For years, my audio journey was one of convenience over quality. Like many, I relied on single-unit Bluetooth speakers and soundbars that promised room-filling sound but delivered a sonic compromise. I remember setting up a popular portable speaker, excited for its acclaimed “deep bass,” only to be met with a monotonous, bloated thud that bled into every other part of the music. As one user aptly described a similar experience, it sounded “like having a funeral.” The midrange was muddy, the highs were tinny, and the bass was a one-note affair that flattened out as the volume increased. This wasn’t music; it was just noise with a beat. I was missing the texture of a bass guitar slide, the crisp snap of a snare drum, the delicate breath of a vocalist before a line. I knew there had to be a better way to experience recorded music—a way that didn’t require a second mortgage for a complex multi-component Hi-Fi system. My search led me to the world of powered bookshelf speakers, a category promising true stereo separation and audiophile-grade sound in a simple, all-in-one package.
- Built-in, high-efficiency Class D amplifier (60 watts x 2 speakers) so there is no need for outside amplifier or receiver—just plug into source and play
- Frequency response: 45 Hz to 40 kHz
- Bluetooth v5.0 with Qualcomm aptX HD decoding for pairing capability to stream audio playback from compatible devices
What to Consider Before Buying Active Bookshelf Speakers
A set of active bookshelf speakers is more than just a pair of sound-producers; it’s a key solution for achieving high-fidelity stereo sound without the complexity and expense of traditional passive speaker setups. By integrating the amplifier directly into the speaker enclosure, they eliminate the need for a separate receiver or amp, saving space and simplifying connections. This makes them a perfect centerpiece for a modern audio system, capable of handling everything from high-resolution digital music from a computer, to vinyl from a turntable, to immersive sound from a television. The main benefit is achieving a wide, detailed soundstage where instruments and vocals have their own distinct space, a quality that is physically impossible for single-unit speakers to replicate.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone graduating from basic audio solutions—like soundbars, portable speakers, or cheap computer speakers—and seeking a significant, tangible upgrade in audio quality. They are music lovers, movie watchers, gamers, or even aspiring content creators who value clarity, detail, and accurate sound reproduction. They want a plug-and-play system that works with multiple devices via both wired and wireless connections. Conversely, this type of product might not be suitable for the die-hard traditional audiophile who prefers to mix and match individual components (speakers, amplifiers, DACs) to meticulously tailor their sound. It also may be overkill for someone who only needs background music and is perfectly happy with a small smart speaker.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: These are called “bookshelf” speakers, but many, including the Edifier S1000MKII, are quite substantial. Measure your desk, media console, or shelf space carefully. You also need to consider placement for optimal stereo imaging, ideally forming an equilateral triangle with your listening position, and pulling them slightly away from the rear wall to allow the bass ports to breathe.
- Power & Performance: A speaker’s power, measured in watts, indicates how loud it can get without distorting. The Edifier S1000MKII’s 120W total output is more than enough to fill a small-to-medium-sized room with rich, dynamic sound. Pay attention to driver size—the 5.5-inch woofer here suggests a capacity for robust mid-range and bass response, while the 1-inch titanium tweeter promises clear, extended highs.
- Connectivity & Versatility: Your speakers should be a hub for all your audio sources. Look for a mix of modern and traditional inputs. High-quality Bluetooth with codecs like aptX HD is essential for convenient, high-fidelity wireless streaming. Digital inputs like Optical and Coaxial are perfect for TVs and game consoles, while analog RCA inputs are necessary for turntables and other legacy devices.
- Ease of Use & Controls: An active speaker should be simple to operate. A good remote control is a must for controlling volume, switching inputs, and muting from a distance. On-speaker controls for volume, bass, and treble are also a huge plus, allowing you to fine-tune the sound to your personal preference and room acoustics without needing to dive into software menus.
Keeping these factors in mind, the Edifier S1000MKII 120W Active Bookshelf Speakers Bluetooth 5.0 stands out in several areas. You can explore its detailed specifications here.
