The Edifier R1280DB is a pair of powered bookshelf speakers designed for listeners who want more connection options than a basic analogue speaker system provides. Alongside two RCA line inputs, it adds Bluetooth, optical and coaxial digital inputs, making it suitable for a turntable, television, computer or phone.
It shares much of its design with the popular R1280T, including the 42W RMS output, 4-inch mid-bass drivers, 0.5-inch silk-dome tweeters and MDF cabinets. The main reason to choose the R1280DB is its additional connectivity—not a guaranteed improvement in sound quality.
This review explains its specifications, inputs, turntable compatibility and how it compares with the R1280T.
Edifier R1280DB: Key Specifications
| Specification | Edifier R1280DB |
|---|---|
| Speaker type | Powered bookshelf speakers |
| Total output | 42W RMS (21W × 2) |
| Bass/midrange drivers | 4-inch |
| Tweeters | 0.5-inch silk dome |
| Frequency response | 55Hz–20kHz |
| Inputs | Dual RCA, optical, coaxial, Bluetooth |
| Bluetooth | Version varies by product revision and region |
| Phono input | No |
| Built-in amplifier | Yes |
| Bass and treble controls | Yes |
| Remote control | Included |
| Cabinet material | MDF |
| Dimensions | 146 × 234 × 196mm per cabinet |
The R1280DB is an active speaker system, so the amplifier is built into one cabinet. The second speaker connects to it using the supplied speaker cable. You don’t need a separate stereo amplifier.
What Makes the R1280DB Different From the R1280T?
The R1280DB and R1280T share a similar cabinet design and basic speaker configuration. The R1280DB adds digital and wireless connectivity.
| Feature | R1280T | R1280DB |
|---|---|---|
| Dual RCA inputs | Yes | Yes |
| Optical input | No | Yes |
| Coaxial input | No | Yes |
| Bluetooth | No | Yes |
| Frequency response | 75Hz–18kHz | 55Hz–20kHz |
| Remote control | Included | Included |
| Built-in amplifier | Yes | Yes |
| Phono input | No | No |
Both models include a remote control, so that isn’t an additional advantage of the DB version.
Edifier publishes a 55Hz–20kHz frequency response for the R1280DB and 75Hz–18kHz for the R1280T. These are different published specifications, but frequency-response figures alone don’t establish that one speaker sounds better. Measurement conditions and tolerances also matter.
The practical distinction is straightforward: the R1280DB gives you more ways to connect different audio sources.
Connectivity: RCA, Optical, Coaxial and Bluetooth
The R1280DB’s biggest advantage is its range of inputs.
Dual RCA Inputs
The two RCA inputs allow you to connect two analogue sources, such as a turntable and another audio device.
For vinyl playback, connect a turntable’s line-level output to either RCA input. If your turntable has a built-in phono preamp, switch it to LINE.
If your turntable doesn’t have a built-in preamp, you’ll need an external phono preamp before connecting it to the speakers.
Optical Digital Input
The optical input is useful for connecting a compatible television, computer or other digital audio source.
It accepts a digital audio signal, so you don’t need a separate external digital-to-analogue converter for this connection.
This is particularly convenient if you want to use the same speakers for vinyl playback and television audio.
Coaxial Digital Input
The coaxial input provides another digital connection option for compatible devices.
It serves a similar purpose to optical, but uses a coaxial digital audio cable instead of a fiber-optic cable. Choose whichever connection your source device supports.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth lets you stream audio wirelessly from compatible devices such as smartphones, tablets and computers.
It’s convenient for everyday listening when you don’t want to connect another cable. However, Bluetooth is a separate source from the turntable’s analogue connection.
Bluetooth version can vary between product revisions and regional specifications, so check the exact unit before buying if a particular version matters to you.
Are the Edifier R1280DB Good for a Turntable?
Yes. The R1280DB can work well in a compact vinyl setup, provided the turntable supplies a line-level signal.
The important detail is that the R1280DB does not have a built-in phono preamp or dedicated PHONO input.
There are two straightforward ways to connect a turntable.
Option 1: Turntable With a Built-In Phono Preamp
If your turntable has a switchable built-in preamp:
- Set the turntable’s preamp switch to LINE.
