With impressive sound and excellent features at budget prices, there’s no question why you might be looking at the Edifier R1700BT and R1850DB.
But which speaker is better for you?
In this comparison review, I’ll compare the R1700BT and R1850DB head-to-head. By the end, you’ll know which one is the best choice.
The R1700BT and R1850DB offer comparable performance with their identical driver sets. However, the R1850DB edges out its cheaper sibling with extra connectivity, and subwoofer output for added bass, providing a more flexible listening experience.
Sound Quality
Edifier R1700BT
The Edifier R1700BT can deliver impressive audio considering the compact size and excellent price point.
It holds a 4″ bass driver and a 19mm silk tweeter in each speaker.
Bass
For a 4″ driver, the R1700BT woofer can provide a respectable bass output for a bookshelf speaker, even if it only goes down to about 60Hz.
The bass reflex port gives an added punch, but some may find it a bit too boomy on some tracks.
A while back I also did a comparison of the Edifier R1700BT vs. r1280DB which you can check out.
Mids
The R1700BT’s mid-range performance stands out as its main strength.
Vocals and instruments have a fine presence and intimacy thanks to the quick transient response of the 4″ driver.
Guitars and piano sound detailed with a great soundstage.
However, at loud volumes, it can sound congested and the mid-woofer maxes its output capacity.
Highs
With a 19mm silk dome tweeter, the R1700BT delivers smooth treble and does well to avoid any harshness.
Instruments like hi-hats have a crisp and sharp sound.
However, the top end lacks some fairness compared to larger dome tweeters and goes downhill a bit earlier in the frequency spectrum.
Overall performance is good though.
Soundstage
As always, positioning is important, especially for soundstage.
When positioned correctly, the R1700BT provides great imaging precision for such a small speaker.
Its angled baffle helps keep any projected sound outward.
However, due to its size, it can limit the expansiveness of the stereo image.
Volume
The RMS is powered by 60W and allows the speaker to reach loud volumes around the 100dB mark before distortion becomes noticeable.
It’s great for small rooms or a desktop workspace, but larger spaces may require more power.
Edifier R1850DB
The Edifier R1850DB delivers subtle but noticeable improvements over the R1700BT, mainly due to the extra power and the slightly larger size.
Bass
With a 79W RMS powering the 4″ drivers, the low end has greater boom and depth compared to the weaker R1700BT.
The bass reflex ports have been moved to the front to allow for more flexible positioning without sacrificing any bass response.
Similarly to the R1700BT, the bass does begin to roll off around the 60Hz mark though.
Having said that, the bass is tighter and more controlled.
Mids
With added power, it gives the midrange more headroom for a clearer and more open output.
Acoustic guitars have a rich woody tone on songs like “Blackbird” by the Beatles.
Intimacy is retained and congestion is reduced even at higher volumes, providing a sense of ease.
Highs
Just like the R1700BT, the 19mm silk dome tweeter delivers the similar pristine high that we are used to.
Nothing new to say here, it’s the same as the R1700BT.
Soundstage
Thanks to the slightly larger enclosure, the R1850DB produces a wider soundstage than the R1700BT.
Instruments are more precisely located, almost like you are there.
This sense of space is closer to larger audiophile speakers.
Volume
With the 70W RMS power, the R1850DB reaches up to volumes of around 102-104dB before any noticeable distortion.
The increased loudness capability gives a more usable headroom for larger spaces than the more compact R1700BT.
Sound Quality Winner: Edifier R1850DB
The R1850DB’s small but smart improvements across the frequency range, especially when it comes to the bass and mids, result in a more refined and complete listening experience compared to the R1700BT.
Also read: Is Edifier a good brand?
Build Quality
Edifier R1700BT
Considering the budget-friendly price point, the R1700BT speakers feature a rigid and well-engineered design.
Enclosure
The R1700BT’s enclosure is constructed from dense, resin-coated MDF wood.
While not real wood veneer, the MDF is thick enough and a lot more durable than a cheap plastic material.
Drivers
The 4″ mid-bass driver features a rigid composite and a sturdy steel frame to hold it in place and prevent vibrations.
The 19mm silk dome tweeter is also fortified to protect against punctures which can happen on cheaper, low-quality speakers.
Design
The angular cabinet shape and included removable grills allow for flexible positioning either horizontally or vertically, but vertically is recommended for the best performance.
Large rubber feet help to prevent any unwanted vibration for a smoother audio experience.
The speakers also come in a gorgeous glossy black or wood grain finish which looks premium.
The piano gloss black resembles that of more pricier speakers such as the Yamaha HS5 or HS8.
Port
The flared rear bass port is securely mounted to avoid rattling or tearing with use or when being moved around.
Terminals
Sturdy spring-loaded posts accept banana plugs for solid cable connections to help keep up the premium feel of the R1700BT.
The R1700BT’s solid construction almost guarantees longevity which we would expect from a great brand like Edifier.
Edifier 1850DB
With Subtle but noticeable improvements over the R1700BT, the R1850DB has excellent build quality with durability that should deliver for many years.
Enclosure
The R1850DB utilizes an MDF wooden enclosure, similar to the R1700BT.
There is no real difference here in the quality, but both are rigid enough to prevent any unwanted resonance.
Drivers
It shares the same 4″ mid-bass driver and 19mm silk dome tweeter as the R1850DB, both appear to be well constructed based on durability testing.
