Softears Studio 4

General Information

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Features:

>Four High-Performance Balanced Armature Drivers Per Side.

>Studio-Grade Tuning.

>Precisely Designed 3-Way Frequency Crossover.

>Ideal for Studio Recording, Stage Monitoring, etc.

>Flat Frequency Response Curve.

>Accurate & Natural High-Res Audio Performance.

>High-Precision 3D Printed Ear Cavities.

>Thinner & Lighter.

>Medical-Grade Resin Ear Shells.

>High-Quality Oxygen-Free Copper Cable.

Technical Specifications:
>Impedance: 12Ω.

>Sensitivity: 123dB/Vrms.

>Shell: Medical-Grade 3D-Printed Ear Shells.

>THD+N: <1%.

>Frequency Response Range: 5Hz-40kHz.

>Effective Frequency Range: 20Hz-20kHz.

>Interface: 0.78mm 2-pin Connectors.

>Termination Plug: 3.5mm Single-Ended.


Designed For Professionals:
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Softears has launched a studio series of in-ear monitors especially for professionals. It is an ideal pair for studio recording engineers, stage performers, and audio lovers who want a natural, accurate sound response. The pair has a wide frequency response range that produces a crisp high-resolution clarity suitable for studio monitoring.

Professionally Designed Four Balanced Armature Driver

Configuration:
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Softears Studio4 is equipped with four customized balanced armature drivers on each side. Softears has experience with designing premium multi-BA IEMs, their RSV and RS10 are widely appreciated for their performance. The latest Studio4 is an ideal choice for professional musicians who want a natural and high-fidelity sound.

Four-Driver, Three-Way Crossover:
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The four drivers in Studio4 are arranged together in a precisely designed 3-Way frequency crossover. The frequency division architecture is specially designed for the output characteristics of professional audio interfaces. It is easy to drive and achieves a clearly straight frequency curve. This helps in getting a consistent phase response among different frequency bands.

High-Precision 3D Printed Ear Cavities:
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Studio4 has got high-precision 3D-printed ear cavities. The shells are made up of high-quality medical-grade resin material. They are made with excellent consistency and stability. The wearing experience is optimized based on the previous Softears RS series

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Latest reviews

atechreviews

100+ Head-Fier
Softears Studio 4 Review
Pros: Neutral and accurate sound signature
Excellent passive noise isolation
Superior detail retrieval and instrument separation
Realistic treble and vocals
Never sounds sibilant or harsh
Comfortable fit with 3D printed medical resin shell
Stable and consistent performance across various sources
Easy to drive
Cons: Bass could be more textured
Lacks the sub-bass and mid-bass impact of DD/Planar IEMs
No balanced cable option

Introduction​

Softears has established itself as a name in the audiophile community. Their latest offering, the Studio 4, is a neutral, four balanced armature (BA) IEM designed specifically for studio recording, mixing, and stage monitoring. In this review, we'll delve into the various aspects of the Softears Studio 4, evaluating its performance, build quality, and overall value, while also comparing it to some of its notable competitors.
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Design and Build Quality​

The Studio 4 has a high-precision 3D printed medical resin shell, ensuring excellent consistency and stability. This thinner and lighter design, compared to previous Softears models, offers a more comfortable wearing experience. The outer diameter of the nozzle has been reduced, making it compatible with a wider range of ear tips, which is a thoughtful touch for ensuring a perfect fit for different people.

The IEMs come equipped with advanced cabling featuring 0.78 connectors, 10um ultra-thick plug pins, and a twisted-pair Oxygen Free Copper cable. These components collectively provide excellent connection stability, which is crucial for both studio and stage environments.

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Sound Performance​

The Softears Studio 4 is designed to provide a natural, accurate, and high-fidelity sound experience, making it ideal for professional musicians. Let’s break down its sound characteristics:

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Bass​

While the Studio 4 offers clear and precise bass, it could benefit from more texture and impact. The low frequencies are well-controlled and never overpower the midrange or treble, making it suitable for studio use where accuracy is paramount. However, those looking for a more pronounced bass presence might find it slightly lacking.

