NF audio NE4

General Information

NF AUDIO NE4 Evolution 4BA Replaceable Frequency Dividing Faceplate 2Pin 0.78mm HiFi Audiophile In-Ear Earphone

Description

The changes beyond your expectations, the possibilities of countless voices

The frequency divider is the core tuning component of the multi-driver earphones. Different circuit architectures and parameters enable different drivers to work at different frequencies with different powers. The same driver, coupled with different circuit architectures, parameters, and frequency dividers of resistance-capacitance components, can obtain a completely different sense of hearing, which is also the top priority of multi-driver earphone tuning.

NE4 Evolution, with the exquisite engineering design, the frequency divider is external, and only by simply replacing the frequency dividing faceplate, it can provide unlimited upgrade space for the earphones, without repeated consumption, one = innumerable.

NE4 EVOLUTION
The circuit structure, electrical parameters, and types of resistance-capacitance components can be changed, and the range of sound changes is huge. At the same time, under different circuit architectures, NE4 Evolution can be not only 4 drivers, but also 3 drivers, 2 drivers or even single driver. It only needs to replace the faceplate to get a completely different sound

Classic and conflicting timbre standard is at your fingertips

Sound is the art of balance. Generally, it is impossible to achieve popular, balanced, positive, and transparent and beautiful in the same earphone.Switch

tuning,based on a specific circuit, some parameters are adjusted, and the range of change is limited.However, the NE4 Evolution can obtain the above

three sound at the same time by replacing the three standard frequency dividing faceplates, and this is just the beginning.

Pop faceplate (red)

Pop music needs full low frequency and abundant dynamics. The pop faceplate adopts the classic low + mid + 2 high frequency three-way architecture design to improve the low frequency volume and texture, retaining the original dynamics of the driver, the sound field is magnificent, majestic, and full Surging sense of hearing.

Reference faceplate (black)

A balanced sound requires restraint and control. The reference faceplate adopts a three-way architecture design of ultra-low + full frequency + 2 high frequency, which controls the energy distribution of the full frequency band to the right degree, and accurately controls the dynamics of the overall sound, the sound is calm, clean, and reference sound.

Transparent faceplate (blue)

In order to keep the sound transparent and clean, the transparent faceplate uses the full frequency + 2 high frequency two-way architecture design, the full frequency driver maintains the integrity of the music, and the two high frequency drivers provide excellent high frequency response and ductility, sound gorgeous, and moving.

One buckle and one twist, change has never been easier

For commodities, ease of operation is very important. The NE4 Evolution faceplate and frequency divider are combined into one. Only screws can be used to replace the faceplate and sound at the same time. Whether it is the standard faceplate or the follow-up special tuning faceplate, is the same simple operation, very different sound.

Classic American Knowles 4 balanced armature, good raw materials, good taste

The driver is the base of the sound, and the driver is good enough to get a better sense of hearing. NE4 Evolution adopts the classic four-driver combination of Knowles 22955 + 29689 + 31736 (composite driver), with full cover of low frequency, intermediate frequency and high frequency. With high-quality sound bottom and different frequency dividing faceplates, every sound can stand the test.

Exquisite products, the soul of evolution. 5-axis CNC precision-carved shell aluminum, stainless steel precision art

Metal not only has a super texture, but also a long service life. CNC precision carving is a pearl of precision metal processing technology. NE4 Evolution adopts 5-axis CNC precision carving to process a whole piece of aviation aluminum ingot and stainless steel, achieving a good balance in weight and strength. Only exquisite products and evolving souls can exchange for long-term company.

What you care about, we care more. Stable and reliable connection, gold-plated layer up to 10μ, life test 100,000 times

The frequency divider is replaceable, and the connection between the driver and the frequency divider is the top priority. The driver end adopts military-grade spring probes, which has lower distributed capacitance and inductance. The gold-plated layer is as high as 10μ and has passed the life test of 100,000 times. The frequency divider adopts PCB pad + copper pillar design, which is stable. The stability and reliability of the connection are as important as innovation, and all the details are for a more excellent user experience.

