Short answer: the Genelec 8030C if you want accuracy, the Edifier R1280DB if you want output on a budget. The 8030C’s spinorama shows a near-flat on-axis response with smooth directivity and excellent predicted in-room response, held back only by a minor measurable dip between 2-3kHz that shows up on and off axis. The R1280DB is not as neutral as the Edifier MR4, but its bass output and power handling hold up without bottoming out or distorting even played loud.
Buy the Edifier R1280DB when the price outweighs sound quality for you, and the Genelec 8030C when sound quality outweighs the price instead.
Looking for alternatives? See the complete Powered Home rankings.
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Specifications Side By Side
| Edifier R1280DB | Genelec 8030C | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $189.99 per pair | $1,750 per pair |
| Ranked | #94 of 108 in Medium Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers | #3 of 108 in Medium Size Powered Bookshelf Speakers |
| Bass Extension (-3dB) | 63Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) - shares the R1280T driver and cabinet; read from that measurement | 59Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) |
| Bass Extension (-10dB) | 53.2Hz (derived, log-interpolated between spinorama.org -9dB/-12dB points) | 47Hz (measured, Audio Science Review) |
| Dimensions | 9.2”H x 5.7”W x 7.7”D (233.7 x 144.8 x 195.6 mm) | 11.7”H x 7.4”W x 7”D (297.2 x 188 x 177.8 mm) |
| Frequency Response | 55 Hz-20 kHz (-3dB) (Manufacturer specified) | 54Hz - 20kHz (±2.5dB) (Manufacturer specified) |
| Inputs | Bluetooth, 2x RCA Input, Digital Optical, Digital Coax | XLR |
| Outputs | None | - |
| Weight | 10.8 lbs (4.9 kg) | 11 lbs (5 kg) each |
| Drivers | 4” (102mm) woofer | 5.1” woofer, 0.75” metal dome tweeter |
| App | No | No |
| Bluetooth | Yes | No |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.1 | - |
| Bluetooth Codecs | SBC (inferred; additional codecs unverified) | - |
| EQ | No | Yes (Bass tilt, treble tilt, room response) |
| Amplifier Power | 42w RMS Total | 100W (50W woofer + 50W tweeter) |
| XLR Input | No | Yes |
| RCA Input | Yes | No |
| TRS Input | No | No |
| Optical Input | Yes | No |
| Coaxial Input | Yes | No |
| USB Input | No | No |
| HDMI Input | No | No |
| AES Input | No | No |
| Aux Input | No | No |
| Maximum SPL | - | 110dB @ 1m (manufacturer specified) |
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