Powered bookshelf speakers with an optical input can connect directly to a compatible TV or computer while keeping your setup simpler than a separate amplifier and passive speakers. The right pair depends on your room, the sound and connections you need, and whether you want extras such as Bluetooth or a subwoofer output. These five Edifier models range from compact everyday speakers to higher-powered options for a larger soundstage.
Quick Comparison
| Speaker | Optical | Other highlights | Best suited for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edifier R1280DB | Yes | Bluetooth, coaxial input, remote | TVs, computers, and everyday listening |
| Edifier R1280DBs | Yes | Subwoofer output, Bluetooth 5.0, 42W continuous power | Flexible TV and music setups |
| Edifier S1000MKII | Yes, as listed | 120W total amplification, aptX HD Bluetooth | More powerful, music-focused listening |
| Edifier R1855DB | Yes | Optical, coaxial, RCA/Aux, subwoofer output | Mixed-source setups with room to expand |
| Edifier R2000DB | Yes | 120W RMS, dual 5-inch woofers, DSP | Desktop use and fuller room sound |
Our Picks: Best Powered Bookshelf Speakers With Optical Input reviews
Edifier R1280DB: A Straightforward Pick for TV and Desktop Audio
The R1280DB is a powered two-speaker system with an optical input, coaxial input, and Bluetooth. Its digital connections make it a practical match for a TV or computer with a compatible output, while Bluetooth gives you another way to play audio from a phone or tablet.
Each speaker uses a 4-inch bass driver and a 13mm silk-dome tweeter. A remote handles volume and input selection, and bass and treble knobs sit on the side of the active speaker. That layout gives you both quick remote access and direct tone adjustment without adding a separate receiver.
This is the simpler, more basic option compared with the R1280DBs. The supplied details do not list a subwoofer output, so it is less suited to a setup where you expect to add a separate sub later. For a small room, desk, or everyday TV listening, its range of inputs and uncomplicated controls are the main draw.
Pros:
- Optical and coaxial digital inputs
- Bluetooth for wireless playback
- Remote control plus side-panel bass and treble knobs
- Compact 4-inch driver design for desks and smaller spaces
Cons:
- No subwoofer output is listed in the supplied specifications
- Less driver and power information is provided than for some other picks
Verdict: Choose the R1280DB if you want an approachable optical-equipped speaker pair for a TV or desk and do not need a listed subwoofer connection.
Edifier R1280DBs: A Flexible Everyday Pair With a Subwoofer Output
The R1280DBs keeps the basic appeal of the R1280DB—optical and coaxial inputs, Bluetooth, and a 4-inch speaker unit—but adds a subwoofer output. The output has automatic detection and a built-in crossover, which makes this model the more expandable choice if you may want a separate subwoofer in your system.
Edifier lists 42W of continuous power and a 13mm silk-dome tweeter. Bluetooth 5.0 supports wireless playback from compatible devices. The remote can change inputs, control volume, and mute or unmute, while the active speaker has bass, treble, and volume controls.
The extra subwoofer connection is the clearest reason to choose the DBs over the standard R1280DB. It is also a sensible fit if you switch between a TV, computer, and phone. If you know you want a higher-output system or larger drivers, however, the S1000MKII or R2000DB may be a closer match.
Pros:
- Optical and coaxial inputs for digital sources
- Subwoofer output with automatic detection and built-in crossover
- 42W continuous power listed by the manufacturer
- Remote and side-panel controls for convenient adjustments
Cons:
- The 4-inch speaker units may be less suited to listeners seeking larger drivers
- Adding a subwoofer means extra equipment and setup
Verdict: Pick the R1280DBs if you want a compact optical speaker system with more connection flexibility and the option to add a subwoofer.
Edifier S1000MKII: A Higher-Power Option for Music and Movies
The S1000MKII is the most power-focused option in this group aside from the R2000DB. It has a built-in Class D amplifier rated at 60 watts per speaker, so it does not require a separate amplifier or receiver. Its product title lists optical connectivity, making it a candidate for a compatible TV or other digital source.
Each speaker uses a 5.5-inch aluminum-alloy midrange-bass driver and a 1-inch titanium-dome tweeter. The listed frequency response is 45 Hz to 40 kHz. Bluetooth 5.0 with Qualcomm aptX HD decoding is included for compatible wireless devices.
Compared with the R1280DB models, the S1000MKII has larger drivers and substantially more listed amplification, making it a better fit for listeners who want a more capable music system. The supplied specifications do not detail its full set of inputs or mention a subwoofer output, so check the connection requirements for your setup before choosing it.
Pros:
- Built-in 60-watt-per-speaker Class D amplification
- 5.5-inch midrange-bass drivers and 1-inch titanium-dome tweeters
- Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD decoding for compatible devices
- Designed to connect directly to a source without a separate amplifier
Cons:
- The supplied details do not describe its complete input selection
- No subwoofer output is specified in the supplied information
Verdict: Choose the S1000MKII if you want larger drivers and higher listed amplification, and its input options meet your connection needs.
Edifier R1855DB: Multiple Inputs and an Easy Path to a Subwoofer
The R1855DB is designed for a mixed-source setup. Its listed connections include optical and coaxial digital inputs, RCA and Aux inputs, and Bluetooth. A sub-line output also lets you connect a separate subwoofer if you want to expand the system.
The supplied product details describe a wireless remote for input selection, volume adjustment, and Bluetooth track control. Bass, treble, and volume adjustments are available on the rear panel. This puts the main controls behind the speaker rather than on the side, so consider how easy it will be to reach them where you plan to place the system.
