Edifier R1700BTs Review – Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers with aptX HD, Sub Out & Dual RCA

Introduction

The Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers are a well-rounded choice for listeners who want rich, room-filling sound without a bulky setup. Designed as Powered 2.0 speakers, they combine wireless convenience with solid wired connectivity and built-in amplification to deliver detailed audio for music, movies, and general media. Their wooden enclosure lends a classic aesthetic that fits desktops, living rooms, or multimedia stations.


Product Overview

🎵 Sound & Performance

66 W RMS total output (15 W ×2 tweeter + 18 W ×2 mid-bass) provides dynamic, distortion-controlled sound that fills medium-sized rooms.
Class-D amplifier with DSP and DRC helps maintain balanced audio and minimize distortion even at higher volumes.
• A pair of 4″ mid-bass drivers and 19 mm silk dome tweeters work together to deliver deep lows and crisp highs.
Frequency response ~52 Hz–20 kHz and ≥85 dB(A) SNR offer detailed listening across genres.

🔊 Connectivity & Streaming

Bluetooth 5.0 with Qualcomm® aptX™ HD delivers high-quality wireless audio when paired with compatible devices.
Dual RCA inputs let you connect two wired sources simultaneously (e.g., PC and turntable).
Subwoofer Out port lets you add an external subwoofer for deeper bass and a 2.1 system upgrade.

🎛️ Controls & Design

Side panel knobs allow you to adjust volume, bass, and treble — and pressing the volume dial toggles between inputs.
• A wireless remote control is included, so you can change volume, mute, switch sources, or adjust sound field settings from across the room.
Wooden MDF enclosure with angled cabinets reduces resonance and directs sound toward the listener, while removable grilles protect the drivers.


Design & Build Quality

The R1700BTs feature a classic walnut-vinyl wood finish and sturdy MDF construction that not only looks good in a home setup but also helps reduce unwanted resonance for cleaner, more natural acoustics. Their slightly angled design aims to optimize sound projection for rooms and desktop placements.


Performance & Daily Use

🎧 Everyday Listening

Owners often cite that the R1700BTs deliver clear, balanced sound with a good sense of space for music, movies, and gaming — especially at moderate volume levels. The built-in DSP and DRC help keep distortion under control, which is helpful in everyday listening.

📶 Wireless & Wired Versatility

Bluetooth pairing is generally stable, and aptX HD support adds improved wireless quality over standard SBC codecs when used with compatible devices. Dual RCA inputs mean you can connect older media players, TVs, or turntables without unplugging to switch sources.

📊 User Impressions

Most reviewers appreciate these speakers for good value and wide usability. According to aggregated user feedback, many owners find them well-suited as primary desktop speakers or a compact living-room system. Some note that true audiophile depth and very deep bass still require a subwoofer, but the included sub out makes expansion easy.


Pros & Cons

Pros

• Powerful 66 W RMS output suitable for music, movies, and general audio.
Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD for quality wireless streaming.
• Dual RCA inputs allow multi-device connection with less cable switching.
Sub Out port for deeper bass when paired with a subwoofer.
• Side controls + remote for easy adjustments.
Classic wooden enclosure looks good and improves acoustics.

Cons

• Some users feel bass is less deep without a subwoofer attached — common for bookshelf 2.0 speakers.
• A few reviewers mention that Bluetooth range or penetration can be limited through certain walls.
• Speaker remote or input switch can be slightly less intuitive until you learn the layout.


Who These Speakers Are For

✔ Users wanting a compact bookshelf/desktop audio solution with richer sound than basic computer speakers.
✔ Home audio listeners who want wireless streaming without sacrificing analog connectivity.
✔ People who might later add a subwoofer for deeper bass via the sub out port.
✔ Anyone who appreciates classic wood-finish speakers with easy controls and remote adjustability.


Final Verdict

The Edifier R1700BTs Active Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers offer a well-balanced blend of power, connectivity, and classic design that makes them a great choice for rooms, desktops, or home media setups. With RMS power over 60 W, Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD, versatile wired inputs, and a subwoofer output, they satisfy a wide range of listening needs. While deep bass fans might want to add a subwoofer for full low-end extension, the core performance and value are strong — making these speakers a solid everyday audio solution.