Edifier has quietly built a reputation since its founding in 1996 for delivering well-engineered audio products that balance performance and affordability. Nearly three decades later, the brand is pushing into “luxury meets practicality” territory with its newly unveiled ES Series, comprising three speakers (ES20, ES60, ES300) and a pair of ANC headphones (ES850NB). In an age where design often trumps substance—or vice versa—Edifier seems determined to blend both, aiming to appeal not only to audiophiles seeking depth and clarity but also to style-conscious consumers who want gear that looks as good as it sounds.

Beyond mere specs, the ES Series launch reflects broader trends in the audio market: a resurgence of retro-inspired aesthetics, multi-room and high-resolution streaming capabilities, integrated smart features (apps, lighting), and extended battery life for portable devices. As competitors such as JBL, Sonos, and Sony vie for attention, Edifier’s strategy centers on crafting products with premium materials—handcrafted wood, leather-like textures—and incorporating advanced acoustic technologies.

The “ES” moniker itself carries layered meaning: “E” for elegant design, “S” for superb build and sound, and collectively “Edifier Sound,” highlighting the brand’s heritage. Across the lineup, Edifier employs leather-like accents, braided grilles, metallic control surfaces, and, in the case of the ES300, handcrafted wooden enclosures, lending a nod to vintage hi-fi while integrating modern finishes.

This approach taps into the nostalgia wave—think mid-century audio equipment reimagined with contemporary conveniences (wireless streaming, ANC, app control). Yet Edifier avoids mere pastiche: each product balances nostalgia with functional features. For instance, ambient lighting effects—once gimmicky—are now widespread in Bluetooth speakers, but Edifier’s ConneX app promises customization, aligning with users who enjoy personalizing their devices.

ES300

The ES300 stands out as the series’ flagship. Its handcrafted wooden cabinet, enveloped by leather-like trims and a braided grille, exudes a slightly retro vibe with modern elegance. A metallic control panel—cleanly laid out—adds to its premium feel. The combination of materials aims to both look and sound refined, fitting into living rooms or dedicated listening spaces.

Under the hood, the ES300 employs dual 1.25″ silk dome tweeters and a 4″ long-throw mid-bass driver, driven by 60W total output. Edifier’s proprietary technologies—MazeTube for bass enhancement and TurbMuff for resonance control—are said to minimize port noise and tame acoustic resonance, mitigating the “boom” common in reflex-port designs at low volumes (e.g., during podcasts or audiobooks). The result: clearer bass without unwanted thump or distortion.

Modern connectivity is a highlight: dual-band Wi-Fi with AirPlay 2 support enables high-resolution streaming up to 24-bit/96kHz, and integration into multi-room setups alongside other AirPlay devices. Bluetooth complements Wi-Fi for simpler setups. USB-A and analog AUX inputs allow use as a compact desktop speaker or to connect legacy devices. This versatility means the ES300 can serve as a centerpiece for both audiophile sessions and daily multimedia consumption.

An ambient lighting system provides three effects in two color choices, controllable via the Edifier ConneX smartphone app. Such lighting can set mood or blend with home décor; however, it’s worth asking whether users prefer subtle accents or more visible “party” effects. The app’s interface and responsiveness will be critical—in our experience, a well-designed app can elevate the hardware, while a clunky one undermines it.

The ES300 is for those who want a statement piece: a speaker that looks like a design object and doubles as a serious hi-fi component. It fits living rooms, dens, or even small studios. Audiophiles desiring rich, room-filling sound with minimal fuss will appreciate the AirPlay 2 integration and bass-control technologies. Price at $399.99 positions it against rivals like Sonos Five or premium offerings from Klipsch or Audio Pro; Edifier’s wood-and-leather aesthetic may attract buyers seeking something different.

ES60

The ES60 sits between the compact ES20 and the flagship ES300, offering a balance of portability and power. Its relatively small footprint belies a 34W RMS output driven by dual 22mm tweeters and an oval mid-bass driver with neodymium magnets, augmented by a passive radiator for deeper lows. A dustproof and waterproof rating (unspecified IP level but likely IPX5 or higher) makes it suitable for indoor and outdoor use, from desktop audio to backyard gatherings.

Bluetooth 5.4 ensures stable wireless performance and low-latency connections. Multi-point connectivity allows pairing with two sources simultaneously (e.g., laptop and phone), enabling seamless switching. The built-in battery provides up to nine hours per charge, rechargeable via USB-C, which also serves as a digital audio input. A built-in high-sensitivity microphone supports calls or voice assistant interactions. For road warriors or outdoor enthusiasts, these features offer convenience without sacrificing audio quality.

