The C series are a separated design - i.e. separate amp and speakers ... just like high-end hi-fi systems. This has some advantages over the S2.1 series. Mainly better ventilation for the amp VRMs (translate to reduced failure), ability to swap whole amp unit out for repair/replacement and also gives you the flexibility to utilize a third-party amp if you get sick of the original amp.

The main disadvantage for the S series is that the amp circuit (including a toroidal transformer) is integrated into its sub-woofer housing. I'm not an expert speaker designer, but the components takes up some space inside the sub-woofer. The inside geometry is irregular and there will be definitely some sort of resonances pinging off the circuit boards. Don't know whether they compensated for this in the original design.

Lastly, I have an S2.1D and the digital input is broken ... I'm half suspecting that this is a common issue with the S2.1D. Anyone out here had faced similar problems?
Judging from a small patch of heat caused "stain" on the back plate, I'd say it runs hot. I'd already posted the issue up in the LYN Inter-Asia forum.

On a personal level, I'd put my money on the C-series .. even if it loses out a little to the S-series.

My bro bought an Edifier C3 for his new PC and first impression, good external build quality and will really surprise owners of the prev C2 in terms of size and solidness. It's bigger!! .. in all respect
Did a quick test. Been waiting to compare it with the older Edifier S2.1D that I've been using. Summary as below :

Edifier C3 vs Edifier S2.1D (old model)
- the C3 satellites are clearly superior in terms of clarity and soundstage. It's also bit bright and has an interesting tonal colouring effect. I wasn't sure what to make out of this colouring. It's as if someone turned on an equalizer to "concert hall" setting for all the music. Audiophiles may not like it ... neither did I. Wished they'd just keep the clarity and soundstage MINUS the extra colouring ... it could have been a worthwhile replacement satellite for the S2.1D

- the bass for C3 is definitely deeper, but it's less distinct. Spread out over the frequencies, it sounded less agile and a little muddy. Very subjective since I'm comparing it to S2.1D bass unit. Given the choices, I'd stick with the S2.1D bass unit.

- I swapped out the satellites on my S2.1D and used the ones from the C3. The sound output is a few dB higher at the same volume, seems that the C3 satellites are easier to drive than S2.1D originals.

- the C3 amp unit seems to be more powerful than the S2.1D

Lastly, I think Edifier should make available (for purchase) the newer satellites as a standalone upgrade for owners that doesn't want to spend money on a whole new set of speakers. The improvement in sound is noticeable when you pair it with the older S2.1D (woofer unit and amp). Imagine being able to swap and pair different Edifier speakers from different series for a minor upgrade!!

Edit : Forgot to mention that they were tested using X-Fi in Audio Creation mode - bit perfect ASIO.

This post has been edited by stormcloud: Dec 24 2007, 10:22 PM