BGVP ArtMagic VG4

Introduction

I have the pleasure of analyzing another great product, the BGVP brand. As I mentioned before, BGVP is originally from China (Dongguan) and has a good catalogue of IEMS and Earbuds. The present model is the ArtMagic VG4: some IEMS Full BA, with 4 drivers per capsule. For this occasion, BGVP has chosen to use a combination of two drivers Sonion and two drivers Knowles. All of them have been integrated in a translucent capsule, made of acrylic fiber resin. Also, a 4-way crossover system has been used to gently mix all the sound generated. As in other models, we have chosen to integrate a mechanism of 3 micro-switches, which allow us to adjust the sound in up to 8 different configurations, capable of satisfying our listening needs. The set comes with a 6N cable, hybrid, with copper and silver strands. The set is completed with the classic packaging, very similar to the one used for the DH3 model. Finally, these IEMS have a high level of customization, being able to choose from more than 12 types of capsules, or make combinations between multiple housings and external plates.

All this will be analyzed in depth, in the following review.



Specifications

• Drivers type: 4 BA drivers, 1 double BA Sonion 33AJ007 (bass), 1 BA Knowles ED-29689 (midrange) and 1 BA Knowles RAF-33518 (treble).
• Frequency Response: 10Hz - 40kHz
• Sensitivity: ≥ 110dB SPL/MW
• Impedance: 12Ω
• Channel Difference: ≤ 1dB
• THD: 0.5% (1kHz)
• Nominal power 8mW
• Connector Jack: 3.5mm
• Cable length: 1.2m ± 5%.
• Capsule Connection Type: MMCX
• Weight: about 4.2g each capsule.

Packaging

The VG4 comes in a moderately large box, the dimensions of which are 182x130x53mm. It comes sealed in cellophane, which has two seals of guarantee. The external part of the box, consists of a decorated cardboard cover. The front and back sides are white and the sides are black. On the main face, there is the model name, on the top, together with the brand logo. In the center there are two drawings of the capsules, composed only by the edges of them. On the lower left is the Hi-Res logo and on the right is the Knowles and Sonion logos.

On the back side, there are the specifications, information about the brand and address, the web address, a QR code and the consequent quality certifications. On the sides are the logos of the brand and the information of the model of the capsule. This time, it is a totally transparent capsule.

Once the cardboard is removed, a black, textured box with the letters BGVP in the centre is revealed. After removing the lid, a foam mould can be seen, in which the silicone and foam tips, the capsules and the carrying case are inserted. There is also a white envelope, which contains the guarantee, manuals and quality certificate. Inside the case, there is the cable, whose jack connector is protected by a plastic cover, two pairs of black silicone tips and a cleaning brush. In summary, the contents are as follows:

• The capsules.
• 3 pairs of blue tips, size SxMxL, Vocal ear tips.
• 3 pairs of white tips, sizes SxMxL, Bass ear tips.
• 3 pairs of black tips, sizes SxMxL.
• 1 pair of foam tips, size medium
• 1 hybrid cable, 8 strands of 6N, with MMCX connectors
• A cleaning brush.
• A carrying case.
• Manual, certificate of guarantee, quality control and recommendations for use.

The content is practically the same, as the DH3 model, appropriate to its price and quality. The case is large and rigid, totally distinctive and the accessories are adequate. Some bi or tri-flange types may be missed, although the morphology of the capsules may not be suitable for this type of tip.

In general and despite being a classic content within the brand, in this section BGVP are maintained at an excellent level and according to their price.



Construction and Design

As usual, the ArtMagic VG4, has been built on German Envision TEC's 3D printing equipment, manufactured using PMMA acrylic fiber. This material is fully skin-friendly, resistant and offers a high degree of impact protection.

The capsules have an ergonomic shape, which is somewhat larger than the DH3 model, though their shapes are similar. The connection is MMCX, gold-plated. The revised model is fully transparent. It has a plate with 3 micro-switches. On the inner side there is an inscription in white letters, which reads "ArtMagic VG4 M236R", on the right capsule and "ArtMagic VG4 M236L", on the left. The external face has the logo, in silver, on the inside. The nozzles are one piece, custom type, with two holes in each one and without grids or filters.

The internal configuration is very similar to the DH3, since it uses the same Knowles BA drivers. On the other hand, for low frequencies, a double Sonion BA driver has been chosen. In summary, the drivers used are: 1 Sonion double BA 33AJ007 (bass), 1 Knowles BA ED-29689 (midrange) and 1 Knowles BA RAF-33518 (treble).

To smooth and mix the curve, the classic 4-way electronic crossover has been integrated.

This time, the number of micro-switches has been increased: there are 3 in each capsule, allowing up to 8 different types of tuning.

The cable is composed of 8 hybrid strands, of copper and silver of 6N. It is thick, rubbery to the touch, but very soft and flexible. It is slightly rough to the touch. The different strands, of copper and silver, are easily distinguishable. The Jack cover is black, metallic and smooth, with a good size. The connector is gold-plated and its diameter is 3.5mm. The dividing piece is a black and metallic barrel. There is a round, black rubber pin with the brand logo inscribed on it. The shape over the ear is given by a slightly rigid, transparent plastic case, which is very pleasant and not very annoying. Finally, the sleeves of the MMCX connectors are black metallic cylinders, with a blue or red ring, to distinguish the channel. The MMCX connectors are gold-plated.

The capsules are perfectly constructed. As they are transparent, you can see the whole interior, how all the drivers are assembled, in a perfect way, almost handmade. The capsules have no defects and are of high quality construction. The cable is very soft and comfortable. Its hybrid aspect is original and only, its more rubbery touch, presents some strange sensation... but this is a personal appreciation, which does not limit its quality, since it is very docile, flexible and not microphonic at all. Very good cable, besides being comfortable and not very heavy.



Adjustment and Ergonomics

The shape is very similar to its brother DH3, but its volume is larger. This does not imply any change in the comfort of the current capsules. Its semi custom shape, fits very well to my morphology, fixing it with great security. With some hybrid tips, filled with foam, I get a high degree of comfort and insulation. Its nozzles are short, approximately 6mm, the same size as its diameter. The insertion is shallow, which is grateful for the use of wider tips. Tri-flange tips could be used, but in this case, the angle could represent some problem, depending on the morphology of our particular ear canal.

The softness and gumminess of the cable, added to the lightness of the cable and the subtle coating on the ear, provides a high degree of comfort. In addition, the microphone is non-existent.

Both elements, capsules and cable, form a great set, whose size, does not penalize neither the comfort, nor the adjustment.



Sound

Profile

The profile of the VG4 can be modified with the switches. Although the greatest enhancement is obtained in the lower zone, its profile is not far from balance, varying towards the warm side. Regardless of the position of the switches, their midrange, the softness and control of the treble, as well as their extension, does not fall.



Switch Positions

1 OFF - 2 OFF - 3 OFF. In short 000: Reference sound, where balance and equilibrium are combined, with a very adequate presence of bass, very juicy mid-range and controlled treble.

1 ON - 2 OFF - 3 OFF. In short mode 100: Slight enhancement of first highs. The sound acquires a little more brilliance and presence, improving in nuances and definition.

1 OFF - 2 ON - 3 OFF. In short 010: Enhancement of the central area. The sound gains in presence, roundness, body and density.

1 OFF - 2 OFF - 1 ON. In short 001: Sensitive enhancement of the lower and middle areas. The sound becomes full and warm. The presence of the bass is evident and is gained in depth and body, acquiring greater density and weight.

The rest of the combinations become more or less adequate mixes, sometimes more diffuse, to which everyone can find the taste or preference.



