Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers review

Have we ever wished our everyday listening setup sounded a little more like a studio without turning our room into an audio lab?

Table of Contents

What Are the Edifier R1700BTs Speakers?

These Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers are designed as a compact 2.0 system for near-field listening, with modern wireless features and enough power to fill a small to medium-sized room. We get 66 watts RMS, Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD, and a subwoofer output, all wrapped in a stylish bookshelf form factor.

They sit in a sweet spot: more refined and powerful than typical computer speakers, yet much more convenient and affordable than full-blown studio monitors plus separate amps.

Who Are These Speakers For?

We see the R1700BTs as a great fit for anyone who wants clear, natural sound without building a complicated audio system. They work well for mixed use: music, movies, TV, gaming, and even casual home studio work.

If we stream music from a phone, watch shows from a laptop, or plug in a TV or PC, these speakers are meant to be our all-purpose audio solution with minimum fuss.

Design and Build Quality

Edifier clearly designed the R1700BTs to look good on a desk, TV stand, or shelf. They use a classic bookshelf speaker silhouette with a modern twist, so they blend into most rooms without looking like chunky studio gear.

Aesthetic and Finish

The cabinets have a wood-inspired finish on the sides and a matte front baffle. This combination gives them a warm, home-friendly look rather than a cold, industrial studio vibe.

We appreciate that they look “serious” enough for audio enthusiasts but not so aggressive that they clash with decor. Whether we place them next to a monitor, on a hi-fi rack, or beside a TV, they look intentional rather than out of place.

Build and Materials

The enclosures are built from MDF, which is standard and effective for reducing unwanted resonance. The speakers feel solid and weighty enough that they don’t seem cheap or hollow.

The removable front grilles help us decide between a clean, subtle appearance or a more “audiophile” look that shows off the drivers. We can keep the grilles on for protection, or remove them when we want every bit of detail and a slightly more open sound.

Key Features at a Glance

Sometimes it helps to see the essentials laid out clearly. Here is a summary of what these speakers offer.

Feature	Details
System Type	2.0 active bookshelf speakers
Total Power Output	66W RMS (continuous, undistorted)
Wireless Standard	Bluetooth 5.0 with Qualcomm aptX HD
Supported Devices	iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, and other Bluetooth audio sources
Inputs	Dual RCA line-in (can connect two devices at once)
Subwoofer Output	Yes, with built-in crossover and auto detection
Drivers	19mm silk dome tweeter, 4″ woofer
Controls	Side panel EQ (bass, treble, volume), wireless remote
Special Sound Feature	Soundfield Spatializer button on remote

This combination of specs and conveniences positions the R1700BTs as a very practical all-rounder. We are not dealing with a barebones speaker set; we get real quality-of-life features built in.

Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD and More

Having good sound is one thing, but if plugging and switching devices is a hassle, we quickly stop enjoying the experience. The R1700BTs try to make connectivity as smooth as possible.

Bluetooth 5.0 and aptX HD Support

We get Bluetooth 5.0, which is stable, quick to pair, and efficient. The standout here is support for Qualcomm aptX HD. That means, when paired with a compatible device, we can stream audio up to 24-bit quality over Bluetooth.

In day-to-day listening, this translates to:

Clearer highs and more detail than standard SBC Bluetooth
Less compression, especially noticeable on lossless or high-quality streaming sources
Lower latency than many older Bluetooth standards

We can pair our phone, tablet, laptop, or other Bluetooth source easily, then leave the speaker in Bluetooth mode for casual listening. It is especially convenient when we just want to start a playlist or podcast without touching any cables.

Dual RCA Inputs and Multi-Device Setup

Alongside Bluetooth, we have two RCA line-in inputs. These let us connect wired sources like:

Desktop or laptop PC
TV or media box
Game console (through an adapter or TV output)
CD player, DAC, or other legacy devices

Since there are two RCA inputs, we can connect, for instance, a PC and a TV at the same time. We switch between them using the remote or the front-panel controls without constantly plugging and unplugging.

This is ideal for a mixed-use room where we might:

Use the speakers as computer audio during the day
Switch to TV sound in the evening
Occasionally use Bluetooth from a phone for quick background music

Subwoofer Output and Bass Management

One of the most practical additions in the R1700BTs compared to many similar speakers is the dedicated subwoofer output. Edifier has not just thrown in a port; there is actual bass management and auto detection at work.

Built-In Crossover and Auto Detection

The subwoofer line-out includes a built-in crossover and auto detection. In plain terms, that means:

When we connect a powered subwoofer, the system automatically routes low frequencies to the sub and eases the load on the bookshelf speakers.
The speakers and subwoofer share the frequency range in a coordinated way, giving us a more balanced full-range sound.

We do not need a separate receiver or external crossover. We just plug in a powered subwoofer and let the speakers take care of the handoff.