While the Edifier S1000MKII 120W Active Bookshelf Speakers Bluetooth 5.0 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 a Heavyweight Contender: First Impressions and Features
The first thing that struck me upon receiving the Edifier S1000MKII 120W Active Bookshelf Speakers Bluetooth 5.0 was the sheer weight of the box. At over 16 kilograms (about 37 pounds), it immediately signals that these are not flimsy, plastic computer speakers. Inside, the speakers were securely nestled in thick foam, arriving pristine despite some user reports of rough handling during shipping. Lifting them out confirmed their substantial build. The main active speaker, which houses the amplifier and inputs, is noticeably heavier than the passive one. The MDF cabinets with their cherry-wood-colored side panels and matte black finish feel dense and acoustically inert, exuding a sense of quality that punches well above their price point. The slight backward tilt of the speaker face isn’t just for aesthetics; it’s a deliberate design choice that aims the sound slightly upwards, perfect for a desktop or near-field listening setup where the speakers are below ear level. Included in the box are a remote control, a 5-pin speaker interconnect cable, an optical cable, and an RCA-to-3.5mm cable, providing everything needed to get started right away. The setup was refreshingly simple: connect the two speakers, plug the active one into the wall, and choose an input source. In under five minutes, we were ready to listen.
Key Benefits
- Exceptional audio clarity and a wide, detailed soundstage
- Powerful, tight, and articulate bass performance
- Versatile connectivity with aptX HD Bluetooth, Optical, Coaxial, and Dual RCA inputs
- Superb build quality and attractive, classic design
- Simple plug-and-play setup with no external amplifier required
Potential Drawbacks
- The included remote control feels somewhat flimsy and basic
- Occasional quality control reports of defective Bluetooth or shipping damage
A Deep Dive into the Sonic Performance of the Edifier S1000MKII
Beyond the impressive build and easy setup lies the true test: the sound. We put the Edifier S1000MKII 120W Active Bookshelf Speakers Bluetooth 5.0 through its paces with a wide range of music genres, movies, and games, using every input available. Our findings consistently aligned with those of discerning users, revealing a speaker system that performs with a maturity and refinement that is simply astounding for its class.
Sonic Architecture: Clarity, Detail, and an Expansive Soundstage
The heart of the S1000MKII’s stellar performance is its driver configuration. Each speaker houses a 1-inch advanced titanium dome tweeter and a 5.5-inch aluminum alloy midrange bass driver. This combination is engineered for clarity and precision. The titanium tweeter, capable of reaching up to 40kHz, delivers crisp, airy highs without a hint of harshness or sibilance, even at higher volumes. This means cymbals shimmer realistically, and the subtle nuances in a singer’s voice are rendered with lifelike detail. The aluminum woofer is stiff and lightweight, allowing it to move quickly and accurately, producing a midrange that is clear and present. This was immediately apparent when listening to acoustic tracks and classic rock; the separation between instruments was phenomenal. We could easily pick out individual guitar lines, vocal harmonies, and percussion elements that were previously smeared together on lesser systems. One user, an 80s metal fan, praised this quality, noting the “great separation” and how the speakers “perform admirably” with complex genres. The result is a wide and deep soundstage that extends far beyond the physical speakers, creating an immersive, holographic listening experience that truly honors the original recording.
The Low-End Theory: Debunking the Bass Debate
Perhaps the most debated aspect of these speakers is their bass response. Some users, accustomed to subwoofers or bass-boosted consumer speakers, have reported a lack of low-end punch. From our extensive testing, we can confidently state that this is a misunderstanding of quality versus quantity. The Edifier S1000MKII 120W Active Bookshelf Speakers Bluetooth 5.0 do not produce the boomy, one-note bass that rattles windows for the sake of it. Instead, they deliver bass that is tight, fast, and incredibly articulate. It’s the kind of bass that allows you to distinguish between an upright bass and an electric bass guitar, to feel the texture and decay of each note. As one user discovered, “Within five minutes my neighbors were emphatically banging on the walls to get me to turn it down.” When cranked, the bass is undeniably present and powerful, extending down to a respectable 45Hz. The key is that it remains controlled and musical, never muddying the midrange. For those who want true, musical bass rather than just a pressure valve of noise, these speakers are a revelation. We also must echo the advice of another user: these speakers benefit from a “break-in” period. The drivers will loosen up and sound their best after 20-40 hours of playback, so initial impressions may not reflect their full potential.
