Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
The Fyne Audio Cubitt 5 is the better fit if you want powered speakers for a TV, turntable or living-room system and can justify its higher price. It adds HDMI ARC, a built-in phono stage, a subwoofer output and a more extensive set of audio specifications. The Edifier R1280DB is the sensible value choice for a desk or small room: it costs much less, has straightforward digital and analogue inputs, and offers the essentials for Bluetooth and wired playback.
These are not direct price equivalents. Fyne lists the Cubitt 5 at £549.98 per pair in the UK, including VAT, while Edifier lists the R1280DB at $189.99 in the US. Those are different regional prices and currencies, not a like-for-like local-market comparison.
What is the difference between the Cubitt 5 and R1280DB?
Both are active bookshelf speaker pairs, meaning their amplification is built into the system rather than requiring a separate stereo amplifier. The main distinction is the systems they are designed to serve: the Cubitt 5 is equipped for a more integrated home-entertainment setup, while the R1280DB prioritizes affordability and simple desktop or small-room use.
Recommended Free Tools
| Specification | Fyne Audio Cubitt 5 | Edifier R1280DB |
|---|---|---|
| Driver arrangement | 5-inch IsoFlare point-source driver with a 19mm concentric titanium tweeter | 4-inch woofer and 0.5-inch tweeter |
| Frequency response | 43Hz–34kHz, -6dB typical in-room | 55Hz–20kHz |
| Amplification rating | 240W maximum total amplification | 42W RMS total, or 21W + 21W |
| Bluetooth | Version 5.0; aptX HD and AAC support | Version 5.1; no high-resolution codec claim in Edifier’s listed specification |
| Digital inputs | HDMI ARC and optical | Optical and coaxial |
| Analogue inputs | RCA line input and phono input | Dual RCA inputs |
| Subwoofer output | Mono output | Not listed in Edifier’s specification |
| Dimensions | Primary: 260 × 165 × 215mm; secondary: 260 × 165 × 223mm | 146 × 234 × 196mm |
| Weight | Primary: 4.2kg; secondary: 3.6kg | Not stated in Edifier’s cited specification |
| Price and region | £549.98 per pair, UK list price including VAT (Fyne Audio, 2026) | $189.99, US list price (Edifier, 2026) |
These figures describe the manufacturers’ published specifications; they are not a controlled, side-by-side listening test. In particular, the Cubitt 5’s 240W maximum figure and the R1280DB’s 42W RMS figure use different power-rating terms. They should not be treated as directly comparable measurements of how loud the speakers will play in a particular room.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Which speaker is better for your room and budget?
The R1280DB is the more practical choice if you need a reasonably priced pair for a desk, bedroom or other small space. The Cubitt 5 makes more sense when the speakers will be a central part of a living-room system and you want features that can connect a TV, vinyl source and optional subwoofer.
Choose the R1280DB for a straightforward desk or small-room setup
- Its US list price is substantially lower than the Cubitt 5’s UK list price, although the regional and currency difference prevents a direct price ratio.
- Its 146 × 234 × 196mm dimensions make it a compact option among these two models; check your desk or shelf depth and available space before buying.
- It provides Bluetooth, optical, coaxial and dual RCA inputs, plus physical bass, treble and volume controls on the side and a wireless remote.
- Its published specifications give 42W RMS total output and a 55Hz–20kHz frequency response.
Choose the Cubitt 5 for a more connected living-room system
- HDMI ARC gives it a direct TV connection option not listed for the R1280DB.
- Its phono input can connect a compatible turntable without a separate phono preamp.
- A mono subwoofer output leaves a route to add a subwoofer later.
- Its published 43Hz–34kHz response is specified as -6dB typical in-room, and its stated maximum total amplification is 240W.
The Cubitt 5 is larger and heavier, and its two speakers are not identical in either dimension or weight. Allow space for the primary speaker, which houses the amplification and processing, and for the supplied cable linking it to the secondary speaker.
How do the inputs affect TV, vinyl and computer use?
