The Edifier S880DB MKII speakers represent a significant improvement over their small-format predecessors. They feature enhanced speaker design, improved internal architecture, and new connectivity options, making them a true upgrade with better sound. However, a less defined low end can detract from an otherwise excellent mid- and high-range performance.
Pros:
- Extensive analog and digital inputs
- Outstanding vocal clarity
- Attractive, desk-friendly design
Cons:
- Lacks AptX or AAC Bluetooth codec support
- Remote control can be slightly slow to respond
- USB-C port does not provide 5V power
Edifier S880DB MKII: Two-minute review
The Edifier S880DB MKII stands out among small-format active speakers. These speakers compete effectively with many low-to-mid-range hi-fi systems, offering a wide range of modern analog and digital inputs. They also include a subwoofer output for enhanced bass and a gesture-controlled remote puck for easy access to functions like input switching, volume, and EQ sound profiles.
Despite their appealing aesthetics and versatile controls, minor issues exist, such as the remote control’s response time and the inherent bass limitations of their small bookshelf design.
These minor drawbacks become more noticeable when considering other Edifier active speaker models, such as the MR5 monitors, which offer comparable or better performance at a lower price point.
Overall, the Edifier S880DB MKII performs many functions effectively. As a Mark II iteration, it represents a well-upgraded successor in a competitive market niche.
Edifier S880DB MKII review: Price & release date
- $449.99 / £335.99 / AU$595.99
- Launched on 4th September, 2025
Edifier is known for producing budget-friendly audio equipment that often exceeds expectations. While other Edifier models, like the MR5 monitor speakers, are geared towards musicians, the S880DB MKII is a second-generation active bookshelf speaker designed for a broader range of applications.
These speakers are suitable for various setups, including a bedroom hi-fi system, compact desk monitors, or as secondary speakers for a small home theater. Their versatility comes from robust internal amplification, intelligent user features, and modern upgrades that enhance their capability and sound quality.
Edifier S880DB MKII review: Specs
- Type: Active
- Tweeters: 1.25-inch titanium diaphragm dome tweeters
- Woofers: 3.75-inch long-throw aluminum diaphragm mid-low drivers
- Frequency response: 50Hz – 40kHz
- Inputs: RCA-in x2; USB-C; Optical; Coaxial
- Outputs: 3.5mm TRS subwoofer out
- Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.3; LDAC, SBC
- Output (total): 88W RMS
- Extras: RCA-to-RCA cable; RCA-to-3.5mm aux cable; USB-C-to-USB-C cable; 5-pin DIN speaker connector cable; remote control puck
Edifier S880DB MKII review: Features
- Multifarious inputs, plus sub output
- Hi-res Bluetooth LDAC connectivity
- Convenient remote-control surface
The S880DB MKII speakers are highly versatile, designed to integrate smoothly into various home listening environments. As a successor to the original S880DB, this model includes many familiar elements alongside comprehensive upgrades that deliver improved acoustics and technological enhancements.
Key audio improvements come from the new drivers. The titanium dome tweeter has been enlarged from 1-inch to 1.25-inch, featuring a larger voice coil. The mid-bass driver has also been redesigned from the ground up, contributing to a more pronounced low end, which is a valuable addition for small-format speakers.
With their compact size, substantial 88W RMS output, and broad frequency range, the S880DB MKII speakers are excellent for a home office PC system. They also fit seamlessly into a living room hi-fi or home theater setup, thanks to their extensive input options.
Wired connectivity includes two separate RCA inputs, a Toslink optical input, coaxial, and a new USB-C connection. The USB-C port incorporates its own DAC, allowing direct laptop connection without additional adapters. However, this USB-C port does not offer 5V power, which could be a useful feature for powering peripherals. A new 3.5mm TRS output for an optional subwoofer unit significantly boosts the bass potential of these small active bookshelf speakers.
For wireless connections, the Edifier S880DB MKII features Bluetooth 5.3, an upgrade from the previous 5.1 version, and now supports Sony’s hi-res LDAC codec. On the rear, there are treble, bass, and volume controls. Internally, five EQ presets are available for different sound profiles: ‘Classic’, ‘Monitor’, ‘Dynamic’, ‘Vocal’, and ‘Customized’.