Bass

Starting from the 000 position, the lower zone remains very linear, with good depth and a neutral and balanced presence. Its control and colour stand out, a priori, in spite of coming from a double BA, its texture is very achieved. The amount of air that moves, is not very large, although its characteristics are very well achieved and exposed. So much so, that when the 001 mode is activated, the bass is widened and enlarged, without losing naturalness, body and sweetness. It is indisputable the quality of this double BA of Sonion, since it is not easy, to determine that the low zone, comes from a full BA. The bass has authority and a strong hit, but dry and tight. Its recovery is high and in the decay, it is possible to distinguish its BA feel, as well as in the texture of the lower part of the sub-bass, which, on the other hand, is the weakest part of the range. The lower part of the sub-bass, suffers from the BA sound and does not manage to reproduce, with all the naturalness and fidelity, the lower end . But, otherwise, the agility, the flatness and the descriptive power of the VG4 makes it one of the best Full BA bass I have ever tested in this price range. It is clear, then, that the level of fun, which is acquired in position 001, makes the rest of the modes a little forgotten. I think I've become a Full BA Bass lover...



Mids

For the middle zone, the switches have many positions. The sound, body and density can vary, depending on how they are activated. Although I prefer the 000, 001 or 010 positions, as they provide a warmth and softness, which helps to generate a more realistic and natural sound, always, in my opinion.

The mids can move from a pleasant neutrality, to rise in a greater exuberance, to end in a full body, a larger, zenithal presence and a fairly full density. All of them enjoy a clarity, already characteristic, that shows the ornamental richness they possess, without losing the naturalness and without presenting any artificiality, sibilance or lack of detail.

Again, the light and the separation, stand out in the central area of this new model of BGVP. Its luminosity brings the voices closer to our ears and the recreation of the characters acquires three-dimensionality, occupying a privileged area within the scene. The integration of all the drivers is very harmonious, since there are no gaps or integration failures between the instruments and voices of that range.

The sonority is natural, it has a warmth, but it is not totally creamy or eminently soft, because its BA profile, comes out, in its capacity of definition and in the recreation of the final details. In this way, its profile finds a balance between neutrality and a light analytical leave, fed by its good level of resolution, definition and perfectionist refinement.

These characteristics make the middle zone highly enjoyable and make it perhaps the best range of the VG4, since it has a great amount of descriptive capacity, a rich, multiple and very adaptable recreation to all genres.



Treble

In this new model, the treble can be modified, by using the switches. In this way, it is possible to gain in presence, without this implying an imbalance, nor any significant alteration within the harmony and naturalness of the whole. The VG4 is characterized by a good extension of treble, with a good amount of air. Their presence is not trimmed, but they have a very detailed profile, with elegant and gentle trebles, without being sharp, nor protruding too much, in the general sound.

By activating the 100 mode, a lively and sparkling sound is achieved, but maintaining a natural and precise color. The detail is maximized in this position and the treble is narrowed, but not sharp. The result is an advantage that allows to offer many more profiles, within the same IEM, ranging from a remarkable presence in the low area, reaching a more explicit profile in the high area.

Even so, in this position, the treble does not bite, despite its clear enhancement, as it is reproduced with great precision and speed. The sound becomes very dynamic and open, at this point, but maintaining a soft and natural feeling in the mids, giving them more clarity, detail, a more concise reproduction, but somewhat less body. On the other hand, it gains in resolution and separation, as they are freed from the higher density offered by other switch positions. The scene, at this point, feels modified, as spatiality is raised, taking the listener away from the stage, providing a relatively different point of view.



Soundstage, Separation

As it could not be otherwise, the switches also affect the scene, being able to modify, almost, to the taste. Although there is no doubt that the VG4 has a remarkable scene, it can even be tuned to the outstanding. In the bass boost mode, the stage looks deep, almost round. The greater body and density bring both the instrumentation and the voices closer to the listener. In the midrange mode, the stage is widened and the area is perceived as more liberated, with more air, expanding the music in width and height. In the mode of greater presence of treble, the greater clarity and better definition, gives the scene more technical planes, gaining in three-dimensionality and increasing the separation.

Overall, the scene continues to be reconstructed from the central range. However, on this occasion, the focus is not so much on the vocalists, but rather the technical improvements imply that there is a greater instrumental role, improving this aspect. On this basis, the stage is drawn from this starting point. Meanwhile, the side bands help the scene to expand in different directions: the bass generates depth and the treble helps to separate the music, to draw a more spherical image. Meanwhile, the midrange stays in that delicious limbo, which the listener doesn't want to leave.



Comparisons

BGVP ArtMagic DH3

One of the obligatory comparisons is with his younger brother, the DH3, who has brought me so much joy. There are many similarities between the two, as both models use the same Knowles BA drivers, for mid and high. The shape of the capsules is similar, being slightly thicker those of the VG4. Both have microswitches, two the DH3, three the VG4. The cable is very similar, but in the VG4 it is thicker, more comfortable and flexible, an improvement. Both the packaging and the accessories are practically the same.

As for the sound differences, it is assumed that the DH3 has a dynamic driver for the low zone and the VG4 has a double Sonion BA. This configuration gives a better performance to the new model, being more sensitive and easy to move.

The first sensation that can be appreciated, between both models, is clearly the impression produced by the low zone. In the DH3, the dynamic driver has more influence on the rest of the ranges, while in the VG4, the sound flows cleaner, freer and more precise, gaining in clarity and resolution, something that the mids, highs and details appreciate. The DH3's bass is darker and heavier, and also slower. It is true that the sub-bass appreciates the dynamic driver, but the execution weighs down the dynamism of the area, being less agile and recovering more slowly, leaving a darker and warmer pose, with a heavier and dustier texture. Meanwhile, the VG4, feel vivid, elastic, graceful and dynamic. Their recovery is faster, there is more light and separation between the lower notes, a more cheerful colour, greater descriptive power and resolution. It is clear that the VG4's hitting is not as noticeable as that produced by the DH3's, nor are the sub-bass notes reproduced as real and pleasant, but their quality improves overall to the sound.

In the middle zone, changes are also observed, more than could be expected a priori. Starting with the voices, in the VG4, their projection is even clearer, more vivid and isolated. They have more definition and feel less mixed. In addition, they have more nuances and details, offering even more emotion and enthusiasm. In DH3, voices sound warmer and softer, with less ornamentation, wider and less resolution. Something similar happens with the instruments, where the VG4 are able to provide a greater weight to each note, while the DH3 are more limp, less decisive and with less definition and micro details. But, the clear difference between both models, in this range, is in the texture and timbre. The former proves to be more refined, accurate and realistic, with better detail, descriptiveness and fidelity. The second, the timbre, is sweeter, clearer, natural and faithful.

In the upper zone, the VG4 demonstrates its quality, not only because it has a dedicated and exclusive position, but also because its presence and extension is superior. It seems unbelievable, as BGVP, they have improved the treble, using the same drivers. In the 100 mode, the extension, presence, amount of detail and definition, overwhelms by comparison. The DH3 has a softer character in this range, while the VG4, even in its 000 mode, draws a more natural and less clipped area, showing off its better reproduction and extension.

At scene level, the VG4's greater separation and amount of air expands the image in various directions. The switches are able to control this expansion. While in the DH3, something similar happens, but with a more limited effect. The better and greater presence of treble, the more contained low zone, the greater definition and resolution of the mids, generates an expanded and large scene in the VG4, with that extra clarity, separation and a darker background, which offers a qualitative leap.

In short, the VG4 improves in almost every aspect to the DH3, except for the sub-bass, which sounds more faithful and natural, in the little brother.



Conclusion

BGVP has achieved it again, they have surpassed my beloved DH3, making a new model that, starting from the same base, has known how to squeeze the potential of the used drivers, adding a new one, to the lower zone. For this they have chosen a full BA configuration and they have not made a mistake. They have expanded the tuning possibilities, adding a micro switch, offering a greater sound versatility, extending the high zone and even improving the middle zone, starting from a double Sonion BA, for bass, which provides a lot of quality to the low zone. The new VG4 is a great buy for its price. They are very adaptable, comfortable, its cable is better and its sound has improved, both in dynamism, tuning, extension, scene, clarity, presence, resolution, timbre, naturalness, detail and resolution. Excellent!



