Edifier S880DB Hi-Res Audio Certified 2.0 Powered Speakers Review

First Impressions of Edifier S880DB Hi-Res Audio Certified 2.0 Powered Speakers

As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, my ears have grown accustomed to the symphony of the wilderness – the crisp snap of a branch, the rustling whispers of leaves, and the distant howl of the wind. But when I’m back in civilization, I crave a different kind of auditory experience, one that delivers crystal-clear, immersive sound. That’s why the Edifier S880DB Hi-Res Audio Certified 2.0 Powered Speakers immediately piqued my interest; promising full-range bookshelf speaker performance, compact design, and Hi-Res audio certification from Edifier. I was eager to find out if these speakers could bridge the gap between my love for the outdoors and my appreciation for high-fidelity audio.

I had been looking for a compact speaker system for my home office that could handle everything from critical listening to casual background music. I wanted something that wouldn’t take up too much space but still delivered a detailed and accurate sound. Unboxing the Edifier S880DB speakers, I was immediately struck by their clean, modern aesthetic. The white finish is surprisingly elegant, and the overall build quality feels solid and premium. The weight of each speaker suggested quality components and a robust construction.

I was also considering the Audioengine A2+ and the KEF Q150. The Audioengine A2+ are slightly smaller, but I wanted something with a bit more power and bass response. The KEF Q150 are fantastic speakers, but they are significantly larger and require a separate amplifier. I chose the Edifier S880DB because they seemed to offer the best balance of size, performance, features, and value.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. They looked the part, but I needed to hear them in action to truly judge their worth. Would the sound live up to the Hi-Res certification, or would it fall flat? I was excited to find out.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Edifier S880DB Hi-Res Audio Certified 2.0 Powered Speakers to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Edifier S880DB speakers was my home office, a space that doubles as a workspace and a listening room. I connected them to my computer via USB, taking advantage of the XMOS Digital Audio Processor, and fired up a playlist of high-resolution audio tracks. The immediate difference compared to my previous computer speakers was astonishing. The soundstage opened up, revealing details I hadn’t noticed before.

I listened to music while working through emails and editing photos, really immersing myself in the experience. I also experimented with Bluetooth connectivity. Streaming music from my phone was seamless. I even used them for a virtual meeting. The clear and articulate sound made communication easy.

There were no initial issues. The setup was straightforward, the controls were intuitive, and the sound was impressive right out of the box.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Edifier S880DB speakers continue to impress. I use them daily for several hours, and their performance remains consistent. The white finish has proven to be relatively easy to keep clean, with a quick wipe-down being all that’s needed to remove dust.

The build quality appears robust. There are no signs of wear and tear, even with regular use of the volume and EQ controls on the back panel. I have experimented with different input sources, including RCA, optical, and coaxial, and the speakers have performed flawlessly with each one.

Compared to my previous experiences with smaller, cheaper computer speakers, the Edifier S880DB are in a different league entirely. They offer a level of detail, clarity, and overall sound quality that I simply hadn’t experienced before. They’ve exceeded my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Edifier S880DB Hi-Res Audio Certified 2.0 Powered Speakers

Specifications

The Edifier S880DB Hi-Res Audio Certified 2.0 Powered Speakers boast an impressive array of specifications that contribute to their performance. They feature a titanium-laminate dome treble driver and a 94mm bass driver unit, delivering a full-range sound experience. The speakers have an Electronics Output of 32 watts, which provides ample power for desktop listening and small to medium-sized rooms.

The Edifier S880DB offer versatile connectivity with RCA, AUX, USB, optical, coaxial, and Bluetooth inputs. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices, from computers and gaming consoles to smartphones and TVs. The USB, optical, and coaxial inputs support a sample signal rate of up to 192kHz, allowing for high-resolution audio playback.

These specifications translate to a detailed, balanced, and powerful sound signature. The Hi-Res Audio certification guarantees a level of audio fidelity that surpasses typical consumer-grade speakers.