Building a 2.1 System Easily

With the sub out, the R1700BTs become a flexible hub for a simple 2.1 setup:

R1700BTs handle midrange and treble
Powered subwoofer covers deep bass

This approach is perfect if we:

Watch action movies or play games with a lot of low-end effects
Enjoy bass-heavy music genres like hip-hop, EDM, or cinematic orchestral tracks
Want room-shaking bass but still care about clear, natural midrange

The beauty is we can start with just the speakers, then add a sub later if we want to upgrade our system.

Sound Quality: Natural and Clear Reproduction

Edifier promotes “natural sound reproduction” as a core trait of the R1700BTs, and that description actually fits. We get a tuning that is clear, smooth, and satisfying rather than overly bassy or harsh.

Tweeters and Woofers Working Together

Each speaker uses:

A 19mm silk dome tweeter
A 4″ woofer

Silk dome tweeters are often chosen for a smooth, non-fatiguing treble response. That matters for long sessions at the desk or extended movie watching. We can turn up the volume without feeling like the highs stab our ears.

The 4″ woofer handles midrange and mid-bass. Although it cannot move as much air as a large floor-standing speaker, it is well suited for near-field or small-room listening. Vocals, instruments, and everyday sound effects come through with warmth and body.

Power and Headroom: 66W RMS

The 66W RMS rating means the speakers can deliver continuous undistorted power. In practice, this gives us:

Enough volume to fill a bedroom, office, or modest living room
A sense of ease, where music doesn’t sound strained even when we turn things up
Better dynamics compared to weaker compact systems

We should not expect nightclub levels in a huge open space, but for typical home use these feel confidently powered, not fragile.

Tonal Balance and Listening Experience

In general, we hear the R1700BTs as:

Balanced with a slight warmth, not analytic but still detailed
Smooth high frequencies, avoiding sibilance or piercing tones
Full midrange where vocals and guitars sound natural

The bass from the 4″ woofers reaches lower than tiny computer speakers, but stops short of real sub-bass. For many genres they feel satisfying on their own, yet we clearly benefit from adding a subwoofer if we want true low-end rumble.

This balance is valuable if we like a wide range of content – from acoustic tracks and podcasts to rock, jazz, and casual gaming – because nothing sounds too exaggerated.

The Soundfield Spatializer Feature

One standout feature on the updated remote is the “Soundfield Spatializer” button. This is Edifier’s way of offering a virtual widening effect to make the speakers sound bigger than their physical placement.

What the Spatializer Does

When we enable Soundfield Spatializer, the speakers apply processing to:

Widen the perceived stereo image
Create a sense that sound is coming from a broader area
Improve immersion for movies and games, and sometimes for live music recordings

This can be especially useful when the speakers are placed close together, like on a small desk or under a compact TV. The effect gives us more “spread” so audio doesn’t feel cramped between the cabinets.

When to Use It

We may enjoy keeping Spatializer on for:

Movie nights, to give more cinematic width
Gaming, for a greater sense of environment and spatial cues
Casual background listening where we just want a larger soundstage

For critical listening to music where we care most about accurate stereo imaging, we might prefer it off. One of the nice touches is that switching it on or off is instant; we can simply experiment and decide what we like for each type of content.

Controls and Usability

A great-sounding speaker becomes frustrating if controlling it is awkward. The R1700BTs give us two primary control points: side panel physical knobs and the updated wireless remote.

Side Panel EQ and Volume Knobs

On the side of one speaker, we find:

A volume knob
A bass knob
A treble knob

Having dedicated bass and treble controls lets us fine-tune the sound to our room, desk, and taste:

We can roll back bass a bit if the speakers sit close to a wall and sound boomy.
We can add a touch of treble if our room is heavily carpeted or we prefer a brighter profile.

Adjustments are quick, and because the knobs are physical, we can change them by feel without navigating menus or apps.

Updated Wireless Remote

The included wireless remote lets us handle essential functions from our couch or chair:

Volume up/down
Mute/unmute
Switch between Bluetooth and line-in modes
Activate or deactivate Soundfield Spatializer

The remote is compact and simple, which suits everyday use. Instead of reaching to the side panel whenever we change sources or volume, we can keep the remote nearby and make adjustments instantly.

Everyday Scenarios: How These Speakers Fit Our Life

To understand how the R1700BTs might actually feel in use, it helps to picture a few real scenarios where we would rely on them.

Using Them as Desktop Speakers

At a desk, these speakers shine in a near-field setup:

We place one on each side of the monitor, angled slightly toward us.
They connect to the PC via RCA (or via a DAC with RCA output if we want an upgrade).
We also pair our phone over Bluetooth for quick wireless listening.

