Edifier R1280T vs. Polk Audio HTS 12

Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers Polk Audio HTS 12 Powered Subwoofer
MSRP
$120 $550
Dimensions (H × W × D)
9.50” × 5.75” × 7.00”
241mm × 146mm × 178mm
18.50” × 17.13” × 18.11”
470mm × 435mm × 460mm
Power Type
Powered Powered
Frequency Response
75-18,000 Hz 22-180 Hz
ASR Score
1.9 n/a
ASR Score w/Subwoofer
4.5 n/a
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Speaker Comparison

When venturing into the realm of home audio, the quest for the perfect sound system can be equal parts thrilling and overwhelming. Among the myriad choices available, the Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers and the Polk Audio HTS 12 Powered Subwoofer stand out as noteworthy contenders. Though these two audio solutions serve different purposes, comparing their respective attributes offers valuable insights for audiophiles looking to enhance their soundscapes.

The Role of Bookshelf Speakers vs. Subwoofers

The Edifier R1280T speakers are designed to deliver a full-range sound that is both clear and balanced, ideal for intimate listening environments. As bookshelf speakers, they are engineered to provide a well-rounded audio experience that encapsulates both the highs and the mids with precision. Conversely, the Polk Audio HTS 12 is a powerhouse focused on the low-end spectrum. Its primary role is to add depth and dimension to bass frequencies, giving weight to movie explosions and the pulsating beats of music. Together, they have the potential to complement each other, with the Edifier handling the upper registers and the Polk taking charge of the bass.

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

Sound Quality and Performance

The Edifier R1280T bookshelf speakers come with a reputation for offering a sound that is not only pleasingly warm but also detailed. With a built-in amplifier, these speakers are quite versatile, making them a good match for different genres of music and various audio sources. On the flip side, the Polk Audio HTS 12 subwoofer is a beast when it comes to bass. Equipped with a 12-inch driver and a 200-watt amplifier, this subwoofer can dive deep into frequencies as low as 28Hz, providing that room-filling bass that can be felt as much as it is heard.

Design Aesthetics and Build Quality

The Edifier’s classic wood veneer finish gives it a timeless appeal, with a build quality that feels solid and reliable. These speakers blend well with most decors, exuding an understated elegance that audiophiles with a taste for retro design will appreciate. In contrast, the Polk HTS 12 subwoofer has a more modern look with its sleek, rounded edges and detailed grille. Its larger footprint and substantial weight are indicative of its robust construction, meant to withstand the demands of delivering intense bass without distortion.

Polk Audio HTS 12 Powered Subwoofer
Polk Audio HTS 12 arrow (at Amazon.com)

Additionally, the user-friendliness of the Edifier R1280T is highlighted by its convenient side panel that houses the volume, bass, and treble controls. This level of adjustability allows listeners to tailor the sound output to their preference, a feature that is particularly handy considering its all-in-one design. The Polk subwoofer, while it doesn't offer the same range of tone controls, does include a low-pass filter, phase switch, and volume control, which are essential for integrating the subwoofer into an existing audio system seamlessly.

Price-wise, the Edifier R1280T speakers hit a sweet spot for those who are looking for quality sound on a budget. They offer exceptional value for money, providing a hi-fi experience without the steep price tag that usually accompanies audiophile-grade equipment. The Polk Audio HTS 12, being a more specialized piece of equipment, comes in at a higher price point, reflecting its focus on delivering superior bass performance for a more immersive audio experience.

In conclusion, while the Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers and the Polk Audio HTS 12 Powered Subwoofer cater to different aspects of the audio spectrum, they are both outstanding in their respective categories. The Edifiers offer an excellent full-range sound ideal for a variety of uses, whereas the Polk subwoofer excels in bringing the low-end to life. Combining the strengths of both could very well culminate in a sound system that is greater than the sum of its parts, satisfying the most discerning of audiophiles.


Check Current Prices:

Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers
Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers
Polk Audio HTS 12 Powered Subwoofer
Polk Audio HTS 12 Powered 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.