated by the Sub-out feature).
Performance Under Scrutiny: A Deep Dive into the Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers’s Capabilities
To truly understand the value proposition of the Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers, we must move beyond specifications and analyze how they translate into real-world performance. Our extensive testing focused on four core pillars: raw acoustic power and driver accuracy, connectivity reliability, future-proofing potential, and overall ergonomic design. What we discovered confirms these are far more than just “desktop speakers”; they are near-field studio monitors disguised in consumer-friendly cabinetry.
Precision Audio Delivery: Driver Accuracy and 66W RMS Headroom
The cornerstone of any great speaker system is the driver technology. The Edifier R1700BTs utilizes a proven two-way configuration: a 4-inch woofer for the mid-range and bass, paired with a 19mm (0.75-inch) silk dome tweeter for the high frequencies. This pairing is critical. Silk dome tweeters are revered for their smooth, non-fatiguing high-frequency reproduction, providing detail without the harshness often associated with metallic domes. During our listening tests, we found that instruments like cymbals, strings, and vocal sibilants were handled with remarkable transparency and airiness, a crucial feature for anyone editing audio or simply enjoying high-resolution tracks.
The 66W RMS power output provides substantial dynamic range. We pushed the Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers through various genres, from intricate classical recordings to heavy electronic dance music, and they maintained composure. The key here is the headroom. Even at high volumes, distortion remained negligibly low, confirming the high Signal-to-Noise Ratio (85 dB). Furthermore, the design incorporates a 10-degree tilt, which is crucial for desktop use. By physically angling the sound upwards, Edifier has managed to ensure that the listener receives the full frequency spectrum in perfect alignment, drastically improving the stereo image and clarity, which is often lost when speakers are placed flat on a desk. This architectural design makes the soundstage feel immediately wider and more enveloping than flat-fronted competitors.
We verified these expert findings against user reports, noting a general sense of surprise regarding the speaker’s ability to produce such a large sound from relatively small cabinets. One enthusiastic owner stated, “Wow, who’d have thought so much sound and volume could come out of such tiny cabinets. The sound easily fills my room…” This confirms that the internal amplification and driver tuning are highly efficient, translating that 66W RMS into significant, room-filling acoustic energy. While the 4-inch woofer is inherently limited in delivering subterranean bass, the overall performance—especially the mid-range punch and treble sparkle—is exemplary for a speaker of this dimension and class. The careful balancing of these dynamic drivers and the generous RMS output is what truly defines the sonic superiority of the Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers, making them an incredible audio asset for the price point. If fidelity and clarity are paramount, you should explore the technical specs of these advanced drivers.
Advanced Wireless and Wired Flexibility: The Connectivity Ecosystem
In the age of streaming, an active speaker system must excel in connectivity, and the Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers deliver this versatility with conviction. The integration of Bluetooth v5.0 is the baseline, offering a stable and reliable wireless connection with an effective range of 10 metres. However, the true game-changer is the support for Qualcomm aptX. AptX is a crucial codec that allows for near-CD quality audio transmission over Bluetooth, significantly minimizing the compression and quality degradation common in basic Bluetooth connections. This feature is paramount for listeners using modern smartphones, tablets, and computers capable of transmitting in aptX, providing a seamless high-fidelity wireless experience that we found completely reliable throughout our testing period.
Beyond wireless, the wired inputs provide essential flexibility. The system includes Dual RCA inputs (Line In 1 and Line In 2), allowing users to connect two analog devices simultaneously—for example, a television and a PC, or a dedicated CD player and a modern turntable (via an external preamp). This dual-input capability eliminates the tedious process of constantly swapping cables, making the speakers a central hub for multiple audio sources. Source switching is intuitively managed either via the side panel or the included remote. The ability to instantly jump from a high-resolution file on a connected PC to an impromptu music selection streamed wirelessly via a phone, all while maintaining excellent sound quality via aptX, showcases a level of convenience and sonic integration that is difficult to find elsewhere.
The overall system architecture recognizes the need for both legacy connections and modern streaming standards. This thoughtful inclusion of high-quality Bluetooth, combined with dual analog inputs, ensures that the Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers can integrate effortlessly into virtually any home or office setup. This versatility is one of the chief reasons we classify them as a superior audio investment, ready for both today’s streaming landscape and yesterday’s beloved analog devices. We found the aptX support a feature that really sets it apart from basic Bluetooth speakers.
Future-Proofing through Expansion: The Dedicated Subwoofer Line Out
While the 66W RMS output and 4-inch drivers provide excellent performance, physics dictate that deep, seismic bass requires a dedicated driver larger than 4 inches. Edifier addressed this long-standing limitation head-on with the R1700BTs iteration by including a dedicated Sub-out port. This is not merely a technical specification; it is a fundamental shift in the speaker’s potential, allowing the system to scale dramatically.