In this setup, we enjoy:

Clear audio for video calls and voice chats
Immersive sound for games and movies
Detailed yet non-fatiguing sound for all-day music while working

The side panel EQ is handy if our desk is close to a wall. We can tame the bass while still keeping warmth and presence in the midrange.

Pairing with a TV or Media Box

For a TV, the R1700BTs offer a big improvement over built-in speakers:

We run RCA from the TV’s audio output (or from a media box, console, or DAC).
The speakers sit on either side of the screen or on a shelf below.

This gives us:

Much clearer dialogue in movies and shows
More dynamic sound effects for action scenes
A more immersive feel, especially if we enable Soundfield Spatializer

If we want extra impact for movie nights, we can add a powered subwoofer to the sub out. Then we have a compact but convincing 2.1 system without needing a big AV receiver.

Casual Studio or Creator Use

Although these are not strict reference studio monitors, they are good enough for:

Podcasters or content creators who want better monitoring than cheap computer speakers
Hobbyist music producers who produce in a bedroom or small home studio
Video editors who want a balanced sound that translates reasonably well to other systems

We can connect an audio interface via RCA and monitor our work in relatively balanced fashion. The smooth treble makes long editing sessions more comfortable, while the clear midrange keeps dialogue and vocals honest.

Setup and Placement Tips

To get the most out of any bookshelf speakers, placement matters. The R1700BTs give us flexibility, but we can enhance their performance with a few simple guidelines.

Positioning on a Desk or Shelf

For best results, we can:

Place the speakers at roughly ear level when seated (or tilt them slightly upward if they sit lower).
Maintain a triangular listening arrangement: distance between speakers similar to the distance from each speaker to our ears.
Keep a bit of space behind the speakers if possible, rather than pressing them flush against the wall.

If our desk is small, we can consider small stands or angled pads to:

Reduce vibration transfer into the desk
Aim the tweeters more directly toward our ears

Integrating a Subwoofer

When adding a sub:

Start with the subwoofer’s volume around the middle of its dial.
Adjust bass on the speakers slightly downward if the combined sound is too thick.
Move the sub around the room to find a position where bass sounds even, not boomy or hollow.

Because the speakers handle crossover duties for the sub out, we do not need to worry too much about setting an exact crossover frequency on the sub itself; we can use its volume control to blend it smoothly.

Strengths of the Edifier R1700BTs

Highlighting what these speakers do particularly well helps clarify whether they are a good fit for us.

Strong Value for Features and Sound

We get a compelling mix of:

Quality drivers and 66W RMS amplification
Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD
Dual analog inputs
Dedicated subwoofer output
Built-in EQ knobs
Wireless remote with soundfield enhancement

This feature set would often require multiple separate components. The R1700BTs integrate them into a single, compact stereo system.

Versatility Across Use Cases

These speakers are not locked into one narrow role. They adapt well to:

Desktop listening
TV and media setups
Light studio or creator work
Casual room-filling music playback

That versatility means we can re-purpose them easily if our setup changes – for instance, moving them from a desk to a living room, or from a TV to a home office.

Natural Sound Character

We appreciate that Edifier has aimed for a natural, engaging sound rather than an overly processed “wow” factor. The result is:

Less listening fatigue
Better performance across diverse music genres
A trustworthy tone for podcasts, movies, and games

We hear the intent to give us an enjoyable, honest sound more than just flashy bass.

Limitations and Considerations

No product is perfect, and knowing where the R1700BTs have limits helps us set realistic expectations.

Bass Without a Subwoofer

The 4″ woofers do a commendable job, but physics still matter. We will hear:

Solid mid-bass for most music
Enough low end for casual movie watching at moderate volume

However, for:

Very deep electronic bass
Large, cinematic effects at high volume
Big-room listening

we might find that the speakers alone do not deliver the chest-thumping impact we imagine. The subwoofer output is there for a reason; a sub really completes the experience for those use cases.

Not Pure Studio Reference Monitors

If we are an audio engineer seeking completely flat, forensic monitoring:

The R1700BTs offer a pleasing, somewhat warm balance rather than a surgically neutral one.
They are closer to “hi-fi” bookshelf sound than strict studio reference.

For professional work, dedicated studio monitors with XLR or TRS balanced inputs and more linear response might be more suitable. However, for home creators and hobbyists, the R1700BTs still deliver a reliable and enjoyable sound.

Dependence on Placement

Like all bookshelf speakers, performance heavily depends on:

Room acoustics
Distance from walls
Height relative to our ears

If we place them awkwardly (for example, crammed in a corner or blocked by objects), we may notice coloration. Fortunately, the side panel EQ and Soundfield Spatializer can compensate somewhat, but optimal placement still matters.

How the R1700BTs Compare in Their Category

When we look at similar 2.0 Bluetooth bookshelf systems, the R1700BTs stand out in a few ways.