Small investment, big change, the sound exploration

For NE4 Evolution, the core value lies in continuous sound evolution. We will launch official frequency dividing faceplates one after another to suit different music styles and usage scenarios.

In the near future, the official will also launch a DIY kit and provide official tutorials. Friends with hands-on ability can create their own exclusive sounds.

We hope to use NE4 Evolution as the medium to create a complete frequency dividing faceplate ecosystem. Let every mood be placed somewhere and have a sound to follow. Let every love be unswerving and go all out.

2pin 0.78mm transparent silver-plated cable

The impedance, capacitive reactance and inductive reactance of the earphone cable will have a significant impact on the sound. NE4 Evolution comes standard with Litz structure 5N oxygen-free copper silver-plated cable, with up to 280 cores, lower impedance, lower skin effect and proximity effect, making the sound details more, the sound field is open, and the tone is relax.

Every tiny detail is for a more hearty listening experience

The ergonomics of in-ear earphones is equally important. The proportions and contour lines of the NE4 Evolution condense the profound skills NF Audio has accumulated in the field of custom earphones over the years. The sunken of the helix angle, the bulge of the cymba, the notch between the tragus and the angle of ear canal, the large and small shapes inside and outside the concha cavity, every tiny detail is for a more hearty listening experience.

Romantic gifts from hardcore brands
In life, the sense of ritual is very important. The beautiful packaging box and the right accessories make the hard core also have a unique romantic beauty.

Specification
Model: NE4 Evolution
Driver: 4 Knowles balanced armature
Sound insulation: 25dB
Distortion: <1%
Cable: 2pin 0.78mm 5N silver-plated OFC cable
Connector: 3.5mm
Dimensions: 235*150*83mm
Net weight: 360g

Pop faceplate (red)
Frequency response: 9-20kHz
Sensitivity: 104dB/mw
Impedance: 6Ω

Reference faceplate (black)
Frequency response: 18-22kHz
Sensitivity: 108dB/mw
Impedance: 10Ω

Transparent faceplate (blue)
Frequency response: 20-30kHz
Sensitivity: 110dB/mw
Impedance: 22Ω

Package
NE4 Evolution
3 pairs of replaceable faceplates
5N silver-plated OFC cable
6.35mm to 3.5mm adapter
3 pairs of balanced silicone eartips
4 pairs of atmosphere silicone eartips
3 pairs of screws
Allen wrench
MD style leather case

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Latest reviews

shntrkr

New Head-Fier

4.00 star(s)
Jan 17, 2025

NF Acous NE4 Evolution sound spree

Pros: Unboxing Experience
different sounds with different panels
quality material

Cons: big case shell

Audio Geek Turkey Group; We have some subjective ideas for NF Acous NE4 Evolution that was sent to me within the scope of Turkey Tour and I will write them. I would like to thank them very much and I will try to convey what they promise in order.

NF Acous with its changed name is a professional IE manufacturer and the products it produces really stand out with their design, material and musicality.
I was able to establish the brand culture and target audience a little more in my mind with the Nf Audio RG15, Ra15, nf nf2+, NE4 Evolution that I reviewed.
NE4 Evolution has emerged as a result of futuristic blending with their unique retro box design. We start with the box.

NF Acous NE4 Evolution Package Contents
The iems themselves, made of large metal structure
White silver plated 5N copper QDC 3.5 mm cable
S/M/L balanced S/M/L atmosphere tips
Grey hard carrying case
6.35 mm adapter
4 pairs of Faceplates
Mini screwdriver used for faceplate replacement and warranty documents

Sources Used
Btr 7 Hiby R4 fiio k3

If we give a short information about Faceplates, the company has offered us 3+1 different possibilities here.
POP red, Reference black, Transparent blue, Also Explore is a colorless transparent palette
There is a significant change in the sound dynamics, it is aimed to feel in different frequency ranges.

