Edifier S1000W WiFi Active Bookshelf Speakers Review: The Hi-Fi Gateway for the Modern Home

For years, my living room audio setup was a compromise. Like many, I started with the tinny, underwhelming speakers built into my television. I then graduated to a respectable soundbar, which was a definite improvement for movies but always left me feeling cold when it came to music. It lacked the separation, the depth, the sheer presence of a true stereo system. My music collection, meticulously curated over decades, felt constrained, like it was being squeezed through a keyhole. I craved an audio experience that could fill the room, reveal hidden details in familiar tracks, and connect me to the artist’s intent. The problem was that traditional Hi-Fi seemed daunting—a world of separate amplifiers, pre-amps, DACs, and a jungle of cables. I wanted that audiophile quality without the complexity and clutter. This search for a powerful, versatile, and user-friendly solution is what ultimately led me to the world of high-end active bookshelf speakers.

What to Consider Before Buying Active Bookshelf Speakers

An active bookshelf speaker system is more than just a pair of speakers; it’s a complete, integrated audio solution designed to deliver high-fidelity sound without the need for a separate amplifier. This solves a major problem for modern music lovers: achieving premium audio quality in a relatively compact, convenient package. The main benefit is simplicity without significant sonic compromise. You get the rich, detailed stereo imaging that soundbars can’t replicate, the power to fill a room with dynamic sound, and a host of connectivity options to accommodate everything from a turntable to a smartphone. It’s the perfect bridge between casual listening and the deep, immersive world of audiophilia.

The ideal customer for a product like the Edifier S1000W WiFi Active Bookshelf Speakers is someone who values both sound quality and convenience. This could be a music enthusiast looking to upgrade from a basic Bluetooth speaker, a vinyl collector wanting a simple yet powerful setup for their turntable, or a home cinema buff seeking a more musical alternative to a soundbar for a small to medium-sized room. They appreciate the clarity and detail of Hi-Res audio and want the flexibility of streaming over Wi-Fi, which offers superior quality to Bluetooth. However, this type of product might not be suitable for the hardcore audiophile who insists on mix-and-matching individual components (amplifiers, DACs, etc.) or for someone with an extremely limited budget or desk space. For those needing a more compact or budget-friendly option, smaller active speakers might be a better fit.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: These are not small computer speakers. Measure your desk, shelf, or media console carefully. The Edifier S1000W, for instance, has a significant footprint and weight (16.77 kg). You need a sturdy surface and enough space around them to allow the drivers and rear-facing bass ports to breathe, which is crucial for optimal sound quality.
• Performance & Power: Look at the total power output, measured in Watts RMS (Root Mean Square), which indicates continuous power handling. The S1000W’s 120W RMS is substantial for a bookshelf model, ensuring it can fill a room without distortion. Also, consider the driver sizes—a larger woofer (like the 5.5-inch one here) generally produces better bass response, while a quality tweeter (like the 1-inch titanium dome) is key for clear highs.
• Connectivity & Features: Your speakers should match your sources. Do you need a phono preamp for a turntable? Multiple analog inputs (RCA)? Digital inputs like Optical or Coaxial for a TV or gaming console? For modern streaming, Wi-Fi (via AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect) is superior to Bluetooth for sound quality and convenience, as your music won’t be interrupted by phone calls.
• Materials & Durability: The enclosure material dramatically affects sound. Solid, well-braced MDF (Medium-density fibreboard) cabinets, like those used on the S1000W, are ideal as they resist resonance and vibration, leading to cleaner sound. Cheaper speakers often use thin plastic, which can color the sound in undesirable ways. A quality build ensures the speakers will last for years.

Understanding these factors will ensure you choose a system that not only sounds great but also fits perfectly into your space and lifestyle. The goal is to find a long-term audio companion, and the Edifier S1000W WiFi Active Bookshelf Speakers certainly tick many of these critical boxes.

While the Edifier S1000W WiFi 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:

First Impressions: Unboxing a Modern Classic

From the moment the courier handed over the box, I knew the Edifier S1000W WiFi Active Bookshelf Speakers were a serious piece of kit. The sheer weight—nearly 17 kg—spoke volumes about the build quality before I even laid eyes on them. Unboxing revealed two beautiful, substantial speakers, securely nestled in thick foam. The dark wood side panels contrasted elegantly with the matte black front baffle, giving them a look that is simultaneously classic and modern. They feel incredibly solid and dense, with no hint of plastic flimsiness. The angled front is not just a stylistic choice; it’s designed to direct sound upwards towards the listener’s ears, a thoughtful touch for desktop or low-stand placement.

Inside the box, Edifier provides everything needed to get started: a surprisingly long (almost 5m) proprietary 4-pin cable to connect the active and passive speakers, an RCA-to-RCA cable, a 3.5mm-to-RCA cable, an optical cable, and a compact, functional remote control. Setting them up was straightforward. After connecting the two speakers, plugging in the power, and connecting my TV via the included optical cable, I was up and running in under five minutes. The immediate impression is one of substance and quality, a feeling that you’ve invested in a product built to last. They have a commanding presence that makes them a true centerpiece of a room.