Finish
The glossy black finish on the front baffle provides an elegant aesthetic, but again, not much different than the R1700BT.
Terminals
Spring-loaded speaker terminals allow for secure wiring and banana plugs can also be used here too if needed.
Build Quality Winner: Edifier R1850DB
Again, I think the R1850DB is the winner here for build quality.
That’s not to say that the R1700BT is bad quality, but the clever upgrades such as a cleaner gloss finish, angled cabinet, and front-firing ports improve the overall look and sound of the speaker.
Controls
Edifier R1700BT
The R1700BT’s controls provide a smooth tactile experience and nothing feels cheap.
Power Switch
The power switch is mounted on the rear side of the speaker and has a very satisfying click when toggled on or off.
Quick Tip: Avoid any repeated rapid power cycling as this can cause amplifier issues further down the line.
Volume Knob
The volume knob is made of a beautiful aluminum material and is located on the right speaker.
It has silky resistance when turned up or down through the range.
Another nice touch is the clicks at each interval which provide pleasant tactile feedback.
Bass & Treble Knobs
These are identical in design to the volume knob and also allow for fine-tuning.
Remote
A nice touch with these speakers is the included remote which isn’t always the case.
Imagine the inconvenience of standing up from your chair to turn the volume down!
The remote feels lightweight and only requires a small watch battery.
Not much else to say here – it’s a remote and it works.
LED Indicator
A single LED indicator is located on the front right speaker.
It lights up solid when powered on and has a slow pulse which indicates that it’s on standby.
A useful feature to have.
Edifier R1850DB
The R1850DB offers a wide variety of ways to operate the speakers.
Rear Panel Controls
All physical buttons and knobs are located on the back of the speaker instead of on the side like the R1700BT.
I much prefer this as it’s more aesthetically pleasing to have them hidden out of site.
But either way, the controls do the same thing.
Volume Knob
The smooth dial allows for minute volume adjustments. The knob also has a nice tactile feedback when using it.
Bass & Treble Knobs
Separate bass and treble knobs allow you to fine-tune the frequency response to a wide ±6dB range.
This allows you to get precise to how you want your speaker to sound and it works really well.
Input Selection & Connectivity
The rear panel includes two RCA inputs, optical, coaxial, and subwoofer output.
The subwoofer output is a big improvement over the R1700BT. Having a subwoofer paired with this speaker means you can take your audio setup to a whole other level.
If you press the volume button, it toggles between inputs such as Bluetooth, RCA, optical and coaxial.
If you hold it, it automatically rests Bluetooth pairing too which is a handy feature.
Overall some nice features here with the inputs.
Remote Control
Like the R1700BT, the R1850DB has a remote control.
This remote has a few more features and can adjust volume, mute, switch inputs, and control Bluetooth.
While it is a lightweight plastic, it works well and does its job well.
While these are two great speakers, I also wrote a full article on the best edifier speakers over here.
Controls Winner: Edifier R1850DB
I feel like I’m doing the R1700BT an injustice here because its an absolutely fantastic speaker, but the R1850DB is just that little bit better with the controls.
While both models have satisfying tactile buttons and knobs, the added connectivity of the R1850DB and upgradability make it the winner here.
Little refinements like rear-mounted controls and auto Bluetooth pairing make connecting seamless
Overall, its just a bit more premium.
Price
Edifier R1700BT
The R1700BT provides great value and is price a good bit lower than the R1850DB.
It does have some limitations though such as only having RCA and Bluetooth connectivity.
This means if you want to upgrade to a subwoofer in the future it can’t be done.
Having said that, it still delivers great quality audio and features like DSP and DRC noise reduction.
For simple use and if you don’t plan to use a subwoofer, the R1700BT gives you premium sound on a budget.
You can check the latest price here.
Edifier R1850DB
The R1850DB justifies the higher price tag with strategic upgrades such as the optical/coaxial inputs, subwoofer outputs, a better remote, and subtle design changes such as the glossy piano finish which gives a more premium look.
While it does cost more, the added flexibility for home theater integration and upgradability down the line is an excellent bonus.
For example, if you aren’t happy with the audio low-frequency output, you can opt for a budget subwoofer down the line which isn’t an option with the R1700BT.
When you look at the price, it really isn’t that much more expensive and I’ve seen it on sale multiple times.
If it were me, I’d choose the R1850DB even if it is a little more.
You can check its latest price here.
Pros and Cons
Edifier R1700BT
Pros
- Wide frequency response range at 60Hz-20kHz
- Excellent noise correction and SNR.
- High-quality MDF with walnut finish.
- Tactile controls
- Bluetooth connectivity.
- Includes a remote-control device.
Cons
- Overemphasized bass
- Might be too heavy (14.5 pounds).
Edifier 1850DB
Pros
- Powerful sound output.
- RCA, coaxial, and optical inputs.
- Abundant connectivity options
- Subwoofer output
- Enhanced remote control
- Reduces noise in the signal.
- Glossy black finish on MDF wood.
Cons
- A bit too heavy (16 pounds).
Conclusion
In my opinion, the Edifier R1850DB edges out the R1700BT as the superior speaker.
While the R1700BT provides incredible value, the R1850DB’s extra connectivity, sleek design, and subtle but noticeable audio improvements are worth the very little extra.
Especially with the option to upgrade to the subwoofer.
Winner: Edifier R1850DB
Be sure to check out the latest prices below.