Comfort: NE4 Evolution It has a large design with a very thick body, but despite this large size, it provides a comfortable fit, it seems to be outside the ear and tends to come out very often and leak with little movement,
you can absorb this a little by using the largest tips.
You also have the atmosphere-balanced 3x2 ear tips offered in different sizes and characters. There is a nice 3.5 mm silver-plated cable in a thin pearl white appearance.

With the Black-Reference palette, you can get the most natural sound. Although the bass is a little ahead, the mids and trebles are felt more elegant and detailed. The midrange is distinct and natural.
It feels more airy compared to the stage of the Pop palette. It has become my most preferred option among the palettes. It is the most enjoyable palette regardless of the music genre.

Although the Red Pop palette is aimed at V shape, it offers enough energetic bass, but unfortunately its extension and texture were not enough. Here, of course, an opinion was expressed by targeting bassheads. The airiness is preserved, and it is still noticeable for Mid and Treble lovers.

With the Blue Transparent palette, a very neutral sound was given, I even heard the sounds of the usual vocals differently. I did not like it.
The bass was reduced to a minimum, the trebles were polished, the micro details increased, but the vocal sounds felt strange.

The Colorless Explore palette, on the other hand, has polished the sound a little more and polished the trebles a little. There is a better quality presentation.
The stage is significantly widened and the torque that comes to the sound brings
its performance a little closer to the reference palette.

Conclusion: Considering that these operations are done with too many switches in the market and some are done only for decorative purposes,
NF Acous NE4 Evolution has generously presented the power and difference of innovation here.
It makes it very easy to access different tones of music by unscrewing a screw with a single allen.
Among the palettes, the one that I liked and enjoyed the most according to my personal taste was the Black - Colorless Explore palette, which has reference and similarity. Considering its price, I would have preferred it to be a little lower.
After all, I guess this is the price of R&D.

Reactions: eniacfs

littlenezt

100+ Head-Fier

4.50 star(s)
Nov 19, 2024

Yes, it's still relevant in 2024

Pros: +Tonality
+Tuning Faceplate
+Timbre
+Micro Details
+Build

Cons: -Single Ended Cable
-Thicc & Chonky Shell

NF Audio NE4
4BA
$700

Before I begin this review, let me thank NF Audio for sending me the IEM in for review.
Rest assured, all of my reviews are 100% my own personal opinion.

Unboxing

The unboxing experience is very good, pretty much what you would expect from a flagship product.

Inside the box you get :

IEM
Cable
Case
Faceplate
6.35mm adapter
Manual
Screw drivers
Screws

Build Quality

Let’s start from the IEM shell.
It’s made from what I believe to be aluminum. The shell itself feels premium, but one thing I should point out is that the size of this IEM is very chonky, and thick.

Don’t get me wrong, this IEM is still comfortable to wear, but it's just that the shell sticks out from your ear canal.
Also I found using the NE4 with Dunu S&S tips help me to get more stable fitting.

The faceplate is removable, and actually the faceplate acts as a selectable tuning for the NE4.
There are 4 faceplate available

Pop (red)
Reference (black)
Transparent (blue)
Explore (transparent)

As for the cable itself, it's decent at best. It uses what I believe a QDC type 2 pin, but normal 2 pin cable also works just fine. For its price I expect better cable or modular cable, but to be fair, the NE4 first release is like way back in 2021 or something. So modular cable hasn’t been the trend yet at that time.

Sound

Tested using FIIO KB3, FIIO M23, Poco M6 Pro, stock cable and Dunu S&S eartips.
Music is mostly from Apple Music (J-POP, Rock, EDM, Jazz, Metal)

The tonality itself is depending on what faceplate you use.

