Overview

The Edifier MR5 is a 5-inch active studio monitor sold as a stereo pair. It uses a 3-way tri-amped topology (5” woofer, ~3.75” mid, 1” silk-dome tweeter) with a digital crossover and per-band Class-D amplification. Claimed specs include 46 Hz–40 kHz frequency response, 110 W RMS total output (pair), and max SPL 101 dB @1 m. Wireless features include LDAC/Hi-Res Bluetooth and an app for basic room/desk compensation. [1]

Scientific Validity

\[\Large \text{0.7}\]

Independent Klippel NFS spinorama/directivity data for the MR5 are publicly available, covering on-axis, listening window, early reflections, predicted in-room response (PIR) and directivity index (DI). Representative quantitative anchors derivable from the published curves include:

• Low-frequency extension (–6 dB): ≈48 Hz (from the LF extension point on the spinorama plot). [2]
• Listening-window flatness: broadly smooth through midband with an identifiable feature around ~4 kHz; off-axis responses remain orderly, supporting a stable PIR. [2]

The presence of a complete spinorama set materially increases confidence versus spec-only evaluation. Public materials do not tabulate comprehensive level-indexed distortion/thermal compression data, so uncertainty remains around maximum clean output behavior. With standardized NFS data confirming extension and directivity, 0.7 is appropriate. [2]

Technology Level

\[\Large \text{0.7}\]

For a 5-inch monitor, a compact 3-way tri-amped platform with digital crossover and LDAC is advanced relative to common 2-way peers. The architecture targets reduced excursion and cleaner crossover behavior while enabling directivity shaping. However, amplifier/DSP implementation details (limiters, internal processing rates, protection) are not fully disclosed; in the broader pro-monitor field this is competent but not state-of-the-art. [1]

Cost-Performance

\[\Large \text{1.0}\]

Comparator set definition (policy-conformant): products that (1) are active stereo monitor pairs, (2) include Bluetooth, and (3) have public third-party speaker measurements of comparable scope (spinorama/directivity) so they do not underperform on functionality or objective assessment quality.

• Cheapest valid comparator found: IK Multimedia iLoud Micro Monitor — Bluetooth present; independent measurements published; widely available at USD 299. [3]
• Subject price: USD 270 (pair).

Because the MR5 is less expensive than the cheapest comparator that does not underperform on functionality and measurement availability, it is the lowest-priced option in the valid set. Per policy, that yields the maximum cost-performance score:

CP = 1.0

(Note: Bluetooth monitors like Pioneer DJ DM-50D-BT are cheaper but lack a comparable public spinorama/directivity set; they therefore do not meet the comparator set requirements for this criterion.) [4]

Reliability & Support

\[\Large \text{0.6}\]

Edifier is a long-standing, publicly listed manufacturer (SZSE: 002351) with global distribution and app support. Standard regional warranties and service channels apply. Model-specific long-term failure data for MR5 are not yet available; considering brand scale and footprint but limited MR5-specific statistics, a near-industry-average estimate is warranted. [1]

Rationality of Design Philosophy

\[\Large \text{0.5}\]

The design prioritizes nearfield practicality: band-split via 3-way crossover and tri-amping for control, plus Bluetooth/LDAC and app-based convenience. Trade-offs are clear: added complexity and bill-of-materials versus simpler wired 2-way monitors that may suit strictly wired studio workflows. The choices are coherent and user-oriented but not disruptive to price/performance norms, hence 0.5. [1][2]

Advice

For users who need Bluetooth plus measurement-backed performance, the MR5 is compelling at its price: independent NFS data indicate extension to ≈48 Hz (–6 dB) and well-behaved directivity with a small ~4 kHz feature, aiding predictable in-room tonality. If Bluetooth is unnecessary, wired-only 2-way monitors remain cost-saving alternatives.

References

[1] Edifier — “MR5 Tri-amped Powered Studio Monitor Speakers.”
https://www.edifier.com/us/p/studio-monitors/mr5

[2] Audio Science Review — “Edifier MR5 Review” (Klippel NFS spinorama/directivity).
https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/edifier-mr5-review.64911/

[3] Audio Science Review — “iLoud Micro Monitors measurements and quasi-anechoic spinorama.”
https://www.audiosciencereview.com/forum/index.php?threads/iloud-micro-monitors-measurements-and-quasi-anechoic-spinorama.10988/

[4] Pioneer DJ — “DM-50D-BT” (official product page).
https://www.pioneerdj.com/en/product/monitor-speakers/dm-50d-bt/black/overview/

(2025.10.7)