Consumer Electronics, Gadgets & Accessories

Edifier M601DB in test: Powerful sound for movies and music?

Home audio systems have long since found their way into many households. While conventional televisions still do not deliver particularly good sound, many consumers are now turning to soundbars or 5.1 or 2.1 systems. For the latter in particular, Edifier has the M601DB model in its range, which is designed to provide a remedy. Highlights include the 110 watts RMS in conjunction with the extensive connection options. In addition to Bluetooth 5.1 with aptX, various inputs are also available to cover TV, console and PC alike.

In this context, the question arises as to how the Edifier M601DB performs in practice. Today, we are looking into this matter and examining in detail who the 2.1 sound system could be suitable for.

Technical data

The product M601DB
Total power (peak) 220 W
Total power (RMS) 110 W (R/L: 20 W + 20 W, subwoofer: 70 W)
Frequency response R/L: 140 Hz – 20 kHz
Subwoofer: 50 Hz – 170 Hz
Signal-to-noise ratio R/L: ≥85 dB(A)
Subwoofer: ≥75dB(A)
Noise level ≤ 25 dB(A)
Audio inputs AUX, Bluetooth, Coaxial, Line-In, Optical
Bluetooth Version 5.1
Dimensions (W x H x D) Speaker: 130 mm × 225 mm × 160 mm
Subwoofer: 278 mm × 300 mm × 335 mm
Weight 11.54 kg
Price € 149.99 *

Scope of delivery

  • Contains the subwoofer and two satellite speakers
  • … and four cables with remote control

In addition to the 2.1 sound system, consisting of active and passive speakers including subwoofer, the scope of delivery also includes a remote control. There is also a set of four cables. There is a mains cable, an optical Toslink cable, an RCA audio cable and a 3.5 mm RCA cable in the box. The operating instructions round off the overall package.

Appearance & workmanship

  • Classic design with matt black wood look
  • Heavy, stable construction with non-slip feet
  • Remote control looks rather cheap

The Edifier M601DB has a classic design. The two satellite speakers have a matt black finish with a fine wood structure. This gives the speakers a timeless look and has the advantage that they are not susceptible to fingerprints. The same applies to the eight-inch subwoofer, which also comes with a solid wood housing and the aforementioned dark wood look. However, the choice of material is not just for visual reasons: It is intended to minimize resonances and thus improve the sound. In contrast, the cones on the front of the speakers are covered with black fabric. The simple Edifier lettering is also embossed in the lower area of the speaker covering.

In terms of workmanship, Edifier does not show any weakness and convinces to a high standard. Nevertheless, the overall picture is not quite at the same level as the Edifier S880DB MKII, which is also in a different price range. Nevertheless, the test revealed precise gap dimensions and the robust construction of the satellites and subwoofer, which is reflected in their durability and stability. This is also confirmed when looking at the scales, where the Edifier M601DB weighs a proud 11.5 kg. Non-slip feet on each element also ensure a secure stand. The audio system’s remote control, on the other hand, seems comparatively cheap.

Connections

  • All inputs on the back of the active speaker
  • Subwoofer is decoupled from the active speaker and can therefore be positioned freely
  • Bass adjustable via separate rotary control

The connections are all located at the rear. The passive speaker has no separate connections, only the connecting cable to the active speaker. The latter has a permanently integrated mains cable and a separate on/off switch. In total, the Edifier M601DB requires two sockets, one for the speakers and one for the subwoofer. In addition, the audio inputs for AUX, coaxial, line-in and optical are located on the side of the active speaker. The sound system is operated via three buttons located on the top of the satellite speaker.

What’s cool is that the subwoofer is largely wireless. A power cable is still necessary, but the subwoofer is decoupled from the main speaker and communicates wirelessly. This has the advantage that you can position it more flexibly and separate the other elements from each other. Incidentally, the bass intensity can be adjusted to personal taste using a rotary control on the subwoofer.