Sources Used During the Analysis

• Burson Audio Playmate
• HiBy R3 Pro.
• JWD JWM-115 Review

Ratings

• Construction and Design: 92
• Adjustment/Ergonomics: 80
• Accessories: 91
• Bass: 86
• Mids: 93
• Treble: 90
• Separation: 92
• Soundstage: 92
• Quality/Price: 93

Purchase link

https://es.aliexpress.com/item/4000166039379.html

You can read the full review in Spanish here:

https://hiendportable.com/2020/07/04/bgvp-artmagic-vg4-review/

BGVP VG4 Review just arrived! BGVP ArtMagic VG4 comes with 9 sound presets, MMCX connectors and close to CIEM grade isolation experience. Thanks to BGVP for sending this review unit.

Box, Unboxing, Headphone, Cable

Box and contents are just like other latest BGVP IEMs: Headphone illustration on the white surface, on top left corner there's model name and on bottom right there's driver logos. Hi-Res logo on down left. On the back there's specs and address of the company. After take this white cardboard off, actual box appears. Inside the black box, canvas-like carrying case, IEMs and paperwork&earphone tips inside beige colored envelope. Cable is in the canvas case.


VG4 have 4BA and those are Knowles and Sonion armatures. Sonion armatures are rare and exclusive armatures that have very high quality and price. With pignose nozzle stem the sound is very close to you, in the other hand with solid one piece finish the structure completes itself to Custom Universal In-Ear Monitor. MMCX connectors color coded blue for left and red for right on cable, also there's L and R indicators on ear side.


Cable Quality is outstanding. VG4's cable is better than Faaeal Hibiscus and Bqeyz Spring 1's cables. Braided on 4x4 structure while keeping its flexibility. There's only one strain relief and it's on jack plug, there's ~1cm margin for mobile device cases. Y split shaped like grain rice and chin strap is circular, have BGVP logo on it.

• Drivers – 4 balanced armatures (2 Sonion + 2 Knowles)
• 3 tuning switches.
• Impedance – 12 Ω
• Sensitivity – 110 dB dB/mW.
• Frequency response – 12Hz-40kHz.
• Channel difference – ≤1dB.
• Distortion rate – ≤0.5% (1kHz)
• Rated power – 6mW.

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BGVP ArtMagic VG4- Sound

Sound is partially dark while background is whole dark. Tuning sounds mellow, clarity is high. Even in this heavy metal track everything is on surface. There's no spikes and flows coherently. Strong, wide staged and airy, instrument separation is really good and instruments sounds 9/10 holographic. Everything's in front of you. Even in the electronic music you can hear those effects organic, full and tight just like real. I've heard this on Final Audio E1000 and Sennheiser Amperior before. VG4 got really good layering too, and have decent details.
In the Hans Zimmer Orchestra -which i oftenly use- while the bass instruments heats up; sitar, piano, strings... every one of them hearable and all of the splendid in the stage comes to your ear like an open-back headphone. We owe this to organic depth and vertical height of the stage. In ~5th minute i've heard choir sings on higher and further just like the live performance! I've experienced this on few headphones.


Due to its holographic presentation, every instrument on the stage have their own body and lastly if I must add, the sounstage is placed near the listener with all the reflection capacity it has.


(Sound characteristics may vary with switches on the VG4. I've used 1-1-1 preset on this review.)

Bass, Mid, Treble

Bass performance little bit depends on presets. They are not much in quantity but quality is good, fading in beats are naturally hearable. In the meantime you won't hear midbass thump in Metallica songs. Bass does not goes down much but you can experience comfortable listening with VG4's not bright and mellow sound.



I've mentioned naturality in midrange. Since the sound signature is like wide U, mids are recessed just a little bit but even in the complex songs you can track them one by one. In a trio band, Le Trio Joubran as i hear there's decent space in every percussive & strings therefore instruments can reflect their naturality. While we listen to a modern hip-hop song with 5-6 channel (Monitored with Cubase) the sound difference is audible with VG4.


Treble never does disturbs. If you listen carefully Metallica's intro you can hear Lars Ulrich's soft touches on cymballs with drumsticks on. This kind of detail might be annoying but since VG4 does not focuses on microdetails and sounds little bit dark and controlled you can eliminate this.

BGVP ArtMagic VG4 - Conclusion

In this review BGVP VG4 performed really good and passed in every field therefore it does respectfully claim its "Artmagic" name. Quality of the sound, sealed fit in the ear and joy on orchestral tracks makes it worth its price. I would recommend BGVP ArtMagic VG4 if you are looking for an upgrade.

Before starting this review, I would like to share technical aspects and package details.

Also, I would like to thanks to BGVP Audio for this great opportunity. Here is the link of VG4: https://penonaudio.com/bgvp-artmagic-vg4.html


Specifications:

Drive unit: 4 balanced armatures

Rated power: 6mW

Distortion rate: ≤0.5% (1kHz)

Sensitivity: 115dB SPL/MW

Channel balanced: ≤1dB

Input impedance: 16 Ω

Frequency response: 10Hz-40kHz

Cable length: 1.2m ±5%

Weight: about 4.2g per unit

Plug: 3.5mm straight plug

Waterproof: IPX3

Dustproof: IPX3


Package Contents:

BGVP VG4

S/M/L vocal eartips

S/M/L balanced eartips

Storage case

Brush


Test Equipment:

THX AAA 789

Earmen TR-Amp

Topping D50s

Opus #1

Chord Mojo


Package, Design & Isolation;

Let’s start with unboxing. VG4 comes with a moderately big white cardboard box. After open the outer box, there is also a black box. There are 6 pairs of silicone tips and 1 pair of foam tips. Blue tips are for the vocal performance and white tips are for the bass performance, that’s what BGVP says. There is a nylon carrying case which is pretty small and easy to carry out.

Shell is made of resin and there is a ton of alternative colors that you can select or customize for your personal preferences. Also, you go with the custom shell as well. My VG4 is a translucent color on both shells and faceplate. It is really beautiful and I always like the translucent shell because you can see all the drivers and electronic parts inside. VG4 is not a small earphone but its shape is quite ergonomic and it is easy to wear it without any hassle. VG4 has 3 tuning switches, so you can try and find out which ones suit your preferences more. Also, it provides a great seal and isolation. Stock cable looks great and feels great. It is soft and light which easy to wear it. There are no microphonic issues whatsoever.

Overall unboxing experience, material, and build quality are impressive for its retail price.


Sound:

VG4 has a neutral but slightly warm sound and also has a great balance between frequencies. It is very safe tuning and easy to hook most people. Top to the bottom, it has great control on all frequencies without exaggerating any sound. You can also change the sound with the tuning switches and it really works. I’ve tried so many earphones that has switches and none of them were as effective as like VG4. These switches are work and make some significant changes to the sound.

The treble extends pretty well and has a bright and clean presentation, but I still think that it’s not the best area of VG4. Treble extends very well and has great extension and resonance, especially in stringed instruments, but relatively not very good in detail and resolution. Generally, BGVP has followed an extremely safe way of tuning the treble. I’m not actually a treble-head, but I still wish it was a bit more in quantity. The level of detail and resolution is very good for the price for sure, but… When switch number 1 is activated, it opens the upper mids and the tops have a more airy and clean presentation. There is absolutely no harsh presentation or sibilance as expected in the treble and has a smooth and non-aggressive presentation overall.

Mid frequencies have been my favorite area on VG4. It is extremely clean, detailed, and has a good tonality. Also, it has a very good body and fills well under the overall sound. Both the instruments and the vocal performance are definitely great. It was very enjoyable for me to listen to Le Trio Joubran tracks that I listened to and tested on my many earphones. I love the textured and emotional presentation on the stringed instruments. I think it has enough body, but the number 3 switch adds more body by activating it. I both liked and did not like to activate it. I like it because it creates a more emotional atmosphere in vocals and makes the vocalist closer to you, and it fills the stage more. What I don’t like is that it relatively narrows the stages to its width and it is not as good as separating the instrument. (when comparing switch off) Of course, this is my personal preference. In general, I really like the performance of the mids and it is one of the best earphones I have heard in this price band.