A new 2.4GHz wireless remote-control puck features a silver-and-white gesture-control surface instead of traditional buttons. It activates upon sensing a hand and can switch audio inputs, enable Bluetooth, control volume, and cycle through sound profiles. Each change is confirmed by a subtle vibration from the puck. The MKII can also be adjusted via Edifier’s ConneX app, which offers the same controls as the remote and a six-band EQ for customizing the ‘Customized’ sound profile.
A small OLED screen on the front subtly displays essential information, such as the current audio input, volume changes, and active sound profiles. This understated yet modern display enhances the user experience.
Edifier S880DB MKII review: Sound quality
- Excellent high-end clarity
- Remarkably powerful for their size
- Bass representation could be improved
The Edifier S880DB MKII speakers are notably loud for their compact size. Beyond their volume, they maintain remarkable consistency in fidelity, whether connected via RCA or Bluetooth, with no noticeable shortcomings. These speakers perform well across various genres, excelling particularly in the upper frequencies. Tracks like Knik by Portugal. The Man showcase delightful cymbal work, rich guitars, and layered vocals. The S880DB MKII speakers are generally vocal-forward, a characteristic attributed to their precise mid-range drivers and titanium tweeters.
While the high-end clarity is a strong point, the low-end representation is less impactful. The booming bass and fuzzed-out guitars at the end of Knik are somewhat diminished by the speakers’ small stature. This initial impression was formed using the default ‘Classic’ sound profile.
Exploring other EQ modes reveals a more substantial bass presence. The ‘Monitor’ mode, being more neutral, often sounds the most musical. The ‘Dynamic’ mode enhances treble, adding urgency to transients, while the ‘Vocal’ mode focuses on upper mids, as expected, with a slight reduction in lower mids. The ‘Classic’ profile, despite being the default, appears to be the least effective option.
Even with improved sound in other modes, the fundamental conclusion remains that bass is not the S880DB MKII’s strongest attribute, a limitation inherent to their small form factor. However, they are not entirely without punch. Across all EQ profiles, the tuning is typical of a versatile hi-fi device, providing ample presence for hi-hats, voices, and distinct kick-drum clicks, which hint at the bass impact that might otherwise be missed. And if volume is increased, a somewhat indistinct bassy bloom emanates from their ported rear faces.
Edifier has acknowledged this size-related limitation and made efforts to improve it in this second iteration, including greater low-end extension and a new subwoofer output port. While an active subwoofer was not used for testing, its inclusion offers significant potential for bass enhancement. It is commendable that Edifier has worked within the constraints of the speaker size to improve performance.
The upper frequency range of the S880DB MKII offers much to appreciate. Queens of the Stone Age’s Everybody Knows That You’re Insane is delivered with explosive energy, featuring bright guitars and clear vocals that transition into satisfying power chords and sharp snares.
Getdown Services’ Blooze also performs well on these speakers, with its distinctive, boxy mix achieving a rich, three-dimensional presence. This track effectively highlights the S880DB MKII’s potential for nuanced bass. These speakers are high-definition performers, delivering detailed sound where it matters most.
Edifier S880DB MKII review: Design
- Aesthetically pleasing design
- Simple to set up and use
- Remote is innovative but can be slow
The Edifier S880DB MKII speakers feature an appealing two-tone, multi-textured visual design with veneer accents. They are available in black-and-walnut or white-and-pine finishes. The white-and-pine option, combined with a leatherette finish, gives them a more living-room-friendly appearance compared to many bookshelf speakers that often feature a more conventional, less distinctive anthracite look.
The front OLED panel is subtly integrated and smart in its execution. It avoids being overly flashy, displaying only the necessary information at any given time without demanding constant attention.
Setting up these speakers is straightforward. Installation involves connecting one speaker to the other with the provided DIN cable, plugging in power, and making the required audio connections. The S880DB MKII offers two RCA inputs, USB-C connectivity, and Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring broad compatibility. However, some users might miss the convenience of an HDMI ARC option for TV systems.
