Edifier QD35 Bluetooth desktop speaker review.There’s no shortage of portable Bluetooth speakers on the market, and they all sound decent. Some of them even sound incredible. However, what really sets them apart is their appearance. While some brands follow the same ‘tried and true’ design trends, Edifier is trying something completely different with its latest Bluetooth speaker, the QD35.Follow our review of the Edifier QD35 Bluetooth Speaker to find out how it compares to other portable speakers and whether you should buy the QD35 next time.
Edifier QD35 Bluetooth desktop speaker: first impressions and characteristics
Priced at $199.99, the Edifier QD35 Bluetooth Tabletop Speaker is an intriguing audio gadget that packs cutting-edge features. Before we start reviewing its incredible design and features, let’s take a closer look at the specifications.
- Dimensions: 11 x 6.5 x 5.5 inches (277.8 x 164.8 x 141.7 mm)
- Weight: 5.8 lbs (2.64 kg) )
- Power: 25 W, mid bass + high frequencies 15 W
- Input: AUX/USB-A/Bluetooth
- Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.3, USB- A, AUX input
- Drivers: 3″ mid-bass +1″ treble
- Frequency response: 60 Hz – 40 kHz
- Signal-to-noise ratio : ≥ 85 dB(A)
- Charging: 35W
- Color: Black, White
- Price: $199.99 on Amazon.
With Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Audio certifications, the QD35 supports 44.1 kHz, 48 kHz and 96 kHz audio signals. This compatibility means the speaker delivers exceptional audio clarity.However, the main selling point of this tabletop speaker is the incredible light show that will immediately draw you in. The speaker’s light display can be changed using the knob or the Edifier Connect app. The light show looks impressive, especially when listening to music in the dark. The QD35 has an industrial design with a semi-trailer-style top panel and a large Edifier logo. It is available in black or white, and for the purposes of this review, I had the black version. There is also a built-in clock on the lower front panel.Underneath the exterior of the QD35 is an advanced audio amplifier based on the DSP chipset. This innovative technology is designed to create powerful tweeters and woofers (high and low sounds) that are powerful and clear without a hint of distortion.Overall, it’s a very interesting combination of innovation, bold design and the latest audio technology. Let’s see if the QD35 is worth its $200 price tag!
Design and unpacking
Edifier QD35 has an outstanding appearance that catches the eye from all angles – not only from the front, but also from the top and sides. If anything, you can appreciate that the Edifier doesn’t follow the same old “big brick” design as all the other wireless speakers.Speaking of wireless connectivity, although the speaker is relatively compact and portable, it requires constant power from a wall outlet. It can then transfer power to other devices, meaning you can use its USB fast charging ports on the side of the speaker to power your other gadgets.
What’s in the box
Here’s everything you’ll find in the box when you unpack the Edifier QD35:
- Edifier QD35 Table Speaker
- Power Cable
- 3.5mm AUX Cable
< li>USB-A to USB-A cable
- Cleaning cloth
- Stickers
- User manual
While the Edifier QD35 has a design that stands out from other Bluetooth speakers, it’s not always in a good way. Of course, the light show is amazing and will definitely attract attention. In fact, I spent the first evening watching movies and YouTube in the dark with Edifier’s light show in the background and it was a great experience.However, not all design solutions are appreciated. I don’t like the massive EDIFIER logo all over the top of the speaker. I would have preferred the top of the speaker to be simple so that it would be easy to rest other gadgets on, especially when charging them via the QD35. The outside of the speaker is made of a shiny, hard plastic that attracts fingerprints, but once cleaned, it shines brilliantly. Edifier seemed to be aware of this issue as they included a cleaning cloth in the box, which I thought was a nice touch.
The speaker’s RGB lighting can be controlled via the app. You also have the option to turn them off, set them to static mode (no blinking or moving), or have them pulsate slightly, creating a calming effect.
The digital LED clock is located on the lower left corner of the QD35. One handy feature is that it can sync with your smartphone’s time, saving you the hassle of setting it up manually.
On the left side of the QD35, you’ll find an 18W USB-A port and a 35W USB-C port, designed to charge a variety of smart devices using Edifier’s highly efficient TurboGaN charging technology. I found this addition quite handy, especially if you want to charge your devices overnight on your nightstand.