Midrange​

The midrange is where the Studio 4 truly shines. It delivers vocals and instruments with remarkable clarity and naturalness. This IEM excels in presenting a detailed and engaging midrange without sounding shouty or harsh, which is essential for long listening sessions in the studio or on stage.

Treble​

The treble response of the Studio 4 is another highlight. It’s realistic and extends well without becoming sibilant or fatiguing. This contributes to the IEM’s excellent detail retrieval and instrument separation, making complex mixes sound clear and well-defined. The treble performance ensures that high-frequency details are accurately represented, which is crucial for professional audio work.

Passive Noise Isolation​

One of the standout features of the Studio 4 is its excellent passive noise isolation. Thanks to the balanced armature design and the snug fit provided by the 3D printed shell, external noise is effectively reduced. This makes the Studio 4 an excellent choice for environments that require full isolation, such as recording studios and live stage performances.

Comfort and Fit​

The use of a high-precision 3D printed medical resin shell not only enhances the IEM’s durability but also significantly improves comfort. The Studio 4’s design ensures a secure and comfortable fit, making it suitable for extended wear. The thinner and smaller outer diameter of the catheter also contributes to the overall comfort, allowing it to fit more ear types and work well with various ear tips.

Technical Specifications​

The Studio 4 features a 4-driver, 3-way crossover design with a wide frequency response range. The frequency division architecture is specifically designed for professional audio interfaces, providing a nearly straight impedance curve. This ensures consistent performance across different sources, a critical factor for professional use.

Real-World Usage​

In real-world usage, the Studio 4 excels in providing a flat and accurate sound signature, these IEMs deliver a reliable and natural sound reproduction. The high-resolution audio playback ensures that every nuance of the audio is captured, making it an invaluable tool for musicians and audiophiles.

Comparisons​

To provide a comprehensive evaluation, let’s compare the Softears Studio 4 with some of its notable competitors:

Kiwi Ears Orchestra Lite​


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The Kiwi Ears Orchestra Lite has warmer sound signature, which can be appealing to some listeners. However, it falls short in terms of detail retrieval and separation, especially during busy tracks. In comparison, the Studio 4 offers a more neutral and accurate sound with superior detail and instrument separation, making it a better choice for professional use. The Orchestra Lite could sound sibilant sometimes with some tracks, while the Studio 4 never sounded sibilant to my ears.

DUNU SA6 MK II​


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The DUNU SA6 MK II is another strong contender with better bass and detail retrieval, a wider soundstage, and more textured bass compared to the Studio 4. However, the Studio 4 holds its own with its excellent midrange and treble performance, providing a more accurate and natural sound that is ideal for studio monitoring. While the SA6 MK II excels in certain areas, the Studio 4’s neutral sound signature and consistent performance make it a solid choice for professionals or those who prioritize neutrality over enjoyment. I personally prefer the bass, detail retrieval, clarity, separation, soundstage, and air of the DUNU SA6 MK II.

Elysian Pilgrim​


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When compared to the Elysian Pilgrim, the Studio 4 has a slightly wider soundstage but lacks the same level of sub-bass and mid-bass impact. The Pilgrim offers better detail retrieval, a more defined airy treble, and superior instrument separation. The Pilgrim’s sub-bass and mid-bass are more pronounced, providing a fuller and more engaging sound. However, the Studio 4’s neutrality and accuracy make it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a flat frequency response for professional use or those who prefer a more forward vocal sound signature with less bass.

Conclusion​

The Softears Studio 4 is a meticulously designed IEM that excels in providing a neutral, accurate, and high-fidelity sound experience. Its excellent passive noise isolation, comfortable fit, and stable performance make it a valuable tool for professional musicians and audiophiles alike. While its bass could be more textured, the overall sound performance, particularly in the midrange and treble, is outstanding.