The most complex part of setup is typically managing wireless connections, but Edifier has simplified this process. Activating search mode on the remote allows the speakers to quickly appear in a device’s list of available Bluetooth connections. Once connected, audio streaming and access to the ConneX app are seamless, making speaker settings easy to adjust.
The primary design drawback is the remote control. Despite its innovative gesture-control system, it requires a moment to wake up before responding to commands. This can turn a potentially smooth one-touch experience into a series of delayed interactions. While this design choice likely conserves battery life, it remains a minor inconvenience in an otherwise polished setup.
Edifier S880DB MKII review: Value
- Comprehensive feature-set is a strong point
- Other, more affordable Edifier models may offer better performance
- Consider these if convenience is a priority over absolute sound quality
Assessing the value of the S880DB MKII presents a challenge. As desktop speakers or a sound system for a small room, they are an excellent option, offering superb connectivity, ease of use, and satisfactory sound performance. However, value is subjective and depends on individual priorities.
Priced at $449.99 / £335.99 / AU$595.99, these speakers are not excessively expensive compared to high-end hi-fi systems, but they represent a notable investment for an integrated, powered audio system. The value proposition becomes particularly complex when considering that other Edifier speakers, such as the MR5 monitors, are both more affordable and, in some opinions, offer superior audio performance.
Therefore, the value of the Edifier S880DB MKII hinges on what aspects a buyer prioritizes: convenience, aesthetics, and physical integration. The S880DB MKII are compact, easy to position, visually appealing, and feature convenient wireless remote control. These attributes could justify a higher price for those who value them highly.
Should you buy the Edifier S880DB MKII?
The Edifier S880DB MKII offers a comprehensive feature set, including six input options and a new subwoofer output, along with improved speakers and internal components compared to its predecessor. Its sound quality excels in the mid-to-high range, providing bright, clear, and vocal-forward articulation, though bass can be less prominent in certain sound profiles. Aesthetically, the design is highly appealing and setup is easy, but the remote control can be somewhat slow. Regarding value, it is challenging to recommend them as a top choice when Edifier offers other active monitors that are both more capable and more affordable.
Buy them if…
You value convenience: The Edifier S880DB MKII are highly convenient active speakers, featuring a remote control that simplifies switching between their extensive analog and digital inputs.
You appreciate stylish design: The Edifier S880DB MKII boasts an attractive design, available in finishes like cream-and-pine or black-and-walnut, making them visually appealing for prominent display.
Don’t buy them if…
You seek a fully representative soundstage: While the stereo imaging of the Edifier S880DB MKII is good, its wide frequency range struggles with low-end representation. Utilizing the subwoofer output is recommended for improved bass.
You don’t prioritize remote control: The S880DB MKII’s remote offers convenient wireless control. However, if wireless control is not a key concern, Edifier’s MR5 monitors may offer better audio performance for a lower cost.
Edifier S880DB MKII: Also consider
For those exploring alternatives, here are a couple of other active speaker options:
- Kanto Ren: These speakers offer a rich sound profile and exceptional connectivity, including HDMI ARC. While they come at a higher price point, the additional cost provides advanced internal components, superior bass representation, and a refined aesthetic suitable for living rooms. Read more in the full Kanto Ren review.
- Edifier MR5: For a more powerful sound at a lower cost, the Edifier MR5 active monitor speakers are an option. Designed primarily for music production and listening, they deliver a bolder sound than the S880DB MKII, though they may sacrifice some minor conveniences. Read the full Edifier MR5 review here.
How the Edifier S880DB MKII was tested
- Tested for 3 weeks
- Used in an office setting as primary desktop listening speakers
- Primarily tested using audio output from a Universal Audio Volt 4 audio interface and Bluetooth transmission from a Samsung Galaxy S23 FE
The Edifier S880DB MKII speakers were used as primary monitor speakers in an office setup.
Audio was received via RCA-in from a Universal Audio Volt 4 interface. The USB-C input was also tested directly from an HP Pavilion 15 laptop, and Bluetooth connectivity was assessed using a Samsung Galaxy S23 FE smartphone.
Over four weeks, various artists and music genres from Spotify and a personal digital music library were used to evaluate the S880DB MKII’s performance in different musical contexts.
