When I first set up the S880DB MKII, I was pleasantly surprised by how they managed to deliver a focused and clean sound, especially in a nearfield listening environment. There’s a clarity to the highs that really shines when you’re sitting close, making it great for those late-night vinyl sessions. However, I did notice that while the sound is tidy, it lacks the weight and depth that larger bookshelf speakers can provide, especially in the bass department.
In a smaller room or at a desk, the speakers produce a nice soundstage that feels immersive without being overwhelming. But if you’re expecting to fill a larger space, you might find them lacking. They sound great for daily use, but I wouldn’t rely on them for a full-on party or movie night where you want that booming bass.
The compact design of the S880DB MKII is a real win for anyone short on space. They fit easily on narrow shelves or desks without feeling like they’re taking over the room. The aesthetic is slick and modern, which makes them a nice addition to any setup, whether it’s in a bedroom or a small office.
That said, while they look great, the build quality feels solid but not overly robust. I wouldn’t want to test them in a rough-and-tumble environment. Still, for a dedicated vinyl or desktop setup, they hit the right notes in terms of style and size.
One of the standout features of the S880DB MKII is how easy they are to set up. With built-in amplification, you can skip the hassle of finding a receiver or compact amp, which is a huge plus for anyone looking to keep things simple. Just plug them in, connect your sources, and you’re ready to rock.
However, it’s worth noting that while they accept various inputs like USB and RCA, you’ll need to ensure your turntable has a built-in preamp or you’ll be hunting down an external one. This can add a little friction if you’re not prepared, but once you have everything lined up, they become a hassle-free part of your audio life.
04Connectivity & Features
The versatility of inputs on the S880DB MKII is impressive for such compact speakers. With USB, optical, coaxial, RCA, and Bluetooth 5.0, switching between my laptop and turntable is seamless. This flexibility makes them an excellent choice for a multi-use setup, where I can easily transition from streaming music to spinning vinyl without breaking a sweat.
Bluetooth connectivity is a nice touch, especially with aptX HD for better sound quality during casual listening. While I still prefer the wired connection for my turntable, having the option to stream from my phone or computer makes them feel like a true all-in-one solution for everyday use.
In my day-to-day life, the S880DB MKII has proven to be a reliable companion for both work and play. They shine at my desk for casual listening, providing a clean sound that doesn’t fatigue my ears after long sessions. I love that I can have my laptop connected via USB during the day and switch to my turntable at night without any fuss.
However, if you’re someone who primarily watches TV or uses speakers for home theater, these might not hit the mark. They’re designed with music in mind, and without HDMI ARC, they’re not the best fit for a modern living-room setup. But for vinyl enthusiasts or those needing a compact audio solution, they really deliver.
06Upgrade Path / Who It's For
One thing to consider with the S880DB MKII is the limited upgrade flexibility. Since they’re active speakers, you won’t have the option to swap out amps or phono stages as you might with passive setups. This could be a drawback for someone looking to build a system over time, but for many, the convenience of an all-in-one package makes for a compelling argument.
If your primary goal is to enhance your desktop or small room audio experience without the clutter of extra gear, these speakers are a solid choice. Just keep in mind that they’re best suited for those who appreciate compact refinement and aren’t looking to crank the volume in a large space. In the right environment, they can really shine, but they might leave you wanting if you expect them to perform like larger systems.
