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You are here: Home / Archives for wireless bluetooth speakers

Edifier S880DB Bookshelf Speakers Review

03/19/2019 By Hakan Can

Edifier S880DB Bookshelf Speakers Review

Best Bookshelf Speakers Under $300?

Having a portable speaker and headphones at-and-around my home office desk has been a blessing all these years. Yet, for over a decade there’s been something missing, and that’s a pair of bookshelf speakers. I’m not talking about a sub-$100 pair from the likes of Logitech or Cambridge Sound Works. I mean a good or great pair of bookshelf speakers; something to be proud of and to impress house guests with. This is where Edifier comes in with 16 pairs to choose from.  So without further delay, let’s take a closer look at one of these in this Edifier S880DB Bookshelf Speakers review.

Edifier S880DB Bookshelf Speakers Review

Pros:
• High-quality audio
• Multiple inputs and controls
• Multiple cables included
• A futuristic remote control
• Two-year warranty

Cons:
• Bass is limited to 55 Hz
• $300 price may be an issue to some

Read:   JBL Unveils New Wireless Headphones and Speakers at CES 2019

Edifier S880DB Bookshelf Speakers Review

Design and Features

As you can all see, the Edifier S880DB speakers are one attractively designed pair of speakers. And they’re feature rich too.

Now think about this for a moment. When was the last time you saw a pair of white-and-tan bookshelf speakers?

For the past month or so, I’ve been testing the S880DB to much delight. How could I not when there are so many different audio sources that I could connect to.

Edifier S880DB Bookshelf Speakers Review

Per the Edifier website, “The S880DB has a range of inputs including RCA, AUX, USB, optical, coaxial, and Bluetooth. The USB, optical and coaxial inputs have a sample signal rate of up to 192 kHz. Adjust volume, bass, and treble controls with knobs located on the back of the speaker with a built-in amplifier.” I couldn’t have written that better myself.

Using the RC600B remote control, going wireless is a piece of cake. On the remote, there are the standard Play/Pause, Forward Track, Previous Track, and Volume Increase and Decrease buttons in addition to Power and Source. This latter button takes us to the aforementioned audio sources: RCA, AUX, USB, optical, coaxial, and Bluetooth.

Then there are the four equalization modes: Monitor, Classic, Vocal, and Dynamic. Each method subtlety alters the audio to your preferred preference. See the User Manual for more information.

Note: Don’t strike the Source or Mode buttons too quickly in succession as they won’t change as quickly as you would like. Wait a second or two before hitting the next one.

Edifier S880DB Bookshelf Speakers Review
Edifier S880DB Bookshelf Speakers Review

On the reverse side of the active speaker are all the numerous inputs and controls. See the images above. All except for the optical input method were tried. You can even adjust the Treble, Bass, and Volume using the dials on the rear of the active speaker.

Want to listen to gaming audio from your desktop computer? You can do that.

How about listening to some jazz from your turntable? You can do that too.

Then there’s listening to Amazon Music from your mobile phone or Kindle. You can do both via Bluetooth. Pairing to both was easy.

All of the above sources were tried, and they worked just fine.

Read:   Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 Headset Review: Oh What Sound!

Specifications

• List pricing of $299.99
• 3.75″ (94 mm) mid-range speaker
• 0.75″ (19 mm) tweeter
• Frequency Response: 55 Hz – 20 kHz
• Bluetooth Version: 4.1
• Power Input: 100-240V, 50/60 Hz, 1.5A

• Operating Temp: 0 – 35°C
• R/L Mid Range: 32 + 32 Watts
• R/L Treble: 12 + 12 Watts
• XMOS digital processor
• Built-in amplifier
• Noise Level: ≤ 25 dBA

What’s In The Box?

• Pair of S880DB Speakers
• RC600B Remote Control
• Power Adapter and Cable
• User Manual

• RCA Audio Cable
• RCA to RCA Audio Cable
• Fiber Optic Input Cable
• Speaker Connecting Cable
• USB Connecting Cable

Read:   Moshi Avanti Headphones Review

Amazon Music Playlist

• Halsey – hopeless fountain kingdom
• Halsey – Badlands
• Ellie Goulding – Halcyon
•
Lorde – Pure Heroine
• Zedd – Clarity

• Mumford & Sons – Babel
• The Black Keys – El Camino
• The Smashing Pumpkins – Siamese Dream
• Rush – Clockwork Angels
•
Imagine Dragons – Night Visions

Audio Performance

As I almost always state, the most critical factor regarding headphones and speakers is sound quality. The Edifier S880DB powered bookshelf speakers were tested across a wide range of music including these from the artists and playlists listed above.