With the “Reference” faceplate, you get a neutral tonality with slightly boosted bass, smooth midrange and treble
With the “Pop” faceplate, you get an aggressive bass boosted v-shape tonality
With the “Transparent” faceplate, you get a flat bass with main focus on midrange and treble.
With the “Explore” faceplate, you get more or less the same like “Transparent” faceplate but a tad brighter tonality.

I will explain the tonality and technicalities using the “Reference” faceplate because it is my favorite tuning.

Bass : You can clearly tell it’s a balanced armature bass, It sounds tight, nimble, and just very agile in general.
While it lacks in physical punch, the NE4 offers a very good bass texture on its presentation.
Its extension is also very deep, like you can easily hear the sub-bass rumble. The only thing I can nitpick from the bass is just the fact it just sounds like a balanced armature bass.

Midrange : Spot on, very well tuned on the “Reference” faceplate, it does not sound thin, and the overall timbre is very natural for a balanced armature unit.
Vocal placement is also not very forward, definitely free from shout and sibilance.
As for instruments, it sounds “sweet” if that even makes any sense. For example, the sound of Violin on Violet Evergarden OST “The Ultimate Price” man, listening to that song using the NE4 gave me literal goosebumps, like it is so good. As expected from a flagship IEM.

Treble : Airy, smooth, normal extension, detailed.
The treble of the NE4 with the “Reference” faceplate is just like where it should be, what I mean by that?
The treble is blending in with other frequencies very well, it does not stick out like a sore thumb, and not dull sounding either.
While it might not have the best extension for the price, the micro details of the NE4 is very good, you can easily hear small nuance sounds using this IEM.

Technicalities
Very good for $700 USD

Stage : I found the NE4 has a medium sized stage with spectacular stage layering.
The NE4 can easily render the room of the songs, and it has a very symmetrical stage shape both in width and depth.

Detail Retrieval : Very good.
The NE4 offers a very detailed listening experience in all of its frequencies.
Bass, midrange and treble sounds very resolving and just like a treat to listen to, as expected from a flagship class IEM.

Separation & Positioning : Very good.
Thanks to its high quality balanced armature driver used, you literally can pinpoint objects so easily that it feels like I’m having an unfair advantage using the NE4 when I play Valorant.
Same can be said with normal music listening, you can easily separate and pinpoint exact instruments easily, again, as expected from a flagship class IEM.

Comparison

Moondrop S8
8BA
$700

My previous daily driver.
More or less released around the same time frame, the S8 has superior build quality IMO, it uses a very high quality transparent filled resin and much more ergonomic compared to the NE4.
More or less same quality accessories.

Sound wise, the S8 only has one tuning, typical Moondrop VDSF Target, or we can say, modified Harman target tuning.

The S8 also exhibit the same balanced armature bass issues, it lacks physical punch, and for the midrange itself, I found the NE4 to have more body compared to the S8, the timbre also superior compared to S8.
As for the treble, I found the S8 to be more extended compared to the NE4.

While technicality wise both are more or less in the same ballpark, I can’t point out which one is superior because it is literally just on the same level.

Moondrop Dark Saber
2DD + 8BA
$750

Also my previous daily driver.
More recent releases compared to both S8 and NE4.
For some reason Dark Saber build quality for its price to be honest its very bad.
I’m not sure why Moondrop decided to use thin resin not filled resin for the Dark Saber.
Though comfort wise, the Dark Saber more ergonomic compared to NE4.

Tonality wise, the Dark Saber utilizes isobaric design DD for its bass, so my issues with balanced armature bass are fixed.
As for the midrange and treble, to be honest nothing has changed much from the S8.

Technicality wise, I can say the Dark Saber has a larger sound stage compared to both S8 and NE4, though sometimes when I listen using my Dark Saber, it can sound a bit disorienting for some reason.

Conclusion

Is the NE4 any good?
Would I recommend the NE4 in 2024?

YES and maybe.

