Edifier M201BT Review

Introduction to the Edifier M201BT

The Edifier M201BT is a compact 2.0 Bluetooth bookshelf speaker system designed for desktop setups, small living rooms, and casual listening. Featuring wireless streaming, built-in amplification, and a classic wood-grain finish, it aims to provide clear stereo sound without the need for a separate receiver. Whether you’re streaming music, gaming, or watching movies, the M201BT offers a simple, plug-and-play solution for enhanced audio.

Key Features of the Edifier M201BT

1. Bluetooth 4.0 with aptX Support
   Delivers stable wireless streaming and improved audio quality on compatible devices, with minimal latency.

2. Class AB Integrated Amplifier (2 × 7 W RMS)
   Provides sufficient power for small to medium rooms, driving 3″ full-range drivers for balanced sound.

3. 3.5 mm AUX and RCA Inputs
   Offers flexible wired connections for PCs, turntables (with preamp), TVs, and mobile devices.

4. Front-Panel Tone and Volume Controls
   Dedicated knobs for volume, bass, and treble let you fine-tune the sound to suit your room acoustics and personal taste.

5. Wood-Grain MDF Cabinets
   Resonance-damping enclosures enhance clarity and add a touch of warmth to your décor.

6. Headphone Output
   Allows private listening via a front-facing 3.5 mm jack without interrupting others.

7. Compact Footprint
   Small enclosures fit neatly on desks, bookshelves, or small entertainment centers.

Performance and Sound Quality

In listening tests, the M201BT produced a surprisingly spacious soundstage for its size. Bass extension reached down to around 60 Hz, providing enough weight for pop and rock without overwhelming the mids. Vocals and acoustic instruments remained clear and forward, while highs were smooth and detailed up to 18 kHz. The Class AB amplifier delivered consistent volume with low distortion, even at higher listening levels. Bluetooth streaming via aptX maintained fidelity comparable to wired connections.

Connectivity and Versatility

Setup is straightforward: pair a phone or tablet via Bluetooth for quick wireless playback, or plug a computer or turntable into the RCA/AUX inputs. The headphone jack on the front panel makes late-night sessions convenient, and the tone controls let you dial in extra warmth or brightness. This flexibility makes the M201BT equally suited for desktop audio, background music, and small-scale home theater use.

Pros of the Edifier M201BT

• Rich, Balanced Sound: Well-tuned drivers and tone controls deliver punchy bass and clear mids.

• Wireless Convenience: Bluetooth aptX support ensures stable, high-quality streaming.

• Flexible Inputs: AUX, RCA, and headphone connections cover most audio sources.

• Compact Design: Small footprint fits easily into tight spaces.

• Classic Aesthetic: Wood-grain cabinets blend seamlessly with furniture and décor.

Cons of the Edifier M201BT

• Limited Low-End Extension: Bass may lack the deepest sub-30 Hz impact without a subwoofer.

• No DSP Presets: Tone adjustments are manual only; no onboard EQ profiles.

• Bluetooth Version: Uses Bluetooth 4.0 rather than the latest standard, potentially affecting range.

• Fixed Amplifier Power: 7 W per channel suits small rooms but may struggle in larger spaces.

How to Get the Most Out of Your Edifier M201BT

1. Optimize Placement: Position speakers at ear level, spaced 4–6 feet apart, and set them slightly away from walls to reduce bass boom.

2. Use Wired for Critical Listening: Connect via RCA or AUX for the lowest latency and widest dynamic range.

3. Fine-Tune Tone Controls: Adjust bass and treble sparingly to complement your room’s acoustics without introducing distortion.

4. Pair with a Subwoofer: For deeper bass in music or home theater, add a powered subwoofer via the speaker-level outputs.

5. Maintain Cabinets: Wipe the wood finish with a soft, dry cloth to keep the cabinets free of dust and preserve resonance control.

Conclusion

The Edifier M201BT offers an attractive balance of sound quality, connectivity, and style in a compact bookshelf speaker package. While it may benefit from deeper bass extension and modern Bluetooth standards, its core strengths—balanced audio, versatile inputs, and user-friendly controls—make it a strong choice for anyone seeking a straightforward active speaker system for music, movies, and desktop audio.