HIBY R4 - $249 OF LOVE

[@Mark-hb2zy]

The only thing that frustrates me, is that our flagship phones should be able to do all this already. Sad day when they got rid of the headphone jacks.

[@wahid-lg1kk]

I don't know why there is no proper audio phone since LG v60, which is now quite dated..

[@northborneo]

​​@@wahid-lg1kkStill using my V60 and never felt any need to 'upgrade'.

[@wahid-lg1kk]

@@northborneo I just don't like the dacs, too dry.. Personal taste.. That's the thing, there should be other options that are as good as that one. Different dacs, newer amps.. That thing cranks, though, if you get over 75 ohms impedance on it..I like the sound of the v20 best..It's definitely serious audio gear.

[@Mark-hb2zy]

@@wahid-lg1kk unfortunately all development in smart phones went to cameras and Bluetooth audio. Eventually Bluetooth will catch up to wired but it would have been nice to keep wired around until it does

[@marsoblivi0n945]

I’ve been saying this for years. Sony of all people should do to add DAP and decent amps to their phones. All this Money got iPhone and they can’t add everything you need either. Rather have nice music player than a stupid phone. Media should be the priority.

[@josephyeung8732]

Well if you put it that way, should have made it out of more to love ($$$) 🤪 --Cheers, Joe Bloggs P.S. nice review!

[@tonedeafmonk]

😊 Thanks Joseph.

[@UltimateEnd0]

HiBy knocking it out of the park for competitive styling (R4 x Evagelion), price, and features

[@tonedeafmonk]

Agreed!

[@wahid-lg1kk]

This is very interesting, class A amp is attractive, the problem is, I have entirely erased ess from my life, I have gone full dongle, with aux headphone amp (fiio q3). I bought a nice all metal xiaomi phone just for audio, very cheap, second hand, has no telephone Sim card, I won't put one in, it's smallish, has 8/256 memory, only takes half a tb, so I have two cards, one with the dsd stuff on it, which spills over into the internal memory, basically it does everything that machine does, and between the Q3, which can also be just a headphone amp and has akm dacs, and three dongles, I have four different DAPs, with their own sound signatures, which can be added to in modular fashion, for small money.. I use Tidal, the app has exclusive USB mode, I use Hiby music app, also has exclusive usb mode, so I have the MSEB and PEQ stuff, I have tons of clean power with the THX amps, I am just really happy. I might eventually buy the Hiby R6 ii, but then again, I might not. I really like my system, now. Very happy with it. If I were to buy a DAP again, I would be flying blind, as I won't be able to try it first, have to just roll the dice. Next purchase will be cayin u6 r2r dongle..so far, I have spent less then 300 dollars, I think.. Something in that region. The Cayin will bring me up to 500. 5 DAPs for 500 bucks.

[@ANOLE_VX]

Few days ago, there's a HiBy R5 Gen 2 listing for less than $249. NGL, R4 puts 90% of R5 II's specs to shame. The only redeeming factor for the R5II is the more recent DAC chips (ESS 9219C) and its STELLAR battery life. Since I'm really not a fan of streaming, the older Android 8.1 doesn't bother me at all, operation is smooth despite having only 2GB of RAM. Probably won't buy the R5 gen2 full price, but for less than 249, I think it's a steal. I'm glad that R4 exist now, it can challenge HiBy's more pricier DAP such as the R5II, at least until HiBy releases an updated version, the R5 Gen 3 Nice video man!

[@illustrious420]

Specs wise, 9018c2m >> 9219c, 4db better snr and 6db better in thd per chip, and r5 have 2 while r4 have 4. 9018 series, even the low power 2m is still venerable and better than every cirrus logic chip and ess that doesn't end in 2m/pro and start with 90.

[@danilaros]

The chipset says nothing about the sound of a dac, the most important part is how is implemented and the circuit arround it.

[@andy.w]

Mr. Monk, for the love of all Beryllium coated DDs ever created - please get some kind of MagSafe SSD so we can hear your uninterrupted yakking in 4K all day long 😂

[@datdudeinred]

Wtf Is a magsafe ssd? Pretty sure that doesn't exist

[@andy.w]

TLDR; it's currently semi DIY, but I bet a more robust implementation would come. Basically it's a USB gen 3.x mini external SSD with a MagSafe sticker slapped on. With a short Thunderbolt cable, one can record very long standard 4K videos with their iPhone 15. (ProRes might requires some kind of cooling solutions) Pretty sure there's plenty of videos about this "hack" on KZbin.