The VG4 has high-quality bass in terms of both speed and control. There is no bulky and punchy presentation and it is not on a bass head level. It cannot be called balanced or flat, but it certainly does not have a warm presentation. The bass manages to stay in control in fast tracks and doesn’t put the overall presentation in a muddy atmosphere. However, if switch 3 is activated, the bass increases both in quantity and power. I thought it would create a somewhat artificial and uncontrolled boost, but it is very controlled and managed to boost the bass frequencies without harassing other areas. BGVP has done quite well in terms of tuning. The bass drivers do not have a dry and cold presentation, even if I did not know that it has balanced armature drivers, I might say it is the dynamic driver. I found it very successful in tonality. Sub-bass is also very good at going deep, but still, it doesn’t have that powerful, bulky depth of the dynamic drivers.

The soundstage is quite wide and I can easily say that it is above the average in this price range. instruments sounds spread out very wide area and offer a spacious and airy presentation. The stage depth is also very successful and it is good at imaging and layering. The background is black enough to provide a clean presentation.


BGVP VG4 vs Audiosense T800:

Comparison:

T800 is one of my favorite earphones and its sound performance is way above its price tag in my opinion. Both earphones are beautiful in terms of material and build quality and ergonomics are great on both earphones. T800 has 8 armatures drivers per side while Vg4 has 4 drivers. T800 is warmer in tonality with a thicker and bolder presentation while VG4 has a more balanced side and slightly warmer. Trebles are airier and have more sparkle on VG4 while T800 is smoother and tamed. Details are more prominent and audible on VG4. The vocal performance is more forward, organic and natural on T800 while VG4 is more balanced, and laid back when I compare it side by side. Instruments are thicker and bolder on T800 and have more body overall. VG4 is slightly laid back and there is more room between instruments and vocals. This is where the difference is huge. Bass is more powerful, impactful, and deep on T800 which provides much more quantity while VG4 has more on the controlled and tighter side. It cannot match in terms of quantity and power but it provides more quality and detailed bass performance. The soundstage has better width and depth feeling VG4 while T800 is slightly narrower than VG4, but still has good wideness and depth overall.


BGVP VG4 vs Astell & Kern Billie Jean:

Billie Jean has 2 balanced armature drivers per unit while VG4 has 4 drivers as you know. Billie Jean shell material is ABS plastic and its body shape is way smaller than VG4. Although body material is ABS, it doesn’t look flimsy and cheap, but VG4 looks and feels much better. BJ provides a pretty good seal and isolation on-ear but VG4 doing a better job both isolation and seal. Bass is quite powerful and deep on Billie Jean and also it is not as controlled as VG4. VG4 is tighter and much more controlled more articulated. Side by side comparison, BJ is muddy and uncontrolled and resolution is not as good as VG4. BJ has more bodied and forward mid-presentation while VG4 has a more laid-back presentation. The resolution and details level is much better on VG4. Trebles are more pronounced and extended on VG4 which provides better details and resolution while BJ is more tamed and almost it feels like rolled off. The soundstage is wider and deeper on VG4 and the instrument's separation is much better.


Verdict:

BGVP has made a great impact on the market with their DM6 iem, and has been compared to more expensive earphones and liked by many people. It is very clear that BGVP aims to continue the success that they have achieved with the DM6 in their new series. It is especially pleasing that they making very good products in terms of price performance. This is a very expensive hobby and companies with the least damage to the wallet are always loved. The VG4 is a very successful product with its sound quality and the successful tuning of the switches it has. I can easily say that it offers much better performance than its price tag and I can definitely recommend in this price band.

Introduction
BGVP is the Chinese company, they launched the really famous DM6 back in 2018 and the follow up by DM7 in 2019, hopefully the DM8 will come out soon, BGVP has been well known as the IEM brand that has relatively affordable for it’s price. In this review I am checking out the VG4 in their Artmagic lined up, the Artmagic lined up are familiar with the tuning dip switches that it offer.
The price of VG4 is $229USD, the driver configuration is 4BA.




Disclaimer
I purchased it from their Amazon Australia myself for retail price, and the review will be based on my honest opinion through the music I listen to.


Package & Accessories
The package is simple and well presented, it come with the moderate white box, with the brand logo, model name and other information at the front, the brand name at the side, whereas the specifications at the back. Open the cover, their is the black cardboard box inside indicate the brand name at middle, the IEM and other accessories are clearly presented in order.






Accessories list:
1 pair x BGVP ArtMagic VG4
1 piece x Detachable Cable with MMCX Connector
3 pairs x Vocal Eartips (S/M/L)
3 pairs x Bass Eartips (S/M/L)
3 pairs x Standard Silicone Eartips (S/M/L)
1 pair x Foam Eartip
1 piece x Cleaning Tool/Sound Switching Tool
1 piece x Zipper Case
1 piece x User Manual/warranty card/Quick Start Guide



The accessories it come with are pretty well for its price range, it come with the small zipper case which can store one pair of IEM.





It provide different ear tips for users to get the right fit and sound, it come with three pair of ear tips for each of vocal, bass and standard, and one additional foam tips.





It offer the 8 core braided cable with 6N high purity copper and silver strands cable, it has 3.5mm straight connector in metal shell, it feature the MMCX connector with the red and blue indicator to show left and right, the Y-splitter is in the metal shell as well as the MMCX male connector, whereas the cable slider are in the rubber-ish material. The cable is overall decent, soft and feel durable.



Design & Build & Comfort
The VG4 has semi-custom style design, the shell are transparent and really clear, it also offer variety of shell and faceplate options to be chose from. The shell are printed by the EnvisionTEC 3D printer, shell are made with skin friendly PMMA acrylic fiber. There are the BGVP silver logo on both of faceplate, and laser engraving model name in inner shell of the shell, while the three dips switches tuning panel are on the rear side of both IEM. There are no vent on VG4.





The build quality on VG4 are really solid and feel durable, the shell are finished in high standard, it is well rounded, without any gap and sharp edges. The VG4 only has the resin filled in at the sound bore part of IEM for holding the component. The BA driver are perfectly placed at the place, while the wire inside are really neatly organized. It has two sound bores and holes for each two driver, the nozzle are perfectly drilled into two holes. The MMCX female connectors are tight, and do not have sign of wear and tear after I swapped few times of cable. The dips switch are as functional as I received it after I switch it for a least hundred times.





The fits of VG4 are really good, thanks to the semi-custom design. The nozzle are on the short side, but it doesn’t effect the fit in anyway, I actually find out the short nozzle can fit into my ear without coming out much from my ear, which is good idea for listen to music while sleeping. The VG4 also offer the custom fit option for provide the better fit. The isolation is above the average, without a lot of pressure build up.






Technical specifications:
Driver : 4 balanced armature (Knowles ED-26989 + Knowles RAF-33518 + 2 SONION 33AJ007).
Distortion rate: ≤0.5% (1kHz)
Sensitivity: 115dB SPL/MW
Input impedance: 16 Ω
Frequency response: 10Hz-40kHz


Sound
Tuning switch systems summary:
The VG4 offer the three tuning switches, the switches indicate in number 1, 2 and 3 (from left to right). Push the switch up is on, while push it down is off.



OFF-OFF-OFF
This is reference mode on VG4, it has close to neutral and well balanced tonality.

ON-OFF-OFF
It boost the upper midrange and also on treble, the female vocal sound slightly thinner and lively compare to reference mode, the instrument sound more attacked as well, the soundstage are wider and more detail in comparison to reference mode. But it may cause fatiguing for someone.

OFF-ON-OF
It filled up the lower midrange, the male vocal sound more fuller and emotional compare to reference mode. The female vocal sound less thinner and fatiguing compare to reference mode.

OFF-OFF-ON
It boost the bass and also slightly on the sub bass, even with bass boost it still do not reach the bass head level. It bring the overall tonality slightly warmer in comparison to reference mode.