Input choice is one of the most important practical differences. The Cubitt 5 is more accommodating if the speakers need to serve both a television and a turntable; the R1280DB can handle several common sources, but it does not list HDMI ARC or a dedicated phono input.
TV audio: HDMI ARC on the Cubitt 5, optical or coaxial on the Edifier
Connect a TV to the Cubitt 5 using HDMI ARC or optical. Fyne specifies HDMI input for 2.0 PCM, so check that the television is set to send a supported two-channel PCM signal if audio does not play. The R1280DB offers optical and coaxial digital inputs, but no HDMI ARC input in Edifier’s listed specifications. If your TV has optical output, that is a straightforward digital connection; otherwise, use an output and cable path supported by both the television and speakers.
ARC is useful because it can carry TV audio over HDMI and is commonly used to simplify a television-speaker connection. Do not assume that every HDMI audio format or surround-sound signal is supported: Fyne’s stated limit is 2.0 PCM.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Turntables: the Cubitt 5 includes a phono stage
The Cubitt 5 has a built-in phono input specified for moving-magnet and high-output moving-coil cartridges. Connect a compatible turntable to that input when the turntable is providing a phono-level signal. The specification does not establish support for every cartridge type, so a low-output moving-coil cartridge may require a suitable external phono stage.
Edifier does not list a dedicated phono input for the R1280DB. A turntable can still be used if it has a built-in phono preamp, or if you connect an external phono preamp between the turntable and one of the speaker’s RCA inputs. A turntable’s ordinary phono output should not be connected directly to a line-level RCA input without the necessary phono amplification and equalization.
Computers: neither should be mistaken for a USB DAC
The Cubitt 5’s USB port is for firmware updates, not computer audio playback. AVForums also noted that the speaker is not especially computer-friendly. For computer audio, the available paths include Bluetooth, analogue RCA, or optical if the computer has a compatible output.
The R1280DB offers Bluetooth, optical, coaxial and RCA connections, but its listed inputs do not include USB. Choose a connection based on the outputs available on the computer; a computer without optical, coaxial or analogue output may need an external adapter or audio interface. That is a source-device requirement, not a feature supplied by either speaker.
How do Bluetooth and sound specifications compare?
Both models support Bluetooth, but the Cubitt 5 specifically lists aptX HD and AAC codecs, whereas Edifier’s cited R1280DB specification lists Bluetooth 5.1 without a high-resolution codec claim. Bluetooth version alone does not tell you which codec will be used: the source device and speaker must support a compatible codec, and the connection will use an available common option.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
For wired playback, the Cubitt 5 lists a maximum resolution of 24-bit/96kHz. The R1280DB specifications provided here do not state an equivalent maximum-resolution figure. That missing figure is not proof that every source or connection will sound worse; it means the available published specifications do not establish a direct resolution comparison.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesThe frequency-response figures also need context. Fyne describes the Cubitt 5’s 43Hz–34kHz range as -6dB typical in-room, while Edifier gives the R1280DB’s 55Hz–20kHz range without the same qualifier in the cited specification. Response figures alone do not describe tonal balance, distortion, maximum clean output or how the speakers will sound in your room.
Reviewers have praised the Cubitt 5’s imaging and confident sound, but those are listening observations rather than independent laboratory measurements. AVForums gave it 9/10 and also flagged idle noise, limited computer friendliness and the risk of losing the remote as drawbacks. What Hi-Fi confirmed its active design, wired inter-speaker connection, RCA and optical inputs, HDMI connection and integrated moving-magnet phono stage. These reviews provide useful context, but they do not establish how the two models compare in a controlled listening test.
How do you set up each pair?
Both pairs need mains power, a source connection and a suitable position. The Cubitt 5 has a specific primary-speaker/secondary-speaker arrangement; the R1280DB offers simpler source selection and adjustment through its side controls and remote.
Set up the Cubitt 5
- Place the primary speaker where it can reach mains power and your source connections. It houses the amplification and processing.
- Connect the secondary speaker to the primary with the supplied speaker cable, then connect the primary to mains power. The Cubitt 5 supports universal 100–240V mains input.