Operation & setup

  • Quick setup with little cable clutter
  • Supports Bluetooth with aptX for high audio quality
  • Control via remote control or buttons on the active speaker

The Edifier M601DB proves to be extremely simple in design and user-friendly. Right from the initial set-up, it is clear that there is no tangled mess of cables. The audio system should therefore take very little time from unpacking to use. Connecting additional devices is just as straightforward. Depending on the application, the coaxial, optical, line-in or AUX input can be used. Those who prefer to travel wirelessly can connect via Bluetooth and enjoy Qualcomm’s aptX format. The corresponding buttons for switching modes are centrally located on the remote control.

The buttons for volume control and input switching are located above the active speaker. A short press on the middle button switches the input sources, a longer contact acts as a kind of power switch. The color of the LED also changes depending on the input source.

However, the best possible operation is achieved by using the infrared remote control. However, there is no app control as with the S880DB MKII model from Edifier. Incidentally, the Edifier M601DB does not have an effective standby mode. So if you want to save some power, you should actively switch the system on and off via the mains switch or, under certain circumstances, connect smart sockets.

Sound quality

  • Solid sound for movies
  • Overloaded bass for musical pieces
  • Treble and mids are less precise

The Edifier M601DB sound system scores points with its overall solid sound quality, which particularly shows its strengths in the home cinema sector. Thanks to the eight-inch subwoofer, a powerful bass is guaranteed, which provides additional excitement, especially for action movies or fast-paced scenes. However, the bass range of all things seems a little overloaded when listening to music. This results in a predominance of dominance with more demanding tracks, which greatly impairs the clarity and differentiation of the actual sound image.

The treble is certainly present, but is not quite as clear and precise as you would expect from other systems. As far as the mids are concerned, we would describe them as quite balanced, provided the treble range does not interfere. Basically, the Edifier M601DB plays all tones a little lower than you are used to. This can certainly be remedied by a software equalizer that eliminates this imbalance, but it is still a pity that this is the case.

In summary, it can be said that the 2.1 sound system shows a preference for movies, while music and gaming lack precision. This is particularly noticeable with real voices or instruments, as the crossover range between the subwoofer and speakers is very large. If you prefer a neutral sound, you will have to make manual adjustments. This can be done via software and by tilting the satellites upwards, which makes the treble sound less muffled.

Edifier M601DB test: Conclusion

In conclusion, the Edifier M601DB is a solid 2.1 sound system. However, it is important at this point to consider the intended use of the audio system. It definitely shows its strengths in movies, where the subwoofer impressively supports the thrilling home theater experience. Action-packed and hectic scenes really come into their own here.

However, the system is not entirely convincing when playing games or listening to music, as the high-frequency range is less precise. Depending on the situation, it can also happen that the powerful bass can displace the mids and highs and distort the sound image.

All in all, the Edifier M601DB sound system delivers exactly what it is intended for, namely watching movies in the living room. So if you’re looking for a bass-accentuated sound for a movie night, you’ll find it here. However, if you also value music and gaming, you should make your own adjustments or look elsewhere for an all-round system.

PRO

  • Ideal for movies
  • Simple operation
  • Robust workmanship
  • Wide range of connections including Bluetooth

CONTRA

  • Less ideal for gaming and music
  • Unclear treble
  • Very high bass dominance
  • Requires two sockets

Edifier M601DB

Processing
Equipment
User comfort
Sound quality
Price-performance ratio

81/100

The Edifier M601DB impresses with its rich bass and solid sound, which is particularly effective when watching movies. The 2.1 sound system is less suitable for music and games due to the bass-heavy and treble-weak tuning.

Niklas

As an experienced software developer I am fully enthusiastic about all topics around the PC. This passion started already in my childhood days and was groundbreaking for my personal career. In my free time, I am not averse to gaming and like to put my skills to the test in competitive matches with friends.

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