Edifier R1700BT vs. Klipsch Reference R-51M

Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers Klipsch Reference R-51M Bookshelf Speakers
MSRP
$180 $350
Dimensions (H × W × D)
9.75” × 6.00” × 8.00”
248mm × 152mm × 203mm
13.00” × 7.00” × 8.56”
330mm × 178mm × 217mm
Power Type
Powered Passive
Frequency Response
60-20,000 Hz 62-21,000 Hz
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: In the realm of accessible high-fidelity audio, the Edifier R1700BT speakers deliver a punch with their built-in Bluetooth and robust feature set, offering convenience for the modern listener. Their sound signature is warm and inviting, with decent clarity for their price point. Meanwhile, the Klipsch Reference R-51M speakers champion a more traditional audio experience, boasting a lively, dynamic sound with their iconic Tractrix horn-loaded tweeter and copper-spun IMG woofer, ensuring an engaging performance. When choosing between the two, it's a matter of prioritizing connectivity and ease-of-use (Edifier) versus acoustic precision and power (Klipsch).

Speaker Comparison

When it comes to outfitting a living space or a dedicated listening room, the choice of speakers can make or break the auditory experience. Two of the more intriguing options out there are the Edifier R1700BT and the Klipsch Reference R-51M bookshelf speakers. Both are revered for their sound quality and design, but they cater to somewhat different audiences.

Design and Build Quality

The Edifier R1700BT speakers exude a modern aesthetic with their dark wood finish and black front panels, which may appeal to those looking for a speaker that can both stand out and blend in with contemporary decor. The build is solid, and the use of quality materials is evident. On the other hand, the Klipsch R-51M speakers maintain the classic Klipsch design with a brushed black polymer veneer and the iconic copper-colored Klipsch logo. The R-51M's MDF cabinet and textured wood grain vinyl give it a more rugged and traditional vibe, which may appeal more to the purists and those who favor a timeless look.

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

Sound Quality and Performance

Audio performance is where the rubber meets the road for audiophiles, and here, the differences between the two sets become more pronounced. The Edifier R1700BT boasts a rich and warm sound signature with its 4-inch bass driver and a front-facing bass reflex port that ensures a powerful bass response. The silk dome tweeters offer crisp and clear highs, while the built-in Digital Signal Processing (DSP) and Dynamic Range Control (DRC) help to minimize distortion. Conversely, the Klipsch R-51M, with its proprietary Tractrix horn technology and aluminum tweeters, leans towards a more dynamic and energetic sound, with an emphasis on clarity and detail. The Klipsch's Linear Travel Suspension (LTS) tweeters also help to enhance the performance, reducing distortion for a cleaner sound.

In the low-frequency domain, the Klipsch R-51M may not deliver the same depth of bass as the Edifiers without a subwoofer, owing to its larger 5.25-inch woofer and the rear-firing port design. However, the Klipsch's are known for their remarkable efficiency and will shine in the mids, bringing vocals and instruments to life with a presence that's hard to ignore. This makes them better suited for genres that rely on mid-range clarity, such as rock, jazz, and classical music.

Klipsch Reference R-51M Bookshelf Speakers
Klipsch Reference R-51M arrow (at Amazon.com)

Connectivity and Features

Convenience is another aspect where the Edifier R1700BT stands out. With Bluetooth connectivity, pairing these speakers with a variety of devices is a breeze, making them versatile for both dedicated music listening and casual use with smartphones, tablets, or computers. The R1700BT also comes with a remote control for easy volume and input adjustments from across the room. In contrast, the Klipsch R-51M offers a more traditional setup with no built-in Bluetooth or remote control, focusing purely on the wired connection which might appeal to the purist who values an unadulterated signal path.

Both speakers offer multiple inputs, but the Edifier's inclusion of Bluetooth and a dedicated remote suggests a slight edge in user-friendliness, especially for those who prioritize convenience over the absolute integrity of a wired connection. The Klipsch's binding posts are robust, designed to accommodate large gauge speaker wire, banana plugs, or pin connectors, catering to those who may want to experiment with different cables to optimize their system's performance.

Price and Value

Price-wise, the Edifier R1700BT is often seen as a budget-friendlier option, giving users a blend of performance and functionality without breaking the bank. The Klipsch R-51M, typically coming in at a higher price point, may be considered an investment for those seeking the renowned Klipsch sound and build quality. Ultimately, the choice between the Edifier R1700BT and the Klipsch R-51M will come down to what the listener values most: the convenience and balanced sound of the Edifiers or the efficiency and sonic clarity of the Klipschs.


Check Current Prices:

Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers
Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers
Klipsch Reference R-51M Bookshelf Speakers
Klipsch Reference R-51M 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.