For years, my home audio setup was a compromise. Like many, I started with the tinny, lifeless speakers built into my television, then graduated to a respectable soundbar. It was an improvement, certainly, but it always felt like something was missing. The sound was a wall, a single plane of audio that lacked depth, separation, and the immersive quality that truly pulls you into a movie or a piece of music. I craved the wide, detailed soundstage of a true stereo system, the kind where you can close your eyes and pinpoint exactly where the violinist is sitting or feel the rumble of a bass guitar in your chest. The problem? Traditional audiophile setups often involve a labyrinth of components: passive speakers, a powerful amplifier, a pre-amp, a DAC, and a nest of cables. It’s an expensive and often intimidating world to enter. My quest was for a simpler solution: a single purchase that could deliver that rich, expansive, high-fidelity sound without the complexity and wallet-draining cost of a full component system. This search led me directly to the world of high-end active speakers, and specifically, to a product that promised audiophile-grade components in an all-in-one package.
- HIGH-END AUDIOPHILE COMPONENTS - Built using planar diaphragm tweeters and 5.5 inch woofers, the S2000MKII delivers clear, powerful audio.
- BLUETOOTH 5.0 WITH aptX HD DECODING – Stream high quality audio wirelessly with reduced latency and increased stability.
- LINE-IN/OPTICAL/COAXIAL INPUTS - Connect the S2000Pro easily using wireless, dual RCA, line-in and optical. Connect to multiple sources to avoid swapping inputs constantly.
What to Consider Before Buying Active Bookshelf Speakers
An active bookshelf speaker system is more than just a pair of speakers; it’s a key solution for achieving high-fidelity audio with maximum convenience. By integrating the amplification directly into the speaker cabinet, it eliminates the need for a separate, bulky receiver or power amplifier. This makes them a perfect, streamlined audio hub for a variety of sources, from turntables and computers to televisions and smartphones. The main benefits are simplicity, space-saving design, and optimized performance, as the internal amplifiers are specifically tuned to the drivers they are powering. This synergy often results in a cleaner, more accurate sound than one might achieve by pairing separate components at a similar price point.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone who values audio quality and versatility but prefers a plug-and-play experience. This includes music enthusiasts setting up their first vinyl rig, professionals seeking accurate near-field monitors for a home studio, or anyone looking to dramatically upgrade their TV or desktop audio beyond a basic soundbar. They are perfect for apartments, offices, and living rooms where space is at a premium. However, they might not be suitable for hardcore audiophiles who relish the process of experimenting with different amplifiers and components to fine-tune their system’s sound signature. Additionally, for those seeking to fill a cavernous home theater with floor-shaking bass for blockbuster movies, a dedicated multi-channel surround sound system with a powerful subwoofer might be a more appropriate, albeit more complex, alternative.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: These are called “bookshelf” speakers, but higher-end models can be quite large and heavy. Measure your desk, media console, or actual bookshelf to ensure a proper fit, leaving some room behind for ventilation and cable management. Consider speaker stands for optimal positioning, which can place the tweeters at ear level and decouple them from surfaces to reduce unwanted vibrations.
- Capacity/Performance: Look beyond just the total wattage. The type of drivers used is paramount. Planar magnetic tweeters, like those in the Edifier S2000MKIII, are known for detailed, airy highs, while aluminum or paper woofers offer different characteristics in the low end. Also, check the variety of inputs—Optical and Coaxial are great for digital sources like TVs and CD players, while RCA is essential for turntables (with a preamp), and high-quality Bluetooth like aptX HD is a must for convenient wireless streaming.
- Materials & Durability: The enclosure material significantly affects sound. Thick, braced MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) is the standard for quality speakers as it’s dense and acoustically inert, preventing the cabinet from resonating and coloring the sound. Cheaper speakers might use thin particleboard or plastic, which can vibrate and detract from audio purity. A real wood veneer, as opposed to a vinyl wrap, adds a touch of premium class and durability.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: The beauty of active speakers lies in their simplicity. However, check for user-friendly controls. A good remote is essential for switching inputs, adjusting volume, and changing sound modes from your listening position. For long-term care, a simple dusting with a microfiber cloth is usually all that’s required to keep them looking and performing their best.
Keeping these factors in mind, the Edifier S2000MKIII Active Bookshelf Speakers stands out in several areas. You can explore its detailed specifications here.