Performance Deep Dive: Where Modern Convenience Meets Audiophile Soul

After letting the speakers break in for a few days, I embarked on a comprehensive listening journey, throwing every genre and source I could at them. From the delicate acoustic guitars of Nick Drake streamed via Wi-Fi to the complex orchestral arrangements of a film score via optical, the Edifier S1000W WiFi Active Bookshelf Speakers consistently impressed. This isn’t just about being loud; it’s about control, clarity, and a level of musicality that is genuinely surprising at this price point.

Sonic Performance: The Heart of the Matter

The soul of any speaker is its sound, and this is where the S1000W truly shines. The bi-amped, 120W RMS system powers a 1-inch titanium dome tweeter and a 5.5-inch aluminum mid-bass driver in each speaker. This separation of amplification allows for incredible control and clarity across the frequency spectrum. What struck me first was the mid-range. Vocals are simply sublime; they are rendered with a warmth, presence, and texture that feels intimate and real. One user review captured this perfectly, stating they “blew me away with its sound quality. The clarity and warmth are outstanding, especially for vocals.” I have to agree wholeheartedly. Listening to artists like Adele or James Taylor, their voices were positioned front and center with breathtaking realism, free from the boxiness that plagues lesser speakers.

The high frequencies are equally impressive. The titanium tweeters deliver crisp, detailed treble without ever becoming harsh or sibilant. Cymbals have a natural shimmer and decay, and the subtle nuances in string instruments are easily discernible. This aligns with another user’s experience, a self-proclaimed 40-year classical music veteran, who noted that the “sound stage is amazing… you can see the position of the instruments in the orchestra.” This excellent stereo imaging creates a wide, immersive soundstage that makes the speakers disappear, leaving you with just the music. The bass is tight, fast, and articulate. It won’t shake your windows, which is a point echoed by some users who opted to add an external subwoofer for that extra low-end rumble. However, for most music, the bass is perfectly balanced and musical, providing a solid foundation without ever sounding bloated or muddy. The rear-panel bass and treble controls offer a good range of adjustment to tailor the sound to your room and preference, though I found the neutral setting to be remarkably well-balanced right out of the box.

The “W” Factor: A Universe of Wireless and Wired Connectivity

What truly elevates the Edifier S1000W WiFi Active Bookshelf Speakers from a great pair of speakers to a phenomenal audio system is the “W” for Wi-Fi. While its Bluetooth 5.0 connection is solid, streaming over Wi-Fi is a game-changer. Using AirPlay 2 from my iPhone and Spotify Connect was seamless, providing a rock-solid, high-resolution connection that is audibly superior to Bluetooth. The music sounds more open and dynamic, and you’re free to use your phone for calls or videos without interrupting the stream. This is a level of convenience that makes high-quality listening effortless. The integration with Alexa is another standout feature. As one user from Japan happily discovered, you can ask Alexa to play music and it streams directly to the Edifiers, while Alexa’s voice responses come only from the Echo device itself, creating an uninterrupted listening session. It’s a smart, elegant implementation that just works.

Beyond the wireless prowess, the S1000W is a connectivity hub. With two sets of RCA analog inputs, you can connect a turntable (with a phono preamp) and a CD player simultaneously. The digital inputs are equally robust; the optical and coaxial inputs are perfect for hooking up a TV, Blu-ray player, or gaming console, instantly transforming your media experience. I connected them to my TV via optical, and the dialogue clarity and dynamic range during movies were a world away from any soundbar I’ve tested in this price range. You truly hear details—the subtle ambient sounds, the crisp foley work—that were previously lost. This immense flexibility ensures the Edifier S1000W can be the audio centerpiece for virtually any source you own.

Design, Build, and Everyday Usability

The physical presence of the Edifier S1000W WiFi Active Bookshelf Speakers cannot be overstated. These are large, handsome speakers that look and feel premium. The thick MDF enclosure, combined with the elegant wood side panels, gives them a reassuring heft and a timeless aesthetic that complements any decor, from modern minimalist to classic traditional. This robust construction isn’t just for show; it’s critical to the sound, minimizing cabinet vibrations to ensure the output from the drivers is as pure as possible. As one seasoned audiophile user put it, these will “likely be the last speakers I ever want or need to buy.”

In day-to-day use, the speakers are mostly a joy. The included remote is simple and effective, allowing you to switch inputs, adjust volume, and control playback. The control knobs on the back of the active speaker for volume, treble, and bass feel solid and offer tactile control. However, one minor quirk, noted by myself and another user, is the stepped volume control. The jumps between volume levels can sometimes feel a bit too large, making it tricky to find that *perfect* quiet listening level—it’s either a touch too loud or a touch too soft. It’s a small grievance in an otherwise stellar user experience, but one worth noting for those who are particular about precise volume settings. The sheer size also warrants consideration; you need to ensure you have adequate space. But if you can accommodate them, their physical and sonic presence is immensely rewarding and a feature that truly sets them apart in the market.

