Dayton Audio B652-AIR vs. Edifier R1700BT

Dayton Audio B652-AIR 6-1/2” Bookshelf Speakers Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers
MSRP
$85 $180
Dimensions (H × W × D)
11.81” × 7.06” × 6.44”
300mm × 179mm × 164mm
9.75” × 6.00” × 8.00”
248mm × 152mm × 203mm
Power Type
Passive Powered
Frequency Response
70-20,000 Hz 60-20,000 Hz
ASR Score
1.5 n/a
ASR Score w/Subwoofer
4.6 n/a
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: In the battle of budget bookshelf speakers, the Dayton Audio B652-AIR brings an air of high-fidelity with its AMT tweeter delivering crisp highs, while the Edifier R1700BT counters with versatile Bluetooth connectivity and a warmer sound signature. Dayton emphasizes simplicity and audiophile aspirations on a shoestring, making it a purist's entry-level choice. The Edifiers, however, offer an alluring package for the tech-savvy listener with its remote control and built-in amplification, all without breaking the bank. Ultimately, your preference between the analytical clarity of the B652-AIR or the convenience and richness of the R1700BT will steer your decision.

Speaker Comparison

When it comes to setting up a compact yet immersive sound system, bookshelf speakers are often the go-to choice for music lovers who are tight on space but still yearn for quality sound. Among the plethora of options available in the market, the Dayton Audio B652-AIR and the Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers are both noteworthy for their respective features and performance. Each of these speakers caters to a different set of audio preferences and technological requirements, making it an interesting comparison for budding audiophiles.

Design and Build Quality

Right off the bat, the design language of the two speakers tells a story of traditional meets modern. The Dayton Audio B652-AIR carries a minimalist and no-frills design approach, with a black ebony pica vinyl cabinet that's straightforward yet functional. On the other hand, the Edifier R1700BT sports a more contemporary look with a walnut vinyl finish and a contrasting black front that exudes a sense of sophistication. The build quality of both is solid, but the Edifier edges out with a slightly more premium feel.

Dayton Audio B652-AIR 6-1/2” Bookshelf Speakers
Dayton Audio B652-AIR arrow (at Amazon.com)

Sound Signature and Performance

When it comes to sound, the Dayton Audio B652-AIR features a 6-1/2” woofer and a 1" AMT tweeter (Air Motion Transformer) that produce clear and natural audio with an emphasis on the highs due to its unique tweeter design. The soundstage is wide and the speakers are surprisingly capable given their modest price point. Conversely, the Edifier R1700BT, equipped with a 4-inch bass driver and a 19mm dome tweeter, offers a warm and well-rounded sound profile. The bass is punchier and more pronounced, which might be more appealing to bass enthusiasts.

The Dayton B652-AIR excels in delivering a detailed and airy treble, perfect for vocal-centric tracks and acoustic performances. However, they may lack the depth and fullness in the lower frequencies compared to the R1700BT. The Edifiers, with their built-in Digital Signal Processing (DSP) and Dynamic Range Control (DRC), prevent distortion at high volumes and provide a more balanced listening experience across various genres of music.

Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers
Edifier R1700BT arrow (at Amazon.com)

Connectivity and Features

One of the starkest differences between these two speakers lies in their connectivity options and additional features. The Dayton Audio B652-AIR is a passive speaker system, which means it requires an external amplifier to function. This can be seen as a plus for audiophiles who prefer to tailor their setup with a separate amp that matches their listening preferences. The Edifier R1700BT, however, comes with built-in amplification and Bluetooth connectivity, making it a more user-friendly choice for those who value convenience and easy integration with mobile devices.

The Bluetooth functionality in the R1700BT allows for seamless wireless music streaming, a feature that the Dayton lacks. Additionally, the Edifier speakers come with a remote control for easy operation, whereas the B652-AIR's simplicity means manual adjustment is necessary. This could be a deciding factor for users looking for a hands-off listening experience.

In conclusion, choosing between the Dayton Audio B652-AIR and the Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers boils down to one's personal preference and usage scenario. If you're an audiophile who enjoys the process of customizing your audio setup and you prioritize a clean treble response, the Dayton B652-AIR might be the right choice. On the other hand, if you seek a more feature-rich, all-in-one solution with the added convenience of Bluetooth and a warmer sound signature, the Edifier R1700BT will not disappoint. Regardless of the choice, both speaker sets are capable contenders in the realm of affordable yet quality audio gear.


Check Current Prices:

Dayton Audio B652-AIR 6-1/2” Bookshelf Speakers
Dayton Audio B652-AIR 6-1/2” Bookshelf Speakers
Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers
Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers
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.