Unlike the R1280DBs, the R1855DB’s supplied information does not state a power rating or driver sizes. Its appeal is its broad input selection and subwoofer connection, not a clearly stated power advantage. Bluetooth is listed as version 4.0, so the R1280DBs has the newer Bluetooth version among the two models whose versions are specified.
Pros:
- Optical, coaxial, RCA, Aux, and Bluetooth connections
- Sub-line output for connecting a separate subwoofer
- Remote control for input and volume adjustments
- Bass and treble controls for basic sound adjustment
Cons:
- Bluetooth 4.0 is listed, rather than a newer version
- The supplied specifications do not state power output or driver size
Verdict: The R1855DB is a strong fit if you need many input types and want a subwoofer output, but compare its placement and control layout with your room before buying.
Edifier R2000DB: Larger Drivers and 120W RMS for Fuller Sound
The R2000DB is the higher-output choice in this lineup, with 120W RMS listed alongside dual 5-inch woofers and a 1-inch tweeter. It has optical input, Bluetooth, and dual RCA ports, so it can serve as a desktop system, studio monitor pair, or compact home-theater setup.
A built-in DSP processor is included, and the listed frequency response is 50 Hz to 20 kHz. The wooden enclosure is described as designed to reduce resonance. Bass, treble, and volume can be adjusted with rear-panel knobs or the included remote.
Compared with the smaller R1280DB models, the R2000DB has larger woofers and more listed output, which may make it a better match for a larger listening space or fuller sound. It is also a larger commitment for a tight desk, and the controls on the rear may be less convenient to reach once the speakers are in place. No subwoofer output is listed in the supplied details.
Pros:
- 120W RMS output listed in the product information
- Dual 5-inch woofers and a 1-inch tweeter
- Optical, Bluetooth, and dual RCA connections
- DSP and both remote and rear-panel tone controls
Cons:
- May take up more space than the compact 4-inch options
- No subwoofer output is listed in the supplied specifications
Verdict: Go with the R2000DB if you want larger drivers, substantial listed output, and optical connectivity in a versatile powered pair.
How to Choose Powered Bookshelf Speakers With Optical Input
Check the optical connection on your source
Confirm that your TV, computer, or other device has an optical audio output. The speakers need an optical input, and the source needs the matching output. Also check the audio format settings on your source if you do not hear sound; the available formats and settings can vary by device.
Think about room size and driver design
Speaker size and driver configuration can help narrow the choices. The R1280DB and R1280DBs use 4-inch bass units, while the S1000MKII lists 5.5-inch midrange-bass drivers and the R2000DB has dual 5-inch woofers. Larger drivers and higher listed power may suit a bigger listening area, but you should also leave enough space for the speakers and their connections.
Decide whether you want to add a subwoofer
If you want the option to add a separate subwoofer, focus on models that list a subwoofer output. The R1280DBs and R1855DB include one in the supplied product details. The other listings do not specify one, so check the product information carefully rather than assuming it is included.
Match the inputs to your other devices
Optical may be the main connection for your TV, but other inputs matter if you also use a computer, turntable, or phone. The R1855DB lists RCA, Aux, optical, coaxial, and Bluetooth. The R1280DB and R1280DBs add coaxial and Bluetooth, while the R2000DB lists dual RCA and Bluetooth. Compare the available connections with the devices you plan to use.
Choose controls that fit your setup
A remote can make it easier to change volume or switch inputs from your seat. Some models also have physical tone controls on the speaker itself. Check where those controls are placed: side-panel knobs may be easier to reach on a desk, while rear-panel controls can be harder to access after installation.
Consider Bluetooth version and compatibility
Bluetooth is useful when you want to play audio wirelessly from a phone or tablet. The R1280DBs lists Bluetooth 5.0, the S1000MKII lists Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX HD decoding, and the R1855DB lists Bluetooth 4.0. Wireless features depend on the source device, so check that your phone or computer supports the functions you want to use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an optical input do on powered speakers?
An optical input lets compatible devices send audio to the speakers through a digital connection. It can be useful for connecting a TV or computer that has an optical audio output.
Do these speakers need a separate amplifier?
They are powered or active speaker systems, so they have built-in amplification. The S1000MKII listing specifically says its built-in amplifier means you do not need an outside amplifier or receiver.
Can I connect a phone to these speakers without a cable?
All five products list Bluetooth, allowing wireless playback from compatible phones, tablets, or computers. The exact Bluetooth version and features vary by model.
Which models list a subwoofer output?
The R1280DBs and R1855DB list a subwoofer connection in the supplied information. The other product descriptions do not specify one.
Which speaker is the most powerful option?
The R2000DB lists 120W RMS, while the S1000MKII lists 60 watts per speaker, or 120 watts total. The R1280DBs lists 42W continuous power. The supplied details do not state a power rating for the R1280DB or R1855DB.
Are optical and coaxial inputs the same?
No. Both can carry digital audio, but they use different cables and connectors. Check which output your source has and choose a speaker with a matching input.
Final Recommendation
For a compact, everyday TV or desktop setup, the Edifier R1280DB is a straightforward choice with optical, coaxial, and Bluetooth connections. Choose the R1280DBs if a subwoofer output matters, the R2000DB if you want larger woofers and higher listed power, or the R1855DB if you need a broad selection of inputs. The S1000MKII is the more powerful music-focused option, provided its connections suit your source devices.