Home audio systems can be a real drain on your wallet, but the Edifier R1280DBs is here to prove that theory wrong!

With some seriously impressive sound features at a budget-friendly price point, this speaker system is a true gem.

So, keep reading this Edifier R1280DBs review to find out exactly what makes it so special!

Overview
image of the Edifier-R1280DBs

Edifier R1280DBs

  • Powerful clear sound
  • Strong Bluetooth connection
  • Sleek design

Evander’s Personal Edifier R1280DBs Summary:

I really enjoy the edifier R1280DBs, especially considering its affordable price.

The speakers have a neat wooden design and maintain their sound quality even when turned up all the way.

However, I don’t like that they seem quite fragile and might break if moved around too much or dropped.

So, if you want speakers that you can just set up in one place and forget about, these are great.

But if you need something sturdier, you might want to take a look at other speakers.

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I review products independently but I might earn affiliate commissions if you decide to buy items through links on this page.


What’s the deal with the Edifier-R1280DBs?

Purple infographic with an image of the Edifier R-1280DBS Bookshelf speaker. The text displays: What is the Edifier R-1280DBS?

The Edifier-R1280DBs is a pair of speakers that will make your home sound like a concert hall, minus the screaming fans and flying underwear. 

These speakers have a classic wooden design with Bluetooth connectivity, so you can rock out to your favorite tunes without getting tangled in cords. 

And with remote volume control, you can pump up the volume from across the room like a boss.

Are you already so

Who Is The Mastermind Behind The Edifier R1280DBs?

The geniuses behind the Edifier-R1280DBs are the audio wizards at Edifier International Limited, a company that’s been making sweet audio gear since 1996. 

Based in Beijing, China, they’re all about bringing you high-quality audio products that not only have great sound but look cool too. 

Their mission is to make your life more awesome by immersing you in music and making you sound like never before. 

And with awards like the iF Design Award and the Red Dot Design Award, it’s clear they’re doing something right.

Product Pros
  • High-quality sound that’ll make your ears sing
  • Design is sleek
  • Multiple ways to connect, including Bluetooth 5.0, RCA, and Optical and coaxial inputs
  • Comes with a remote control
  • A price tag that won’t make your bank account weep
  • 2 Year a warranty
Product Cons
  • Bass can be overwhelming
  • Will probably not survive a fall
  • Too small for big rooms

For who it is made

Purple infographic with an image of the Edifier R-1280DBS Bookshelf speaker. The text displays: For who is the Edifier bookshelf speaker

Fitness fanatics

These speakers are ideal for those who want a straightforward yet powerful sound system for their personal garage workouts, delivering loud and crystal-clear audio.

Music lovers

No matter what genre of music you enjoy, this speaker provides an excellent listening experience, whether it’s classical or rock.

Gamers

This speaker is a great choice for gamers on a budget, designed to sit on a bookshelf or desk. It delivers what you need and is sure to please.


For who it is not made

Audiophiles

If you are looking for top-of-the-line quality, this speaker may not be the best option for you.

Large rooms

The speakers’ small size may not be suitable for extremely large living rooms or big halls as it could potentially result in a struggle to achieve the desired clear sound.

People with a modern taste

The speaker’s design is classic and made of wood. If you prefer a modern or futuristic style, this may not be the speaker for you.


What Customers are Saying…

  • Customers are impressed with the sound quality of these speakers, especially for the price.
  • The R1280DBs are considered a good option for small to medium-sized rooms.
  • Customers are satisfied with the R1280DBs’ value for money.
  • Some customers found the sound quality to be mediocre and flat.
  • One customer experienced a buzzing sound from one of the speakers, which they found unacceptable, and returned the product.
  • Some customers found the remote control to have limited range due to the speakers’ acoustically transparent fabric grilles.

Coolest Aspects of the Edifier-R1280DBs

Purple infographic with an image of the Edifier R-1280DBS Bookshelf speaker. The text displays: Coolest aspects

The Edifier-R1280DBs are the real deal when it comes to top-notch audio and style.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the key specifications and the reasons why this speaker system is so awesome.

Design

The Edifier-R1280DBs is not only sleek and stylish, but it also has a classic wooden finish that will make it the envy of all your audio-loving friends. 

The powered bookshelf speakers are built to last, with high-quality materials used throughout.