In comparison to its competitors, the Studio 4 holds its own with its accurate and detailed sound signature. It may not have the same bass impact as the DUNU SA6 MK II or the Elysian Pilgrim, but its neutrality and accuracy make it a preferred choice for many.


atechreviews
atechreviews
@Vamp898 You're welcome! Based on my listening experience, the Studio 4 never sounded shouty, shrill, harsh, or sibilant, not even once. I've tested them with hard rock and heavy metal, and they consistently performed well. I believe driver quality plays a significant role in this, as I've had other IEMs with lower 2kHz to 4kHz regions that still sounded shouty to me. The Studio 4 sounds incredibly realistic to me.
Vamp898
Vamp898
Thank you for your impressions!
atechreviews
atechreviews

ShabtabQ

100+ Head-Fier
SoftEars Sudio 4: Not so soft afterall
Pros: Neutral and Accurate Sound: The Studio 4 is tuned to provide a neutral and accurate sound signature, making it an excellent choice for studio monitoring and analytical listening.Bass Quality: Despite its neutrality, the Softears Studio 4 delivers a controlled and well-extended bass response. The sub-bass is engaging and dynamic, offering a satisfying rumble without overwhelming the overall sound.
High-Resolution Mids: The midrange of the Softears Studio 4 is characterized by high resolution and clarity, making vocals and instruments sound well-defined and clean. It excels in delivering tonal accuracy.
Balanced Treble: The treble response is balanced, offering natural transient attacks without excessive brightness or harshness. It maintains neutrality in the upper-treble, contributing to a cohesive presentation.
High-Quality Build: Crafted with high-quality medical-grade resin material using a 3D printing process, the Studio 4 boasts exceptional build quality. The shells are smooth, durable, and exhibit a premium feel.
Cons: Soundstage: It may not offer an exceptionally wide or impressive soundstage, which some users prioritise for certain genres.

Introduction to Softears Studio 4 In Ear Monitor​

The latest (IEM), from the house of SoftEars. Studio 4 was released in the month of March in 2023. The pursuit of perfect acoustic correctness and precision is an unending adventure for those involved in professional audio and audiophile fans. The ideal instrument, one that can accurately capture every element of music and sound recordings, is needed for this voyage. Firstly thanks to @gadgetgod and CocneptKart for providing me with the opportunity to listen to these beauties, however by no means this review is influenced by any party.

With that said Let’s dig deep into Studio 4, revealing its technical wonders and revealing the subtleties of its sound character.
Softears Studio 4

Build​

  • High-Quality Resin Material: The IEM shells are meticulously crafted using a high-quality medical-grade resin material. This choice of material not only contributes to a premium feel but also ensures durability and longevity.
  • 3D Printing Process: The use of a 3D printing process for the IEM shells allows for precise construction and a flawless finish. This method ensures consistency and accuracy in the manufacturing process, which is vital for achieving the desired sound characteristics.
  • Resilient 2-Pin Sockets: The Studio 4 incorporates recessed 2-pin sockets. This design choice enhances the durability and long-term stability of the product, reducing the risk of wear and tear in the connectors over time.
  • Cable Quality: Softears provides a high-purity twisted braided oxygen-free copper cable with the Studio 4. This cable is not only designed for sound quality but also aims to provide a comfortable and tangle-free experience.
Softears RSV Socket and Jack

Comfort​

  • Ergonomic Design: The shells are designed with IEM ergonomics in mind, ensuring a comfortable fit in the ears. The smooth contours of the resin shells help minimise discomfort during extended use.
  • Flexible Memory Wire: The included cable features a flexible and comfortable memory wire area behind the ear. This allows for a secure fit without causing discomfort or strain on the ears.
  • Lightweight: The Studio 4 is engineered to be lightweight, reducing the sensation of weight or bulkiness when worn. This lightweight design contributes to overall comfort, making it suitable for long listening sessions.
  • Isolation: The snug fit of the IEMs can provide effective noise isolation, allowing you to focus on your music without external distractions.
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Sound​

Low​

The Softears Studio 4 establishes its sonic foundation with nicely balanced low-frequency performance. The sub-bass frequencies are thoughtfully tuned to align with the Harman Target, with ever so slightly more control. This meticulous tuning imparts a dynamic energy to the lows, endowing them with a captivating sub-bass resonance that resonates with controlled authority while still being in control and not offending, definitely not a basshead IEM, would not satisfy the bassheads out there for sure.
Despite the absence of a dynamic driver, Softears has ingeniously managed to craft a bass response that mirrors the characteristics of a true dynamic driver. The bass is punchy, remarkably controlled, and extends impressively into the sub-bass realm.