Let me explain, the NE4 is released around 2020 or 2021, and It is indeed a very good sub $1000 flagship IEM.
It offers a solid metal build quality with an innovative tuning faceplate that you can change.
But in 2024, there are dozens more new releases, for example like the Moondrop Dark Saber.
While the Dark Saber has a very bad build quality, it offers a Harman like tuning with isobaric DD bass, and more extended treble compared to the NE4.

In the end it depends on you completely, what kind of tuning you’re searching for, and is build quality an important deciding factor or not for you.
If you’re tempted to get the NE4, let me say that this IEM has a very good timbre for a full balanced armature IEM.
Also with the NE4 you get 4 tuning options just in case you’re getting bored with the “Reference” tuning, you can get other tuning options by just changing the faceplates.

Thanks for reaching this far !

Just in case you want to watch the review of this IEM, you can watch it here

-littlenezt.

Last edited: Nov 19, 2024

Reactions: Colin5619

BonGoBiLai

100+ Head-Fier

4.50 star(s)
Sep 27, 2024

Chameleon

Pros: Awesome build quality

Unboxing Experience

Four different sound profiles achievable via swappable faceplate modules

Good technical performance

Great tonal balance, especially on the reference faceplate

Cons: Stock cable leaves much to be desired

Introduction

NF Audio, now known as NFAcous, is a Chinese manufacturer of in-ear monitors (IEMs) that was established in 2014. The company focuses on creating audio equipment that combines advanced technology with high-performance sound. The name "NF" stands for "Near Field," reflecting the company's goal to deliver sound as it would be experienced in close proximity, with clarity and accuracy. This philosophy guides their approach to product development, aiming to replicate an authentic and natural audio experience. NF Audio's core philosophy revolves around precision tuning, professional-grade audio reproduction, and accessible price points, making its products suitable for a wide audience, including music producers, performers, and casual listeners looking to upgrade their listening experience. The company has recently changed its name from NF Audio to NFAcous and has announced it on Facebook.

The NE4 Evolution, priced at $749, is one of the higher-end models offered by the brand. It stands out by offering four different swappable faceplate modules that significantly alter the sound profile. Currently, NF Audio offers four different faceplate modules, essentially giving you four different IEMs for the price of one. While IEMs with tuning switches or modules are not uncommon, in most cases, the non-default options change the sound for the worse. The NE4 is impressive in that regard, as each module is rewarding enough in some way or another.

Specifications:

Driver Configuration: 4 Knowles Balanced Armature drivers.

Frequency Response:
Pop faceplate (red): 9-20kHz
Reference faceplate (black): 18-22kHz
Transparent faceplate (blue): 20-30kHz2.

Sensitivity:
Pop faceplate (red): 104dB/mW
Reference faceplate (black): 108dB/mW
Transparent faceplate (blue): 110dB/mW2.

Impedance:
Pop faceplate (red): 6Ω
Reference faceplate (black): 10Ω
Transparent faceplate (blue): 22Ω

Disclaimer: I am an audiophile and a reviewer who works with Mr. @Sajid Amit of Amplify Audio Reviews. Amplify generally covers high-end IEMs, Accessories, DAC Amps, and Headphones, with occasional reviews of some budget products. Check out our video reviews at https://www.youtube.com/@amplifyaudioreviews.

Unboxing, Build, and Comfort

I absolutely loved unboxing the NE4 Evolution and It was one of the best unboxing experiences I've had in recent months. The NE4 comes in a sizable box. The front of the box features a CGI render of the NE4 earpiece, while the other side looks like a classic comic book cover, thanks to the impressive font selection. Overall, it looks very tasteful and intriguing.

Once you open the box, you will find two swappable modules inside two circular cutouts. One is red and called the “Pop” faceplate, while the other is blue and called “Transparent”. The default faceplates, called “Reference”, are black and attached to the earpieces. NF Audio provides two different sets of ear tips, a high-quality grey PVC-coated hardshell carry case, and a small Allen wrench for easily swapping the faceplates. In addition, I also received a separate set of faceplates called “Explore”, which are made of transparent resin, unlike the others that are made of metal.