ON-ON-OFF
As I mentioned, If turn on the switch 1, the female vocal sound thin and instrument sound attacked and slightly sharp, and it cause fatiguing for me.
But by also turn on the switch 2, it can reduce the sharpness and attacked on the instrument, whereas the female vocal can sound more natural, it also bring tonality more warmer compare to only switch 1 on. This is my favorite mode.


Paring
The VG4 come with three different types of ear tips, I find out the blue(vocal) ear tips has similar design to the Spinfit, and it provide the best fit in this three type of ear tips, but it can cause fatiguing in the upper midrange. The white(bass), It has more harder inner core compare to blue ear tips, I find out it has more warmer and less fatiguing sound in comparison to blue ear tips.
The black ear tips are has slightly softer inner core compare to white ear tips, it has slightly warmer sound compare to blue ear tips, and it is still some where fatiguing in upper midrange. In this review I will be using the white ear tips as it is my favorite.




Overall tonality (The review will be based on my favorite ON-ON-OFF)
The VG4 has neutral and slightly bright tonality, it present well balanced and clean notes in the dark background.

Bass
The Bass is linear and close to neutral, with moderate amount of sub bass, and moderate extension and decay speed. The Bass has average impact, rumble and punch. It has above the average detail and clarity. The Bass has good level of speed and control. It is overall tight and well and well controlled bass.

Turn on the switch 3, the bass feel slightly more body and and depth, with slightly more rumble, but does not effect the punch and decay. It still has same level of detail and clarity compare to OFF position, it does not affect the speed and control as well, so if you feel bass is not enough weight and rumble on OFF position, you can turn on the switch 3.

Mids
The midrange is close to neutral and well balanced with slightly warm tuned. The low mids has moderate amount of bodies with good amount of depth presented in clear and clean manner. The upper midrange has above average transparency level, presented in realistic and lively manner. The mid range show really good levels of detail, clarity and transparency with out sound too thin or fatiguing.

Turn the switch 2 to OFF position, but leave the switch 1 on ON position, the mids sound more thinner, and it present the notes with more clarity. The lower mids sound slight less bodies compare to ON position, while the upper mids sound more lively but less natural. It also change the tonality to slightly less warmer.

Turn the switch 1 to OFF position, but leave the switch 2 on ON position,the mids has slightly less clarity compare to switch 1 on the ON position, because of the slightly warmer tuned. The lower mids sound more bodies and more emotional, while the upper mids sound fuller but slightly less lively compare to switch 1 on ON position. The only reason I like switch 1 to ON position is because of the treble, which I will mention in next section.

Treble
The treble is bright compare to other IEM I owned. It presented in smooth and highly detailed manner. The treble has good amount of sparkle and energy at the top end. It has above the average detail retrieval and clarity. It also has good amount of airiness and sparkle in the treble.

Turn the switch 1 to OFF position, the treble sound slightly less brightness and less attack on instrument compare to ON position. While the switch on ON position increase the overall clarity, and adding the additional sparkle and energy on the top end. If you enjoy treble and like some rock or jazz music I suggest you to try it. But it may cause fatiguing, that is why I like to turn both of 1 and 2 switches on.

Soundstage and imaging
It has above average depth and wide.
The imaging are really good.


Comparison (Based on ON-ON-OFF

IKKO OH10 ($189USD)

Bass
The sub bass has more amount on OH10, and also provide better extension and decay. The VG4 has less bass quantity compare to OH10, the OH10 has better weight, rumble and impact, while the VG4 provide better speed, control and clarity. Turn on the switches 3, the VG4 has same amount of rumble that OH10 provide without become muddy. Both has fairly good levels of detail.

Mids
The OH10 has more recessed midrange compare to VG4, VG4 has slightly fuller midrange presentation compare to OH10. Both of them have same amount of bodies in lower midrange, while the VG4 sound clearer. The upper midrange sound more forward and thinner on OH10, while VG4 sound more natural and fuller. The VG4 did better jobs in term of midrange clarity, transparency and detail.

Treble
The treble on both are toward the bright side, but VG4 are even brighter. The VG4 has better lower treble transitions and better treble extension compare to OH10, the OH10 has slightly thin timbre on treble and sound noticeably crisper, while the VG4 are fuller but more attacked. The VG4 also done better in term of detail. Both have pretty good level of clarity and airiness.

Soundstage and imaging
Both have similar size of sound stage.
The VG4 did better job on imaging.


Akoustyx R-220 ($199USD)

Bass
The sub bass and bass are pretty linear and flat on R220, while the VG4 has slightly more bodies in comparison. The sub bass has better extension and decay on the VG4. The bass on VG4 are slightly fuller, while the R-220 are fully dead. The bass has more rumble and impact on the VG4, while the both of them has good punch and speed. The clarity and detail are slightly better on VG4.

Mids
The midrange has again with fuller presentation on VG4, where the R-220 are more clean but thinner. The lower midrange has more bodies on the VG4. The upper midrange has thinner timbre and more emphasis on R-220, whereas the VG4 has lively yet natural presentation. The detail are better on VG4, both have good clarity and transparency levels.

Treble
The treble are more brighter and extended further on VG4. Both have fairly open and airy treble presentation, but R-220 has more peaky upper treble, while the VG4 has more natural presentation. They both has good clarity and detail, but VG4 are tad better.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage are wider on VG4, with same depth.
The imaging are better on VG4 as well.


Oriveti OH300 ($299USD)

Bass
The bass on both are clean and linear, the bass on the VG4 are not far to the neutral, while the bass OH300 has more fuller presentation. The OH300 has more sub bass quantity than the VG4, the sub bass extension and decay are slightly better on OH300. The bass has slightly more punch and rumble on OH300, turn on the switches 3 on VG4, there are same amount of impact on bass as OH300. The bass on VG4 has slightly better speed and details, both have good level of clarity and control.

Midrange
The midrange on O300 are slightly fuller, they both have really realistic timbre and not far to the neutral. The lower mids on OH300 has more Slightly more bodies compare to VG4, both have clean and slightly warm presentation. The upper midrange on VG4 are lively and natural, while the OH300 are even more natural in timbre and sound more without sharpness. The VG4 has slightly more transparency in mids, while both have good levels of detail and clarity.

Treble
The treble on both of them are well tuned and both toward the natural side. The VG4 sound more airy and open, with slightly more attacked, whereas the OH300 sound more relax and natural, bring to overall fatiguing-free listening. Both of them has good amount of detail and sparkle.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage are wider on VG4, but slightly more deeper on OH300
Both of them did really good jobs on imaging.


Final audio E5000 ($269USD)

Bass
Both of sub bass and bass has more quantity on the E5000, while the VG4 are not far to neutral in this section, the sub bass has better extension and decay on the E5000. The bass has more dynamic and slow presentation on the E5000, where as the VG4 has quicker and less dynamic bass. The bass has more weight, punch and rumble on E5000, while the VG4 has better speed and pretty similar amount of impact but faster. The clarity and overall control better on the VG4.

Mids
The midrange on VG4 are not far to neutral, while E5000 are slightly U shape, sound noticeably thicker and lusher. The lower midrange has more bodies on E5000 and fuller in comparison, while the VG4 did better job in term of clarity. The upper midrange are fuller and more soothing on E5000, while the VG4 sound more lively and vividly with less bodies. The VG4 has better transparency and detail in the midrange.

Treble
The treble has better extensions on the VG4, and sound more brighter, while the E5000 sound laid back with slightly dark tonality. The VG4 has crisper and more open presentation, while the E5000 are more relax and take fuller presentation manner. The VG4 has better detail retrieval and sparkle amount.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage are wider on VG4, the imaging are also better on VG4 as well.


Obravo Cupid ( $250-350USD)

Bass
The sub bass and bass has more quantity on Cupid. The Cupid provide better sub bass extension and decay. The bass are slightly more cleaner and linear on the VG4, while the Cupid is clean but fuller. The bass has better speed and control on the VG4, while the bass on Cupid has more weight, and owning more punch and rumble. Both of them has good impact, but VG4 did it faster. The detail and clarity are better on VG4.

