Edifier R1280T vs. MartinLogan Dynamo 700w

Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers MartinLogan Dynamo 700w 10” Wireless Subwoofer
MSRP
$120 $700
Dimensions (H × W × D)
9.50” × 5.75” × 7.00”
241mm × 146mm × 178mm
12.54” × 11.69” × 12.53”
319mm × 297mm × 318mm
Power Type
Powered Powered
Frequency Response
75-18,000 Hz 24-200 Hz
ASR Score
1.9 n/a
ASR Score w/Subwoofer
4.5 n/a
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: In the arena of home audio, the Edifier R1280T powered bookshelf speakers offer a compelling combination of affordability and performance, ideal for casual listeners and vinyl enthusiasts alike. Their crisp highs and balanced mids are impressive for their size and price. Conversely, the MartinLogan Dynamo 700w subwoofer, with its 10” driver and wireless capabilities, caters to audiophiles seeking a deep, refined bass extension and room-shaking power. Although occupying different niches—full-range speakers versus a dedicated subwoofer—the two can complement each other, providing a rich and full-bodied soundscape for a diverse auditory experience.

Speaker Comparison

When it comes to building a satisfying audio system, the speakers you choose become the voice of your musical enjoyment. In that context, the Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers and the MartinLogan Dynamo 700w 10” Wireless Subwoofer couldn't be more different. The Edifier R1280T is a compact, affordable, and versatile option for those looking to enhance their desktop or small room audio experience without overwhelming the space. With a built-in amplifier, these bookshelf speakers offer a convenient plug-and-play solution. On the other hand, the MartinLogan Dynamo 700w is a beast of a different nature, a subwoofer designed to plumb the depths of bass with finesse — it's about complementing your system with a foundation of low-frequency sound, wirelessly if you so choose.

Design and Build Quality

The Edifier R1280T speakers exude a classic aesthetic with their wood veneer paneling, which should blend in with a variety of decors. They are solidly built for their price point and offer a handsome look that belies their budget-friendly nature. Conversely, the MartinLogan Dynamo 700w carries the premium feel expected from its higher price tag. Its sleek, black finish and substantial build quality communicate a product designed for serious audio enthusiasts. The Dynamo also offers a level of versatility in its design, allowing for both horizontal and vertical placement to best fit your space.

Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers
Edifier R1280T arrow (at Amazon.com)

Sound Quality and Performance

When it comes to sound, the Edifier R1280T offers a surprisingly full and clear response for its size. The 4-inch bass driver and a calibrated, flared bass reflex port contribute to a sound that is warm and has a reasonable bass presence for most genres of music — impressive for speakers with such a compact footprint. However, turning our attention to the MartinLogan Dynamo 700w, we enter a different league of low-frequency performance. The 10-inch woofer powered by a 700W amplifier delivers tight, impactful, and room-filling bass that can be adjusted to suit the acoustics of your listening environment.

Connectivity and Ease of Use

The Edifier R1280T is straightforward — they connect via RCA inputs and are easy to set up straight out of the box. These are self-contained units designed for convenience, featuring simple controls for volume, bass, and treble. They also come with a remote control for added convenience. The MartinLogan Dynamo 700w, while offering more complexity, shines in its wireless capabilities, allowing for easy integration into a home theater without running cables across the room. Additionally, the inclusion of a companion app for fine-tuning the subwoofer's settings adds a layer of modernity and customization.

MartinLogan Dynamo 700w 10” Wireless Subwoofer
MartinLogan Dynamo 700w arrow (at Amazon.com)

Value Proposition

Ultimately, choosing between the Edifier R1280T and the MartinLogan Dynamo 700w comes down to your audio priorities and budget. The Edifier R1280T is a fantastic value for those looking to step up their audio game without breaking the bank. They offer an all-in-one solution that is hard to beat at their price point. The MartinLogan Dynamo 700w, though, is an investment in bass that could last a lifetime. It’s for the audiophile who understands the transformative power of deep, accurate bass and is willing to pay a premium for that experience. Whether you’re a casual listener or a bass connoisseur, both products offer compelling reasons to be the heart—or the heartbeat—of your home audio system.


Check Current Prices:

Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers
Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers
MartinLogan Dynamo 700w 10” Wireless Subwoofer
MartinLogan Dynamo 700w 10” Wireless Subwoofer
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

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Disclaimer: the speaker data listed on this website are correct to the best of our knowledge, but we do not guarantee the accuracy of the data. Please double-check any measurements with the manufacturer before making a final purchasing decision.