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Choose the Fyne Audio Cubitt 5 if you want a living-room hi-fi system with HDMI ARC for a TV, a built-in phono stage for vinyl, substantially more amplifier headroom and a future subwoofer connection. Choose the Edifier R1280DB if your priority is an inexpensive, compact pair for a desk or small room. Fyne lists the Cubitt 5 at £549.98 including UK VAT per pair, while Edifier lists the R1280DB at $189.99 in the United States, so these are not direct price-class competitors. The Cubitt 5 also offers wider stated bandwidth, higher-resolution Bluetooth codecs and more flexible source integration; the R1280DB counters with a much smaller footprint, straightforward controls and a far lower entry cost.
What is the main difference between the Cubitt 5 and R1280DB?
The Cubitt 5 is an active hi-fi system designed to anchor a television, turntable and streaming setup in a living room. The R1280DB is a compact powered bookshelf pair aimed at affordable desktop or near-field listening. Both put the amplifier in one speaker and connect the second speaker with a cable, but their power ratings, inputs, bass capability, codec support and prices target different systems.
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Fyne’s primary Cubitt 5 speaker contains digital signal processing and amplification, while the supplied speaker cable links it to the secondary cabinet. Edifier’s R1280DB follows the same basic powered-speaker idea, with source connections and controls built into the pair. In practical terms, the Cubitt 5 is a system purchase; the R1280DB is a low-cost way to add stereo sound to a computer, television or small room.
| Specification | Fyne Audio Cubitt 5 | Edifier R1280DB |
|---|---|---|
| Driver arrangement | 5-inch IsoFlare point-source driver with 19 mm concentric titanium tweeter | 4-inch woofer with 0.5-inch tweeter |
| Stated frequency response | 43 Hz–34 kHz, -6 dB typical in-room | 55 Hz–20 kHz |
| Amplification | 240 W maximum total amplification | 42 W RMS total, 21 W + 21 W |
| Bluetooth | Version 5.0 with aptX HD and AAC | Version 5.1; Edifier’s cited specification does not state a high-resolution codec |
| Digital inputs | HDMI ARC, optical | Optical, coaxial |
| Analogue inputs | RCA line and dedicated phono input | Dual RCA line inputs |
| Subwoofer output | Mono subwoofer output | Not listed on Edifier’s official specification |
| Dimensions | Primary 260 × 165 × 215 mm; secondary 260 × 165 × 223 mm | 146 × 234 × 196 mm |
| Weight | 4.2 kg primary; 3.6 kg secondary | Not stated in the cited Edifier specification |
The figures are not measured on identical terms: Fyne quotes a maximum amplifier figure and an in-room, -6 dB response, whereas Edifier quotes continuous RMS power and a response range without that qualifier. Treat the table as a description of each manufacturer’s specification, not a laboratory head-to-head result.
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How much do the Cubitt 5 and R1280DB cost?
Price is the clearest dividing line. Fyne Audio’s UK listing gives the Cubitt 5 a list price of £549.98 including VAT for a pair. Edifier’s US listing gives the R1280DB a list price of $189.99. Those currencies and markets cannot be converted into a single fair retail comparison without an exchange rate, local taxes and shipping.
A separate report from The Absolute Sound in August 2026 put the Cubitt 5’s North American launch price at $899. That is a regional launch figure, not a universal worldwide price, so check the seller serving your country before deciding that one model is “three times” the price of the other. Availability, tax treatment and promotional pricing can change independently in the UK, North America and other regions.
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|---|---|---|
| Fyne Audio Cubitt 5 | £549.98 per pair | UK list price including VAT, Fyne Audio listing |
| Fyne Audio Cubitt 5 | $899 | North American launch price reported in August 2026 by The Absolute Sound |
| Edifier R1280DB | $189.99 per pair | US list price, Edifier listing |
At the Edifier’s price, the R1280DB makes sense when you need working stereo sound now and do not expect to add a turntable, ARC-controlled television or subwoofer. The Cubitt 5’s premium is easier to justify when replacing several separate boxes—such as a TV soundbar and a phono preamp—or when you want greater output and upgrade flexibility in one enclosure pair.
Which pair is better for a television?