While the Edifier S2000MKIII Active Bookshelf Speakers is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- 2 x AUX INPUT - Convenient connection to any device that has a 3.5mm headphone output or dual RCA output. Play from two devices via AUX at the same time, no plugging and switching needed
- EXPERIENCE AMAZING HOME THEATER SOUND WITH RICH, IMMERSIVE AUDIO – Featuring a 0.75" tweeter and a 5.25" Dynamic Balance driver, these passive bookshelf speakers deliver clear, balanced sound with...
- Each speaker in the Stage 2 series features Polycellulose ribbed cone woofers
Unboxing and First Impressions: Premium Build and Classic Aesthetics
From the moment the courier dropped off the substantial box, it was clear the Edifier S2000MKIII Active Bookshelf Speakers were a serious piece of kit. Tipping the scales at over 17 kilograms, the weight alone inspires confidence. Unboxing them felt like a premium experience, confirming what one user noted as being “welcomed with premium items right off the back.” Each speaker was securely encased in foam, and the accessories were neatly organized. The speakers themselves are stunning. The side panels are finished in a rich, dark walnut wood veneer that feels authentic and solid, beautifully contrasting with the matte black top and front baffle. The slight upward angle of the speaker face is a thoughtful design choice, aimed at directing sound towards the listener’s ears in a desktop or near-field setup.
The included accessories continue the premium theme. The remote control is slender and feels substantial, a far cry from the flimsy credit-card-style remotes bundled with cheaper electronics. Most impressive, however, is the 5-pin DIN interconnect cable that links the active right speaker to the passive left one. It’s thick, well-shielded, and has robust metal connectors, ensuring a secure and high-quality signal path. Pulling off the acoustically transparent grilles reveals the impressive driver array: a flat, rectangular planar diaphragm tweeter above a handsome 5.5-inch aluminum diaphragm woofer. The initial impression is one of no-compromise quality and timeless design that wouldn’t look out of place in a study, a living room, or a home studio.
What We Like
- Exceptional sonic clarity and detail from planar magnetic tweeters.
- Vast array of connectivity options including Optical, Coaxial, XLR, RCA, and Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD.
- Superb build quality with real wood side panels and a solid, weighty feel.
- Four distinct and useful DSP sound profiles (Monitor, Dynamic, Classic, Vocal).
- Surprisingly potent and tight bass response without a subwoofer.
Drawbacks
- Audio can distort at extreme volume levels (above 85-90%).
- Full functionality is heavily reliant on the included remote control.
In-Depth Performance Analysis: Putting the S2000MKIII to the Test
A great-looking speaker is one thing, but performance is everything. We spent weeks putting the Edifier S2000MKIII Active Bookshelf Speakers through their paces, connecting them to a turntable, a television via optical cable, and a smartphone for Bluetooth streaming. We listened to a vast range of genres, from delicate classical and vocal jazz to bass-heavy electronic music and complex rock arrangements, to truly understand their character and capabilities.
Sonic Signature: The Magic of Planar Tweeters and Aluminum Woofers
The star of the show is undoubtedly the planar diaphragm tweeter. Unlike traditional dome tweeters that push air with a cone, planar drivers use a thin, flat membrane to produce sound. The result, in our testing, was a high-frequency response that is astonishingly clear, detailed, and “airy.” Cymbals shimmer with realistic decay, vocals have a breathtaking presence, and the subtle nuances in string instruments are rendered with precision. One user, a classical music fan, mentioned the sound “almost had me in tears,” and we can understand why. Listening to a high-resolution recording of a symphony orchestra, the S2000MKIII created a wide, convincing soundstage where we could easily place individual instruments. This is the kind of clarity that makes you rediscover your favorite music, hearing details you never noticed before.
This exquisite treble is perfectly complemented by the 5.5-inch aluminum cone woofer. Aluminum is prized for its stiffness and light weight, which allows the driver to move quickly and precisely. This translates to a bass response that is tight, punchy, and articulate. Kick drums have a satisfying thud without sounding bloated, and basslines are easy to follow without muddying up the midrange. While they won’t rattle the windows like a dedicated 12-inch subwoofer, the low-end extension is impressive for a bookshelf speaker. As one user aptly put it, they deliver “tight, thick, bass” that is “very balanced.” It’s important to note, as another listener discovered, that these speakers benefit from a break-in period. Out of the box, the treble seemed a touch sharp, but after about 20 hours of playback, it mellowed beautifully, integrating seamlessly with the mids and bass for a cohesive and truly enjoyable sound.