Mids
The midrange has slightly fuller expression on VG4, while the Cupid are thinner in timbre. The lower midrange on both have good bodies, but VG4 are slightly fuller in timbre. The upper midrange has more emphasis on Cupid, it is more aggressive than the VG4, while the VG4 sound lively and smooth. The clarity and detail are both pretty good. The transparency level are better on VG4.

Treble
The treble has smoother presentation compare to the peaky treble on the Cupid. The treble has extended further on the VG4. The treble on VG4 has smooth yet crisp presentation on the top end, while the Cupid has peaky and more airiness presentation on top end, both of them are fairly open expression, and provide good amount of detail and clarity.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage are both fairly open, while the imaging are both pretty good as well.


Tansio Mirai TSMR-4PRO ($319USD

Bass
The VG4 bass has leaner bass, even when the number 3 switch on. The sub bass has more quantity with slightly fuller presentation on 4PRO. The bass has more weight and sound thicker on the 4PRO, while the VG4 hit harder and and transition faster. The 4PRO and VG4 both have good levels of punch and control, but the VG4 has a better dynamic driver likes bass. The detail retrieval and clarity are both pretty well.

Mids
The midrange are both tuned leaner with the emphasis on upper midrange. The lower midrange on 4PRO has slightly more body and lushness, on the other hand VG4 has slightly better clarity but sound leaner. The upper midrange has similar type of tuning, but the 4PRO has more forwarded and vividly presentation, whereas the VG4 are slightly backward and less prominent here. The detail retrieval are tad better on 4PRO

Treble
The treble are brighter and more attacked on VG4, while the treble on 4PRO slightly smoother with more bodies. The treble are tuned very similar and both extended well. The mid treble probably a little more attacked on VG4, while the 4PRO are slightly smoother. The upper treble have more sparkle and crisp definition on VG4, on the other hand the 4PRO are tuned smoother with shiny top end. The detail retrieval and clarity are tad better VG4.

Soundstage and imaging
The soundstage is wider and feel more on VG4, while the depth are fairly similar.
The imaging are better on 4PRO.




Conclusion
The VG4 is tuned really well, it is realistic and well balanced IEM presented in slightly bright but smooth manner. It has realistic timbre, especially the instrument and female vocal sound really realistic in ON-ON-OFF combination. It also offer the strong technical for its price range, the tuning switch also give you the significant change to the tuning. The VG4 will be the best for $200-250 USD price range, until I found other to replace it. Thank you for reading, HAPPY LISTENING!

BGVP offical website: http://en.bgvp-hifi.com/
BGVP Artmagic VG4 product page: http://en.bgvp-hifi.com/product/info/11
BGVP AliExpress offical store: https://www.aliexpress.com/store/5256156?spm=2114.12010617.pcShopHead_383438230.0

For once, I'll put my sound analysis after my considerations, which due to some peculiar aspects of this IEM are needed as a sort of lengthy foreword to understand my experience and idea of this IEM.

This story starts on the tones of a horror novel. Right after unboxing, as per usual default I plug them to my R5. After 10 minutes I was about to trash them. They just sounded horrible. As in: I don’t remember last time I heard such an unhearable crap.

Bass was totally hollow. Not only “unbodied” as you might somehow expect by bad-tuned BA, but really lacking entirely. Almost as if the tips were not getting the seal. But they were.

Treble was live, sparkly and full of details – but way too much. It was also sibilant but most of all screachy, peaky, simply definitely unpleasant.

Trash or try? Try…

First attempt: tip rolling.

VG4 comes with 3 sets of tips (S/M/L each). Pre-installed are the black ones, soft silicon wide bore – these are what I initially used.

Blue stock ones (supposedly “for vocals”) are a pure joke: their stem is too large, and does not grip properly on the nozzles. When I tried them on they slid off the housings and I had to remove them from my canals with a pair of tweezers

White ones are stiffer and therefore recommended “for bass”. Which is kinda true, they enhance bass a bit (due to a firmer seal, as normal) but they also make sibilance even worse for me.

So much for stock tips. On with rolling. I tried: Spinfit, SpiralDot, SednaEarfit Light, SednaEarfit, Radius DeepMount, Symbio Peel, Final E, Acoustune ET07. The sole ones taming sibilance (for my ears) are SpiralDots. OK, on with them.

Sibilance is solved by the tips. SpiralDots are relatively stiff so bass gets a bit more bodied, but nothing remotely enough to call them decent. All the rest remains pure crap.

Is it maybe a never-so-severe-before pairing issue ??

So let’s try with my Fiio BTR5. Same stuff. With my Fiio X3-III. Same stuff. With my Meizu HDP and 2 other DAC dongles. Same, barred non-resolving variations.

Meh

X3-III is the warmest of all those sources, and in facts it tames trebles “a bit”. The situation remains crappy but why not trying to play with that a bit. So I keep X3-III in the game, lower volume to zero and start progressively raising to hear what happens.

VG4s are quite sensitive (110dB) so already at 20/120 they get nicely loud and vivid. Too bad that already at 20/120 trebles start going nuts. Bass is “off” or something, very hollow, un-present.

I keep going up. At 28/120: boom! Bass “turns on”. Instantly. Trebles get even shittier in the meanwhile.

And, almost immediately afterwards (31/120) basses go into evident distortion. In the meanwhile, trebles shout and peak-out like crazy.

One step back: at 30/120 mid and sub-bass “sound about right”… almost always. “Sometimes” they suddenly turn off, then on again, and so on. At 31/120 they stay on, but almost always distorting.

VG4 have a declared avg impedance of 12 Ω. That’s the problem.

Technically, it’s not a problem with or about VG4 to be honest. Fact is that all of my sources have a minimum recommended load impedance of 16 Ω. So by pairing with VG4 it’s me asking them to do something “out” of their scope. Can’t blame them.

It's equally honest to note that the overwhelming majority of portable budget source, and most of mid-tier ones do support 16 Ω ++ loads, not lower. This leads into wondering how brilliant is BGVP’s commercial choice about designing an IEM requiring special sources to drive. More on this later. Let’s go back to the technical part.

Barred exceptionally lucky cases, the pair of VG4 with my owned sources technically simply “could not” work. I’ve not been lucky, and in facts it didnt work.

Not going to write a treaty here but it’s worth to remember that low impedance IEMs sound louder or quiter, and “better” or “worse”, depending on how much current flows through them - unlike higher impedance drivers, which sound better or worse depending on how much voltage they get.

Portable sources have a much easier time providing good voltage swing into moderate impedance headphones, while it is much more difficult to design portable devices providing a high and accurately-managed current flow into low impedance IEMs. And, the lower the impedance, the exponentially harder the task. That’s why most budget- and even mid-tier portable audio devices are officially specced for impedance loads 16 Ω up.

So to find out how these VG4 really sound I have two options: find (borrow, buy…) a 12Ω-load-certified source and/or “fix” the situation externally.

The latter option seemed to me the golden opportunity to justify trying an item I’ve been watching for a while, but I never had the occasion (or the excuse…) to put to work: Ifi-Audio IEMatch.




IEMatch is presented as a one of a kind device.

It’s supposed to stay in the middle of the analog path, between the Amp and the IEM, much like a plug-size-adjusting adapter. It contains passive circuitry that, according to its specs:

• Presents the upstream Amp analog output with a predefined load impedance of 16 Ω
• Applies a significant attenuation to the analog signal passing through, selectable from two available preset values: – 12dB (“High setting”) and – 24dB (“Ultra setting”)
• Presents the downstream IEM with 2 possible Output Impedance values: 2.5 Ω (when “High setting” is selected) or 1 Ω (with “Ultra setting”)
• Is supposed not to introduce any FR or other sound alteration in the process

The declared main design purpose for IEMatch is to clean-off the hiss affecting ultra sensitive IEMs. In my case the idea is using IEMatch as a “high class impedance adapter”.