The Cubitt 5 is the more convenient TV speaker because it has HDMI ARC. Connect the television’s ARC socket to the Cubitt 5, select the correct input, and compatible TVs can send two-channel PCM audio while allowing the TV remote to control volume. The system also includes optical input if your television lacks ARC or you prefer a separate digital connection.
Fyne specifies HDMI ARC operation with 2.0 PCM audio. That matters when a television is configured for Dolby Digital, Dolby Atmos or another bitstream format that the speakers cannot decode. Set the TV’s digital audio output to PCM or stereo if you hear silence or an unsupported-format warning. The Cubitt 5’s supplied infrared remote handles source selection and volume when ARC control is unavailable.
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The R1280DB has no HDMI ARC input in Edifier’s listed specification. It can still serve a TV through optical, coaxial or analogue RCA, but volume control and wake-up behavior depend on the television and connection. Optical is generally the cleanest digital route; analogue RCA is useful when the TV provides a variable line output or headphone output.
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TV connection decision
- Choose HDMI ARC: Cubitt 5 with a recent TV when you want one-cable audio and remote-volume integration.
- Choose optical: either model when the TV has optical output and you want to avoid analogue noise.
- Choose coaxial: R1280DB with a source that provides coaxial digital output; this is not an option on the Cubitt 5 specification.
- Check PCM: use stereo PCM output rather than an unsupported surround bitstream.
Which speaker is better for a turntable?
The Cubitt 5 is the straightforward vinyl choice because it includes a built-in phono stage for moving-magnet and high-output moving-coil cartridges. Plug a compatible turntable into the phono input, select that source and control the level from the remote or speaker system; no separate phono preamp is required.
Edifier does not list a dedicated phono input for the R1280DB. A turntable with its own switchable phono preamp can feed one of the R1280DB’s RCA line inputs. If the turntable outputs only the very low-level signal from its cartridge, add an external phono preamp between the turntable and the speaker. Connecting an unamplified phono output directly to a normal line input will produce very quiet, thin sound.
The distinction is about electrical compatibility rather than a guarantee of sound quality. A good external phono stage can be preferable if you plan to experiment with cartridges or upgrade components, while the Cubitt 5’s integrated stage minimizes boxes and cables.
How do power and bass extension differ in real rooms?
Fyne lists 240 W maximum total amplification for the Cubitt 5, compared with Edifier’s 42 W RMS total (21 W per channel) for the R1280DB. “Maximum” and “RMS” are different rating methods, so the numbers should not be treated as a direct loudness ratio. Even so, the Cubitt 5 is specified and positioned for considerably more headroom in a larger room, whereas the R1280DB is intended for near-field or modest-room listening.
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The Cubitt 5’s stated response reaches 43 Hz at the -6 dB point in a typical room and extends to 34 kHz. The R1280DB is specified from 55 Hz to 20 kHz. On paper, the Fyne should retain more low-end weight and upper-frequency extension, particularly at moderate listening distances, although room placement and recording content will determine what you actually hear.
Only the Cubitt 5 lists a dedicated mono subwoofer output. That gives you an upgrade path for deeper bass without replacing the stereo pair. The R1280DB’s official specification does not list a subwoofer output, so adding one would require a source-side solution or a subwoofer with speaker-level or signal-sensing facilities; compatibility would depend on the specific equipment.
Match the speaker to the room
- Desk or small bedroom: R1280DB’s compact 146 × 234 × 196 mm dimensions make placement beside a monitor or on a shallow shelf easier.
- Living room or open plan: Cubitt 5’s higher maximum amplification and broader stated bass range provide more margin when you sit farther away.
- Bass-upgrade plan: Cubitt 5, because the mono subwoofer output is built in.
- Moderate listening only: R1280DB can be sufficient if you sit close and do not need cinema-like impact.
What connectivity and Bluetooth features do they offer?