The first thing I noticed was how clear and strong the mid-range and upper-frequency sounds were with the Edifier S880DB. Whether it be vocals, acoustic guitar, or some other instrument, they sounded terrific across the albums tested. There’s a dedicated 0.75″ tweeter and 3.75″ mid-range per speaker to target these ranges.

Conversely, bass audio was in the fair – good range as there’s no dedicated bass driver. But, I suppose that’s what a subwoofer is for. The speakers couldn’t produce below 55 Hz which is the lower half of the bass range, and that’s a shame. I missed out on that great bass audio in the 20 – 55 Hz range. If I were listening to music from the likes of The Prodigy or Massive Attack, I’d feel slightly let down as everything short of the deepest bass sounds are present.

Edifier S880DB Bookshelf Speakers Review

I would have been remiss if I didn’t listen to either of Halsey’s albums listed above. The first time I heard Halsey through Edifier speakers took place at a Las Vegas listening party a few months back. I’m pretty sure everyone in the suite was impressed by the quality audio.

Read:   1MORE Dual Driver BT ANC Headphones Review
The first thing I noticed was how clear and strong the mid-range and upper-frequency sounds were with the Edifier S880DB. Click To Tweet

Conclusion

Whether it be from a sight or sound perspective, the Edifier S880DB powered bookshelf speakers are impressive. The size and shape of the speakers were an excellent fit for my desktop arrangement. Mid-range and high-frequency audio terrific. However, the bass languished a bit as the S880DB is unable to produce audio below 55 Hz. I just wish the bass sounds had been deeper and more pronounced.

When compared to its competition, the S880DB definitely stands out. The same can be said with respect to the other 15 bookshelf speaker models offered by Edifier. With its lighter color design, none look quite like this one.

At a list price of a hair under $300, the S880DB offers much to the buyer. Even an audiophile would be impressed. My only complaint with these speakers is now that they’re no longer here, they’re missed, and my desk appears empty without them. I suppose it’s time I start saving for a pair.

• Design – 4.75
• Features – 4.75

• Sound – 4.25
• Value – 4.25

What do you think of this Edifier S880DB bookshelf speakers review? Do you agree or disagree with our verdict? Let us know in the comment section below or via social media. We’re eager to hear your thoughts.

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Don’t hesitate to head over to the Edifier’s social media pages to see their latest announcements. To learn more about warranties, click this Warranty Terms link for information. These headphones come with a two-year limited warranty. To learn about returns, click this Returns Policy link for more information.

FTC Disclosure: Edifier provided Beantown with one (1) set of Edifier S880DB bookshelf speakers as a loaner for review purposes. This writer’s opinion is 100% his own and not a paid product ambassador.

All photographs are the copyrighted property of Beantown LLC © 2019.

Read:   Headphones: Audio-Technica ATH-DSR7BT Review

Filed Under: Speakers Tagged With: bluetooth, bookshelf speakers, Edifier, powered speakers, speakers, wireless bluetooth speakers 03/25/2019

JBL Portable Bluetooth Speakers – What’s New For 2018

08/20/2018 By Hakan Can

JBL Portable Bluetooth Speakers 2018

It wasn’t that long ago when we visited the HARMAN showroom at this year’s Consumer Electronics Show. With so many brands under the HARMAN umbrella, there’s much to see and never enough time to see and touch it all. What does JBL have in store for we consumers in 2018? Well, they’re set to introduce no less than four speakers, one new, and three updates to existing models. Let’s take a deep dive into the JBL portable Bluetooth speakers 2018 line-up and find out.

JBL has four new Portable Bluetooth Speakers set for release in 2018

Read:   Here are the JBL Portable Bluetooth Speakers set for release in early 2017

The JBL LINK View – Set for release in Summer 2018

Believe it or not, this is not the first time we’ve seen a smart display on a voice-enabled smart speaker. About a year-and-a-half ago, we were introduced to the Clarity smart speaker (see the link below.) Now, we don’t know what became of it, but the JBL LINK View’s resemblance to it is uncanny.

We look forward to reading reviews on the LINK View around the middle of next month soon after it becomes available on September 9th.

JBL Portable Bluetooth Speakers 2018

JBL LINK View

What is LINK View? It’s a Google Assistant built-in wireless Bluetooth smart speaker with an 8″ touchscreen display, a 5 MP front-facing camera, in a Chromecast integrated IPX4 splash-proof design. It even comes with a trademarked PrivacySwitch™ disabling the camera and microphone. You get all this for just under $250 list price.