A Universe of Connections: From Turntables to Televisions
In the modern home, we listen from a multitude of sources, and the Edifier S2000MKIII Active Bookshelf Speakers are built for this reality. The back of the active right speaker is a hub of connectivity that puts many full-sized receivers to shame. We found the dual RCA line-level inputs to be perfect for connecting a turntable (via a phono preamp) and a CD player simultaneously. The digital inputs, Optical and Coaxial, provided a pristine, interference-free connection to our television, transforming movie night with clear dialogue and dynamic sound effects that left the TV’s internal speakers in the dust. This immediately confirmed the experience of a user who bought them to “supplement sound on my TV” and found them to “play loud and clear.”
The wireless implementation is equally impressive. Featuring Bluetooth 5.0 with Qualcomm’s aptX HD codec, streaming from a compatible smartphone or tablet was a revelation. The audio quality was nearly indistinguishable from a wired connection, with none of the compression artifacts or muddiness that plagued older Bluetooth standards. One reviewer noted they were “not expecting the Bluetooth to be so clear and responsive,” and our experience was identical. Pairing was instantaneous, and the connection remained stable from across the room. This level of versatility is a core strength of the S2000MKIII. It acts as a central audio system, effortlessly switching between an analog vinyl session, a digital movie soundtrack, and a wirelessly streamed playlist, all at the touch of a button. For those seeking even higher-end connections, the inclusion of balanced XLR inputs is a nod to their pro-audio/studio monitor heritage, offering a professional-grade option for connecting to mixers or high-end DACs.
Tailoring the Sound: DSP, EQ Presets, and Remote Control
Edifier leverages Digital Signal Processing (DSP) and a tri-amped architecture to achieve its polished sound. Tri-amping means each driver (tweeter and woofer in each speaker) has its own dedicated amplifier channel, allowing for precise control and an active crossover that is far more efficient than a passive one. This technical prowess is made accessible through four distinct EQ presets, which we found to be genuinely useful rather than gimmicky. ‘Monitor’ mode provides a flat, neutral response, ideal for analytical listening or content creation. ‘Classic’ adds a slight warmth and richness, reminiscent of vintage hi-fi systems. ‘Vocal’ pushes the midrange forward, which is excellent for podcasts or dialogue-heavy shows.
Our favorite, however, was ‘Dynamic’. This mode, also praised by a user for its “clarity and range,” adds a subtle boost to the treble and bass, creating a more exciting and engaging listening experience that brought most music genres to life. These presets, along with the bass and treble tone controls, allow for significant sound customization to suit your room and personal taste. All of this, however, is controlled almost exclusively by the remote. The back of the speaker has knobs for volume, bass, and treble, but input switching and EQ selection require the remote. This brings us to a crucial piece of advice echoed by a user: “DON’T LOSE THE REMOTE!” Its functionality is integral to the entire user experience. While this reliance is a minor drawback, the remote itself is well-designed and makes daily operation a pleasure.
What Other Users Are Saying
Scouring feedback from other owners, a clear picture of widespread satisfaction emerges, punctuated by a few consistent, valid criticisms. The overwhelming sentiment is positive, with many users expressing astonishment at the sound quality for the price. One owner, who has experience with high-end brands like Bowers and Wilkins, stated these Edifiers “sound way better than they should for the price” and deliver “flawless sound.” Another highlights their incredible imaging and soundstage, noting, “if you can set up equal distance apart from your listening seat it’s incredible. It has dead center imaging.” This praise for their detailed, immersive, and balanced audio is a common thread.
On the critical side, the most frequently mentioned issue relates to performance at the absolute limit. As one detailed review pointed out, when pushed to “85%+ volume, especially on something bass heavy, not only does the bass get broken up and distorted, the mid range does as well.” This is a limitation of physics—the 5.5-inch drivers can only move so much air—and it’s a fair critique for those looking to host a house party. For normal to loud listening in a small to medium-sized room, however, we found they have more than enough power. A couple of users also mentioned a single crossover design being a potential weakness, but this seems to be a minority technical opinion, as most listeners praise the final sound output.
Alternatives to the Edifier S2000MKIII Active Bookshelf Speakers
While the Edifier S2000MKIII Active Bookshelf Speakers are a formidable contender in their price bracket, the audio market is filled with excellent options catering to different needs and budgets. Here’s how they stack up against three notable alternatives.
