HiBy has just introduced an affordable DAP (digital audio player) for only $249. The new HiBy R4 is an entry-level hi-res DAP that features four separate ES9018C2M DAC chips and offers support for 32-bit/768kHz PCM, DSD256 and MQA.
Bluetooth 5.2 and support for multiple hi-res Bluetooth codecs such as UAT and LDAC are included as well as aptX, aptX HD, AAC, and SBC.
Tip: Bluetooth Audio is Not Lossless.
“The R4 is the only digital audio player on the market that features a 4-DAC design in the sub-$400 price range. This alone makes it an exceptional value for the money; it’s a new generation of audio evangelism,” said Fanoble Meng, Co-Founder and CEO of HiBy Music.
The HiBy R4’s unique design was inspired by a combination of cyber punk, mecha and space opera. The resulting look is that of a futuristic audio machine, defined by strong geometric lines and an offset hatch. It is available in Black, Silver, Green and Orange.
Key Features
- 5 hours of run time, or 11 hours with 3.5mm and 675 hours standby time.
- Supports native playback of MQA, DSD up to 256 and PCM up to 32-bit/768kHz.
- High-grade processing power, using Snapdragon 665 SoC (8-core CPU).
- Android 12 operating system enables compatible with all streaming platforms.
- Class A amplification (525mW @ 32 ohms) that has zero crossover distortion for instant transient response and matchless detail.
- 4.7″ display (720×1280) to add a pleasing visual experience.
- 3.5mm single ended & 4.4mm balanced outputs.
- Bidirectional Bluetooth 5.2 support includes UAT, LDAC, aptX, aptX HD, AAC, and SBC.
- 2.4GHz / 5GHz dual band WiFi.
- USB Type-C Port (supports SPDIF, charging and data transfer).
- An included graffiti-designed lanyard convenient for outdoor use.
Competition
The HiBy R4 arrives at the budget end of the DAP market with few competitors other than models in its own range. The step-down model is the HiBy R3 II (Gen 2) for $179 at Amazon, while the step-up R5 II (Gen 2) sells for $349 at Amazon. The Hidizs AP80 Pro-X sells for less at $189 at Amazon. Meanwhile, other higher priced options include Sony’s NW-A306 Walkman now on sale for $298 at Amazon or the FiiO M11S, which we’ve reviewed, on sale for $449 at Amazon.
Price & Availability
The HiBy R4 DAP will retail for $249 at store.hiby.com. Pre-sale orders are now being accepted and units are expected to ship by mid-May 2024, with a free gift.
About HiBy
Since its founding in 2011, HiBy has established itself as a leading authority in the portable audio industry. HiBy specializes in the research, development and sales of top-quality portable audio products, and operates via two subsidiary brands: HiBy Music and HiBy Digital.
Related reading: The DAP is Dead: Long Live the New DAP