According to Lou Schreurs, VP, Connected Home & Luxury Audio BU, General Management, “When we launched the LINK series last year (at IFA 2017) it represented a major milestone for us, as the first voice-activated, multi-room speakers to use Google Assistant and deliver Grammy® award-winning JBL sound. Research shows voice activated speakers are no mere novelty. Sixty percent of owners now consider them a necessity. By continuing to enhance their experience by adding HD display with a touchscreen and a front-facing camera, people will find even more ways to make these speakers an important part of their lives, routines and enjoyment.”

JBL Portable Bluetooth Speakers 2018

JBL LINK 10, 20, & 300 introduced at IFA 2017

Per Chris Turkstra, Director, Google Assistant, “With smart displays, we’re bringing the Google Assistant to a new class of device that deliver a fully interactive and visual experience. Smart displays can do everything the Google Assistant speakers can, with the additional benefit of a beautiful touchscreen. They make it easy to watch YouTube videos, enjoy personal photos, follow recipes, control smart home devices and more. We’re excited to bring the LINK View to market with JBL and are committed to deliver a helpful, visual Google Assistant experience.”

JBL LINK View Specifications

• 2 x 2″ full range drivers
• Output power: 2 x 10 Watts RMS
• 8-inch high-definition touchscreen
• 5 MP front facing camera
• Google Assistant enabled
• WiFi 802.11 b/g/n/ac (2.4G and 5G Dual-Band)
• Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity

• Frequency response: 60 Hz – 20 kHz
• Power supply: 100 – 240 Volts, 50/60 Hz
• IPX4 splash-proof design
• Chromecast built-in
• Dimensions: 13.07″ x 5.98″ x 3.93″
• Gross weight: 1.9 lbs
• Net weight: 1.3 lbs
• Contents: speaker, power cable, quick start guide, music promo insert card, warranty card

Read:   Clarity Smart Speaker Preview

The JBL Clip 3 Compact, Waterproof  Portable Bluetooth Speaker

The JBL Clip 3 is the successor to the wildly popular Clip 2 portable Bluetooth speaker. It’s still an echo- and noise-canceling speaker in an IPX7 waterproof design. Improvements to the Clip 3 consist of a 35% larger lithium-ion battery which now produces up to 10 hours of play time, and a doubling of color choices. The size of the Clip 3 is a bit larger than its predecessor, with a new carabiner design. The list price remains the same at just under $60.

JBL Portable Bluetooth Speakers 2018

JBL Clip 3

According to Andy Tsui, Vice President & General Manager, Smart Audio, HARMAN, “It’s always exciting when we’re able to bring new generations of customer favorites to life. The JBL Clip 3 showcases a contemporary design that provides the same JBL Signature Sound people love, in the form of a small, compact and portable speaker.”

JBL Clip 3 Specifications

• Up to 10-hours of continuous playtime
• Charge time of 3 hours @ 5V, 0.6A
• 1000 mAh rechargeable Li-ion battery
• µUSB cable for easy recharging
• Output power: 3.3 Watts RMS
• IPX7 waterproof design
• Transducer: 1 x 40mm
• Bluetooth 4.1 connectivity
• Frequency response: 120 Hz – 20 kHz

• Dimensions: 5.4″ x 3.8″ x 1.8″
• Weight: 0.49 lb
• Improved durable fabric material and rugged rubber housing
• A2DP V1.2, AVRCP V1.5, HFP V1.5, HSP V1.2 support
• Available in 10 colors: Midnight Black, Ocean Blue, Fiesta Red, River Teal, Stone Grey, Dusty Pink, Steel White, Forest Green, Mustard Yellow, and Desert Sand
• Contents: speaker, charging cable, safety sheet, quick start guide, warranty card

Read:   Libratone One Click Speaker Review

The JBL GO 2 Bluetooth Portable Speaker

After selling more than 10 million units, the JBL GO portable Bluetooth speaker is succeeded by the new JBL GO 2. The new GO model is still a compact, waterproof speaker but now with up to 5 hours of play time and improved sound quality with JBL Signature Sound. Like the Clip 3, the new GO 2 an echo- and noise-canceling speaker. Both speakers are ideal products to pair with either your smartphone or tablet. The list price remains unchanged at just under $40.