Edifier R1280DBs bookshelf speaker

Appearance and Quality

The appearance and quality of the Edifier-R1280DBs are top-notch. 

The wooden finish gives these speakers a timeless look that will never go out of style, and the build quality is outstanding, with sturdy construction and high-quality materials used throughout. 

The bookshelf speakers are also relatively compact, making them easy to place on bookshelves, desks, or nightstands.

Evander’s opinion

The only thing I don’t like about this speaker is that they are relatively vulnerable.

It’s best to put them on a shelf and never touch them again.

I have the feeling that when I drop them, they will probably not survive the impact.

Inputs and Outputs

The Edifier-R1280DBs has so many inputs and outputs, you’ll wonder if it’s secretly a Transformer…

  • Bluetooth connectivity options
  • Dual RCA inputs for connecting to multiple audio sources
  • Coaxial and Optical inputs for digital audio sources
  • Subwoofer output for connecting to an external subwoofer
Edifier R1280DBs Inputs

Sound

The sound quality of the Edifier-R1280DBs is great for a reasonable price. It has a clear and crisp sound that will please even the pickiest audiophile.

Sound sign

Bass

The bass response of the Edifier-R1280DBs hits you like a truck—but in the best way possible. 

It’s deep, powerful, and adds a solid low end to your music and movies. 

Whether you’re a fan of hip-hop, EDM, or action movies, you’ll appreciate the weight and oomph that the bass adds to your listening experience.

Midrange

The midrange of the Edifier-R1280DBs is crystal clear and detailed, making it perfect for listening to music that features vocals and instruments. 

You’ll get an audio experience and feel like you’re right there in the recording studio with the artists, hearing every nuance of the performance.

Evander’s opinion

When I am working, I like to put on classical music in the background.

This bookshelf speaker has surprisingly good sound quality, and even at low volumes, I can still hear the violin crisply and clearly

Sound sign
Sound sign

Treble

The treble of the bookshelf speakers is smooth as silk, with no harshness or distortion even at ear-piercing volumes. 

You can crank up the volume of the powered bookshelf speakers without worrying about any eardrum-busting high-pitched sounds. 

The treble is also precise enough that you’ll be able to pick up every cymbal crash and high note with ease.

Bonus

You can even adjust the treble to make sure it gives the best sound for your room. I tried it in my garage, and the difference is phenomenal!

Soundstage

The soundstage of the Edifier-R1280DBs is wider than the Grand Canyon and more immersive than a 3D movie.

It’s like you’re sitting in the middle of a concert hall, with instruments and vocals coming at you from every direction, though I do need to mention that this depends on the room you are in.

It is probably better in a small room, like your workout garage or study room, than in a big hall or something.

Even so, the impressive soundstage will take you to another world, whether you’re listening to music, watching movies, playing video games, or just hanging out in your garage and watching TV.

Sound sign

Connectivity

The Edifier-R1280DBs have two main connectivity options: Bluetooth and AUX.

Buttons on Edifier R1280DBs

Bluetooth

The Bluetooth connection of the Edifier-R1280DBs is your best friend that never lets you down. 

It’s fast and reliable, and it makes it a breeze to wirelessly stream audio from your phone, tablet, or computer. Say goodbye to tangled cords and hello to wireless freedom.

Bonus

I also noticed that the Bluetooth connection is very strong. I could even leave the device in another room and still enjoy your music without any interruption.

AUX

On the flip side, you always have your AUX input on the Edifier-R1280DBss as your go-to buddy when your speakers’ Bluetooth isn’t working.

Just plug in an AUX cable, and you’re ready to rock out to your favorite tunes from your phone, laptop, or any other device with a headphone jack. 

The AUX input is conveniently located on the left speaker and the back of the speaker, making it easy to use.

And with the included AUX cable, you’ll be able to get started right away. 

No fuss, no hassle, just great sound, and great audio.

Evander’s opinion

Even when you are connected with the aux, you can still adjust the volume and pause the music thanks to the handy remote control. 

Just make sure you are pointing it in the right direction because the remote’s connection isn’t strong enough to be used through concrete walls.

AUX input on Edifier R1280DBs

So what’s inside the box?

Purple image with a picture of three boxes. Text displays: What is inside the box?

Here’s what you can expect to find inside the box of your Edifier-R1280DBs speaker system: 

Everything you need to get your home gym journey started is included, so you won’t have to worry about buying any additional accessories.