- Choose a source connection: HDMI ARC or optical for a TV, RCA line for analogue audio, the phono input for a compatible turntable, or Bluetooth for wireless playback.
- If using HDMI, set the TV’s audio output to 2.0 PCM. For a turntable, confirm whether it outputs phono level and whether its cartridge is compatible with the built-in phono stage.
- Use the IR remote for system operation. If the system goes into standby after a period without audio, Fyne specifies automatic standby after 20 minutes without signal.
The USB connection is reserved for firmware updates. Do not plan to use it as a standard computer-audio input.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Set up the R1280DB
- Position the pair with access to mains power and connect the source to one of the available inputs: Bluetooth, optical, coaxial or dual RCA.
- Use the side-panel controls to adjust bass, treble and volume, or use the supplied wireless remote.
- For a turntable, connect to RCA only if the turntable has a built-in phono preamp or is routed through an external one.
- For a TV, choose optical, coaxial or analogue output according to the connections the TV actually provides.
Neither model’s specifications here establish a room-correction system or app-based setup process. Plan on choosing placement and tone settings yourself rather than relying on automated calibration.
What are the main limitations and trade-offs?
The Cubitt 5’s extra system connections come with a much higher listed price, more setup considerations and an IR remote that reviewers identify as easy to lose. The R1280DB saves money and keeps operation simple, but it lacks several of the Cubitt 5’s home-theater and vinyl conveniences.
- Power ratings are not apples to apples: the Cubitt 5 figure is maximum total amplification; the Edifier figure is total RMS. Neither number alone predicts real-world loudness.
- Published bass figures are not a complete bass test: frequency-response ranges use different qualifications, and room placement changes perceived bass. The Cubitt 5 has a subwoofer output; Edifier does not list one for the R1280DB.
- TV formats need checking: the Cubitt 5 accepts 2.0 PCM over HDMI, not an unspecified range of surround formats.
- Vinyl compatibility depends on the signal and cartridge: the Cubitt 5’s phono specification covers MM and high-output MC, while an R1280DB setup needs a turntable preamp or external phono stage.
- Computer connections may require extra hardware: neither model lists USB audio input, and a computer needs an output that matches a speaker input or a suitable external adapter.
- Regional price listings cannot be compared as if they were local equivalents: the cited Fyne price is for the UK and includes VAT; the Edifier price is a US listing.
Which one should you buy?
Buy the Edifier R1280DB if price, compact size and uncomplicated listening matter most, and your sources can connect by Bluetooth, optical, coaxial or RCA. For a desk or small room, its feature set covers common playback needs without paying for the Cubitt 5’s TV and phono integration.
Buy the Fyne Audio Cubitt 5 if you want one active pair to connect directly to a TV and compatible turntable, value its broader listed codec support, or expect to add a subwoofer. Its price is justified most readily when those connections replace extra components or when it will serve as the center of a living-room system—not simply because its headline power figure is higher.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Fyne Audio managing director Anji Sosna described the Cubitt 5 as “the culmination of two years research and development into how we can best bring a whole new generation of music lovers into enjoying high fidelity music reproduction at home,” in a statement reported by What Hi-Fi on May 15, 2026.
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I connect a subwoofer to the Edifier R1280DB?
Edifier’s listed R1280DB specifications do not include a subwoofer output. If adding a subwoofer is a likely part of your setup, check the subwoofer’s own input options and whether your source or another component can provide a compatible signal.
Can the Cubitt 5 play Dolby Digital from a TV?
The stated HDMI capability is 2.0 PCM, and the available specification does not establish Dolby Digital decoding. If a TV sends another format, set its audio output to stereo PCM rather than assuming the speakers will decode it.
Does the Cubitt 5 include a turntable?
No turntable is included in the listed speaker specifications. The phono input is a connection for a compatible external turntable, not a record player built into the speaker.
Will either speaker work with a 100V or 240V power supply?
Fyne specifies universal 100–240V mains input for the Cubitt 5. The cited R1280DB specifications do not state an equivalent mains-voltage range, so check the label or regional manual for the particular unit before connecting it to a different supply.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
