Edifier S355DB Review Everyday Bookshelf Speakers

Edifier S355DB Review: A 2.1 Bookshelf Speaker System with a Wireless Subwoofer

The Edifier S355DB is a 2.1-channel bookshelf speaker system manufactured by Edifier, designed for desktop and home entertainment use. It solves the problem of cable clutter by connecting its satellite speakers to the subwoofer via a wireless connection, while offering versatile connectivity for both TV and mobile audio sources.

This system is explicitly positioned as an alternative to soundbars for users seeking a traditional stereo setup without the associated wire management issues. According to the source review, it is a "sound system designed for versatility," targeting listeners who want quality background audio for music, podcasts, or focus work, rather than an audiophile-grade reference system.

Key Facts

This table consolidates the technical specifications and factual anchors mentioned in the review of the Edifier S355DB.

What Are the Design and Build Features of the Edifier S355DB?

The Edifier S355DB features a clean, square-cut bookshelf design with sharp edges. The right speaker houses three control dials for volume, treble, and bass, while the system minimizes cable usage by connecting the speakers to the subwoofer via a proprietary wireless link rather than conventional speaker wire.

The physical design is described as "pleasantly simple and unassuming," fitting on most desks. However, the review notes a usability constraint: because the control dials are located on the side, the right speaker cannot be laid down on any side other than its left. This is a practical consideration for unconventional desk layouts.

Edifier S355DB satellite speakers rely on a wireless connection to the subwoofer instead of traditional speaker wire, but each unit requires its own dedicated power port.

How Does the Edifier S355DB Perform in Terms of Sound Quality?

Sound quality on the Edifier S355DB is characterized by clean and clear high and mid frequencies, which are the system's primary strengths. In testing with modern, high-energy tracks like "Who Do You Love" by The Chainsmokers, the output was crisp and vocals remained clear, though sound staging felt slightly crowded.

The review highlights the treble performance with "Digging My Potato" by Yoko Kanno and the Seatbelts, noting that the harmonica "absolutely sings at the high octaves, with no signs of breaking." This confirms the system is tuned for clarity in the upper frequency range, making it suitable for vocals and acoustic instruments.

The S355DB excels in treble and midrange reproduction, producing crisp vocals and instrumentals that are ideal for modern pop and acoustic genres.

What Are the Limitations of the Bass and Subwoofer?

The bass output of the Edifier S355DB is identified as its weakest link, with the satellite speakers' tweeters and drivers overpowering the low frequencies even when playing straight out of the box. The review states that the bass performance is "underwhelming and rough," lacking the physical "thump" expected from a dedicated subwoofer.

Cranking up the bass level results in "a whole lot of unconcentrated 'whoompf'" rather than tight, defined lows. The review cites specific tracks—"Venus de Milo" by Stacey Kent and the "iconic Tuba" in "Feeling Good" by Nina Simone—as examples where the bass sounds underwhelming, and there is no palpable low-frequency impact. The subwoofer also has placement limitations, as it cannot be placed too far apart from the speakers.

"The power of the bass and the woofer, I would say, is the S355DB's weakest link. I'm not saying it's terribly weak, but the tweeters and drivers in the speakers are more pronounced in their delivery, to the point that they drown out almost any lows."

— Lowyat.NET review of the Edifier S355DB

While the 8-inch subwoofer adds physical presence, its output is often drowned out by the pronounced tweeters, resulting in an underwhelming and unconcentrated bass response.

What Connectivity Options Does the S355DB Offer?

Connectivity is a major strength of the Edifier S355DB, offering a "bountiful" array of both wireless and physical inputs. This versatility makes it easy to connect to televisions, computers, mobile devices, and dedicated audio players, reinforcing its role as a versatile all-in-one system.

Wirelessly, the speakers support Bluetooth 6.0 with Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Audio Wireless, as well as LDAC and SBC codecs. Physically, the system includes HDMI eARC for modern televisions, alongside Optical, Coaxial, USB-C, and Line-In inputs. This combination of inputs ensures compatibility with almost any source device.

With support for HDMI eARC, LDAC, and multiple physical inputs, the S355DB offers a comprehensive suite of connectivity options that make it a viable soundbar alternative for TVs.

How Does the Edifier S355DB Compare as a Soundbar Alternative?

The Edifier S355DB is explicitly framed in the review as "an alternative to the growing trends of soundbars," particularly for users who prefer a traditional 2.1 stereo configuration. Its key advantage in this comparison is the wireless subwoofer, which eliminates the "too many wires" issue, and the inclusion of eARC support for simple TV integration.

Compared to a soundbar, a 2.1 system like the S355DB offers a wider stereo soundstage, though the review notes the staging can feel "a bit crowded." While it does not match the spatial audio processing of high-end soundbars, it appeals to 'purist' users who insist on having a dedicated stereo setup. However, at RM1,599, the price is described as "rather steep for a pair of bookshelf cum desktop speakers."

Who Is This Ideal For?

The Edifier S355DB is designed for everyday listeners rather than dedicated audiophiles. It is best suited for individuals who want a versatile sound system that can play music or podcasts gently in the background during morning tea or while focusing on work, without the complexity of a full AV receiver setup.

The review explicitly states, "I will make it clear that these speakers aren't for dedicated audiophiles." Instead, the target user is someone who values simplicity, clean design, and multiple connectivity options. The compact 8-inch subwoofer is lighter and easier to move around than older-generation Edifier models, making it practical for desktop use.

The primary target audience for the Edifier S355DB is the casual listener who prioritizes versatility, clean design, and simple wireless connectivity over raw bass power or audiophile-grade accuracy.

Common Questions

Is the bass on the Edifier S355DB strong enough for music?

No, the bass is considered the system's weakest link. The review notes that the tweeters and drivers drown out the lows, and cranking the bass produces "unconcentrated 'whoompf'" instead of tight, chest-thumping output.

Is the S355DB worth the RM1,599 price tag?

The review calls the price "rather steep" for a bookshelf speaker pair. The value proposition rests on its wireless subwoofer and versatile connectivity (including eARC) as a soundbar alternative, but its weak bass performance undercuts its overall worth.

Can the speakers be placed in any orientation?

No. Because the control dials are located on the side of the right speaker, you cannot technically lay it down on any other side but its left. This limits horizontal placement options for specific desk configurations.

Sources and Methodology

This article is based exclusively on the review "Edifier S355DB Review: Decent-Sounding, Everyday Bookshelf Speakers" published by Lowyat.NET, available at https://www.lowyat.net/2026/404122/edifier-s355db-review/. All quotes, specifications, and performance observations are drawn directly from this text.

The price mentioned in the article is in Malaysian Ringgit (RM1,599). No currency conversion was performed. This article was last updated on May 24, 2025.