Mid​

The midrange performance of the Softears Studio 4 is a testament to tonal accuracy and timbral authenticity. Its lower-midrange is neutral and precise, ensuring that vocals and instruments are rendered with striking clarity and definition. Stepping into the upper-midrange, the Studio 4 takes a step forward.
This infusion of forwardness enhances vocals and instrumental solos, breathing life into performances with remarkable fidelity and emotional resonance. Overall, the midrange is strikingly well-balanced, with an exceptional presentation of vocals, and the pinna gain is thoughtfully calibrated to prevent any hint of shoutiness. In the realm of tuning, the Studio 4 stands out as one of the finest examples in its category.

Highs​

The treble out of these is outstanding, it extends well without being too sibilance, and the technical performance is also up to the price bracket and throws impressive details at the listener, Although not overly detailed it is still spacious and barely ever feels congested, The tonal balance of the lows mids and highs are perfectly done here.
The treble incisiveness is good as well, and provides a clean and fast image, although I would not consider it to be as smooth as higher-end offerings from Softears, the overall performance in the treble is noteworthy for this price point.

Comparison​

Softears Studio 4 vs Softears RSV​

RSV 1 scaled 1

Sound Signature:
Softears Studio 4:
The Studio 4 is designed with a focus on a neutral and flat sound signature. It aims to faithfully reproduce sound in an accurate and balanced manner. Its bass is controlled and well-extended, the midrange is clean and balanced, and the treble is detailed without excessive brightness.
Softears RSV: The RSV, on the other hand, offers a sound signature with more emphasis on specific qualities. It features a robust and impactful low end, a precise and forward midrange, and a treble section that balances warmth and precision. The RSV’s sound signature is known for its engaging and dynamic character.

Lows:
The Studio 4’s bass is punchy, controlled, and extends well into the sub-bass region. It prioritises accuracy and balance in the low frequencies. Contrarily, the RSV excels in bass performance with a robust and impactful low end. It offers an engaging sub-bass rumble that resonates with authority, providing depth and power to the overall sound. The low end on RSV feels a bit more juicy and has more mid-bass authority and that oomph and authority.

Midrange:
Studio 4’s midrange is neutral and precise. It delivers vocals and instruments with clarity and definition, aiming for tonal accuracy. The RSV boasts a forward and captivating midrange. Its lower midrange is neutral, while the upper midrange embraces pinna gain ever so slightly greater than what Studio 4 aims for, adding a sense of forwardness to vocals and instrumental solos. This results in emotional resonance and remarkable fidelity. Mids on both of these IEMs are pretty accurate and well-balanced; one cannot go wrong in this department with either of these.

Treble:
The Studio 4’s treble is balanced, with a focus on accuracy. It offers natural transient attacks without venturing into sharpness. A mid-treble dip adds warmth to the sound, and the upper-treble maintains neutrality. RSV’s treble balances warmth and precision. It features a natural lower-treble and a mid-treble dip that is more than Softears Studio 4, which adds a warm, analog-like character to the sound. The upper-treble maintains neutrality and contributes to a balanced presentation. Although the quality of treble from RSV feels more tonally satisfying, the details and resolution however are better on Studio 4.

Soundstage:
The Softears Studio 4 is likely designed to provide a precise and focused soundstage, which is common in studio-oriented IEMs. The RSV has a tad wider and deeper soundstage, which contributes to a more immersive listening experience.