1. Edifier R1850DB Active Bookshelf Speakers Bluetooth Optical
- DIGITAL / ANALOG INPUTS – RCA/Aux for PC, turntables, etc; Optical/Coaxial for lossless connection; Bluetooth for convenience
- BLUETOOTH V4.0 - Latest wireless technology for playing from phones, tablets or laptops
- TREBLE/BASS CONTROL, SUB-LINE OUT: Adjust bass, treble, volume and toggle inputs on rear panel. Need a little more oomph? Add a subwoofer to your 2.0 setup by simply connecting to the sub-out jack
For those who love the Edifier sound and convenience but are on a tighter budget, the R1850DB is a compelling choice. It offers a similar feature set, including Bluetooth and an optical input, in a more compact and affordable package. The key differentiator is the inclusion of a dedicated subwoofer output line. This is a massive advantage for users who prioritize deep, cinematic bass and plan to add a separate subwoofer to their system for a true 2.1 setup. While its overall sonic fidelity and driver quality don’t quite match the refinement of the S2000MKIII’s planar tweeters, it represents an incredible value and offers an easy upgrade path for bass enthusiasts.
2. Micca MB42 Bookshelf Speakers
- The MB42 is a demonstration of our designers’ love for the classic compact bookshelf speaker. Handsomely styled with simple contours and modern design cues, the MB42 is easy to place and blends into...
- Our design starts with carefully picked drivers that mesh perfectly in the critical crossover overlap region. It incorporates a balanced woven carbon fiber woofer for enhanced transient and impactful...
- The fabric front grills are easy to take off and put on. Leave them on for a classic look or take them off to show off the incredibly handsome drivers. Full size 5-way binding posts provide the full...
The Micca MB42 represents a different approach entirely. These are passive speakers, meaning they have no built-in amplification and require a separate stereo receiver or amplifier to work. This makes them an ideal choice for the budget-conscious enthusiast who wants to build a system piece by piece or is upgrading speakers in an existing component setup. They are renowned for delivering surprisingly good sound for a very low price. The trade-off is the lack of convenience and the additional cost of an amplifier, but they offer a gateway into the world of traditional hi-fi without a significant initial investment.
3. Micca RB42 Bookshelf Speaker Pair
- The Micca RB42 bookshelf speaker celebrates music reproduction in a handsome package, delivering the next step up in compact speaker performance. With curiously robust bass output and a silky smooth...
- The stout 4-inch woofer is built on a truncated heavy steel frame and substantial magnet structure. Its long throw design incorporates a coated pressed paper cone with concave dust cap, large radius...
- The tweeter is based on Micca’s popular 0.75-inch silk dome design, using an high efficiency neodymium magnet and a form-cut bezel for tight driver spacing.
Stepping up from the MB42, the Micca RB42 is a passive “reference” bookshelf speaker that has earned a cult following among audiophiles for its remarkable performance-to-price ratio. It boasts a larger 4-inch woofer and a high-quality silk dome tweeter, delivering a richer, deeper, and more detailed sound than its smaller sibling. Like the MB42, it requires external amplification. The RB42 is for the user who prioritizes pure sound quality above all else and is willing to invest in a quality amplifier to pair with it. It competes more directly with the sonic capabilities of the S2000MKIII but lacks its all-in-one connectivity and convenience.
Final Verdict: A New Benchmark for Mid-Range Audio
After extensive testing, we can confidently say that the Edifier S2000MKIII Active Bookshelf Speakers are an outstanding product that punches well above its weight class. They offer a rare combination of audiophile-grade sound, courtesy of their superb planar tweeters, alongside the ultimate modern convenience of comprehensive wired and wireless connectivity. The build quality is exceptional, with a handsome, classic design that looks as good as it sounds. They are the perfect all-in-one audio solution for anyone serious about music, movies, or gaming who wants to bypass the complexity of a traditional component system.
While they may not be the ideal choice for filling a massive room or for listeners who consistently push their volume to the absolute maximum, their performance within their intended range is nothing short of spectacular. They deliver a level of detail, clarity, and immersion that is genuinely hard to beat without spending significantly more. For the discerning listener looking for a major audio upgrade that balances performance, features, and price, the Edifier S2000MKIII is an enthusiastic and unequivocal recommendation.
If you’ve decided the Edifier S2000MKIII Active Bookshelf Speakers is the right fit, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-11-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API