[@AndrewYouTubehandle]

Nice review. I'd love to get a super alim, light and long battery life version. At the moment the oprions that comw to mond atw Sony's A306 (I want ro be able to play audoblw titles and podcasts too on it). My other thought is an old LG phone or iPod touch. Any suggestions appreciated!

[@tonedeafmonk]

IBasso DX180 has it all.

[@AndrewYouTubehandle]

@@tonedeafmonk OK thanks I'll check that out.

[@greatmusicneverdies6253]

Thank you, sir. I have one on order in black!!!

[@tonedeafmonk]

Nice that's the best color

[@UltimateEnd0]

If I am paying $500-700 for a DAP, they should include a decent case, screen protector installed, and all of the bells and whistles. Rediculous

[@doubledown4957]

This or shanling m1plus?

[@tonedeafmonk]

Music M1+ , Features R4

[@maXXXjacker]

The review I have been waiting for, thanks Monk! This player sounds like it's going to be HiBy's best entry point yet! Mooooo!

[@tonedeafmonk]

Cow Ass for the win!

[@dan44762000]

I’ve already ordered the green but I would like to ask, with Tidal can I download albums for offline playback? I’ve a feeling this is fine but as you actually have one can you clarify

[@tonedeafmonk]

You can yes

[@keesue]

A very good analysis. I'm ordering one. (Been on the hunt and this one is the one...Thanks!)

[@tonedeafmonk]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Cujobob]

I picked up the R4 since I wanted a non phone Apple Music streamer, is the Cayin N3 Ultra worth it? Been watching the thread on Head Fi, seems a few bugs still, but is the SQ worth the money spent?

[@tonedeafmonk]

Short answer is YES , I was really listening to it last night and honestly it's more resolving and cleaner than my A&K Kann Max with a bigger stage and the ability to project a 3D stage with pin point instruments and vocals. Sound wise pretty fantastic, I have been pretty hard on it for its glaring Software and bugs bit there is no denial for how good it sounds.

[@dougieshizzle]

Grabbed this over the Sony NW-a306 for the system wide bit perfect audio. Going to be a dedicated Apple Music streamer for my 2.1 setup. My current DAP is a Sony NW-a55 with Mr. Walkman firmware, really hope the sound quality of the R4 is just as good if not better 🤞Also you can save $10 with 'Welcome10' promo code, phenomenal deal at $239.00 shipped and no tax!

[@tonedeafmonk]

Sweet deal WOW

[@darrencotter8206]

I would get one of these if it weren't for the styling.

[@munter68]

Thanks for your informative review! Do you think this would be the adequate (resolving enough) DAP to run Penon FAN 2 or similarly tuned IEMS?

[@tonedeafmonk]

Yes, absolutely

[@alexeiboukirev8357]

Looking dapper, Monk!

[@DamssKiller]

Nice one 🙂

[@mutlitaskin]

Just for my clarification, the system-wide EQ setting will work with Apple Music too?

[@tonedeafmonk]

Yes

[@Ch1LLaz]

Just ordered one as a birthday present to myself. My first DAP in the audio equipment collection

[@tonedeafmonk]

Sweet Strata choice 👌 I want the black one!

[@codeblood2000]

I hear the battery life is not good on the R4 and it heats up?... It really sucks that we can't try before you buy. Im looking to upgrade from my (Pioneer xdp300 the battery has always sucked) Hiby is just great PRICE with a with all that great Tech in it just sounds awesome and I also love the look. This is definitely on my list like I said earlier I've been hearing the heating and battery life is an issue what's the R4 but that PRICE

[@tonedeafmonk]

The unit I had for tested lasted longer than my R6iii and no heat issues, I don't think there is big concerns

[@ottoakkanen9829]

and how long the battery holds. my m300 lasts maybe 6 hours instead of promised 14

[@tonedeafmonk]

They did some special sauce here some battery voodoo better by far over the M300 and R6 Pro2 like double

[@ottoakkanen9829]

@@tonedeafmonk like claiming to be 24h and is actually 12h ? do you have real battery time? though from head-fi i gathered that individual machines (m300) have wildly different battery performances. i've read it ranges just from few hours to the promised 14h.. so i feel hibys QC isn't great either. also i have R2pro, which keeps crashing more often than not... but i guess R4 being android makes it more stable.