The Subwoofer Line Out allows the user to easily connect any powered subwoofer, immediately transforming the 2.0 system into a genuine 2.1 setup. When a subwoofer is connected, the R1700BTs typically implement a crossover frequency, meaning the main bookshelf speakers are relieved of the burden of producing the lowest frequencies (typically below 80 Hz). This delegation of duties results in two dramatic performance benefits. First, the subwoofer provides the deep rumble and impact necessary for movies and bass-heavy music that the 4-inch woofers simply cannot reproduce. Second, and critically, by no longer needing to handle extreme low-end frequencies, the 4-inch woofers can focus all their power and movement on reproducing the critical mid-range and upper-bass frequencies with significantly greater clarity and punch.
This observation was highly reinforced by real-world user feedback, particularly concerning the impact of adding a sub. One user confirmed this synergistic effect, noting, “And paired with the Edifier bass speaker, you definitely hit the next level… Almost as if the bass speaker adds volume, but it doesn’t really it just appears that way but the bass speaker adds a massive oomph.” This “massive oomph” is the physical confirmation of the optimized sound profile created by offloading the bass duties. For users who might not have the budget for a subwoofer immediately but plan to upgrade later, the R1700BTs offers a pathway to true audiophile 2.1 sound without needing to replace their primary speakers. This feature alone establishes the Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers as a leader in terms of long-term audio investment and adaptability within the active bookshelf category. It provides incredible value and removes the performance ceiling often associated with smaller drivers. If scalability is important to you, we strongly recommend reviewing this model’s Sub-out capabilities.
Ergonomics, Aesthetics, and Build Longevity
Beyond the internal components, the daily interaction with the Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers is defined by their construction and control scheme. The use of a dense, protective wooden enclosure is not just for looks; it is fundamental to the system’s acoustic performance. The rigidity of the MDF minimizes cabinet vibrations, ensuring that the sound you hear comes directly from the drivers and not from rattling plastic or resonating panels. The classic Oak finish gives them a timeless look that blends seamlessly into professional studio settings or warm home environments.
From an ergonomic standpoint, the side-mounted control panel is a huge advantage. While the remote is useful for volume and source switching from a distance, the ability to instantly adjust bass and treble via dedicated, tactile knobs allows for immediate sound personalization based on genre or acoustic environment. This granular control is essential for desktop users who often move between listening near-field (requiring less bass) and listening across a room (where a slight bass boost might be needed). The speakers also include all necessary connecting cables right out of the box, ensuring that setup is truly plug-and-play.
Finally, the build longevity is supported by Edifier’s commitment to a 2-year full warranty, a testament to the durability of the components. The weight and density of the units speak to their robust construction, confirming their capability to withstand years of regular use, whether as primary studio monitors or as a high-quality home audio source.
Confirming the Verdict: What Other Users Are Saying
Our expert analysis of the Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers is strongly corroborated by feedback from the wider user base, confirming that the key performance metrics—power, clarity, and upgrade path—are universally appreciated. The most prominent theme across user reviews is the surprising sound output relative to the speaker size.
Many users shared our initial shock at the volume and fullness of the sound delivered by the 4-inch drivers. We noted that this performance ceiling is often credited to the generous 66W RMS power. As one user aptly summarized, they are “Great sounding shelf speakers definitely recommend.” Another detailed reviewer passionately described the impact of expansion, noting that the system, even when pushed, delivers excellent sound, and that pairing it with a subwoofer created a “massive oomph,” affirming our hypothesis that the dedicated Sub-out port fundamentally elevates the system’s performance envelope.
However, we must also address potential buying risks. One user reported receiving goods that were clearly opened and re-packaged, rather than brand new, despite paying full price. While this specific issue relates to the fulfillment process and the seller’s inventory management rather than a product flaw, it serves as a cautionary note for buyers to inspect their shipment carefully upon arrival to ensure the product is factory-sealed and undamaged. Overall, the consensus remains overwhelmingly positive: the Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers provide exceptional acoustic quality and feature density at their accessible price point. They deliver on the promise of studio-grade sound for the modern desktop, earning strong endorsements across the audio community. This consistent positive feedback should give prospective buyers confidence in their acoustic performance, and you can verify this user consensus by reading more reviews from satisfied customers.
The Competition: Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers Compared to Top Alternatives
While the Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers occupy a dominant position in the active speaker market, particularly for those demanding a Sub-out port and aptX, it is essential to understand how they stack up against rivals, including popular models from their own brand and competitors from other ecosystems.
1. Edifier R1280DB Active Bookshelf Speakers
- BLUETOOTH WIRELESS - Popular classic bookshelf speakers now can be enjoyed without the hassle of wires. Simply connection to an iPhone, Android, Tablet, PC or Mac.