  • Two Edifier-R1280DBs powered bookshelf speakers
  • Remote control
  • Speaker wire
  • RCA to RCA audio cable
  • RCA to 3.5mm audio cable
  • User manual and 2-year warranty card.

What Colors Do the Edifier-R1280DBs Come In?

Purple image with a color splash. Text Displays: What Colors Are Available?

The Edifier R1280D only comes in Classic (brown) Rich Wood Grain or Black Rich Wood Grain.

This can be a buzz kill for those of you who were hoping for some fancy colors


Tech Specs

Dimensions7.72 x 7.72 x 5.75
Dimensions per speakerin x 11.8in x 7.2in
Weight10.80
Total power outputR/L: 21W+21W RMS
Signal-to-voice ratio≥85dBA
Frequency response51Hz-20KHz
Bass Driver4 inch (116mm)

The Edifier-R1280DBs Wallet Impact

Purple image with a picture of dollar bills and a woman thinking. Text displays: What is the Price?

The Edifier R1280DBs retail for around $160


What Are The Alternatives?

Purple infographic with an image of the JBL Xtreme 3 Bluetooth speaker. The text displays: The Edifier-R1280DBS Substitutes

So now we all know the Edifier-R1280DBs have their fair share of ups and downs, but what else is out there in the speaker game? 

Let’s shake things up and check out some alternatives to see if they’ll give the Edifier a run for its money.

#1 JBL Extreme 3

The JBL Extreme 3 is a portable powerhouse that’s all about that bass. 

It’s got a waterproof exterior, can play music for up to 15 hours, and can take a beating. But keep in mind that it’s also a bit pricey, so it might not be the best option for those watching their wallets.

Review

We did an in-depth review of the JBL Extreme 3. Be sure to check it out!

JBL Extreme 3
image of the Edifier S2000 MKIII

#2 Edifier S2000 MKIII

The Edifier S2000 MKIII is the big daddy of the Edifier R1280DBs, with some seriously advanced features like Bluetooth 5.0 and aptX HD. 

If you’re an audiophile looking for exceptional sound quality with a few extra features, this is the speaker system for you. 

But be warned—it also comes with a higher price tag than the Edifier-R1280DBs.

#3 Audiogine A5+

The Audioengine A5+ Plus is a bookshelf speaker system that delivers clear, crisp sound with deep bass. 

It’s got connectivity options for days and a sleek, compact design that can fit anywhere. 

Plus, its sound quality is known to be some of the best in the game. But, once again, it’s pricier than the Edifier-R1280DBs.

All in all, each of these alternatives brings something unique to the table. It’s up to you to decide which one suits your needs and budget. It’s time to weigh your options, people!

Audiogene a5+ image

Comparison Table

BluetoothConnectivityBonusPrice
image of the Edifier-R1280DBsEdifier-R1280DBs5.0 RCA, AUX, Optical, CoaxialBass Boost Function$160
image of the JBL Extreme 3JBL Extreme 35.1AuxWaterproof, Portable$300
image of the Edifier S2000 MKIIIEdifier S2000 MKIII5.0 RCA, AUX, Optical, CoaxialSubwoofer Out, Dual Analog Inputs$570
Audiogene a5+ imageAudiogine A5+5.0RC, Optical, CoaxialBass & Treble adjustment$560

Conclusion

To put it simply, the Edifier-R1280DBs bookshelf speaker system is a total audio package that won’t break the bank.

Its cool design, exceptional sound output, and flexible connectivity options make it a winner.

Although you have to be careful with it, and it is best to place it and leave it there for a while, it is still a great speaker.

Whether you’re a music aficionado, a gamer, or just someone who needs a speaker for their home gym, the Edifier-R1280DBs will knock your socks off.

FAQs

Yes, Edifier R1280DBs is worth it if you’re looking for powered speakers with exceptional audio performance, a sleek design, and versatile connectivity options at an affordable price.

Yes, the Edifier R1280DBs has a built-in preamp that allows you to connect to various audio sources, including turntables, without needing an external preamp.

The Edifier R1280DBs is an updated version of the R1280DB. It has Bluetooth 5.0, a redesigned remote control, and a new color option.

The main difference between the Edifier R1280DBs and the R1700BTs is the size and power output. The R1700BTs are larger and have a higher power output of 66W, while the R1280DBs are smaller and have a power output of 42W.