Introduction
In the crowded world of wireless speakers, the Edifier MS50A WiFi Smart Speaker stands out as a privacy-focused option without a built-in microphone. Priced at $199, this 40W RMS one-piece sound system promises high-fidelity audio via WiFi, Bluetooth 5.0, AirPlay 2, Spotify Connect, and Tidal Connect, while integrating seamlessly with Alexa for voice control through external devices. With a 3.6 out of 5-star rating from 392 Amazon reviews, it’s a polarizing product—praised by audiophiles for its stereo capabilities and streaming flexibility, but criticized by some for connectivity hiccups and sound balance issues.
Whether you’re seeking a compact desktop monitor, a multi-room audio solution, or a versatile streamer for services like Tidal and Spotify, this Edifier WiFi speaker review dives deep into its performance, features, and real-user feedback to help you decide if it’s the right fit for your setup.
Product Overview
The Edifier MS50A measures 6 x 6 x 8 inches, making it one of the larger WiFi speakers available, which contributes to its room-filling sound. It features a 4-inch woofer and a 1-inch tweeter powered by 40W RMS output, enhanced by updated DSP technology to minimize distortion at high volumes. Lacking a microphone, it prioritizes user privacy—no always-listening concerns here.
Connectivity is a highlight: WiFi for stable, high-quality streaming and Bluetooth 5.0 for quick pairing. It supports Apple AirPlay 2 for multi-room setups, Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, and works with Alexa (via Echo devices). The Edifier app handles setup, input switching, and volume control, while touch controls on top offer intuitive operation. For expanded functionality, two units can pair in stereo mode over WiFi, or group for whole-home audio.
Build-wise, it boasts a premium wooden chassis that feels robust, ideal for office desks, kitchens, or outdoor gatherings. Integration with the WiiM app (as noted by users) unlocks additional streaming options like Qobuz and Amazon Music, even without a dedicated WiiM device. At $199, it positions itself as a budget-friendly alternative to pricier hi-fi wireless systems.
Pros
- Versatile Streaming Options: Native support for Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, AirPlay 2, and Alexa makes it a dream for music lovers. Users rave about seamless Tidal playback—no hoops to jump through—and WiiM app compatibility adds Qobuz, Amazon Music, and multi-zone control.
- True Wireless Stereo Pairing: Pair two MS50A speakers for genuine left-right stereo over WiFi, creating a wide soundstage rare in wireless setups. Reviewers call it “ultra rare” and perfect for audiophiles seeking hi-fi without wires.
- Impressive Sound Quality: The 40W setup with a large woofer delivers vibrant bass (down to -9dB at 50Hz per tests), clear highs, and room-filling volume without distortion, thanks to DSP tuning. Excels as nearfield monitors or in larger spaces.
- Privacy-Focused Design: No built-in mic means enhanced privacy, a big plus for security-conscious users. Control via app, touch panel, or external Alexa devices keeps it simple.
- Multi-Room and Flexible Grouping: Group multiple units for whole-home audio via AirPlay or Alexa. WiiM app integration allows zoning (e.g., different music per room) and even outdoor use like BBQs.
- Premium Build and Portability: Wooden chassis feels high-end and durable; compact enough for desks or patios. Touch controls are intuitive, and Bluetooth fallback ensures reliability.
- Value for Audiophiles: At $199, it punches above its weight with hi-res streaming (up to 48/16 FLAC via Tidal) and Roon AirPlay support, rivaling costlier options without drawbacks like wired passives.
Cons
- Connection Reliability Issues: Some users report WiFi dropouts or app glitches requiring reconnections. Early setups can be finicky, and one reviewer struggled with power cord stability (loose plug).
- Sound Balance Problems: Mids can feel recessed, emphasizing bass and highs instead. EQ adjustments help, but it’s noticeable on certain tracks. Placement on surfaces without elevation may unbalance the sound further.
- No Built-In Voice Control: Without a mic, direct Alexa commands aren’t possible—you need an Echo nearby. This limits convenience for smart home enthusiasts.