- STUDIO SOUND QUALITY - Naturally fine tuned sound reproduction from 4 inch bass and 13mm silk dome tweeter.
The Edifier R1280DB Active Bookshelf Speakers represent the brand’s popular entry point. They share the same stylish wood enclosure aesthetic and offer standard Bluetooth connectivity, along with versatile wired inputs (including Optical and Coaxial inputs, which the R1700BTs lack, offering a specific benefit for TV connectivity). However, the major differences lie in power and expansion. The R1280DB delivers significantly less power, rated at only 42 Watts RMS (compared to the R1700BTs’ 66W RMS). Crucially, the R1280DB lacks the dedicated Subwoofer Line Out port. This means that while they are cheaper and excellent for very small rooms or basic desktop use, they have a fixed performance ceiling and cannot be upgraded to a 2.1 system. Users prioritizing budget and optical input over raw power and future bass expansion will prefer the R1280DB, but for demanding listeners, the R1700BTs offer essential headroom and scalability.
2. Edifier R1280DBs Bluetooth 5.0 Speakers
- BLUETOOTH 5.0 - Pair the speaker with your smartphone, tablet, Mac, or laptop to play music wirelessly, no need to deal with messy wires.
- SUB OUT AND OPT/COAX INPUTS - Subwoofer output with automatic detection and built-in crossover. Optical and coaxial inputs to ensure a lossless connection to TVs and computers.
The Edifier R1280DBs Bluetooth 5.0 Speakers are a direct step up from the R1280DB, and a much closer competitor to the R1700BTs. This iteration successfully incorporates the highly desired Sub-out port, matching one of the R1700BTs’ most critical features. They also boast modern Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity. However, they remain limited in raw power output, settling at the familiar 42 Watts RMS. This 24-watt difference in RMS power is highly noticeable in dynamic transients and high-volume listening, where the R1700BTs provide substantial extra headroom and distortion resistance. While the R1280DBs offer the essential 2.1 upgrade path, those seeking near-field monitor capabilities or who frequently listen in medium-sized rooms should opt for the higher-powered R1700BTs to benefit from the superior dynamic range and output capacity. For a slight increase in investment, the R1700BTs deliver a significant acoustic advantage, and you can check the enhanced power rating here.
3. Sonos One SL Wireless Speaker
- Compact design fits just about any space and put it on your kitchen countertop or tuck it away on your office bookshelf
- Airplay 2 on Sonos - stream sound directly from your iPhone or iPad and ask Siri to play Apple Music
The Sonos One SL Wireless Speaker represents a fundamental philosophical departure from the Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers. The Sonos system is designed primarily for multi-room, WiFi-based streaming within an exclusive ecosystem. It offers superior convenience for whole-house audio and smart home integration (though the SL lacks the voice assistant of the full Sonos One). The Sonos is a single, monophonic unit requiring a second purchase to achieve true stereo imaging, and it relies entirely on app control and network connectivity. Crucially, the Sonos One SL lacks any dedicated wired inputs (RCA or Optical) and offers no wired subwoofer output. Therefore, it is unsuitable for connecting a PC, turntable, or TV directly, and it cannot function as a traditional near-field studio monitor. Users prioritizing seamless wireless multi-room audio and smart features should consider the Sonos, but those demanding flexibility with wired inputs, higher power, and a true, traditional stereo setup should choose the Edifier R1700BTs.
Final Verdict: The Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers Redefine Value in Active Audio
The Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers successfully navigate the complex space between budget desktop audio and entry-level audiophile equipment. They are a powerful, expertly engineered set of speakers that address almost every limitation of their predecessors and competitors in this price tier. The 66W RMS power, combined with the excellent acoustic integrity of the 4-inch woofer and silk dome tweeter, provides a sound signature that is clear, dynamic, and musically satisfying for all genres.
What truly elevates the R1700BTs is their thoughtful feature set. The 10-degree near-field optimization makes them ideal for desktop use, while the Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX ensures that wireless listening doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. Most importantly, the inclusion of the dedicated Subwoofer Line Out port is the definitive reason we recommend these speakers. It removes the performance ceiling, allowing the user to scale up to a true 2.1 system that can handle cinematic bass and room-shaking dynamics, protecting the initial investment and prolonging the system’s relevance. While the remote control is basic and requires some care, this minor drawback is overwhelmingly offset by the superior sonic performance and build quality.
We wholeheartedly recommend the Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers to any user seeking high-quality, flexible, and powerful sound for their desktop, studio, or small-to-medium-sized living space. They are a phenomenal package that delivers on every promise. If you are looking for a speaker system that can satisfy your demands now and grow with your audio aspirations in the future, this is the definitive choice in its class. Secure your pair of the Edifier R1700BTs today and experience the difference high-quality active audio makes.
Last update on 2025-11-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API