[@Joe-rs9hc]

Would this pair well with the dte900?

[@tonedeafmonk]

Probably best out the Hiby daps except the R8ii the R4 would sound great with the R4

[@Joe-rs9hc]

@@tonedeafmonk thank you as always, appreciate all the work you put in!

[@wana.me003]

He also listrens to Katori? What is there not to love about this man? Thanks TDM for the awesome review!

[@tonedeafmonk]

Ha Ha Thank you 😊

[@siliconsoundz]

This player tics all the boxes. The R4 looks like a winner.

[@djvalentin]

Hiby R4 overheating issue!! I'm quite disappointed with the product. Although it looks impressive and should be worth more than $600, just by looking at it, it appears to have been built with cheap components and has poor heat dissipation. Mine is overheating; I cannot even touch it. Is anyone having this issue?

[@tonedeafmonk]

On the Forum seems a limited run has defects in the amp stage causing overheating. I would reach out to Hiby as they said they will be replacing the effected units. Sorry to hear your may be one of them.

[@fiddlix]

You just sold me on my first DAP. The R4 looks too good to pass up Thank you TDM.

[@tonedeafmonk]

Good choice! It's crazy good value and nothing to complain about next thing tou know you will have 6 DAP'S like me

[@Layer88]

1st one as well

[@duytranhuu8241]

Could you please give me some advice? Should I pick the Hiby R4 or Shanling M3 Ultra in terms of sound quality. Many thanks. Really appreciate.

[@tonedeafmonk]

Never tried the Shanling but the Hiby was excellent 👌

[@maegnificant]

Did you also get their new DD IEM with it?

[@tonedeafmonk]

Posting today love that IEM to smithereens over my Twilight no but for the price one of the very best.

[@gojulllll]

hi there! thanks for the review sir, how would u compare this to tempted v6?

[@jonathancabeza8881]

Is it supported with aptx? Can i stream tidal or deezer with this device? Thank you

[@tonedeafmonk]

Yes you can it's full android

[@vaisakhmurali6918]

Hi do you prefer this or ibasso dx170? I know both are different price segments. So is it worth spending more on dx170 or R4 better in terms of 1. Sound 2. User experience

[@tonedeafmonk]

R4 beats it in almost all ways except the weight and no Volume control

[@arthurmonay3156]

I only use an LG V60 . How does this compare in sound ?

[@KURRYOUS]

Probably only slightly better. I've got all the Lg V series phones ranging from the v30 to v60. While they were amazing back in the day... I feel that current compact usb dongle dacs provide equal if not marginally better audio quality when compared to the v60 (they've catched up and in some ways surpassed).... However when we compare them based on vrms or output power... That's where we can see the v60 clearly losing out. If you don't really care about output power or you're not ready to invest big bucks on new gear then just get a cheaper dongle dac rather than a dap.... Currently I'm using the ua4 and ka13 by shanling and fiio respectively.... Although I'm currently eyeing the tp50 for future purchase...

[@arthurmonay3156]

​@@KURRYOUSThanks that helps !

[@SmileyD1125]

Something people should take note of is that Hiby's DAPs tend to be buggy, and will sometimes brick themselves for no apparent reason...

[@tonedeafmonk]

I have owned every single one never had a issue ... fingers crossed 🤞 ChiFi is ChiFi

[@fugu-san3484]

a question.. if I were to settle for a DAP for the next 7 years, is it more preferrable to just grab R6 Pro II or R4?

[@tonedeafmonk]

R4 is a better DAP IMO

[@petrpulpytel]

Great rewiev.., thanks, one question, is it possible to use USB out to feed another DAC/AMP or dongle DAC?

[@tonedeafmonk]

Yes you can!

[@kmnaniak]

In this price range I think Tempotec V6 might be a better choice, am I mistaken ?

