Edifier R1700BT vs. Klipsch R-120SW

Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers Klipsch R-120SW Subwoofer
MSRP
$180 $600
Dimensions (H × W × D)
9.75” × 6.00” × 8.00”
248mm × 152mm × 203mm
16.50” × 14.00” × 19.20”
419mm × 356mm × 488mm
Power Type
Powered Powered
Frequency Response
60-20,000 Hz 29-120 Hz
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: In the realm of home audio, the Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers offer an enticing blend of affordability and performance, with a built-in amplifier and wireless connectivity, they're a versatile choice for casual listening. On the other hand, the Klipsch R-120SW is a dedicated subwoofer designed to add a deep, visceral bass experience to your soundscape. While it lacks the standalone functionality of the Edifiers, in combination with complementary speakers, the R-120SW can transform a simple audio setup into a theater-like experience. Choosing between them depends on whether you seek a complete system or a bass-focused enhancement.

Speaker Comparison

When assessing the realm of high-fidelity audio, it's crucial to recognize that comparing the Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers to the Klipsch R-120SW Subwoofer is a bit like comparing two pieces of a larger puzzle. Both serve distinct roles in the creation of a sound system, yet they each bring their own strengths to the sonic table. The Edifier R1700BTs are a pair of powered bookshelf speakers with built-in amplifiers, designed to deliver a full-range sound, while the Klipsch R-120SW is a dedicated subwoofer meant to handle the lower end of the spectrum with gusto. Understanding this fundamental difference is key to appreciating what each product brings to an audio setup.

Design and Build Quality

Edifier's R1700BT speakers exude a sleek, contemporary design with a walnut vinyl finish that can blend seamlessly into a modern living space. The build quality is robust for the price point, and the speakers are compact enough to fit on a bookshelf or desk without dominating the space. On the other hand, the Klipsch R-120SW boasts a more traditional, no-nonsense subwoofer appearance with a textured wood grain vinyl finish. It's larger and more imposing, designed to be felt as much as seen, with a build quality that reflects its premium standing in the Klipsch lineup.

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

Functionality and Connectivity

The R1700BTs shine with versatility, featuring Bluetooth connectivity for wireless audio streaming alongside traditional RCA inputs. This makes them a great choice for users seeking simplicity and minimalism in their setup. Conversely, the Klipsch R-120SW is a specialized piece of equipment that serves one purpose: to deliver deep, room-shaking bass. It connects to a receiver via an LFE (low-frequency effects) channel and is an essential add-on for those looking to experience the full impact of explosions in movies or the depth of bass in music.

Sound Performance

Sound-wise, the Edifier R1700BTs offer impressive performance for their size and price bracket. They produce a clear and balanced sound with a decent amount of bass for bookshelf speakers. However, for true bass enthusiasts or those seeking the rumble of home theater experiences, pairing these speakers with a capable subwoofer such as the Klipsch R-120SW would elevate the low-end response significantly. The R-120SW's 12-inch copper-spun woofer and all-digital amplifier deliver a powerful and clean bass that can be felt in the chest, making it a perfect complement to the R1700BTs or any main speakers lacking in low-end muscle.

Klipsch R-120SW Subwoofer
Klipsch R-120SW arrow (at Amazon.com)

It's also worth noting that in a direct comparison, the Edifier R1700BTs are designed to be more of an all-in-one solution, catering to customers who want a decent all-around sound without the need for additional components. The Klipsch R-120SW, with its singular focus on bass, is an addition that requires an existing speaker setup and is aimed at audio enthusiasts looking to fill in the low-end frequencies that smaller speakers cannot reproduce.

Value for Money

Considering value for money, the Edifier R1700BT speakers offer a lot of bang for your buck. They are relatively affordable and serve as a complete package for casual listeners or those with space constraints. In contrast, the Klipsch R-120SW represents a more significant investment. However, for that investment, you gain an essential element for a high-powered home theater system or a music setup that demands accurate and potent bass reproduction. The value is therefore highly dependent on the user's needs and the system they aim to build or enhance.

In conclusion, while both the Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers and the Klipsch R-120SW Subwoofer excel in their respective roles, they cater to different audio needs and preferences. The Edifier speakers are excellent for those seeking a straightforward, standalone set that offers good sound quality across a range of frequencies. Meanwhile, the Klipsch subwoofer is a must-have for those wanting to dive deep into the lower end of the sound spectrum. Together, they could form a synergistic duo that satisfies both casual listeners and audiophiles alike. Ultimately, the choice between them—or the decision to integrate both into a system—hinges on the individual's audio ambitions and the sound experience they are chasing.


Check Current Prices:

Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers
Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers
Klipsch R-120SW Subwoofer
Klipsch R-120SW 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.