Edifier R1280T vs. Micca COVO-S

Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers Micca COVO-S Compact 2-Way Bookshelf Speakers
MSRP
$120 $80
Dimensions (H × W × D)
9.50” × 5.75” × 7.00”
241mm × 146mm × 178mm
5.10” × 4.20” × 5.10”
130mm × 107mm × 130mm
Power Type
Powered Passive
Frequency Response
75-18,000 Hz 90-20,000 Hz
ASR Score
1.9 n/a
ASR Score w/Subwoofer
4.5 n/a
Amazon.com
Amazon.com

Key Takeaways

TLDR Summary: In the realm of budget-friendly audio, the Edifier R1280T powered speakers shine with a warm, rich sound and convenient built-in amplification. Their larger size compared to the Micca COVO-S allows for a more robust bass response and a generally fuller soundstage. On the flip side, the Micca COVO-S compact speakers, though requiring a separate amplifier, punch above their weight class with impressive clarity and an articulate, if somewhat light, bass for their diminutive size. Both offer exceptional value, but the Edifiers cater to those seeking an all-in-one solution, while the Miccas appeal to space-conscious audiophiles who don't mind adding external hardware.

Speaker Comparison

In the realm of budget-friendly audio, few products stand out like the Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers and the Micca COVO-S Compact 2-Way Bookshelf Speakers. Both offer a promise to audiophiles who are conscious of their spendings, yet unwilling to compromise on sound quality. Today, we're pitting these two contenders against each other in a friendly skirmish to determine which one truly sings the best tune for its value.

Design and Build Quality

The Edifier R1280T speakers are a sight to behold with their classic wood veneer paneling that exudes a retro charm. They're robust, reassuringly heavy, and display a craftsmanship that belies their modest price tag. The Micca COVO-S, meanwhile, sports a more modern, compact design. The diminutive, boxy shape of the COVO-S is deceptive – it's built solid, but it can't match the Edifier's wood-finished panache.

Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers
Edifier R1280T arrow (at Amazon.com)

Sound Performance

When it comes to performance, the R1280T speakers deliver a warm, rich sound with impressive clarity for their size. Their powered nature means they pack their own amplification, which helps them provide a more dynamic range and fuller bass response. The R1280T's sound fills the room, making them suitable for music lovers who crave depth and detail. On the other hand, the Micca COVO-S, with its compact and unique driver design, offers a sound that is surprisingly spacious for such small speakers. However, they lean towards the brighter side of the sound spectrum and may require a separate amplifier to truly shine, which could be a hidden cost for the budget-conscious listener.

Connectivity and Ease of Use

The R1280T is the epitome of user-friendliness, featuring built-in controls and multiple inputs that accommodate various audio sources. This flexibility means you can have your turntable, PC, or television connected simultaneously, a real nod to convenience. The COVO-S takes a more traditional approach, focusing solely on the speaker aspect without built-in amps or controls, which means simplicity in setup but also necessitates additional components for volume control and input switching.

Micca COVO-S Compact 2-Way Bookshelf Speakers
Micca COVO-S arrow (at Amazon.com)

While the Micca COVO-S might appeal to purists who already own dedicated amps and prefer a passive speaker setup, the Edifier R1280T caters to those looking for an all-in-one solution. With its integrated amp and a remote control for volume and tone adjustments from your listening position, the R1280T is hard to beat in terms of ease of use.

Final Verdict

The choice between the Edifier R1280T and the Micca COVO-S depends largely on what you're looking for in a bookshelf speaker. If you value simplicity, compactness, and have an existing amplifier, the Micca COVO-S could be a charming addition to your audio setup. However, if you're after a more straightforward, rich-sounding, and versatile set of speakers that can work standalone, the Edifier R1280T is likely to satisfy your ears and your convenience cravings.

At the end of the day, both the Edifier R1280T and the Micca COVO-S stand as testament to the fact that great sound doesn't have to drain your wallet. Your final choice should harmonize with your personal audio needs and the specific symphonies you wish to create in your acoustic space. No matter which route you take, rest assured that both paths lead to a delightful sonic experience that belies their budget-conscious nature.


Check Current Prices:

Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers
Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers
Micca COVO-S Compact 2-Way Bookshelf Speakers
Micca COVO-S Compact 2-Way 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.