Softears Studio 4 vs AFUL Performer 8​

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Lows:
The Aful Performer 8 features a controlled bass response with good impact and rumble in the sub-bass region. However, it leans towards a leaner and drier sound profile compared to most hybrid IEMs. The dynamic driver in the P8 allows it to have a good punch and rumble. While it doesn’t have a pronounced mid-bass, the bass quality is praised for its tight texture and overall quality. But the Studio 4 wins hands down in this aspect despite being BA driver the punch and authority is more and, everything is more enjoyable in it.

Midrange:
The P8 boasts high resolution and clarity in the midrange. Vocals and instruments are well-defined and clean. However, the mid-range can sound somewhat dry due to a lack of fullness. This results in a spacious and airy presentation. While some may prefer a fuller mid-range on the Softears Studio 4 , the P8 impresses with its detail, dynamism, and transparency. P8 does not put the vocalist in the front like Softears Studio 4, however, it positions everything in a more balanced form. Nothing is outstanding on its own, however, it has a very soothing vocal experience, Softears Studio 4 would sound much more vivid than P8 due to its vocal forwardness.

Treble:
The Aful Performer 8’s treble is crisp, dynamic, and detailed. It showcases excellent detail retrieval, allowing you to hear intricate nuances in music. While the treble is energetic and well-extended, it lacks the incisiveness and airiness that is produced by the Softears Studio 4. Aful Performer 8 sounds more comfortable for listening for a longer period of time, it never gets fatiguing, shouty, or sibilant, and it’s overall a more forgiving tonality. Softears Studio 4 in comparison has more airiness, and treble extension is on par however the details are more in the face with Softears Studio 4.

Soundstage:
The soundstage on the P8 is wide, although the IEM could be a great gaming thing due to its ability to pinpoint the sounds exactly, the soundstage on S4 feels a tad bit smaller, although not much of a difference here both IEMs have an average soundstage, but P8 wins marginally here.

Overall Rating​

Sound Quality:
Low Frequency (Bass): (4.5/5)
Mid Frequency: (4.3/5)
High Frequency (Treble): (4.3/5)
Comfort:
Fit and Ergonomics: (5/5)
Prolonged Wear Comfort: (5/5)
Overall Rating: (4.5/5)

TL;DR​

The Softears Studio 4 is a high-quality in-ear monitor (IEM) with a neutral and accurate sound signature, making it ideal for studio work and analytical listening. It offers controlled and well-extended bass, high-resolution mids, and balanced treble. The build quality is exceptional, and it provides a comfortable fit.
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B
bisa3d
Thanks for the comparison .Cheers

MD Rohit

500+ Head-Fier
Softears studio 4 detailed review
Pros: • Simple design

• Detailed and smooth treble

• Rich and natural midrange

• Controlled and articulate bass

• Wide soundstage and precise imaging

• Nice and protective heart case

• Easy to Drive: Achieves a nearly straight impedance curve, making it easy to drive with various audio interfaces

• Articulate Mids: The midrange is well-textured and articulate, making vocals and instruments sound natural and smooth
Cons: • Stock tips are useless

• ok type cable

• Bass may lack impact for bass-heads

• Treble may be too reserved for some
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Technical Specifications:-
>Impedance: 12Ω.
>Sensitivity: 123dB/Vrms.
>Shell: Medical-Grade 3D-Printed Ear Shells.
>THD+N: <1%.
>Frequency Response Range: 5Hz-40kHz.
>Effective Frequency Range: 20Hz-20kHz.
>Interface: 0.78mm 2-pin Connectors.
>Termination Plug: 3.5mm Single-Ended.

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Build quality/durability and design
I’ve been using the Softears Studio 4 for a while now, and I’ve got to say, they’ve really impressed me. Right off the bat, the build quality struck me. They’re made with this 3D printing tech that’s super precise, so every little part is just perfect. The material feels premium too—it’s this medical-grade resin that’s tough but doesn’t irritate my skin, even after hours of wearing them.

Design-wise, they’re pretty sleek. All black, nothing too flashy, but they have this professional look that I dig. They’re also surprisingly light. I mean, you can tell they’re solidly built, but they don’t feel heavy in your ears at all. And they fit really well, which is a big deal for me because I hate it when IEMs keep slipping out. These stay put, and they block out noise so well, it’s like I’m in my own little bubble when I’ve got them on.