The Digital Hub: Versatile Connectivity for the Modern Home
In today’s multi-device world, a speaker system’s usefulness is defined by its connectivity, and this is an area where the S1000MKII excels. The inclusion of Bluetooth 5.0 with Qualcomm’s aptX HD decoding is a massive feature. This allows for near-CD quality wireless streaming from compatible phones, tablets, and computers, making it incredibly convenient to play music from services like Tidal or Apple Music without a noticeable drop in fidelity. The connection was stable and easy to pair in our tests, though we must acknowledge isolated reports from users who received units with faulty Bluetooth modules. For the absolute best signal path, the digital inputs (Optical and Coaxial) are the way to go. As one technically-minded user pointed out, these inputs feed the signal directly to the speaker’s internal digital-to-analog converter (DAC) and digital bi-amplifier, ensuring the cleanest possible sound. This makes them perfect for connecting to a TV, providing a massive upgrade over tinny internal speakers for movies and shows. The two sets of analog RCA inputs round out the package, offering easy connection for a turntable (with a phono preamp), CD player, or other analog sources. This comprehensive suite of inputs transforms the Edifier S1000MKII 120W Active Bookshelf Speakers Bluetooth 5.0 from a simple pair of speakers into the true audio hub of a room. If you’re looking for an all-in-one system to handle all your audio needs with exceptional quality, these speakers represent a fantastic value.
What Other Users Are Saying
Scouring feedback from a wide range of owners, a clear consensus emerges. The vast majority of users are overwhelmingly positive, frequently citing the speakers as an incredible value for the money. One professional who edits commercial video and produces music stated, “I trust the sound that comes out of these speakers,” highlighting their accuracy for even prosumer-level work. Another user, who compared them directly to a much more expensive $1,000 pair of Kanto Tuks, claimed the Edifiers “mop the floor with them in every department.” The theme of providing an entry point into high-quality audio is common, with one reviewer noting they are “la mejor opción para entrar al mundo del Audio de más calidad” (the best option to enter the world of higher-than-average quality audio).
However, the feedback isn’t universally perfect. The most consistent minor complaint revolves around the remote control, which is often described as feeling “flimsy” or “not great,” a stark contrast to the premium build of the speakers themselves. More serious, though less common, are reports of quality control issues. We saw a few mentions of receiving units with non-functional Bluetooth or cosmetic damage from shipping. These instances appear to be outliers, but they are an important consideration for any potential buyer.
How the Edifier S1000MKII Compares to the Competition
The market for powered speakers is competitive, but the Edifier S1000MKII 120W Active Bookshelf Speakers Bluetooth 5.0 holds its own by offering a unique blend of performance, features, and price. Here’s how it stacks up against three notable alternatives.
1. Klipsch The Fives Powered Bookshelf Speakers
- TRUE ENTERTAINMENT: Easy-to-use, powered, high-def speakers
- TRUE HI-FI: Powerful, high-fidelity sound from dedicated right and left speakers
- TRUE CONNECTIVITY: Can connect to virtually anything
The Klipsch The Fives are a step up in both price and features, targeting users who want a true soundbar replacement with even more connectivity. Their signature feature is an HDMI-ARC input, allowing seamless integration with a TV using the TV’s remote for volume control. Sonically, Klipsch is known for its dynamic, exciting sound, courtesy of their horn-loaded tweeters, which can feel more “live” and forward than the Edifiers’ more neutral presentation. The Fives also boast a dedicated subwoofer output and a more premium, retro-inspired aesthetic. You might prefer The Fives if your primary use is for television and movies and you’re willing to pay a premium for HDMI-ARC and the distinct Klipsch sound signature.