Pairing two ES60 units wirelessly creates a wider stereo image—useful for larger spaces or stereo separation when listening to music. This can also work in tandem with other Edifier speakers (depending on compatibility) for more elaborate setups. The balance between size and output is compelling: 34W may not rival large party speakers, but for mid-sized rooms or outdoor areas, it’s ample.

Dynamic lighting effects align with current trends, providing visual flair for evening get-togethers or desktop setups. Control via the ConneX app allows customizing brightness, patterns, or syncing with music (if supported). Such features, while not essential for audio purists, enhance the user experience for those who enjoy a more interactive device.

At $199.99, the ES60 competes with mid-range Bluetooth speakers from JBL, Bose, and Anker. Its blend of ruggedness (water/dust resistance), stylish design, and respectable audio performance could sway buyers seeking a premium yet portable speaker. The microphone feature adds versatility, making it useful for remote work calls in environments where a dedicated speakerphone might be absent.

ES20

The ES20 is the smallest in the series but doesn’t skimp on ambition. A 43mm full-range driver with neodymium magnets and a 55mm passive radiator delivers up to 6W RMS output, with surprisingly solid bass for its size. Class-D amplification ensures efficiency, yielding up to 15 hours of playback per charge. The IP67 rating increases its appeal for rugged use—poolside, beach trips, or clumsy indoor moments.

Bluetooth 5.4 enables pairing with phones or laptops; stereo pairing of two ES20 units doubles output for more immersive listening. Multi-point support lets users stay connected to two devices at once (e.g., a tablet and phone). A built-in microphone allows calls or voice commands, making the ES20 a compact speakerphone in a pinch. Ambient lighting effects, controlled via ConneX app, offer customization, though users may prefer disabling lights to conserve battery in some scenarios.

At approximately $89.99, the ES20 slots into a crowded market of portable speakers. Its IP67 rating, long battery life, and design polish give it an edge over generic models. For travelers or commuters wanting a reliable speaker that looks premium, it could be an attractive option. Weight and size (not specified here) will factor into true portability; prospective buyers should compare dimensions to alternatives.

ES850NB wireless ANC headphones

The ES850NB over-ear headphones adopt a sleek, foldable design with skin-friendly ear cushions, balancing lightness for all-day wear and sturdiness for travel. Available in multiple colorways (black, brown, pink, white), they cater to personal style preferences. A travel case is included, adding convenience for on-the-go users.

Equipped with 40mm dynamic drivers featuring titanium-coated composite diaphragms, the ES850NB aim for a detailed sound signature. Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Audio Wireless certifications endorse quality, while codec support (LDAC, AAC, SBC) ensures high-bandwidth streaming on compatible Android devices and acceptable performance on iPhones. Users should note that LDAC’s benefits require source and device support; when unavailable, AAC or SBC kicks in.

Active Noise Cancellation promises up to -45dB reduction, placing these headphones in line with many premium competitors. Edifier’s AI-driven call enhancement algorithms claim clearer vocals during calls—a useful feature as remote work remains prevalent. The “touch-to-chat” function (pause music to let ambient sound in) is increasingly common but adds to the convenience for brief interactions without removing headphones.

Perhaps most eye-catching is up to 92 hours of playback on a full charge (ANC off). Even with ANC on, battery life should remain impressive compared to many rivals. Bluetooth 5.4 ensures stable connections, and multi-point pairing allows seamless switching between two devices (e.g., phone and laptop). Wired listening via USB-C cable adds flexibility when battery runs low or for flight entertainment systems (if supported).

Through Edifier ConneX and TempoHub, users can tweak EQ profiles, noise-cancellation levels, and other settings. The responsiveness and feature breadth of these apps can impact user satisfaction greatly; prospective buyers often consult reviews to gauge app performance. Overall, the ES850NB target users who want near-premium ANC performance without flagship-brand price tags.

In speakers, Edifier positions the ES Series against offerings from Sonos, JBL, Bose, and Audio Pro. The design-forward angle (wood, leather accents) differentiates it from more plastic-heavy rivals, but sound quality and app ecosystems determine lasting appeal. For headphones, ES850NB competes with Sony WH-1000XM series and Bose QuietComfort series; while it may not surpass the absolute top-tier ANC performance, its long battery life and price (~$169.99) make it compelling for budget-conscious buyers seeking feature-rich headphones.