Looks like today’s computer setup user spent bigger bucks on an M2 MacBook Pro and an epic ultra-wide curved display, and smaller bucks on a good sound system. That’s smart, because you can get high-quality near-field-monitor speakers for your desktop without spending a mint — if you go with something like this user’s Edifier R1280T speakers.
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Edifier R1280T speakers crank up sound in M2 MacBook Pro setup
Redditor ryperl (“Ry”) showcased the solid setup in a post entitled, “This is my refreshed MacBook Pro M2 setup.” They run a 16-inch M2 MacBook Pro driving a 49-inch Samsung curved ultra-wide gaming display through a CalDigit Thunderbolt 4 dock. The other computers in the image are a smaller MacBook Pro and an HP laptop.
The huge Samsung display makes for a lot of screen real estate, yet commenters seemed to think one display doesn’t cut it. Even if that display is a dual QHD monster (5120 x 1440 pixel resolution) with 1,000 nits of brightness, 120Hz refresh rate and plenty of other gaming chops. So we recently covered Ry’s question about adding other displays (or not). Now we turn to his cost-effective sound system.
Edifier R1280T speakers

Photo: Edifier
An M2 MacBook Pro features a nice, six-speaker sound system. But that’s not enough for everyone, especially those who prefer the laptop in clamshell (closed) mode, or those who want bigger sound angled straight up at their head. That’s what near-field monitors placed on angled stands are for — guiding clear sound straight toward your ears.
But what if you don’t have many hundreds of dollars for top-shelf desktop computer speakers from a brand like KEF, or even just a few hundred for the likes of Audioengine? That’s where a company like Edifier comes in handy. It’s been making excellent-but-affordable audio gear in China for more than two decades. Ry uses a pair of Edifier R1280T Powered Bookshelf Speakers on his desk, currently marked down on Amazon from $119 to $99. Here’s a quick look at features:
- 2 x AUX input. Convenient connection to any device that has a 3.5mm headphone output or dual RCA output. Connect to two devices via AUX at the same time, no plugging and switching needed.
- Studio sound quality. Natural sound reproduction from 13mm silk dome tweeter and 4-inch, full-range unit.
- Remote control. Adjust volume at your figure tips. Bass and treble control located on the side of main speaker.
- Wood finish. High quality MDF wood build finished with wood-effect vinyl complements home decor.
- 2-year warranty. Hassle-free parts and labor warranty for two years in United States and Canada assures reliability.
- Other options: Edifier R1280DB ($149), Edifier MR4 ($104), Edifier R1700BT ($179)
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Desktop speakers and mic:
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Display:
Input devices:
Lighting:
Furniture:
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These 2.0 active near-field-monitor bookshelf speakers feature wooden enclosures, wired connectivity and 42 watts of RMS power.