After years of writing Cult of Mac setups articles, often with a focus on high-quality audio gear — and after endlessly rearranging my own workstation — I’ve never managed to incorporate a proper pair of speakers into my setup. Until now. Previously, I’ve relied on MacBook Pro speakers, earbuds, over-ear headphones and, occasionally, a portable Bluetooth speaker or two. But now I’ve added a great-sounding and nice-looking pair of very affordable Edifier speakers that just fit right in.
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Edifier speakers: MR3 2.0 Monitor Speaker System
Photo: David Snow/Cult of Mac
After years of evolving my computer setup, from a PC laptop propped up on a box on a messy desk to a dual-display, MacBook Pro-powered rig last substantially updated in October 2023, I’ve once again made some major additions. Now I’ve got the supercharged M4 Pro MacBook Pro in the mix, plus an Edifier MR3 2.0 Monitor Speaker System, which is an affordable set of compact studio monitor speakers perfectly suited to the task.
Last week I went into some depth on the powerful new M4 Pro MacBook Pro in a setups post and a review. This week I’ll focus on the Edifier speakers, a near-field monitor system that brings studio-quality audio to your desktop at a surprisingly accessible price point of $120.
Near-field refers to when you place speakers at close range, typically pointed at your head from just a few feet away at low to moderate volume. This is how they might be used in a recording studio. And that’s how I’ve got mine set up, sitting on my desk shelf on either side of my main display. I’ve taken to turning them slightly inward to point more directly at me.
They’re great for all uses, including podcasts and radio play. But they excel at playing music, of course. The audio detail is excellent, even at low volume, whether it’s a 2019 remaster of The Beatles’ Abbey Road or Johannes Brahms’ cello sonatas (both in Dolby Atmos Hi-Res Lossless audio via Apple Music, naturally). A pro music producer would probably choose pricier gear, but I’m pretty happy with these Edifier MR3s.
Keep in mind that a pair of 36-watt speakers like this aren’t going to blow the roof off. But that’s not what they’re for — instead, they’re designed for honest (but adjustable) sound reproduction, to help you hear everything the musicians and producers intended with their recordings. That said, they can get much louder than I will ever need to fill the room with sound.
Studio monitor speakers for close-range clarity
Photo: David Snow/Cult of Mac
Edifier’s new system is a smaller and updated version of its MR4 speakers. Edifier says MR3’s sophisticated digital architecture sets it apart. The speakers employ Texas Instruments’ Class D amplification configured for 24bit/96kHz processing — ensuring that every note from your MacBook Pro or iPad comes through clearly. Each unit houses a 3.5-inch mid-low driver and a 1-inch silk dome tweeter with a specially designed waveguide for improved high-frequency dispersion.
Each speaker delivers 18W RMS power output, providing enough punch to fill a medium-sized room while maintaining precise control for near-field listening.
The wired or wireless MR3 speakers earned the coveted Hi-Res Audio certification, making them an ideal companion for Apple Music’s lossless audio streaming. With a flat frequency response in a wide range, from 52Hz to 40kHz, these speakers deliver the kind of neutral, transparent sound reproduction that audio professionals and discerning listeners demand.
The Edifier ConneX app offers granular control over acoustic settings, allowing users to optimize performance based on their space, Edifier said. Whether you’re editing in Final Cut Pro, producing music in Logic Pro, or simply enjoying Apple Music, the speakers’ adjustable high and low frequency controls (±6dB) help you get the perfect sound balance for you.
Connectivity and control options
Photo: David Snow/Cult of Mac
The speakers modern connectivity options include Bluetooth 5.4, plus you get balanced TRS inputs for professional audio interfaces as well as RCA and AUX inputs for versatility. A dedicated headphone output makes it easy to switch to private listening without needing dongles or adapters.
The speakers’ physical design reflects some nice attention to detail, with MDF cabinets that minimize distortion and resonance.
Another cool aspect of the speakers is how Edifier integrated smart controls. The front-panel knob handles power, volume and sound-effect switching. And the ConneX app provides deeper customization options, including Bluetooth playback control and EQ settings.
Edifier speakers’ features at a glance:
Photo: David Snow/Cult of Mac
- Flat frequency response from 52Hz to 40kHz
- Dimpled tweeter waveguides for flatter and more extended high-frequency response
- Hi-Res Audio certified, supporting 24bit/96kHz high-resolution audio processing.
- Multiple settings for acoustic room compensation
- Fine-tuned 3.5-inch mid-low drivers and 1-inch silk dome tweeters
- 18W x 2 (RMS) total output power, with SPL up to 92.5dB (@ 1 meter)
- The MDF cabinet effectively reduces distortion and resonance.
- Balanced TRS, RCA and AUX inputs, with a headphone output socket
- Bluetooth V5.4 audio receiver
- Color choice: black or white
Shop these items now:
These powered studio monitor speakers are Hi-Res Audio certified and connect via wire or Bluetooth V5.4. They include a headphone output and an array of control options.
Edifier speakers and other audio:
- Edifier MR3 2.0 Monitor Speaker System
- Beats Studio Pro over-ear headphones
- AirPods Pro (2nd generation)
Computers and case:
Displays and monitor light:
- 27-inch Alogic Clarity Pro Touch Monitor
- 27-inch Dell UltraSharp U2720Q 4K Monitor
- Oowolf computer monitor light
Input devices:
- Logitech MX Mechanical Mini for Mac wireless keyboard
- Logitech MX Anywhere 3 Mouse for Mac
- Magic Trackpad 2
Wrist rests, desk mat, mouse pad:
Furniture:
If you would like to see your setup featured on Cult of Mac, send some high-res pictures to [email protected]. Please provide a detailed list of your equipment. Tell us what you like or dislike about your setup, and fill us in on any special touches or challenges.