[@tonedeafmonk]

This is a few levels higher in performance than the Tempotec IMO sound wise a well

[@lonestar1664]

wish it had a line out to use it as a true transport with my Xduoo 05 Pro, how was using 4.4 bal out to Xduoo, can also use USB with Xduoo

[@tonedeafmonk]

It would have been nice feature but costs played a part.

[@lmcteo]

Are you also reviewing the moondrop smartphone/dap with both 3.5 and 4.4 balanced outputs?

[@tonedeafmonk]

Nope not with Moondrops QC record and how they take care of clients post sales I wilont be spending $400 when I already have a great phone and dongles that will undoubtedly sound better. My S22Ultra + EPZ TP50 rocks

[@jameskorthals4224]

I just got my green one this week. It's got so may features, it'll take a month to learn how to use everything on the unit

[@tonedeafmonk]

The MSEB is so cool 😎

[@ElNINETEENTH]

Worth getting if I have the R6P2 and R8ii and want to use the R4 on the go? Wanted to drive my Scarlet mini on the go so how does its sound signature to R8ii, and R6P2?

[@tonedeafmonk]

Sounds over to R8ii with DSD Files R6P2 with streaming. Not enough juice for SMini Sorry.

[@jorgeehernandez6930]

Madness i know lol but if i want to use only Bluetooth headphones do i get any from this better than my iphone ?

[@tonedeafmonk]

Probably not.

[@jorgeehernandez6930]

@@tonedeafmonk thanks

[@alimatook8962]

Hi can it run beyerdynamic dt1990 pro ?

[@tonedeafmonk]

Maybe someone who has both can chime in?

[@pooley3l33t]

This dap's design, price along with its app flexibility is aimed for the younger generation.

[@tonedeafmonk]

Oh yeah for sure and it works .

[@pooley3l33t]

@@tonedeafmonk It has not stopped me ordering one to try out all the Hiby stuff you showcased, That's two daps you have convinced me with hehe

[@alexeiboukirev8357]

My only nitpick is it missing 2.5 balanced. But maybe it's time for me to give up and join the herd using the pentacon. I mean, pentacon connector is bulkier and heavier than some pair of earphones. Awkward. Otherwise looks like a winner. Gotta get me one.

[@tonedeafmonk]

I ditched 2.5 after 2 bent ends DONE

[@brutusmaximus8591]

Probably should move on to dvd from vhs

[@johnnychiu1149]

hello, i currently have the xenns up and uses it as my main listening device, would you recommand getting the Hiby r4 or spend a bit more to find a used hiby rs2? how big of a difference do you think are between r4 and rs2, and would it justify extra 150 for the upgrade? (strictly comparing sound quality) Do you think they would pair well with xenns up?

[@tonedeafmonk]

Both would be great the R2 will be better on DSD Files only.

[@johnnychiu1149]

@@tonedeafmonk thank you for the response! in this case, I think ill save some money and just go for the r4.

[@tonedeafmonk]

@johnnychiu1149 I tried it with my set and loved it , don't think you will be disappointed

[@sagaman4785]

Do you think this would be an upgrade from the Shanling M1s? I think I might get the Onix Alpha to hook up with my M1s. Cheaper and good?

[@FaqihHilman]

Does it support aptx lossless or adaptive codec?

[@tonedeafmonk]

Yes it does

[@Orhan-Bakinec]

Can it be used as a transport for a stationary DAC? or will there be a lot of transformations? or you need to look for a vehicle without a DAC

[@DJHaworth]

Mindfull thoughts well appreciated

[@tonedeafmonk]

Thanks so much 🙏

[@VOByRobbins]

Just ordered the Black one, thank you!!!

[@tonedeafmonk]

That would be my choice as well the Dark Knight

[@kr33k00]

❤

[@LeeCollier-px5sz]

Nicely done Bro ✌️ Appreciated

[@tonedeafmonk]

Thanks ✌️

[@chenrezig5103]

Does it have the option to edit playlist track order?

[@miwanrochman9243]

Does it have LHDC transmit codec?

[@tonedeafmonk]

Yes and LDAC

[@miwanrochman9243]

@@tonedeafmonk Thank you

[@PaulJCost1]

Do a R3 gen 2 review.

[@tonedeafmonk]

OIf I get a chance you bet!