Once VG4s are connected to IEMatch, and that is connected that to my R5, the R5 will “sense” a 16 Ω load instead of a 12 Ω one, which will make its output circuitry behave within its designed range. On the opposite end, VG4 might potentially not “like” IEMatch’s High Setting too much as IEMs/HPs “sound best” when connected to output impedances not greater than 1/8th of their internal one. So I expect to get best results (if all goes well, and Ifi Audio’s specs are true to their product) on Ultra setting.

Which means I need to be prepared to cope with a -24dB attenuation. That’s a lot, and I do mean a lot. This is why for my test I got a IEMatch 2.5 (balanced ended) version: to exploit R5’s balanced output power reaching up to 1040mW into 16 Ω at fullscale.

And boy did it work !!

Starting from the bottom, R5 did keep its power promise. While R5 makes VG4 “badly shout” at 30/100 volume when straight-connected, I can get +- the same SPL via IEMatch High at 70/100, and Ultra at 95/100. And that’s on Low Gain so I still have the +6dB R5’s High Gain “reserve” available if need be.

What’s most important is that VG4 via IEMatch has a wonderful sound. And I really mean it.

Here below I’ll put my usual table-style analysis but I found VG4’s overall sound so good that I deem worth adding a more discursive description.

While this article is centered on VG4 lets first complete the brief about IEMatch behaviour in this case.
Exactly as theoretically expected :

• Interposing IEMatch totally solved R5’s inability to deliver correct powering to VG4
• When driven under IEMatch High setting (2,5 Ω output impedance) VG4 (12 Ω load impedance) sounds perceivably bassier, treble-tamed and narrower compared to IEMatch Ultra setting option (1 Ω output impedance). That’s totally physiological given Zout differences.
• So to let them play at their best I need to drive VG4 through IEMatch Ultra – hoorray for R5’s power!

Now finally on to VG4’s sound.

I’d one-line VG4 as a less elegant, yet more energetic and orchestral TIN P1.

With all switches on 0 position (more on this later) the general tonality is exceptionally clear-neutral. All sections (bass mid and treble) feature very fast transients, as on the other hand one would expect from BA drivers. Same general league as TIN P1, which is even faster though.

Unlike P1, VG4 bass curve is ruler flat, no rolloff in the subs. Beyond that, it sounds much fuller than P1, punchier, more engaging, still absolutely bleed-free. A very centered compromise between precision and body.

Mids are slightly recessed, quite defined and reasonably pleasant. Male vocals definitely better than Female, both, together with other instruments like guitars, benefit from SW2 (see below) the end result being good Males, just decent Females. In terms of quality, we are not in the same league as P1 here, not even close actually.

However good the lows are, the highs are even better. Again, I can hear a speed similar to P1 but with a world more of dynamics and rhythm. As much as P1 is at the same time crisp and liquid and relaxing, VG4 treble is full, sparkly, defined and entertaining. Details are eons ahead of P1, in the league of Shuoer Tape to make another comparison, but without a screech, zing or shouty peak, and most of all no hint of that somewhat “metallic” halo which I often find associated to highly-detailed treble presentations. Trebles are at the same time greatly detailed, full, and musical.

Now that VG4 is properly amped, sibilance also goes away and I can safely fallback into adopting stock black (wide bore) tips.

In addition to lows and trebles, the other VG4 fortes are no doubt its key technicalities: soundstage, imaging and instrument separation.

Stage is very wide and deep, not only much more than the aforementioned P1 (which indeed has a weak point there) but surpassing all other IEMs I heard in this price bracket and the one above. Instrument separation and imaging seem cut & carved with a laser tool: all sounds are crystal clear, perfectly separated and positioned onto a “well-lit” stage, where I kinda “see” each one on its own. A really, really well done job.


DIP SWITCHES
Each VG4 housing integrates a dip-switch block with 3 switches, aimed at offering some easily and instantly user-selectable tuning variations, one per spectrum section.

To “illustrate” my subjective hearing I’ll aid myself with measurements published by Jaakko Pasanen.

SW 1 – “Trebles”

SW1 adds a moderate hump (a “bell” in EQ jargon) at around 6K, and rolls high trebles off a bit sooner. Far from causing sibilance, the trick is actually very beneficial ! The overall treble presentation gets even more vivid and “complete” on most songs I tested it with. I like that.
As it is inherent with the dip-switch system, the added value also stays in its optionality, and easy, instant applicability.

SW 2 – “Mids”

SW2’s measured FR curve differs from SW1’s by less than 1 Ohm all over the range, so it should be audibly identical. I suspect a wrong measurement is plotted here as the effect of the switch is quite evident instead.
Mids (both voices and instruments, primarily guitars) get an obvious, not excessive “embodiment”. The result is a more intimate general feeling, which is particularly beneficial for acoustic / vocal bands of course, less important or even unwelcome in other cases.

SW3 – “Lows”

In this case the graph presents itself again consistent with my direct experience: SW3 enhances the low (logarithmical) half of the spectrum, that is low mids, midbass and subbass by some very audible amount, while taming highmids and trebles by a smaller amount.

Frankly, I don’t like this “as is”.

I do feel VG4 can benefit from an energic bump in sub-bass, especially in conjunction with some musical genres, but I would apply “just that”, not all the rest which is “moved” by SW3. Trebles don’t need taming. Mid bass don’t need raising. To my taste, of course.

My “custom SW3” is an EQ scheme much similar to the one I apply to TIN P1, as follows:

• Low Shelf 120Hz +1,5dB Q: 1,1
• Low Shelf 80Hz +2,5dB Q: 0,6

As I mentioned P1 once again, it’s worth noting here that VG4 bass is way more bodied right off the bat compared to P1, so this boost is in my taste “more-optional” than in P1 case, so-to-say.


Collateral notes

If you read my other review articles you know I just can’t be fussed by packaging, accessories, aesthetics etc. I encourage you to read the other available reviews for this which are much more “dressed up” than mine, as always.

Ergonomics are fine. Housings are on the big side, but not very heavy. Luckily their shape fits my concha very comfortably resulting in allowing me hours of fatigue-less usage. Being this an extremely subjective point, YMMV by a long shot of course.

A particular mention is worth for the cable which, for my limited experience, is of uncommonly good quality in the “chifi stock cables” category (more on this in the data tables below). Given the story above, I needed to swap it with a balanced cable – but that’s a real pity.


So… do I recommend VG4 ?

In its neutral-signature category, great sound quality is there and there’s some to spare too, no question about that. Simply put: sound is very nice, and technicalities near-superb.

So what could ever play against?

Well first of all the price tag is not so low in absolute terms: $274 MSRP, $224 typical street price. But that may be considered worth it, indeed.

The point is, unless you are a lucky (or provident!) owner of a DAP / AMP nimbly supporting 12 Ω quite sensitive drivers, high chances are you have to complement VG4’s cost with $60-ish for an IEMatch, and this assuming your source is able to deliver at the very least 900mW vs a 16 Ω load to cope with IEMatch Ultra setting – otherwise you need to further invest in an adequate AMP of course. So, again simply put, in the most adverse – but I’m afraid very frequent – case, VG4’s TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) easily climbs to $500 or more. And no I don’t think VG4’s sound is worth such an expense.


Test setup

Hiby R5 Balance Ended port – IFI Audio IEMatch 2.5 on Ultra setting
Stock black tips
NiceHCK 16core High Purity Copper balanced cable
Lossless 16/44.1 – 24/96 – 24/192 FLAC tracks.


Signature analysis

Tonality Neutral tuning, with a very clear, “solar” presentation. Very fast transients offered by the 4 BA drivers, paired with very good embodiement both on bass and trebles.