Durability is another thing I’m happy about. I’m not gentle with my gear, but these have held up great. No issues with the cable or anything.

So yeah, if you’re looking for something that’s built to last, sounds amazing, and is comfortable for those long listening sessions, the Softears Studio 4 should definitely be on your radar.
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Cable
The Studio 4’s cable is made of high-purity, oxygen-free copper, which is known for its excellent signal transmission1. It’s a durable choice, with a twisted braided design that’s meant to be tangle-resistant and sturdy.

However, I understand that compared to other IEMs in the same range, you might have come across some with cables that feel more premium or offer additional features that enhance the overall user experience. It’s a valid point, and many audiophiles do prefer a cable that matches the quality and aesthetics of their IEMs.

While the cable of the Studio 4 may seem average in appearance, it’s designed to be functional and replaceable. This means you have the option to swap it out for an aftermarket cable that better suits your style and preferences, thanks to the standard 0.78mm 2-pin connectors1. It’s all about finding that perfect match for your personal listening experience

•I am using @DUNU-Topsound Hulk Pro mini cable with this set

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Tips
When you get your hands on the Softears Studio 4, you might find that the stock tips don’t quite hit the mark. They just don’t seem to do justice to the IEMs, so I tossed them aside. Instead, I’ve switched to using Dunu Candy tips, and the difference is night and day. The fit is better, and the sound isolation improves the overall audio experience.

If you’re looking to enhance your listening sessions further, you might want to consider trying out Spinfit W1 or JVC Spiral Dot++ tips. These are known for their comfort and the way they can fine-tune the sound profile to your liking. It’s all about finding the right match for your ears, and with these alternatives, you’re likely to notice a significant upgrade from the default set.
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•Source Dependency: The technical prowess of the Studio 4 means it performs best with high-quality recordings. Poorly recorded tracks may not benefit as much from its capabilities, and the flaws in such recordings could be made more apparent.

•Tasting source - @Questyle M15/ @Cayin RU7/ @Shanling H5/ @Astell & kern SP1000M/ @FiiO BTR7/ @HiByMusic R3 ii/ @fosi AUDIO DS1/ @MOONDROP dawn pro/ @iFi audio hip DAC V2/ ifi zen DAC v2/ @Lg V60 (impedients unlock)/ @Sony Xperia 1 MK3
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The Sound performance
The Softears Studio 4 has garnered attention for its sound quality that’s both well-balanced and detailed. It’s praised for having an excellent tonal balance and clarity across the frequency spectrum, making it a solid choice for those who appreciate a neutral sound profile.

The bass is described as tight and controlled, which should please those who prefer precision over a bass-heavy presentation. The midrange shines with its natural and smooth character, ensuring that vocals and instruments are rendered with authenticity.

Treble in the Studio 4 is detailed and extends well, providing that sparkle and airiness without being overly sharp or sibilant. This makes it suitable for long listening sessions, as it doesn’t induce listener fatigue.

Overall, the Studio 4 seems to be a hit for those looking for an IEM that offers a professional studio sound at a competitive price point, especially within the sub-$500 category. It’s a well-regarded piece of gear among audiophiles and professionals alike.
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Detailed review
Bass
The bass region is the foundation of music, providing rhythm and depth. In the Softears Studio 4, the bass is crafted with a focus on quality over quantity.

Pros:
•Quality Over Quantity:
The bass is not overemphasized, which keeps the overall sound signature neutral and balanced. This approach allows for a clear distinction between different bass layers and contributes to the overall clarity of the music.

•Sub-bass: The sub-bass has a good rumble and is well-controlled, providing enough presence to enjoy the music without overwhelming the other frequencies. It has a good weight and hits deep, enhancing tracks with a solid low-end without bleeding into the mid-bass or mids.

•Mid-bass: The mid-bass is powerful yet tight, with a deep thump that brings energy to the music. The speed is just right, ensuring that every beat is well-defined and retains its power. This results in a detailed and impactful bass response, where instruments like bass guitars sound lively and natural.

