Saiyin DS6701S powered bookshelf speakers: inputs, drivers and setup

The Saiyin DS6701S is a pair of powered bookshelf speakers rated at 30W per side. The amplifier is built into the main speaker, so there is no separate receiver to buy. It connects by Bluetooth or by cable to a TV, computer or record player, and it is meant for desks, TV stands and shelves.

Active design: no receiver needed

Saiyin describes the pair as active and passive: one speaker holds the amplifier and inputs, and a speaker wire runs to its partner (plugged into the "L SPK OUT" terminal on the main unit, according to the listing). Because the amplifier is inside, you can connect a source directly. Saiyin says you can also use an existing amplifier or receiver by connecting from its line output.

Drivers

Each speaker has a 0.5-inch silk dome horn tweeter and a 3.5-inch woofer. In general, a small woofer of this size gives clear mids and highs, while deep bass is limited, which is normal for bookshelf speakers. Saiyin markets the pair for a home theatre-style sound, but expect a stereo pair rather than true surround.

Inputs

• Bluetooth 5.3 for phones, tablets, Mac and PC.
• Optical and coaxial digital inputs, common on TVs and sound cards.
• 3.5 mm AUX and RCA analogue inputs.

For a turntable, Saiyin says it can connect through the LINE OUT, but a preamplifier is required if the record player only has a PHONO output. That detail matters: a turntable's phono signal is very quiet and needs a phono stage.

Remote and buttons

A remote adjusts volume, mutes, and switches between optical or coaxial, line-in and Bluetooth. Saiyin also says it works with a Fire TV stick remote and offers a replacement remote for life. The same functions are on the buttons on top of the speaker.

Size

Dimensions are given as 5.3 W x 6.3 D x 8.6 H inches for a speaker, with the listing showing a package weight of about 8.5 lb. That is small enough for a desk but large enough to need a proper shelf.

Who it suits

It suits people who want better sound than built-in TV speakers, a simple desktop audio setup, or a way to play records without a separate amplifier (with a preamp if needed).

What to check before you buy

• Your TV's output: confirm it has an optical, coaxial, RCA or 3.5 mm output you can use.
• Turntable: if your player has only a phono output, plan for a preamp.
• Space: check the dimensions against your shelf, and the length of the speaker wire between the pair.
• Distance: place the two speakers at a comfortable spacing from where you sit.
• Upkeep: keep ports dust-free, and check the manual for power and care.

The short version

• A pair of powered bookshelf speakers, 30W x 2, with a 3.5-inch woofer and 0.5-inch silk dome tweeter.
• Bluetooth 5.3, optical, coaxial, AUX and RCA inputs.
• Remote and top-panel controls.
• No receiver required; a preamp is needed for phono-only turntables.

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