[@leonardopapantoniou4227]

No line out

[@tonedeafmonk]

Nope not that you can't but the amp section is still in play.

[@schoi604]

Hi, I have a question: does it make a good digital source? To use with an external dac and amp. Thank you

[@tonedeafmonk]

Sure but why not just use your phone?

[@squidwerd1981]

Where do you download your music from?

[@taliosnz]

Not OP but i tend to use flacs from Banpcamp, proaudiomasters, hdtracs,- abd my own rips

[@larrymtz83]

14:36 11:11 😂

[@s1nonnn589]

Have you tried fiio ka17? Can't choose between this 2. My concern is the R4 use very old ess chip compared to the ka17 and inferior amp, so im afraid the r4 will get irrelevant real quick and not futureproof compared to the ka17 :(

[@ivesyang5453]

Same question,too

[@tonedeafmonk]

I don't think you have to much to be concerned about my iBasso DX90 is still going strong since 2014.

[@wahid-lg1kk]

​@@tonedeafmonkif it sounds good now, it will always sound good, until it dies. Good audio gear does not age out.

[@SamGarfield1]

FYI the LG V30 has basically the same DAC minus some peripheral features like analog control and can be had for like $30 on ebay.

[@shamelessplace11]

Tidal stink imo. If it cant do amazon music im not buying it . Just me

[@tonedeafmonk]

It's got the app store download what floats your boat

[@shamelessplace11]

@@tonedeafmonk so you actually can download Amazon music off of it with Wi-Fi and everything damn well you just made my night then young man

[@bugrakalkan3064]

Great review sir. I have a shanling M1s, altough im perfectly happy with it but it is a not an android device. It has the Tidal app installed, but has no full functionality. So I was looking for an android dap. Almost bought the R6 gen3. But now this guy came up, wich one would you recommend. Is the R6 worth 200 more?

[@tonedeafmonk]

I don't think the extra spend is worth it. IMO

[@thedar7164]

it amazes me how little you show the device .. you show your shirt and nike logo more than the main attraction.. come on

[@chenrezig5103]

Hiby needs a computer interface similar to itunes

[@masterazlan6999]

Dun be stupid, 5Gs phones today even better n Way cuter n thin.. We dun needs stupid brick bra.. Ha4.. Peace!

[@MSsephiii]

You don't belong here lol

[@Cujobob]

Headphones typically don’t have headphone jacks… or balanced headphone jacks. Plus it eats up the battery on a phone.

[@tonedeafmonk]

Yes we do absolutely 💯 🙌

[@tonedeafmonk]

They can have a opinion Even when I don't share it.

[@masterazlan6999]

1stly 5Gs..hmm..not even 1 stupid Dap support it.. 2024 bra c'mon.. audiophiliacs is with the future not just live in old skol songs.. 2ndly wtf stupid enuf carryin brick alongs phones which these days cant live without.. Imagine 5Gs slims.. 3rd Mine support 120Watts fast chargin bra with 5000mAh batt.. 30%-100% bout minutes. Imagine drillin ur 5Gs with high power audio out N end up with superb fast charger Meanin music 24/7 bra.. Dap??.. Equipt with new tech vapour coolin chamber for high usage.. Dap??.. 4rd 20GBRAM bra Dap??.. with 256GBROM... 5th Snapdragon 7gen2 bra.. 6th Variety of outy audiolly ha3.. Choose SE, Bluetooth5.2, usbC which i hook my worlds best Dac then turned it Walla... Bal.. 4.4pentaconn.. 7th Android14 bra... Dap??.. HA3 funy big time yall sound system NOOBS.. Welcome.. Peace! 8th...naa waste my time ha4.. Peace2

[@mrigankadeyMD]

now i am getting fomo for buying the shanling M3 Ultra last year, i hope it was not a mistake 🥲😖

[@wahid-lg1kk]

Get Cayin u6 r2r, I have heard it and am saving up for one as I just changed out all my gear. I also have Colorfly m1p, tempotec sonata bhd pro, and the simgot one.. The tempotec is fantastic.. Colorfly sounds very analog.. Simgot is, well, meh..

[@mrigankadeyMD]

@@wahid-lg1kk thanks for the insight 🤔