Edifier has taken a sharp turn from their usual approach with the new QR65 speakers. Rather than simply focusing on sound quality, they've aimed to create a visually stunning new RGB lit speaker that stands out from the sea of speaker options available. Known for offering some of the best value-packed desktop speakers and headphones, Edifier has gained popularity by creating an amazing value for desktop speakers that are often sought after by audiophiles and casual desktop listeners alike.
While many brands compete on price, hoping their sound quality is good enough for most Amazon shoppers, Edifier went for a visually arresting option with the all-new QR65, sparing no expense on design and materials with GaN charging and Hi-Res Audio. But do these gorgeous speakers justify their premium price tag? Let's dive in!
Edifier has taken an ambitious new direction with their QR65 desktop speakers, prioritizing both stunning visuals and premium audio performance. A departure from their typical value-focused offerings, the QR65s aim to be a true desktop centerpiece with mesmerizing RGB lighting effects controlled by a well-designed app. Despite their compact size, these speakers pack a punch with a combined 70W amplifier powering 2.75-inch aluminum drivers that deliver an impressively wide soundstage, clean controlled bass, and excellent midrange clarity ideal for desktop/nearfield use.
While the small form factor inevitably compromises deep bass extension, Edifier has thoughtfully included a subwoofer output to allow easy integration of a dedicated sub. The QR65s also boast unique features like Bluetooth 5.3, Hi-Res Audio support, and an innovative 65W GaN fast charging solution via 3 USB ports. Priced at a premium $369, these stylish speakers are squarely targeted at discerning listeners willing to invest in both high-fidelity audio reproduction and visually arresting aesthetics. For those prioritizing multimedia versatility alongside sound quality from a compact desktop setup, the Edifier QR65s make a compelling high-end choice loaded with novel capabilities.
The QR65 package includes all the necessary cables to get started, including the dreaded proprietary link cable that connects the two speakers. I know I mention in every review that I dislike these cables, if you need to have them spread pretty far apart you're out of luck, but for most desktops you should be fine.
These Edifier speakers have the common side-mounted volume control knob, along with a simple lighting control button on the side. Sadly there are no EQ settings here on the outside and you will need to jump into the app to make those changes, along with the very cool RGB effects.
That said, the RGB effects are pretty cool. There are 12 different options to choose from, with a good selection of colors or rainbow effects that allow some customization. The infinity effect is definitely solid, in person it looks pretty mind blowing on some of the effects.
This definitely took some design time and effort from the Edifier team. I set the lights on a flow like setting with a few different colors, it looks very pleasing and calming. The lights are subtle yet bright and are not in your face like other RBG options.
Bluetooth connectivity was seamless, with no drops or stuttering during my testing. Pairing was a breeze as it should be, and the sound quality over Bluetooth was excellent, thanks to the Bluetooth V5.3 support.
There is also Hi-Res Audio and wireless support as well as a quite unique 65W TurboGaN fast charging via 3 USB ports. GaN charging or Gallium Nitride chargers are about three times as efficient as silicon-based chargers in converting power to electricity, meaning the charger can charge devices faster and cooler than ever before.
I had never heard about this tech before this review, it’s something worth looking into for charging more power hungry devices like laptops and larger tablets.
Included in the box is a set of stands that angle the speakers at 10 degrees up, putting you at ear level for better highs. Add to that, there is thankfully a sub out for adding on a subwoofer, I did use this in testing out another sub I am reviewing at the time and works good, I do wish there was a crossover adjustment on the speakers, but oh well, not a huge issue.
Of course, sound quality is the make-or-break factor for speakers in this premium price range, and wow, do these speakers pack a punch, at least in the mid-range! For an all-in-one 2-channel setup, they're a dream come true. The 2.75-inch aluminum diaphragm drivers and rear-firing bass ports deliver an impressively wide soundstage and clean but higher, controlled bass response.
The smaller drivers do hold back some of the full range audio, but at least Edifier was kind enough to include a sub-out, allowing you to fill in any needed low end.
The midrange on these speakers was excellent, even when seated relatively close during testing. Vocals and instruments shone through with clarity and detail, without any muddiness or congestion. They didn't skip a beat, and even in a large room, these speakers can truly sing with good amounts of power, but are not overly bass driven.
Whether used for desktop or 2-channel setups, they perform admirably without any issues. The lows are punchy, well as punchy as they can be, with a satisfying rumble that you can feel when up close– what you'd expect from a $369+ speaker. The highs are colder and more laid-back than anticipated – not a bad thing, just a different flavor that may suit some listeners more than others.
Compared to other options, there isn’t much out there like the QR65s. The Edifier R1700BTs definitely have better sound overall but are much larger, while the PreSonus Eris E5s are a bit more sharp on the high end, they lack the RGB and fast charging features of the QR65. The QR65s really stand alone with a unique feature set and great quality sound. It’s definitely not easy to compare them apples to apples with another set of speakers, you really need to be looking for the unique features the QR65 has to offer.
If you have space for larger desktop speakers but don't want (or can't accommodate) an amp, pre-amp, and all the associated cables, the QR65 is an amazing choice. The built-in 70W amplifier and DSP tuning provide ample power and control.
The overall build and sound quality of the speakers more than makeup for it. At $369, there are many powered speakers to consider, but the QR65 should be on your shortlist if you value both aesthetics and audio performance, while also needing GaN fast charging. I thoroughly enjoyed reviewing these stunning speakers!