- Limited Hi-Res Support: Tops out at 48kHz/16-bit for some FLAC streams; no native Chromecast or full Roon readiness (AirPlay only). Not ideal for ultra-high-res audiophiles.
- Average Overall Rating: At 3.6 stars from 392 reviews, reliability concerns drag it down, with some returns due to frustration despite good sound when working.
Customer Reviews Analysis
With 392 reviews averaging 3.6 stars, the Edifier MS50A elicits strong opinions. Positive feedback (often 5 stars) dominates from audiophiles and tech-savvy users, highlighting its niche as a “poor man’s Roon” with exceptional wireless stereo. One detailed 5-star review praises Tidal Connect simplicity: “Perform a 5-minute ‘Stereo WiFi’ setup… open Tidal, select MS50A, press play.” The reviewer tested it in a 30×40-foot room, noting a “huge stereo soundstage” and WiiM app perks like native support, multi-zone play, and MacOS control—even grouping with other devices for parties.
A German 5-star review echoes build quality: “Die Box fühlt sich sehr wertig an… das Holz-Chassis macht was her” (the box feels very high-quality, wood chassis impresses), with comfortable touch controls and app-based WiFi/Bluetooth switching. It’s suitable for small outdoor parties, though mids need EQ tweaks.
Negatives (including 0-1 star outliers) focus on reliability. One user lamented: “Sound quality is very good… when it works,” but a loose power cord caused constant interruptions, leading to a return. Another, after a year, found sound “slightly unbalanced” in a kitchen—better elevated but still not perfect. Spotify multi-room was “fickle,” blamed on the app. Curiously, some low-rated reviews mirror positives, suggesting copy-paste errors or bots, but core complaints center on setup stability and tonal balance.
Overall, 60-70% of feedback is positive for sound and features, but the rest cite frustrations that could be setup-related. Long-term users (6-12 months) report fewer issues post-initial tweaks, suggesting firmware improvements or user adaptation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Edifier MS50A have a built-in microphone?
No, it lacks a microphone for privacy reasons. Use an external Alexa device for voice control.
Can you pair two MS50A speakers for stereo sound?
Yes, via WiFi using the Edifier app for true stereo playback, creating a larger soundstage than mono.
Is the MS50A compatible with Tidal or Spotify?
Absolutely—supports Tidal Connect, Spotify Connect, and more. WiiM app expands to Qobuz and Amazon Music.
How does the sound quality compare to larger speakers?
Excellent for its size with 40W RMS, strong bass, and DSP anti-distortion. Mids may need EQ; shines in stereo pairs.
Is setup easy, and does it support multi-room audio?
Setup via Edifier app (Bluetooth first, then WiFi). Multi-room via AirPlay 2, Alexa, or WiiM app grouping.
Who Should Buy This Product
The Edifier MS50A is ideal for audiophiles on a budget craving wireless stereo without wires or high costs—perfect for Tidal/Spotify fans wanting hi-fi desktop monitors or a 30×40-room setup. Privacy advocates will appreciate the no-mic design, while multi-room enthusiasts benefit from AirPlay, WiiM, and zoning (e.g., office, patio, garage).
It’s great for Apple users (AirPlay 2), Alexa households, or those integrating with WiiM ecosystems. Avoid if you need plug-and-play reliability, direct voice control, or balanced mids out-of-box—opt for Sonos or Bose instead. Tech-savvy users comfortable with apps will extract the most value at $199.
Final Verdict
The Edifier MS50A earns a solid 4 out of 5 stars in our book— a feature-packed WiFi smart speaker that delivers audiophile-grade wireless stereo and streaming flexibility at an unbeatable price. Its pros like Tidal Connect, WiiM integration, and punchy 40W sound outweigh cons for discerning listeners, but reliability niggles and sound tweaks hold it back from greatness, mirroring its 3.6-star average.
If you’re tired of “toy” wireless speakers and seek true hi-fi (huge soundstage, multi-zone magic), grab one (or two for stereo). For casual users, test the return policy. Ultimately, it’s a hidden gem for the right setup—versatile, private, and sonically rewarding.