Performance & Functionality

The Edifier S880DB Hi-Res Audio Certified 2.0 Powered Speakers excel at their primary function: delivering high-quality audio. The sound is clear, detailed, and well-balanced, with a surprisingly robust bass response for their size. The four EQ modes – Classic, Dynamic, Monitor, and Vocal – allow you to tailor the sound to your personal preferences and the specific content you’re listening to.

The Bluetooth connectivity is reliable and easy to use, providing a convenient way to stream music wirelessly. The included remote control is a welcome addition, allowing you to adjust the volume, change inputs, and control playback from across the room. One minor weakness is the placement of the volume and EQ controls on the back of the speaker. While not a major issue, it can be slightly inconvenient to adjust these settings on the fly.

Overall, the Edifier S880DB meet and exceed expectations. They provide a premium audio experience in a compact and versatile package.

Design & Ergonomics

The Edifier S880DB Hi-Res Audio Certified 2.0 Powered Speakers feature a clean, modern design that blends seamlessly into any environment. The white finish is elegant and understated, while the compact size makes them ideal for desktop use. The build quality is excellent. The speakers feel solid and well-constructed, with a reassuring weight that suggests quality components.

The controls are simple and intuitive, with clearly labeled knobs for volume, bass, and treble on the back panel. The included remote control is also well-designed and easy to use. There is a slight learning curve associated with understanding the nuances of the EQ modes. However, this is easily overcome with a bit of experimentation.

Durability & Maintenance

The Edifier S880DB Hi-Res Audio Certified 2.0 Powered Speakers appear to be built to last. The materials used are high-quality and the construction is robust. The speakers have shown no signs of wear and tear after several weeks of regular use.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only an occasional wipe-down with a soft cloth to remove dust. The speaker grills are not removable, but they are made of a durable material that is easy to clean. I anticipate that these speakers will provide many years of reliable service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Edifier S880DB Hi-Res Audio Certified 2.0 Powered Speakers come with a basic set of accessories, including a remote control, speaker cable, and various audio cables (RCA, AUX, USB). The remote control provides convenient access to volume, input selection, and playback controls. The speaker cable is of decent quality.

While the Edifier S880DB don’t offer extensive customization options, their versatile connectivity makes them compatible with a wide range of external devices, such as subwoofers and headphone amplifiers. This allows you to further tailor the sound to your personal preferences. I would like to see Edifier offer different grill colors or materials as a customization option in the future.

Pros and Cons of Edifier S880DB Hi-Res Audio Certified 2.0 Powered Speakers

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Who Should Buy Edifier S880DB Hi-Res Audio Certified 2.0 Powered Speakers?

The Edifier S880DB Hi-Res Audio Certified 2.0 Powered Speakers are perfect for audiophiles, music lovers, and anyone who appreciates high-quality sound. They are ideal for desktop use, home offices, and small to medium-sized rooms. Anyone seeking a compact and versatile speaker system that delivers exceptional audio fidelity will be thrilled with these speakers.

Those who prioritize portability or require a rugged, outdoor-ready speaker system should skip this product. Similarly, individuals who prefer heavily bass-boosted sound may find the Edifier S880DB a bit too balanced for their taste. A high-quality USB cable to fully take advantage of the XMOS Digital Audio Processor is a must-have accessory for computer users.

Conclusion on Edifier S880DB Hi-Res Audio Certified 2.0 Powered Speakers

The Edifier S880DB Hi-Res Audio Certified 2.0 Powered Speakers are an exceptional value for the price. They deliver a level of audio fidelity that rivals much more expensive speaker systems.

At $299.99, the price is justified by the sound quality, versatile connectivity, and overall build quality. The Edifier S880DB are an investment in a superior listening experience.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Edifier S880DB to anyone looking for a compact, versatile, and high-quality speaker system. If you value clear, detailed, and balanced sound, these speakers will not disappoint. Upgrade your listening experience today with the Edifier S880DB Hi-Res Audio Certified 2.0 Powered Speakers!