HiBy R4 Digital Audio Player: Why It’s Still a Top Choice in 2025

The HiBy R4 is a portable digital audio player (DAP) that has garnered attention for its blend of advanced features, distinctive design, and affordability. Priced at $249, it offers a compelling option for audiophiles seeking high-quality sound without a premium price tag.

Design and Build Quality

The R4 stands out with its cyberpunk-inspired aesthetic, featuring angular edges and a robust aluminum alloy chassis. Available in multiple color options, including black, silver, green, and orange, it caters to diverse stylistic preferences. The device measures 129.6 x 68.3 x 18.5 mm and weighs 231 grams, making it both portable and substantial in hand. A 4.7-inch high-definition LCD touchscreen provides user-friendly navigation, while an LED status indicator above the screen displays different colors based on the audio sampling rate, adding a functional yet stylish touch.

Hardware and Performance

Under the hood, the HiBy R4 is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 processor, paired with 3GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage, expandable via a microSD card slot supporting up to 2TB. It runs on an open Android 12 operating system, allowing users to install a variety of applications from the Google Play Store. The device supports dual-band WiFi (2.4GHz and 5GHz) and Bluetooth 5.0 with two-way communication, accommodating various high-definition Bluetooth codecs, including UAT, LDAC, aptX, aptX HD, AAC, and SBC.

Audio Capabilities

The R4 boasts a quad-DAC setup featuring four ES9018C2M DAC chips, enabling high-resolution audio decoding with support for PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz and native DSD256. This configuration ensures exceptional sound quality with low distortion and high signal-to-noise ratio. A notable feature is its Class A amplification, utilizing four OPA1652 and two OPA1612 operational amplifiers, delivering up to 525mW of power at 32\u03a9 via the 4.4mm balanced output. This setup provides ample drive for a wide range of headphones and in-ear monitors.

Sound Quality Across Different Music Genres

One of the standout features of the HiBy R4 is its versatility across a wide range of music genres. The device\u2019s audio tuning and robust hardware enable it to deliver an immersive listening experience tailored to diverse musical styles:

Classical Music

The HiBy R4 excels in reproducing the subtle nuances and intricate details of classical music. The quad-DAC setup ensures accurate tonal balance, with clear separation between instruments. String sections sound lush and vibrant, while the device\u2019s wide soundstage captures the ambiance of orchestral performances.

Jazz

For jazz enthusiasts, the R4 delivers a warm and inviting sound signature. Saxophones and trumpets resonate with a natural timbre, while the bass is tight and well-defined. The Class A amplification brings out the dynamics of live jazz recordings, making it feel like you\u2019re right in the room with the performers.

Rock and Metal

The HiBy R4\u2019s ability to handle complex audio makes it a great choice for rock and metal. The dual amplification setup ensures that electric guitars and drum kits retain their power and energy without sounding distorted. Vocals are forward and clear, ensuring an engaging listening experience.

Electronic and Pop

For electronic and pop genres, the R4\u2019s precise bass reproduction and high-frequency clarity shine. The player\u2019s ability to handle fast transients ensures that synths and beats sound crisp and impactful. The MSEB (MageSound Eight-Ball) feature allows users to fine-tune the sound profile to match their preferences, adding more depth and punch where desired.

Hip-Hop and R&B

The R4\u2019s strong bass response is particularly enjoyable for hip-hop and R&B fans. Sub-bass frequencies are handled with authority, providing a deep and satisfying rumble without overwhelming the mids. Vocals and harmonies remain smooth and detailed, adding to the richness of the overall sound.

User Interface and Experience

Running on Android 12, the HiBy R4 offers a smooth and responsive user experience. The interface is intuitive, and the device supports system-wide bit-perfect audio, bypassing Android's native sample rate conversion to maintain audio fidelity across all applications. Users have praised the device for its user-friendly interface and the ability to customize sound profiles through features like the MageSound Eight-Ball (MSEB) and parametric equalizer (PEQ).

Battery Life

Equipped with a 4500mAh battery, the R4 offers up to 11 hours of continuous playback, depending on usage and output settings. However, some users have reported that the device can become warm during extended use, particularly when utilizing the balanced output at higher volumes, which may impact battery performance.

Reception and Reviews

The HiBy R4 has received generally positive reviews from both critics and users. Reviewers have commended its build quality, distinctive design, and audio performance, particularly noting its neutral and clear sound signature. The inclusion of features like Class A amplification and a quad-DAC setup at this price point has been highlighted as offering significant value. However, some critiques have been directed at the device's battery life and the potential for it to become warm during prolonged use.

Conclusion

In summary, the HiBy R4 presents a compelling option for those seeking a feature-rich, high-performance digital audio player at an accessible price. Its combination of advanced audio components, user-friendly interface, and distinctive design make it a noteworthy contender in the mid-range DAP market. With its ability to excel across diverse musical genres, the R4 is a versatile choice for audiophiles and casual listeners alike.