Both systems accept Bluetooth and wired sources, but the Cubitt 5 offers a more modern living-room mix of inputs. Its Bluetooth 5.0 implementation supports aptX HD and AAC, alongside HDMI ARC, optical, RCA line and phono. The R1280DB uses Bluetooth 5.1 and provides optical, coaxial and two RCA inputs, with no phono or HDMI ARC listed by Edifier.
| Connection or feature | Cubitt 5 | R1280DB |
|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth version | 5.0 | 5.1 |
| Bluetooth codecs stated | aptX HD, AAC | No high-resolution codec claim listed |
| HDMI ARC | Yes; 2.0 PCM | No |
| Optical | Yes | Yes |
| Coaxial | Not listed | Yes |
| RCA line | Yes | Dual RCA inputs |
| Dedicated phono | Yes; MM/high-output MC | Not listed |
| USB | Firmware updates only | Not listed as an audio input |
| Subwoofer output | Yes; mono | Not listed |
Bluetooth 5.1 is not automatically higher fidelity than Bluetooth 5.0. Codec support, the phone or computer’s transmitter and the source material matter more than the version number alone. The Cubitt 5’s aptX HD and AAC listings give compatible devices more clearly defined codec options; the R1280DB remains convenient for everyday wireless playback.
How do you set up the Cubitt 5?
Setup is simple, but selecting the correct digital format and understanding the USB port prevents common mistakes.
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- Place the cabinets: put the primary speaker near the TV or source equipment and the secondary speaker at the other side of the listening position. Leave ventilation around the primary cabinet, which houses the electronics.
- Connect the speakers: use the supplied speaker cable between the primary and secondary speakers, observing the marked polarity if the cable is marked.
- Choose a source cable: use HDMI ARC for a compatible TV, optical for a digital source, RCA line for analogue equipment, or the phono input for a turntable with a suitable cartridge.
- Configure the TV: select the TV’s ARC output and set digital audio to two-channel PCM. If ARC is unavailable, choose optical instead.
- Pair Bluetooth: select the Cubitt 5’s Bluetooth source, open Bluetooth settings on the phone or computer and choose the speaker system. A compatible device may negotiate aptX HD or AAC; otherwise it will use the codec both devices support.
- Connect power: the system accepts universal 100–240 V mains input. Use the correct local power lead and switch the system on.
- Update firmware only when needed: Fyne states that the USB port is for firmware updates, not computer audio. Do not expect a USB cable to create a USB DAC input.
- Manage standby: the system enters automatic standby after 20 minutes without a signal. Send audio or use the remote to wake it when required.
The infrared remote is central to source selection and everyday control. AVForums praised the system’s imaging and confident sound but identified idle noise, limited computer friendliness and the possibility of losing the remote as drawbacks, so keep the handset accessible and check for background hiss at your normal listening position.
How do you set up the R1280DB?
- Position the speakers: place the pair on a stable desk, shelf or stand with the front panels aimed toward the listening position.
- Link the cabinets: connect the powered speaker to the passive partner using the supplied inter-speaker lead.
- Select the input: use optical or coaxial for a digital TV, computer interface or streamer; use either RCA input for analogue equipment.
- Pair Bluetooth: choose Bluetooth on the speaker, select the R1280DB from the source device and begin playback.
- Set tone and volume: use the side-panel bass, treble and volume controls for a fixed installation, or the wireless remote from the listening position.
- Prepare vinyl separately: use a turntable’s built-in phono preamp or insert an external one before the RCA input. The speaker’s line input is not a substitute for phono equalization and gain.
The R1280DB’s simpler signal path can be an advantage on a desk: there is no ARC handshake to troubleshoot and no phono-stage setting to select. Its trade-off is that a more ambitious system may require extra hardware later.
What do independent reviews say about the Cubitt 5?
AVForums gave the Cubitt 5 a 9/10, highlighting strong imaging and confident sound. Its criticisms were idle noise, limited computer friendliness and the practical risk of losing the remote. These are reviewer observations rather than independent laboratory measurements, so they should be treated as listening and usability impressions.
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Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Which pair is better for computer listening?
The R1280DB is the safer default for a computer desk. Its Bluetooth, optical, coaxial and RCA choices cover common desktop sources, and the small cabinets are easier to fit beside a monitor. You can adjust bass, treble and volume from the side panel without relying on a TV-style control system.
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The Cubitt 5 can still work with a computer through Bluetooth, optical or an analogue output, but its USB connection is firmware-only. AVForums’ “not very computer-friendly” criticism reflects that missing USB audio input and the system’s stronger emphasis on TV and hi-fi sources. If your computer has only USB and headphone output, an inexpensive USB-to-optical interface or analogue cable may be necessary.