I'm a bit disappointed with the thin and tangly stock cable. I wish it was a bit thicker and less prone to tangling. However, it is a 5N OFC cable, and I didn't notice any sonic issues with it. The NE4 evo uses TFZ/NX7 style QDC-esque 2-pin connectors, which can accommodate any 2-pin cable just fine, though it comes with an aesthetic compromise. I believe NF Audio should consider adopting more traditional and universal 2-pin connectors in their future releases. The earpieces are ergonomic and feel super premium and well-made when handled. Isolation and comfort are excellent. I experienced zero wearing fatigue during long listening sessions. Overall, I am quite impressed with the build quality, ergonomics, and unboxing experience of the NE4 Evolution.

Sound:

Describing the sound of the NE4 Evolution is a tricky one, as each faceplate module offers a distinctly different sound. However, from my observation, the “Pop” faceplate is radically different from the rest. The Transparent, Reference, and Explore faceplates feature similar sound profiles with subtle differences. I will start with the renegade one first. The “Pop” faceplates offer an energetic, bassy, v-shaped sound signature that synergizes amazingly with modern genres, specifically pop, hip-hop, and EDM. The technical performance still remains comparable to the rest of the faceplate modules, which is quite impressive given the heavily colored, people-pleaser approach of this faceplate. However I must say, the appeal of this faceplate is rather situational, and other than the genres I have mentioned, it might come off as way too colored or intense.

The "Transparent" faceplate is the complete opposite of the "Pop" faceplate. It emphasizes transparency and air, with the least amount of bass among the four modules. It aims for an accentuated treble and a clean, neutral midrange. While it may not be technically superior to the "Pop" faceplate, the reference faceplate brings out micro details in a more obvious way. This filter might appeal more to purists, while the "Pop" filter easily wins in terms of the fun factor.

The stock faceplate, named the “Reference” faceplate, strikes a sonic balance between the other two faceplates. In terms of sound, it is more similar to the “Reference” faceplate than the “Pop” faceplate module. It emphasizes midbass a bit more than the “Transparent” faceplate, although the physical presence of the bass is still better on the “Pop” faceplate. This is the safest choice and performs well with almost all music genres. Some may find this module a bit boring, but I personally preferred the “Reference” faceplate most of the time compared to the others. In my opinion, it is clearly the most natural and tonally balanced tuning option of the three.

I received the transparent-looking "Explore" faceplate separately in a blister pack, and it is indeed an interesting add-on. The NE4 Evolution is a fairly intimate set with the other three modules, but I noticed an immediate expansion in soundstage height and width with the "Explore" faceplate modules. Tonally, it is very similar to the "Transparent" module, albeit with more bass and note weight. I enjoyed it way more than the rest with media consumption and gaming, where a superior soundstage can make a significant difference.

The NE4 Evolution performs quite well in the technical department. It does not necessarily outclass its similarly priced peers in terms of sheer detail retrieval or imaging prowess but can go toe to toe with them just fine. The soundstage is on the intimate side except for the “Explore” faceplate, as I have already mentioned. Dynamics is decent for a 4 BA set, though single DD alternatives would perform better in this regard. That’s just a rule of thumb, not a complaint.

Verdict:

The NE4 Evo is an interesting and viable option in the sub-$1000 range. It offers swappable modules that can make a real difference, and the tuning process is relatively easy and straightforward. It's rare to find four different tuning profiles in a single high-end package. The NE4 is truly a Chameleon on an IEM and gets my enthusiastic seal of approval.

Last edited: Sep 27, 2024

Reactions: Amberchen and Colin5619

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NF audio NE4

General Information

Latest reviews

shntrkr

New Head-Fier

littlenezt

100+ Head-Fier

BonGoBiLai

100+ Head-Fier

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