- Connect the turntable’s RCA output to one of the R1280DB’s RCA inputs.
- Select the matching RCA input.
- Adjust the speaker volume.
This is the simplest arrangement.
Option 2: Turntable Without a Built-In Phono Preamp
If your turntable only provides a raw PHONO signal, add an external phono preamp:
Turntable → External phono preamp → R1280DB RCA input
The external preamp raises the cartridge signal to line level and applies the required RIAA equalization.
For more information, see our guide to what a phono preamp does.
Example Turntable Pairings
The R1280DB can work with several types of turntables.
| Turntable | Connection |
|---|---|
| Audio-Technica AT-LP60X | Turntable set to LINE → RCA |
| Sony PS-LX310BT | Turntable set to LINE → RCA |
| Audio-Technica AT-LP120XBT-USB | Turntable set to LINE → RCA |
| Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO | External phono preamp → RCA |
| Fluance RT85 | External phono preamp → RCA |
The first three examples have built-in switchable phono preamps. The Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO and Fluance RT85 require a separate phono stage or a receiver with a compatible PHONO input.
You can explore more options in our best turntable speakers guide.
Sound and Performance
The R1280DB uses two 4-inch mid-bass drivers and two 0.5-inch silk-dome tweeters, with a combined rated output of 42W RMS.
Its frequency response is specified at 55Hz–20kHz. That gives it a wider published range than the R1280T’s 75Hz–18kHz specification, although this doesn’t automatically translate into a clearly audible improvement.
The speakers also include side-panel controls for master volume, bass and treble. These let you make basic adjustments without changing settings on the connected source.
As with other compact bookshelf speakers, placement matters. Keeping the cabinets stable and giving them some space from walls can help you get more consistent results.
The R1280DB is best viewed as a versatile entry-level powered speaker system rather than a replacement for a larger hi-fi setup with a separate amplifier and bigger speakers.
Who Should Buy the Edifier R1280DB?
The R1280DB makes sense if:
- You want to connect a turntable and television to the same speakers.
- You regularly stream music from a phone or computer over Bluetooth.
- Your television or other equipment has optical or coaxial digital output.
- You want powered bookshelf speakers without buying a separate amplifier.
- You need multiple inputs for different devices.
Consider the R1280T instead if:
- Your only source is a turntable with a built-in phono preamp.
- You don’t need Bluetooth, optical or coaxial connections.
- You want to spend less on a speaker system with a similar basic configuration.
If you want more flexibility for future upgrades, compare these models with other options in our best turntable speakers guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Edifier R1280DB have a phono input?
No. The R1280DB has RCA line inputs, optical, coaxial and Bluetooth connectivity, but no dedicated PHONO input or built-in phono preamp.
A turntable without its own preamp needs an external phono preamp.
Is the R1280DB better than the R1280T?
The R1280DB offers more connectivity, including Bluetooth, optical and coaxial inputs. Its published frequency response is also wider.
However, those specifications don’t prove that it sounds better in every listening situation. If you only need analogue RCA connections, the R1280T may be sufficient.
Can I connect the R1280DB directly to a television?
Yes, if your television has a compatible optical or coaxial digital audio output. Connect the appropriate cable and select the matching input on the speakers.
Can I connect a turntable and television at the same time?
Yes. You can connect a turntable through RCA and a television through optical or coaxial. Select the appropriate input when switching between sources.
Does the R1280DB support Bluetooth?
Yes. It supports Bluetooth audio streaming from compatible phones, tablets and computers. It acts as a Bluetooth receiver, not a transmitter for sending turntable audio to wireless headphones or speakers.
Do I need an external amplifier?
No. The R1280DB is a powered speaker system with its own built-in amplification. You only need to provide an appropriate audio signal.
Final Verdict
The Edifier R1280DB is a versatile alternative to the R1280T, especially if you plan to use your speakers with more than one audio source.
Its Bluetooth, optical and coaxial inputs make it easier to combine a vinyl setup with a television, computer or phone. The 42W RMS output and compact bookshelf design also make it a practical option for smaller listening spaces.
For a turntable-only system with a built-in phono preamp, the R1280T may be all you need. But if you want the extra connections, the R1280DB is the more flexible choice.