Against Basic Computer Speakers

Compared to typical plastic computer speakers:

The R1700BTs offer far more power and dynamic range.
Bass is deeper and more controlled, mids are more natural, and treble is smoother.
Build quality and aesthetics are on another level.

If we are upgrading from built-in laptop speakers or cheap USB speakers, the transformation will feel quite dramatic.

Against Entry-Level Studio Monitors

Entry-level studio monitors may:

Offer slightly flatter frequency response
Include balanced inputs for audio interfaces

However, they often:

Lack Bluetooth
Lack a remote control
Do not include a subwoofer output with crossover
Do not provide consumer-friendly features like a Soundfield Spatializer

If pure production work is our priority, studio monitors might be the better choice. For combined entertainment and light creation, the Edifier R1700BTs offer a more convenient, fully integrated experience.

Against Other Edifier Models

Within Edifier’s own lineup:

The R1700BTs sit in a step above some more basic Bluetooth bookshelf models due to the sub out and aptX HD support.
They hit a middle ground between compact units and larger, more powerful models that might be overkill for smaller rooms.

We get a strong balance of features, sound quality, and size without paying for overly large cabinets or power we might not use.

Longevity and Everyday Reliability

Beyond sound and specs, we care about how these speakers hold up over time. Edifier has a track record for durable, long-lived bookshelf systems.

Build and Components

With solid MDF cabinets and quality driver materials, the speakers feel like they will:

Withstand years of daily use
Resist rattling or loosening components if we handle them reasonably

The internal amplifier being matched to the drivers also reduces the risk of easily overdriving and damaging them, as we might with mismatched external amps.

Daily Use and Care

To keep them at their best, we can:

Avoid running at maximum volume for extended periods
Keep dust off the drivers and grilles with light cleaning
Ensure proper ventilation so the amplifier section does not overheat

Given normal home use, there is nothing unusually fragile or demanding about them.

Pros and Cons Summary

To help solidify our impression, here is a concise summary of strengths and trade-offs.

Pros	Cons
Natural, balanced sound with smooth treble	Deep bass limited without a separate subwoofer
66W RMS power for strong, room-filling sound	Not as flat as dedicated studio reference monitors
Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD support	Placement-sensitive like all bookshelf speakers
Dual RCA inputs (two wired sources at once)	Some users may outgrow them in very large rooms
Subwoofer output with crossover and detection	No balanced XLR/TRS inputs for pro studio interfaces
Soundfield Spatializer for wider soundstage	Virtual widening not ideal for strict, analytical listening
Side panel bass/treble EQ knobs	Physical controls are on one speaker only
Updated wireless remote for everyday control	Remote is simple, not a universal or app-based system
Attractive, compact bookshelf design	Finish and style may not match every decor preference

Practical Buying Considerations

Before deciding whether these speakers are the right fit for us, it helps to reflect on a few practical questions.

Our Room Size and Listening Distance

We want to ask ourselves:

Are we mostly listening at a desk, within 2–4 feet from the speakers?
Are we in a small or medium room, such as a bedroom, office, or compact living room?

If the answer is yes, the R1700BTs have more than enough power and presence. For very large open spaces or extremely high volume needs, something larger or a more powerful 2.1 system might be better.

Our Priorities: Convenience vs. Purist Audio

We should consider what matters most:

If we value convenience (Bluetooth, remote, easy multi-device switching), the R1700BTs are a strong match.
If we care first and foremost about absolute neutrality and balanced inputs for studio gear, studio monitors might be more appropriate.

For many of us, a blend of good sound and everyday usability is ideal, and that is where these speakers really shine.

Future-Proofing With the Sub Out

Even if we do not plan to buy a subwoofer immediately, having a sub out:

Keeps an upgrade path open
Saves us from replacing the whole system later if we want more low end

This can make the R1700BTs particularly appealing as a long-term foundational piece in our audio setup.

Final Thoughts: Are the Edifier R1700BTs Right for Us?

If we want a compact, friendly, and capable stereo system that fits easily into modern life, the Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers bring a lot to the table.

We get:

Natural, enjoyable sound with enough power for typical rooms
Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD for high-quality wireless streaming
The practicality of dual RCA inputs and a subwoofer output
User-friendly touches like side panel EQ and a straightforward remote
Additional immersion with the Soundfield Spatializer when we want a wider soundstage

These speakers are well suited to:

Mixed-use setups where we watch TV, play games, and stream music from multiple devices
Desks and workspaces where comfort and clarity matter all day long
Listeners who care about good sound but also want intuitive controls and clean design

We can certainly build more complex and expensive systems, but for many of us, the R1700BTs strike a smart balance between quality, convenience, and price. If we are ready to move beyond weak TV or laptop audio to something that genuinely enhances everything we listen to, these speakers deserve a serious look as the heart of our everyday sound setup.

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.