Sub-Bass Flat vs the midbass, no rolloff. Fast, textured, full although lacking in rumble. SW1 enhances them by 3-4 dBs making them more evident (but still not rumbly)

Mid Bass Same level and speed as sub bass, they are masterfully bodied. Their consistency is a fundamental contribution to the overal energy of the presentation. SW1 enhances them by 1-3 dBs making them fuller and punchier, without significant speed loss.

Mids Not forward, quite defined and generally pleasant. Male vocals definitely better than Female, both benefit from SW2 the end result being good Males, decent Females.

Male Vocals Well defined and natural, they get enhanced and forwarded by SW2 reaching a good overall level

Female Vocals Clear, quite detailed but on the lean side. SW2 also tries to embody them but does not succeed to an equally satisfactory result as with Males.

Highs Fast and precise, while at the same time full, rhytmical, musical and entertaining. No screech, zing or shouty peak. No “metallic” halo typically associated to super-detailed presentations.


Technicalities

Soundstage Very wide and deep, surpassing all other IEMs I heard in this price bracket.
Imaging The stage is not only ample but also “well-lit”, and hosts well separated instruments with laser sharp positioning.

Details A huge amount of details are delivered by the trebles, while never associating a cold analythical or metallic halo to this. Bass are well textured but not equivalently detailed.

Instrument separation All sounds are crystal clear, and well separated

Driveability Extremely picky. Very low soundstage and relatively high sensitivity call for solidly compliant sources, under penalty of an entirely horrible result.


Physicals

Build Resin housings appear quite solid, as their female MMCX connector and the DIP-SWITCH blocks integrated into them.

Fit In spite of a significant size, housing shapes fit my conchas like a glove. YMMV

Comfort Just great, due to great concha fit (and some luck)

Isolation Above average due to the housing “just right” size to fill the concha

Cable An uncommonly very good 6N copper foil + silver foil mixed braided single ended cable.


Specifications (declared)

Housing PMMA acrylic fiber resin shell, available in multiple colors
Driver(s) 2 Knowles + 2 Sonion BA + 4-way crossover
Connector MMCX
Cable 6N copper foil + silver foil mixed braided, 3.5mm single ended terminated
Sensitivity 110dB/mW
Impedance 12 Ω
Frequency Range 10-40000Hz
Package / Accessories 3 pairs of narrow bore white stiffer silicone tips (“Bass” recommended), 3 pairs of narrow bore blue softer silicone tips (“Vocals” recommended), 3 pairs of wide bore black soft silicone tips, 1 pair of foam tips, a cleaning brush, a semi-rigid carry case.
MSRP at this post time $ 274,00 ( < $ 225,00 deals)

Rating. 8.7
Sound: 8.7

Intro
After the DH3, the second IEM of the ArtMagic series from BGVP has now also made it into my hands. It is the middle class car within this series, so to speak, but it has the technical features to compete even higher. The VG4 is an IEM with wow-effect and knows how to convince with the first notes. Its immediately outstanding features are an extremely expansive stage, wonderful, clear and accurate mids, as well as trebles and a punchy BA bass which, however, has good dynamics. In short, the VG4 is exciting and in my opinion, another highly competitive IEM from BGVP, moving in a more neutral direction with the ArtMagic series, as opposed to the more mainstream DM-series.



Handling
BGVP always relies on a quite similar housing in universal "custom" construction for its models. In contrast to the more compact DH3, the VG4 is thicker and larger than its little brother, probably also due to the larger dip-switch panel. It even beats the DM7 in size, but that doesn't make it any more uncomfortable to wear. It adapts well to the shape of the ear, seals excellently and, due to its closed design, does not let any noise out.
A range of different colours (transparent or opaque) is also available for the housing selection.

I've already mentioned the extensive scope of delivery for BGVP a few times and of course this also applies to the VG4. Vocal, bass and standard silicone tips, as well as a pair of foam tips are standard equipment with BGVP, as is a robust case. To my delight, the wonderful, soft and high quality cable of the DM7 returns with the VG4.

Furthermore, this time three dip switches are used for sound modification, which also serves as a crossover.



Sound
In contrast to its little brother, the DH3, the VG4 has one more dip-switch, which gives us a total of 8 tuning options. With them you can influence the frequency response in the bass, the mids and the highs, with sometimes more, sometimes less effects. I'll limit myself to two settings (001 - bass/midrange & 000 - neutral), whereby the primary sound description will refer to setting 001, as I like this setting most due to the additional warmth and body and the resulting more emotional and natural mids.

In contrast to the DH3 the VG4 uses a BA driver for bass and although I prefer a hybrid with a dynamic bass, the bass BA driver is, as with the DM7, really powerful and competent. With the DM7 the bass is a bit softer and more voluminous. With the VG4 it is more direct, punchier and faster. The sub-bass is well covered, however, the mid-bass is in the foreground. Nevertheless, the quantity is quite similar to the DH3, which sounds more dynamic and natural, but has less bite. Depending on the genre I even like the bass of the VG4 a bit better, but in the end both are of equal quality, even if they set a slightly different emphasis.

As with the DH3, the mids are very detailed, transparent and captivate with their clarity and voice reproduction. In contrast to the DM7, they are not quite as warm and voluminous, but are more lively and forward without being uncomfortably prominent. As with the bass, the mids have a positive bite and are extremely accurate. This is also very noticeable in the instrument separation. I personally like the timbre of the VG4 men's voices a bit better, because women's voices sometimes radiate a bit too much energy. I prefer the somewhat reserved presentation of the DM7, but the VG4 is more to the point and has a better grip.

The trebles are basically the real improvement over the DH3. They sound more mature and no longer have that unpleasant peak that pops up every now and then with the DH3. Also the sibilants are better controlled, but they are not completely eliminated. On the other hand, the trebles of the VG4 are extremely detailed and are still quite stable even in the absolute high frequencies. But the absolute highlight of the VG4 for me is the expansive stage, where the highs play a big part due to their open and transparent nature. This stage is really remarkable, especially in width, but also in depth. In contrast to the DM7, the stage opens further upwards, making the DM7 look more intimate in comparison. The trebles still have room for improvement, as I think they could be a bit more level-headed, but they fit in very well with the overall sound concept of the VG4, which is designed to bring you on board with clarity, separation, detail and accuracy.

Let's move on to the neutral setting (000) with which the VG4 is also delivered. This is indeed one of my second favourite configuration.
In this setting the VG4 sounds flatter and more neutral. The frequency response is very linear and no area is really emphasized. As with the DH3, this setting is more for purists and goes in the reference direction. I prefer a little warmer and more voluminous, but this setting is highly recommended for classical music, for example. The mids and highs come more into focus in contrast to 001, which for me leads to fatigue more quickly, but as I said, this setting can be a blessing for some genres.

I deliberately omit the treble boost setting (1st switch), as it increases the presence of the treble and subjectively makes it sound a bit more sophisticated, but also amplifies the sibilants and unnecessarily brightens the signature, which can lead to fatigue. I also find the VG4 sounding more natural without this additional boost. The changes with the 2nd switch (midrange) are quite subtle and only in combination with the 3rd switch (bass) worth mentioning.



Outro
The VG4 starts where the DM3 reaches its limits and is an upgrade for me, although not a major one. Basically it stalks on my previous BGVP favourite, the DM7 and pulls even. Both go a different way in tuning, but that's what makes both so unique, in their own way. The DM7 is the unexcited, stoic all-rounder, which is one of my favourites with its fatigue-free, warm and detailed sound, without annoying overtones. The VG4, on the other hand, is the snappy, clear and transparent audiophile, which is dedicated to the open mid and high frequencies and comes across more lively, tidy and crisp.
In contrast to the DH3, it has better control of the more or less random sibilants, but is not completely free of them.

Due to its detailed, separated, bright and neutral presentation it is (like the DH3) especially good for complex and vocal music, but also as an allrounder it cuts a good figure, but may not always deliver the desired pressure in the absolute low frequencies, but shines more with punch in the mid-bass.

The scope of delivery is without complaint and also the versatile, even if sometimes only subtle tuning possibilities, make the VG4 for about 200 € an outstanding product in its price range.


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