Edifier is an established brand in the consumer audio space. They have several audio products including an extensive line of headphones. Most people know them for their active bookshelf speakers. What are bookshelf speakers? They’re a popular home solution for music and home theater. Edifier offers several active bookshelf speakers at varying price points. That includes sub $100 options and high-end options up to $800.
Edifier’s speakers often add great value no matter the price though. In this review, we’re highlighting the Edifier S1000DB active bookshelf speakers that fall closer to the mid-range of the budgetary spectrum. This makes them a more affordable pair of bookshelf speakers to consider. But are they worthy of an upgrade? Check out our review for our take.
Table of Contents
Edifier S1000DB Active Bookshelf Speakers
Specifications
| Dimensions (Per Speaker) | 8″ W x 13.5″ H x 10.5″ W |
| Weight (Per Speaker) | 37 Total Pounds |
| Type | Active Bookshelf Speakers |
| Power | 120 Watts Total |
| Frequency Response | 48Hz~20KHz |
| Drivers | 2 – 5.5″ Woofer and 1″ Tweeter |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth 4.0 (+aptX), RCA/AUX (x2), optical, and coaxial |
| Warranty | 2 Years |
| Other Features | LED display, remote control, aptX low latency, on-board tuning knobs, and included cables |
Edifier S1000DB Highlights
Bluetooth and aptX
Wireless isn’t always preferred for the highest quality. It’s extremely convenient though. That’s why the Edifier S1000DB’s Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity is such a high plus. The speakers also have aptX which will allow you to stream higher-quality audio at a lower latency. That’s big for music streamers and home theater enthusiasts.
Compact Size, Big Sound
Don’t expect these to fill a large room. They are larger than many bookshelf speakers though. That includes the 5.5″ bass driver that will deliver deeper bass than smaller competitors. The smaller size still gives customers more flexibility than large speakers with limited placement options.
Ease of Use
The Edifier’s S1000DB active bookshelf speakers don’t just sound great. In addition to wireless Bluetooth capability, they have many wired options for connectivity also. That includes RCA, AUX, optical, and coaxial connections. Edifier provides some necessary cables and a wireless remote that collectively makes setup and use a breeze. That wireless remote can handle playback, volume control, and input switching.
High-End Sound
What’s the point if the actual music doesn’t sound good? No worries on that end. The Edifier S1000DB delivers 120 watts of sound that is full and dynamic. Whether you listening to music or movies, Digital Sound Processing (DSP) produces impressive for this price range. There are even onboard controls for treble and bass for easy tweaking.
Design and Build
Build quality is something that stands out immediately about this set of speakers. The Edifier S1000SB active bookshelf speakers have some heft to them at 18 pounds apiece. Edifier used high-quality materials and it shows. While the wood cabinets are not real, they feel extremely solid. Then there’s the black metal portion of the cabinet where the drivers reside. There’s a nice luster on the metal that gives the speakers a sophisticated finish. The silver grill covers are optional, but we think they only improve the look. Only 1 color is available, but the modern design is appealing enough to sway those on the fence. They really do look fantastic.
Another nice touch is the LED display. It’s found at the bottom of the right speaker and conveniently displays the current input. The rear panel of the right speaker is where find the power switch and more. It’s where you’ll hook up any necessary cables. There’s also the cable that connects to the left speakers delivering an audio signal and power. Lastly, 3 knobs are available on the panel for on-board adjustment of treble, bass, and volume. The included remote is solid and very useful for adjusting playback, volume, and inputs.
Configuration and Connectivity
The S1000DB speakers have two drivers like most bookshelf speakers. Its 5.5″ woofer is paired with a 1″ tweeter to produce a frequency response of 48Hz~20KHz. Onboard amplification on these active speakers is 60 Watts per speaker. That’s an impressive total power output of 120 Watts. The fact that these are active or powered speakers should ease budgetary concerns. It removes the need for purchasing an amplifier which is required with passive speakers. Several input options are available with Edifier’s S1000DB. 2 RCA inputs are available along with ports for a coaxial or optical cable. Edifier also provides 3.5mm AUX to RCA cord. This allows for a wired connection from another device like a cell phone or tablet.
A wired connection like an optical input is ideal for the best sound quality. A wireless connection can be extremely convenient at times though. The Edifier S1000DB active speakers allow for wireless listening via Bluetooth. Its Bluetooth 4.0 is a little outdated, but aptX low latency is also supported. Watching a video with Bluetooth audio can sometimes result in latency issues. The result is lagging audio from the source device. One telltale sign of latency issues is lips moving out of sync with the voice you’re hearing. You can imagine how annoying this can be watching a movie or music video. AptX technology provides a more stable connection. It should also be a big plus for anyone considering the Edifier S1000DB in a home theater setup.
Performance and Sound Quality
Edifier S1000DB speakers deliver excellent audio quality across different genres of music. There is a fullness and clarity to the EQ. Mid-range performs well with good vocal effects. There’s a rather long burning period, but these speakers deliver an impressive performance once it’s finished.
Treble on the Edifier S1000DB is clear and maintains some detail. These bookshelf speakers are slightly brighter than neutral. Tuning dials for bass and treble are on the rear panel. This allows for easy adjustment of the EQ to fit your preferences. Lower frequencies are always a struggle for bookshelf speakers, but the S1000DB is better than most. The speaker cabinet and drivers are on the larger side for bookshelf speakers. The 5.5″ driver produces deep and natural, if not rumbling bass. You’ll of course need a subwoofer for impactful bass reproduction.
Edifier S1000DB Review: Final Verdict
If you’re looking to purchase bookshelf speakers, the Edifier S1000DB remains a great option. They are one of our favorite options from Edifier because they occupy a unique space in their product line. They are many active speakers from Edifier speakers that provide good value and connectivity options. Unfortunately, they don’t sound as good as the Edifier S1000DB or include some of the HiFi technology included here (aptX and DSP).
Edifier’s S1000DB is actually one of the few bookshelf speakers they currently market to audiophiles. The other 3 are part of the MK line, most notably the S2000MKIII. They are a slight upgrade in sound, but they’re also typically more expensive. If you want HiFi audio on your active bookshelf speakers, the Edifier S1000DB is truly one of the most affordable options.
Other Alternatives
We cover a ton of other options in our guide for the best bookshelf speakers under $500. The Edifier S2000MKIII is near the top of that list. It has top-notch sound quality, Hifi audio, and great connectivity options. The Klipsch RP-600M is a great option for a passive bookshelf speaker. The Klipsch speakers have an attractive design, larger drivers, and a dynamic sound signature. They’ll need amplification but should get louder when the Edifier S1000DB when sufficiently powered.
Keith Collins has been writing for over 15 years for various publications. He’s a lover of music, home theater, and excellent sound quality. His fondness for technology in addition to his non-stop curiosity fuels his writing ventures.