Edifier R1700BT vs. Micca RB42

Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers Micca RB42 Reference Bookshelf Speakers
MSRP
$180 $150
Dimensions (H × W × D)
9.75” × 6.00” × 8.00”
248mm × 152mm × 203mm
8.70” × 4.90” × 7.90”
221mm × 124mm × 201mm
Power Type
Powered Passive
Frequency Response
60-20,000 Hz 50-20,000 Hz
ASR Score
n/a 4.4
ASR Score w/Subwoofer
n/a 6.6
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: In a head-to-head battle of budget-friendly bookshelf speakers, the Edifier R1700BT brings a modern twist with its Bluetooth connectivity and a lively sound profile, perfect for casual listening and seamless integration with smart devices. On the flip side, the Micca RB42 Reference speakers appeal to purists with their compact, classic design and impressive sonic depth that belies their size, delivering a richer, warmer sound that's particularly suited for critical listening. Both offer exceptional value, but your choice ultimately hinges on whether you prioritize wireless convenience (Edifier) or acoustic refinement (Micca) in your audio experience.

Speaker Comparison

When discussing the realm of audiophile-grade bookshelf speakers that offer a balance between cost and performance, the Edifier R1700BT and Micca RB42 stand out as popular choices for enthusiasts who are not looking to break the bank. Both speakers have garnered attention for their compact size, substantial audio quality, and design aesthetics that are pleasing to the eyes and ears alike. However, while they may share a target audience, their approach to sound reproduction and feature sets are quite distinct.

Design and Build

Let's begin with the visual and structural aspects. The Edifier R1700BT speakers don an elegant look with a black wood finish complemented by a gray front panel that houses the drivers. This design choice makes them easily adaptable to various room decors. They are slightly larger in stature compared to the Micca RB42s, which might be a consideration for those with limited space. The Miccas, on the other hand, boast a classic, unassuming appearance with a dark wood grain finish that exudes a timeless vibe, offering a solid build quality, albeit in a more compact package.

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

Connectivity and Features

When it comes to connectivity, the Edifiers have a clear edge with their built-in Bluetooth functionality. This allows for convenient wireless streaming from smartphones, tablets, or computers, adding a layer of user-friendly interaction that the Miccas lack. The R1700BT also comes with a remote control, enhancing the ease of use factor. Conversely, the Micca RB42 speakers stick to a more traditional approach, forgoing Bluetooth for a purely wired experience that might appeal to purists who prioritize a direct connection for potentially less interference and arguably better sound quality.

Sound Quality

Diving into the auditory experience, the Edifier R1700BT speakers offer a well-balanced sound profile with a surprising amount of low-end punch for their size, due to the 4-inch bass driver and front-facing bass reflex port. They also possess a clear and present mid-range, along with crisp highs that are not overly bright, providing a pleasant listening experience for a variety of genres. The R1700BTs are powered, meaning they have a built-in amplifier, which ensures a level of performance consistency and easy setup.

Micca RB42 Reference Bookshelf Speakers
Micca RB42 arrow (at Amazon.com)

In contrast, the Micca RB42 Reference Bookshelf Speakers present a sound signature that tends to be warm and rich, with an emphasis on a natural mid-range. Their larger 4-inch woofer and silk dome tweeter work in harmony to produce a more nuanced and detailed soundstage. However, they require a separate amplifier or receiver to drive them, which can be a blessing for those who want to tailor their setup with specific amplification characteristics, but it also adds to the cost and complexity of the overall system.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the choice between the Edifier R1700BT and the Micca RB42 speakers largely depends on the listener's priorities. For those seeking convenience and an all-in-one solution with decent sound quality, the Edifiers are a compelling choice, particularly with their Bluetooth connectivity and ease of placement. Meanwhile, the Micca RB42s cater to the audio purist segment, providing a purer, perhaps more refined sound, but at the cost of requiring additional components and lacking wireless capabilities.

Both sets of speakers punch above their weight in terms of price-to-performance ratio, and your decision should ultimately be informed by your specific needs and listening preferences. Whether you lean towards the modern convenience of the Edifiers or the audiophile ethos of the Miccas, each offers a unique value proposition that makes them worthy contenders in the budget audiophile market.


Check Current Prices:

Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers
Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers
Micca RB42 Reference Bookshelf Speakers
Micca RB42 Reference 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.