What Other Users Are Saying

Scouring feedback from other owners, a clear consensus emerges: the sound quality of the Edifier S1000W WiFi Active Bookshelf Speakers is overwhelmingly praised. Many, like one user who was upgrading from a full Sonos system, were “simply surprised,” stating they had “never heard anything with this quality” before. Another experienced audiophile called them the “best money I’ve ever spent on sound,” a powerful endorsement. The richness, clarity, and ability to fill a room are consistent themes, with many users feeling they compete with systems costing two or three times as much.

On the critical side, the feedback aligns with my own minor observations. The most common point of contention is the bass response. While many find it adequate and balanced, several users in the audiophile community mentioned adding an Edifier T5 subwoofer to achieve that deep, cinematic rumble, noting it takes the system to “another world.” It’s important to clarify that this isn’t a flaw, but a characteristic of bookshelf speakers of this size; they are designed for accuracy, not overwhelming bass. The other minor issue mentioned is the stepped volume control, which lacks the fine granularity some users prefer. Lastly, while rare, there were isolated reports of shipping damage, like a chipped remote, which is always a risk with larger, heavier electronics.

How Does the Edifier S1000W Compare to the Alternatives?

The market for active speakers is competitive, and while the Edifier S1000W WiFi Active Bookshelf Speakers are a formidable option, it’s worth seeing how they stack up against other popular choices. Your specific needs—be it budget, features, or size—will determine the best fit for you. For those considering this model, it is a great time to check the latest price and any available offers.

1. Edifier R1850DB Bluetooth Active Bookshelf Speakers

Staying within the Edifier family, the R1850DB is a compelling budget-friendly alternative. It’s more compact than the S1000W, making it a better choice for smaller desks or rooms where space is at a premium. Its biggest advantage is the dedicated subwoofer-out port, which makes adding a sub for enhanced bass incredibly simple. However, the trade-off comes in raw power, overall sonic refinement, and connectivity. It lacks the Wi-Fi streaming capabilities and Hi-Res audio support of the S1000W, relying solely on Bluetooth for wireless audio. If your budget is tight and you know you want that extra bass punch via a sub, the R1850DB is an excellent value proposition.

2. Kanto YU4MB Powered Speakers Bluetooth Phono Preamp

The Kanto YU4 is aimed squarely at the design-conscious user and the vinyl enthusiast. Available in a variety of stylish matte and gloss finishes, they offer a more modern aesthetic than the classic look of the Edifiers. Their killer feature is the built-in switchable phono preamp, allowing you to connect a turntable directly without any extra boxes. While they feature Bluetooth connectivity, they lack the Wi-Fi streaming options of the S1000W. Sonically, they are clear and punchy, but with smaller 4-inch drivers and less power, they can’t match the scale, depth, and room-filling capability of the larger S1000W. The YU4 is the perfect choice for someone prioritizing style and a seamless turntable setup in a smaller space.

3. Q Acoustics 3020i Bookshelf Speakers

The Q Acoustics 3020i represents a different approach entirely. These are passive speakers, meaning they require a separate, external amplifier to power them. This makes them a choice for the audio hobbyist who enjoys building a system from individual components and wants the flexibility to upgrade their amplifier in the future. The 3020i are legendary for their smooth, warm, and musical sound signature, offering incredible audio performance for their price. However, the total cost and complexity will be higher once you factor in an amplifier, and you lose the all-in-one convenience and built-in wireless streaming of the Edifier S1000W WiFi Active Bookshelf Speakers. This is the path for the tinkerer, whereas the S1000W is the destination for the listener who wants a complete, high-performance package out of the box.

The Final Verdict: Are the Edifier S1000W Worth It?

After extensive testing, we can say with confidence that the Edifier S1000W WiFi Active Bookshelf Speakers are a resounding success. They occupy a sweet spot in the market, offering a genuine taste of high-fidelity audio combined with the modern streaming convenience that today’s listeners demand. The sound is clear, detailed, and powerful, with a particular talent for reproducing vocals and acoustic instruments with stunning realism. The addition of Wi-Fi, AirPlay 2, and Spotify Connect elevates them from a simple pair of speakers to a true home audio hub.

Yes, they are large, and yes, bass-heads might find themselves wanting to add a subwoofer. The stepped volume control is a minor quirk you learn to live with. But these are small compromises for what you get in return: a beautifully built, incredibly versatile, and fantastic-sounding system that punches well above its weight. If you’re ready to move beyond soundbars and basic Bluetooth speakers and invest in a system that will make you fall in love with your music all over again, the Edifier S1000W is an enthusiastic recommendation. They represent a superb value and a brilliant gateway into the world of audiophile sound.
You can check the current price and see more user reviews right here.

Last update on 2025-11-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API