TurboGaN technology also allows the USB-C port to deliver 35W of power to compatible devices, and the USB-A port to deliver up to 18W of power. If both ports are used simultaneously, each will provide 18W of power.
Performance and features
Let’s move on to the features and specifications of this beautiful bookshelf speaker.The Edifier QD35 showcases a 1-inch tweeter and a 3-inch midrange driver. The amplifier is also capable of delivering an impressive output power of up to 40W RMS, which is quite impressive for a compact desktop speaker. For deeper, richer bass, two bass ports are strategically located at the rear of the speaker. Although the QD35 accepts a stereo signal, it produces a mono output. The mid-bass is located in the center of the front of the speaker, while the smaller tweeter is located on the side.Although the QD35 operates as a mono desktop speaker and has a single-channel audio output, this is not a significant drawback since many Bluetooth speakers are designed this way. However, it is worth noting that the QD35 does not support pairing with another QD35 to create a true wireless stereo (TWS) system, which could enhance the stereo sound quality along with lighting effects.The QD35 provides satisfactory sound quality until the volume reaches 14 of 16 levels. After this point, the sound becomes too boomy and less pleasant at close range, and at a distance it seems flat and muddy. Although Edifier uses digital signal processing (DSP) to improve sound quality, it is less effective at higher volumes. Keeping the volume at around 10 or 11 levels provides balanced sound suitable for filling small to medium sized rooms.The speaker has strong bass, much better than you’d expect from a 3-inch speaker. This impressive bass is achieved through two passive bass ports on the rear of the speaker.
Improving AUX sound
If you really want to get the most out of your Edifier QD35, you need to use the AUX audio input as it is a game changer in terms of audio quality. The Edifier Connect app has an illuminated Hi-Res button when the USB or AUX audio source is selected. This means you get access to better sound quality. When connecting my Android smartphone via wired AUX (you may need an adapter for this), the sound quality improved significantly, especially with the higher LDAC setting enabled. Bass response is clearer, and noise and resonance are reduced to a minimum. If you’re an audiophile who prioritizes sound quality over the convenience of Bluetooth connectivity, this is the best connection option that will enhance your QD35 experience.
USB connection
It is important to note that using USB with a computer is accompanied by automatic installation of Edifier drivers. This may cause concern for those who prefer to have control over their computer software. This is something you should keep in mind if you want to use the speaker from a PC or Mac via USB.
Software
The Edifier Connect app is the perfect tool to control your speaker remotely. The application is designed for iOS and Android devices and has a user-friendly interface. One handy feature is that you can use the Edifier Connect app to sync your watch manually or automatically. However, the main strength lies in the ability to personalize the EQ settings.
This means you can create audio profiles and settings based on your unique preferences and share these configurations with friends. Dive into different sound profiles, explore the different nuances of sound, and find the perfect sound signature that works best for you.I’ve already mentioned that the QD35 is also a great mood-setter and can transform your surroundings with impressive lighting effects. The speaker is equipped with various pre-programmed lighting effects that instantly enhance the ambiance. The Edifier Connect app gives you the freedom to create your own light displays and illuminate your space to suit your mood.
The customizable EQ settings and lighting effects are probably my two favorite things about the QD35.
Battery life
Edifier QD35 does not have a built-in battery and requires constant power from a wall outlet (or power station) to operate.However, I think the unusual design and features make up for this lack. Since there is no battery in the device, you won’t have to worry about battery life limitations. As for the rest of the speaker, Edifier’s two-year warranty and return policy provides reassurance against any unexpected issues, offering users peace of mind when purchasing this innovative speaker.
Is Edifier QD35 worth buying?
If you’re looking for a unique and versatile audio solution that combines dynamic lighting with decent sound quality, the Edifier QD35 Bluetooth Speaker with Dynamic Lighting and Built-in 35W GaN Ultra-Fast Charger is the right choice.This speaker will definitely turn heads. However, Bluetooth audio quality doesn’t quite match the premium price tag. In this case, you’ll have to decide for yourself whether the stunning visuals make up for some of the performance issues. And if you don’t mind using AUX to listen to music, then the QD35 is a great option.
Edifier QD35 Bluetooth desktop speaker review
Edifier QD35 Bluetooth desktop speaker review