Cons:
•Subtlety May Not Suit All:
Listeners who prefer a more aggressive bass might find the Studio 4’s bass too subtle. The focus on neutrality might not satisfy those looking for a bass-heavy experience.

•Detail Over Warmth: While the bass is detailed, some might miss the warmth and fullness that comes with a more pronounced bass boost, especially in genres like hip-hop or electronic dance music.

Musical and Instrumental References:
•Electronic Music:
In Daft Punk’s “Around the World,” the Studio 4 delivers the driving bassline with precision, allowing the synthetic textures to come through without muddying the mid-range.

•Rock Music: The opening bass riff in Muse’s “Hysteria” is tight and punchy, showcasing the Studio 4’s ability to handle fast-paced and complex basslines.

•Classical Music: The double basses in Tchaikovsky’s “Swan Lake” have a depth and resonance that add to the orchestral tapestry without overpowering the delicate balance of the ensemble.

In conclusion, the bass of the Softears Studio 4 is designed for those who appreciate a balanced and accurate bass response. It provides a solid foundation for a wide range of music genres without ever taking center stage unnecessarily. While it may not cater to every preference, particularly for those who favor a more bass-forward sound, it stands as a testament to the pursuit of high-fidelity audio reproduction that respects the integrity of the original recording.
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Mid Range
The mid-range is often considered the heart of the music, carrying the bulk of vocals and many instruments. In the Softears Studio 4, the mid-range is treated with respect and attention to detail.

Pros:
•Natural Vocal Reproduction: The mid-range is where the Studio 4 truly excels. Male vocals have a richness and depth that make them feel close and personal, as if the artist is performing right in front of you. Female vocals are crystal clear with a lively energy that can make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up.

•Instrumental Clarity: Instruments in the mid-range, like acoustic guitars and pianos, are rendered with a clean and clear presentation. The separation between instruments is impressive, allowing each one to stand out without muddying the others.

•Warmth and Body: The lower mid-range has a slight warmth that adds body to the sound, giving a fuller experience, especially noticeable in genres like jazz or blues.

Cons:
•Potential Overemphasis: Some listeners might find the mid-range a bit too forward, which could lead to a sense of congestion in very busy tracks. This might overshadow the subtleties in the music, especially in complex orchestral pieces.

Musical and Instrumental References:
•Jazz:
The upright bass and saxophone in Miles Davis’ “Blue in Green” have a lushness that fills the room, thanks to the Studio 4’s mid-range capabilities.

•Rock: The rhythm guitars in The Eagles’ “Hotel California” have a presence and definition that let you hear every strum and pick on the strings.

•Classical: The cellos and violas in Yo-Yo Ma’s rendition of Bach’s Cello Suites are warm and resonant, with each note distinct and full of emotion.

Overall the mid-range of the Softears Studio 4 is a well-crafted balance of clarity and warmth. It brings vocals and instruments to life with a naturalness that’s both engaging and immersive. While it may not be perfect for every genre or every listener, it provides a sound that is both professional and accessible, making it a worthy consideration for those seeking a high-fidelity audio experience.
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Treble
When we examine the treble of the Softears Studio 4, we’re entering the realm of high-frequency sounds where the magic of clarity and detail comes to life.

Pros:
•Clarity and Precision: The treble is crystal clear, allowing every high note to be heard with precision. It’s like the clear ring of a bell in a quiet room—distinct and pure.

•Instrumental Fidelity: High-frequency instruments are reproduced with remarkable fidelity. The tinkle of a high-pitched triangle or the bright chime of a celesta is heard with a lifelike presence.

•Vocal Smoothness: Sibilant sounds in vocals, which can often be piercing, are smoothed out beautifully. Listening to the soaring vocals of Freddie Mercury in Queen’s “Somebody to Love” is a treat, with every ‘s’ and ‘t’ sounding smooth and controlled.

Extended Listening: The treble is tuned to avoid listener fatigue. You can enjoy your favorite albums back-to-back, like Pink Floyd’s “The Dark Side of the Moon,” without any discomfort.

