Short answer: the R1280DB, mostly on value. Both share a 4.0 rating. The R1700BT ranks #22 of 25 powered bookshelf speakers at $219.99; the R1280DB ranks #23 at $189.99, $30 less with no pros listed for the pricier model.
The R1280DB has a genuine strength: bass output and power handling. Our notes praise it for not bottoming out or distorting even played loud, for the price, plus a built-in remote and bass and treble tone controls so it doesn’t need a separate preamp.
The R1700BT’s tuning is described as more V-shaped, and neither model is quite as neutral as the Edifier MR4, a cheaper sibling our notes hold up as the more accurate option in the lineup.
Buy the R1280DB for the stronger value case and the built-in tone controls. Buy the R1700BT only if its specific cabinet size or finish fits your space better than the R1280DB’s.
Specifications Side By Side
| Edifier R1280DB | Edifier R1700BT | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $189.99 | $219.99 |
| Ranked | #23 of 24 in Medium Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers | #22 of 24 in Medium Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers |
| Dimensions | 9.2"H x 5.7"W x 7.7"D (233.7 x 144.8 x 195.6 mm) | 10"H x 6.1"W x 8.4"D (254 x 154.9 x 213.4 mm) |
| Frequency Response | 55 Hz-20 kHz (-3dB) (Manufacturer specified) | 60 Hz-20 kHz (-3dB) (Manufacturer specified) |
| Inputs | Bluetooth, 2x RCA Input, Digital Optical, Digital Coax | Bluetooth, RCA Input |
| Outputs | None | None |
| Weight | 10.8 lbs / 4.9 kg | 14.6 lbs / 6.6 kg |
| Drivers | 4" (102mm) woofer | 4" (102mm) woofer |
| App | No | No |
| Bluetooth | No | No |
| EQ | No | No |
| Output Power | 42w RMS Per Speaker | 66w RMS Per Speaker |
The Two Speakers In Full
Edifier R1280DB: $189.99 Amazon
Pros: Excellent bass output and power handling for the price, not bottoming out or distorting even played loud. Built-in remote and bass/treble tone controls, no separate preamp needed.
Cons: Not quite as neutral sounding as the Edifier MR4
| App | No |
|---|---|
| Bluetooth | No |
| Dimensions | 9.2"H x 5.7"W x 7.7"D (233.7 x 144.8 x 195.6 mm) |
| Drivers | 4" (102mm) woofer |
| EQ | No |
| Frequency Response | 55 Hz-20 kHz (-3dB) (Manufacturer specified) |
| Inputs | Bluetooth, 2x RCA Input, Digital Optical, Digital Coax |
| Output Power | 42w RMS Per Speaker |
| Outputs | None |
| Weight | 10.8 lbs / 4.9 kg |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
- Links
Edifier R1700BT: $219.99 Amazon
Cons: more V shaped, not quite as neutral sounding as the Edifier MR4
| App | No |
|---|---|
| Bluetooth | No |
| Dimensions | 10"H x 6.1"W x 8.4"D (254 x 154.9 x 213.4 mm) |
| Drivers | 4" (102mm) woofer |
| EQ | No |
| Frequency Response | 60 Hz-20 kHz (-3dB) (Manufacturer specified) |
| Inputs | Bluetooth, RCA Input |
| Output Power | 66w RMS Per Speaker |
| Outputs | None |
| Weight | 14.6 lbs / 6.6 kg |
- Reviews, Comparisons and Sound Samples
- DSAUDIO.review: DSAUDIO.review Edifier MR4 vs Edifier R1700BT sound.DEMO
- DSAUDIO.review: DSAUDIO.review Audioengine HD3 vs Edifier R1700BT sound.DEMO
- DSAUDIO.review: Edifier R1280DB vs Edifier R1700BT Sound Demo w/ Bass Test
- DSAUDIO.review: Edifier R1280DBs vs Edifier R1700BTs Sound Comparison
- DSAUDIO.review: Edifier R1700BT vs Edifier R2000DB Sound Demo
- DSAUDIO.review: DSAUDIO.review Edifier D12 vs Edifier R1700BT sound.DEMO
- Head-to-Head Comparisons
- Links
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Product prices and availability were last checked August 9, 2026 at 6:57 AM UTC and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.