Edifier R1700BT vs. ELAC Uni-fi UB5

Speaker Comparison

When comparing the Edifier R1700BT Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers to the ELAC Uni-fi UB5 Bookshelf Speakers, we're venturing into a clash of philosophies within the realm of accessible high-fidelity audio. With the former, we find a feature-rich, versatile, and modern approach to sound reproduction, while the latter champions an audiophile-centric, purist dedication to sonic excellence. This exploration is not simply about deciding which is superior, but rather, which speaker set aligns with your personal audio aspirations and living space requirements.

Design and Build Quality

The Edifier R1700BT boasts a stylish, contemporary design with a walnut vinyl finish that's designed to blend into a modern interior with ease. Its sturdy MDF build suggests a thoughtful consideration of both aesthetics and acoustic properties. In contrast, the UB5 from ELAC presents a more understated appearance with its conventional boxy shape, but the build quality is unmistakably robust featuring a three-way design that promises intricate crossover management and an enhanced audio experience.

Sound Performance

Sound is where the ELAC Uni-fi UB5 truly excels. It's a speaker with the audiophile's taste in mind, offering outstanding clarity, depth, and balance. Its dedicated 4-inch midrange driver and a 1-inch soft dome tweeter deliver a coherent and detailed performance that's hard to fault. The Edifier R1700BT, on the other hand, is more of an all-rounder. While it might not match the UB5's raw fidelity, it provides a warm, pleasing sound with enough bass response to forego the immediate need for a subwoofer, which is a significant advantage for space-saving setups or for those on a tighter budget.

Connectivity and Features

One of the most significant differences between these two speaker sets is their approach to connectivity and features. The Edifier R1700BT is equipped with Bluetooth, making it a versatile option for those who prioritize convenient wireless streaming from various devices. Additionally, the R1700BT comes with a built-in amplifier, remote control, and multiple input options. Conversely, the ELAC UB5 is more traditional, focusing solely on its wired connection capabilities without the bells and whistles of Bluetooth or an internal amp, requiring an external amplifier or receiver to function.

In terms of user convenience, the Edifier's remote control allows users to adjust volume and toggle inputs from a distance, a feature that the ELAC lacks. This kind of convenience cannot be understated for those who value ease-of-use in their daily listening experience.

Value Proposition

Price-wise, the Edifier R1700BT is positioned as an appealing entry-level option for those seeking quality sound without the audiophile price tag. It's a package that offers significant value for money, especially considering its feature set. The ELAC UB5, on the other hand, is a more serious financial commitment. However, for that investment, you're receiving a speaker that punches well above its weight class in sound quality, offering a listening experience that rivals more expensive models. It's a choice for the discerning listener prepared to pay for acoustic excellence.

Ultimately, the decision between the Edifier R1700BT and the ELAC Uni-fi UB5 boils down to what you value most in your listening experience. If you're after versatility, convenience, and enjoyable sound at a reasonable price, the Edifiers might just be your ticket. But if you're a purist at heart, willing to invest in superior sound and you already have the necessary amplification, the ELAC's UB5 could be the cornerstone of a stellar home audio system. Both sets of speakers proudly serve their intended audience with distinction, and the choice is yours to make.