What are the main drawbacks of each model?
Cubitt 5 limitations
- The UK list price is high compared with compact powered speakers, and North American pricing is reported separately, so local value depends on region.
- USB cannot carry computer audio; it is reserved for firmware updates.
- AVForums reported audible idle noise in its review, along with the possibility of losing the remote.
- There is no coaxial input listed, which may matter if a source offers coaxial digital only.
- The larger cabinets and heavier primary speaker need a stable shelf or stand.
R1280DB limitations
- There is no HDMI ARC input listed, so TV integration is less unified.
- Edifier does not list a phono input; vinyl playback may require a built-in or external phono preamp.
- The 42 W RMS rating and 55 Hz lower response point to less headroom and bass reach than the Cubitt 5’s published figures.
- No subwoofer output is listed, limiting a straightforward bass upgrade.
- Bluetooth 5.1 is specified without a high-resolution codec claim on the cited page.
Which model should you buy?
Use the following decision table rather than comparing the products only by driver size or Bluetooth number.
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| Your priority | Better fit | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Lowest purchase cost | R1280DB | US list price is $189.99, far below the Cubitt 5’s published UK and reported North American figures. |
| TV with one-cable control | Cubitt 5 | HDMI ARC with 2.0 PCM is built in. |
| Turntable without a separate phono box | Cubitt 5 | Integrated MM/high-output MC phono input. |
| Small desk or bedroom | R1280DB | Compact dimensions and simple side controls. |
| Larger room or higher playback levels | Cubitt 5 | 240 W maximum amplification and broader stated response provide more system headroom. |
| Future subwoofer | Cubitt 5 | Dedicated mono subwoofer output. |
| Coaxial digital source | R1280DB | Coaxial input is listed; it is not listed for the Cubitt 5. |
| Computer-first setup using USB | Neither without an adapter | Cubitt 5 USB is firmware-only, and the R1280DB specification does not list USB audio. |
Buy the R1280DB when the system will stay compact, the source is Bluetooth or optical/RCA, and the lower price matters more than expansion. Buy the Cubitt 5 when you are building a central stereo system around a TV or turntable and want ARC, an integrated phono stage, higher output capability and a subwoofer path in one purchase.
What should you check before ordering?
- Regional price: confirm the listing for your country, including VAT or sales tax, shipping and warranty terms.
- Source outputs: verify that your TV, computer and turntable provide HDMI ARC, optical, coaxial, Bluetooth or the analogue connection you intend to use.
- TV audio format: make sure the television can output two-channel PCM over ARC or optical.
- Vinyl cartridge: confirm whether the turntable uses a moving-magnet or high-output moving-coil cartridge before relying on the Cubitt 5’s phono input.
- Space and support: measure the shelf or desk, allow room for the inter-speaker cable and keep the powered cabinet ventilated.
- Remote storage: designate a place for the Cubitt 5 infrared remote so source switching and volume control are not inconvenient.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a turntable with a built-in preamp use the R1280DB?
Yes. Set the turntable’s preamp switch to line output and connect its RCA cables to one of the speaker’s line inputs. If the turntable has no built-in preamp, place an external phono preamp between it and the speaker.
Is the Cubitt 5’s 24-bit/96 kHz specification the same as USB audio support?
No. The resolution figure describes the system’s supported digital processing, while Fyne identifies the USB socket as firmware-update only. Computer audio must therefore enter through Bluetooth, optical or analogue connections.
Does Bluetooth 5.1 guarantee better sound than Bluetooth 5.0?
No. Bluetooth version mainly describes the wireless platform; the codec negotiated by both devices and the source quality have a larger effect on audio transmission. The Cubitt 5 explicitly lists aptX HD and AAC, while the cited R1280DB specification does not claim a high-resolution codec.
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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 glitchesAre the published wattage figures directly comparable?
Not exactly. The Cubitt 5 figure is a maximum total amplification rating, while the R1280DB figure is continuous RMS power, so they use different conventions. Use room size, listening distance and the presence of a subwoofer output as practical buying criteria instead of multiplying one number by another.
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.