Cons:
•Reserved Sparkle:
Some audiophiles might find the treble slightly reserved. While it’s detailed, it doesn’t have the sparkle that some may expect when listening to the cymbals in a live jazz recording.

•Instrumental Energy: While the treble is clear, it may lack a bit of energy. The crisp attack of a snare drum or the bright brass in a symphony orchestra might not have the bite that some listeners prefer.

•Soundstage Perception: The precise treble contributes to a wide soundstage, which is excellent for orchestral pieces like Beethoven’s “Symphony No.9.” However, this can sometimes make intimate acoustic sessions feel less cozy. (Not exactly cons)


Musical and Instrumental References:
•Classical Music: In a piece like Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons,” the Studio 4 allows the violins to sing with a natural brightness, capturing the nuances of the bowing technique.

•Rock Music: The electric guitar solos in AC/DC’s “Back in Black” are delivered with enough detail to appreciate the grit and distortion, yet without any harshness.

•Acoustic Performances: The fingerstyle guitar work in “Dust in the Wind” by Kansas benefits from the treble’s clarity, allowing each plucked string to resonate clearly.

In summary, the treble of the Softears Studio 4 is designed for those who value clarity and detail over brightness and energy. It offers a refined listening experience that’s easy on the ears, making it suitable for extended use. While it may not satisfy those seeking a more vibrant treble response, it stands as a solid choice for listeners who prefer a more laid-back treble presentation.
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Technical Performance
•Imaging and Layering: The Studio 4 excels in imaging, placing each instrument in its own distinct space. This creates a three-dimensional soundstage that makes listening to complex arrangements, like a live orchestra, a truly immersive experience.

•Detail Retrieval: With an impressive ability to unearth the finer details in music, the Studio 4 captures the subtle breaths a singer takes, the light touch of fingers on a piano, or the gentle brush on a drum skin.

•Note Separation: The separation of notes is precise, allowing listeners to appreciate the individuality of each note in a chord. This is particularly evident in acoustic genres, where the strumming of a guitar or the pluck of a violin string can be heard distinctly.

•Resolution: The resolution is high, meaning that the music is presented with clarity and definition. This is beneficial when listening to high-resolution audio files, where every nuance is intended to be heard.

Musical and Instrumental References:
•Classical: In Beethoven’s “Moonlight Sonata,” the Studio 4 allows each piano note to be heard with clarity and precision, from the softest pianissimo to the most robust fortissimo.

•Jazz:
The intricate play between the double bass and the saxophone in John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps” is rendered with meticulous detail, allowing the listener to follow each instrument as if they were in the room.

•Rock: The layered guitar work in Pink Floyd’s “Comfortably Numb” is showcased beautifully, with each layer of sound given its own space, making the solo truly stand out.

• The Softears Studio 4 is a technical marvel that will satisfy those who seek to dissect and appreciate every aspect of their music. It’s a tool for the true audiophile, designed to reveal the layers and textures of sound that are often hidden. While it may not be the perfect fit for everyone, especially those who enjoy a ‘warmer’ or ‘bassier’ sound, its technical capabilities are undeniably impressive.
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Overall Sound: The Softears Studio 4 earphones give you a sound that’s rich and full. They make music feel alive and detailed, from the deepest bass to the highest notes. Everything sounds clear and separate, so you can hear each instrument on its own and enjoy the music the way it was meant to be heard.
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Recommendation: If you love music and want to hear it with all the depth and detail that your favorite artists put into it, the Studio 4 is a great choice. They’re comfortable to wear, built to last, and they make all kinds of music sound amazing. Whether you’re into classical, rock, jazz, or pop, these earphones will make your listening experience better.
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A
aminulsul
Very well described. I am currently tinkering with this beast; your assessment will help to elevate its aesthetically pleasing status.
MotherX1
MotherX1
Nice writing, adding musical reference was a nice touch . Keep it up 👍🏻
AbCube
AbCube
nice writing, keep it up.

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