2. Saiyin Bluetooth Bookshelf Speakers Record Player
- 65mm Silk Dome Horn Tweeters: Saiyin powered speaker features a distinct silk dome horn tweeter. Silk dome tweeter can provide a more accurate, dynamic, and detailed sound than a non-horn-loaded silk...
- High-Quality Audio and 5.2-Inch Woofer: Experience rich, powerful sound with deep bass and clear, detailed audio thanks to advanced audio technology in our bookshelf speakers. And the 5.2-inch woofer...
- Bluetooth Connectivity: Bookshelf speakers are built-in an integrated Bluetooth 5.0 chip. Therefore, you can stream audio wirelessly from a compatible device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or laptop.
The Saiyin speakers represent a more budget-focused alternative. While they offer a similar feature set on paper—powered design, Bluetooth, optical input—they are built to a lower price point. They are smaller, less powerful, and will not match the S1000MKII in terms of bass depth, overall clarity, or build quality. However, they do include one feature the Edifiers lack: a dedicated subwoofer line out. This makes them a compelling choice for someone on a tighter budget who knows they want to add a separate subwoofer to their system for room-shaking bass, especially for movies or electronic music. They are a good starting point but lack the audiophile refinement of the Edifier S1000MKII.
3. ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2 Bookshelf Speakers Black
- BOOKSHELF SPEAKERS - The Debut 2.0 B6.2 raises the bar for bookshelf performance higher than ever before. With a black ash vinyl finish and newly developed tweeters, woofers & cabinets, these...
- CLOTH DOME TWEETER - The soft-dome tweeter features wide-roll surround & takes response up to 35,000 Hz making them perfect for hi-res music. The waveguide improves directivity control & minimizes...
- WOVEN ARAMID-FIBER WOOFER - The aramid cone shape offers even greater stiffness and damping, far superior to polypropylene or paper. The added strength allows more flexibility in design to achieve a...
This is a crucial comparison because the ELAC Debut 2.0 B6.2 are passive speakers. This means they contain no internal amplification and require a separate integrated amplifier or AV receiver to function. While the speakers themselves are priced competitively with the Edifiers and are renowned for their exceptional, balanced sound (designed by the legendary Andrew Jones), the total system cost will be significantly higher once you factor in a quality amplifier. The ELACs are for the traditional Hi-Fi enthusiast who wants to build a component-based system and enjoys the process of matching speakers with an amplifier. The Edifier S1000MKII, in contrast, is for the user who wants that high-quality sound in a simple, elegant, all-in-one solution.
Final Verdict: The Undisputed Champion in its Class?
After weeks of intensive listening and evaluation, we can confidently say that the Edifier S1000MKII 120W Active Bookshelf Speakers Bluetooth 5.0 are a triumph. They represent a significant inflection point in the audio market, offering a level of build quality, connectivity, and sonic refinement that was once the exclusive domain of much more expensive and complex component systems. They masterfully bridge the gap between casual listening and true audiophile immersion.
They are the perfect recommendation for anyone looking to make a substantial, meaningful upgrade from a soundbar or a basic desktop setup. Whether for a dedicated music listening station, a high-quality PC audio system, or a powerful TV speaker upgrade, they deliver a clean, detailed, and engaging performance that consistently impresses. While the flimsy remote is a minor annoyance and the potential for shipping issues is a reality of online shopping, these small drawbacks are dwarfed by the sheer sonic value on offer. They provide the clarity, separation, and musicality that allow you to rediscover your favorite songs. If you’ve decided the Edifier S1000MKII 120W Active Bookshelf Speakers Bluetooth 5.0 is the right fit, you can check its current price and availability here.
Last update on 2025-10-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API