JBL Portable Bluetooth Speakers 2018

JBL GO 2

According to Andy Tsui, Vice President & General Manager, Smart Audio, HARMAN, “When we first announced the JBL GO we knew it would be a great option for people looking to purchase a quality portable speaker at an affordable price. The JBL GO 2 offers the same low price point with the bonus of an entirely new waterproof design, and richer, clearer sound.”

JBL GO 2 Specifications

• Up to 5-hours of continuous playtime
• Charge time of 2.5 hours @ 5V/0.6A
• 730 mAh rechargeable Li-ion battery
• µUSB cable for easy recharging
• Output power: 3.1 Watts RMS
• IPX7 waterproof design
• Transducer: 1 x 40mm
• Bluetooth 4.1 connectivity
• Frequency response: 180 Hz – 20 kHz

• Dimensions: 2.80″ x 3.38″ x 1.24″
• Weight: 0.40 lb
• Durable fabric material and rugged rubber housing
• A2DP V1.2, AVRCP V1.5, HFP V1.5, HSP V1.2 support
• Available in 12 colors: Midnight Black, Deep Sea Blue, Pearl Champagne, Sunkissed Cinnamon, Icecube Cyan, Moss Green, Ash Gray, Seafoam Mint, Slate Navy, Coral Orange, Ruby Red, and Lemonade Yellow
• Contents: speaker, charging cable, safety sheet, quick start guide, warranty card

Read:   BenQ SW240 PhotoVue Monitor Review

The JBL Xtreme 2 Bluetooth Portable Speaker

It’s been two years since the JBL Xtreme portable speaker received its 2016 Honoree CES Innovation Award. But like every successful product, after some time it requires a refresh with new colors and improved specs.

The new JBL Xtreme 2 is nearly identical to its predecessor with one very noticeable change. The 2018 model is now waterproof with an IPX7 rating. The Xtreme 2 is slightly bigger, slightly heavier echo- and noise-canceling speaker with up to 15 hours of play time.

The JBL Connect feature has also been upgraded to Connect+ allowing for over 100 JBL Connect+ enabled speakers to play the same music from the same source device. You can wireless pair up to two smartphones or tablets. The list price remains unchanged at just under $300.

JBL Portable Bluetooth Speakers 2018

JBL Xtreme 2

According to Andy Tsui, Vice President & General Manager, Smart Audio, HARMAN, “The JBL Xtreme 2 elevates our entire portables line, setting the tone for greater, more powerful sound. We’re excited to see where our consumers will take the new Xtreme, designed to give the user a truly unique and versatile listening experience, no matter where they go”

JBL Xtreme 2 Specifications

• Up to 15-hours of audio playtime
• Charge time of 3.5 hours @ 5V/1A
• 10000 mAh rechargeable Li-ion battery
• Output power: 2 x 20 Watts RMS (AC)
• IPX7 waterproof design
• Tweeter: 2 x 20mm
• Transducer: 2 x 2.75″ redesigned woofers
• Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity
• Frequency response: 55 Hz – 20 kHz

• Dimensions: 5.35″ x 11.34″ x 5.20″
• Weight: 5.28 lbs
• USB charge out: 5V/2A
• Durable fabric material and rugged rubber housing
• A2DP V1.3, AVRCP V1.6, HFP V1.6, HSP V1.2 support
• Available in 3 colors: Midnight Black, Ocean Blue, Forest Green
• Contents: speaker, power adapter, strap, safety sheet, quick start guide, warranty card

Read:   Headphones: Beyerdynamic Aventho Wireless Review

JBL Portable Bluetooth Speakers 2018 Summary

As you can see with these four new models, JBL continues to update and make improvements to its portable Bluetooth speaker line-up by giving you, the consumer, more of the features you want. These new models can easily be considered among the best wireless portable speakers of 2018.

Do you have any thoughts or comments on these JBL portable Bluetooth speakers of 2018? Let us know in the comment section below or via social media.

• Follow JBL on Twitter
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Don’t hesitate to head over to the JBL Bluetooth speakers page to see their latest products. To learn more about warranties, click this link.

FTC Disclosure: This writer’s opinion is 100% his own and not a product ambassador for Harman or JBL.

All photographs are the copyrighted property of © 2017-2018 Harman International Industries, Inc.

Read:   Here are the JBL Bluetooth Headphones set for release in early 2017

Filed Under: Speakers Tagged With: CES2018, JBL Clip 3, JBL GO 2, JBL LINK View, JBL portable bluetooth speakers, JBL Xtreme 2, wireless bluetooth speakers 08/21/2018

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