Edifier R1700BT vs. HTD Level TWO

Speaker Comparison

When it comes to choosing the right pair of bookshelf speakers to enhance your home audio experience, the Edifier R1700BT and HTD Level TWO are two strong contenders that deserve a closer look. On the surface, both speaker sets offer the promise of high-quality sound in a compact package, but delving into their details reveals each has its own distinct character and set of features that cater to different audiophile preferences. In this comparison, we'll examine how these speakers stack up against each other in terms of design, performance, connectivity, and overall value.

Design and Build Quality

The Edifier R1700BT speakers boast a modern look with a stylish wood finish that complements any room décor. Their angled design not only gives them a unique aesthetic but also aids in sound projection. On the other hand, the HTD Level TWO speakers have a more traditional appearance, with clean lines and a classic boxy shape. Construction-wise, both sets are solidly built, but the Edifier's use of MDF wood with a walnut finish gives it a slightly more premium feel. However, the HTD's real wood veneer options provide a level of customization that might appeal more to traditionalists.

Sound Performance

Sound quality is where the rubber meets the road for any audiophile, and both the Edifier R1700BT and HTD Level TWO speakers deliver, but in different ways. The Edifiers come with a built-in amplifier, which means they're ready to deliver room-filling sound straight out of the box. They're known for their crisp highs and balanced mids, which make them excellent for a variety of genres. The bass is present and punchy, thanks to the front-firing bass reflex port. The HTD Level TWO speakers, however, require an external amplifier or receiver. They shine with a warm and natural sound signature, and their ribbon tweeters provide exceptional clarity and detail. For bass, the HTDs rely on a well-tuned rear port design that produces deep and tight low frequencies.

Connectivity and Features

One of the standout features of the Edifier R1700BT is its Bluetooth capability, which allows for convenient wireless streaming from various devices. This addition makes the Edifiers particularly versatile and user-friendly. In contrast, the HTD Level TWO speakers lack Bluetooth, focusing solely on a wired connection that caters more to the purist approach to audio. Both speaker sets have multiple input options, but the Edifier's inclusion of a wireless remote adds to its ease of use, offering more flexibility and control over your listening experience.

The Edifier R1700BT also boasts DSP (Digital Signal Processing) and DRC (Dynamic Range Control) to minimize distortion at high volumes, further refining its sound output. The HTD Level TWO speakers rely on traditional passive crossover design, which, when paired with a high-quality amplifier, allows for a pure and uncolored sound that can be very appealing to those with discerning ears who prefer minimal signal processing.

In terms of price, the Edifier R1700BT speakers generally come in at a lower price point than the HTD Level TWO, making them an excellent value proposition. The affordability of the Edifiers, combined with their comprehensive features, makes them accessible to a broader range of listeners – from casual users to budding audiophiles. Though the HTDs are pricier, they are aimed at a more discerning market, where the listener is likely to have existing high-end audio components that these speakers can complement beautifully.

Ultimately, the decision between the Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers and the HTD Level TWO Bookshelf Speakers comes down to user preferences and intended use. The Edifiers offer an excellent balance of sound quality, convenience, and modern features at an attractive price. They are suited to a lifestyle that values both performance and ease of use. The HTD Level TWO speakers, meanwhile, cater to the traditional audiophile who prioritizes audio fidelity and has the equipment to support passive speakers. Their sound quality is nuanced and refined, ideal for those who seek an immersive listening experience and don't mind the extra investment.

Both speaker sets have their merits and will undoubtedly satisfy different segments of the audio market. Whether you lean towards the feature-rich and user-friendly Edifier R1700BT or the audiophile-grade and sonically pure HTD Level TWO, rest assured that both will elevate your home audio experience. It's simply a matter of matching your personal audio desires with the speaker characteristics that will best fulfill them.