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Comparisons
In this segment we will check out how the Aspire 4 compares to some of its competitors. Below you will find a comparison to two models that I have at home. I cannot compare the Aspire 4 to anything else, that I do not have with me.
The Aspire 4 steps into the ring against its bigger sibling, the U4s and the FIR Electron 12.
I used the Lotoo PAW Gold Touch as my source of choice while comparing the models.
64 Audio U4s
The U4s and the Aspire 4 are both four-driver hybrids, but there are some obvious differences between the two.
The U4s gets all the technological benefits that were held back from the Aspire 4. Like swappable Apex modules, a tia high driver and a full aluminum shell. The two have similar sounds, and the distinctive 64 Audio house sound is evident in both.
The U4s offers a more solid bass that goes deeper with higher resolution and texture. The Aspire 4 puts the mid-bass more in front than the U4s, while the latter has a more balanced response.
Both monitors feature a warmer, slightly darker signature in the midrange. The Aspire delivers a touch more darkness though, while the U4s sounds more transparent and polished. The U4s gives the upper mids more prominence, which in turn results in a cleaner sound.
In terms of technical performance, it is also the U4s who steals the show. It has higher resolution, a darker background and better contrast overall. It paints a sharper picture and crafts a wider and taller soundstage.
The Aspire 4 has a more relaxed and laid-back treble tuning, where the U4s delivers more glare and sparkle in the top end. The U4s also puts more air through the highs into the entire scene. The Aspire is the more forgivingly toned monitor of the two, which guarantees a more fatigue free listening, while the U4s is the more versatile IEM.
Overall, the Aspire is warmer and more relaxed, while the U4s is more refined and detailed with better balance throughout. Both IEMs cater to different audiences in my opinion. While the U4s is probably the optimal choice for anyone looking for a detailed and technically more proficient sound, the Aspire 4 seems like a safe bet for anyone who’s after a relaxed tuning.
FIR Audio Electron 12
The Electron 12 is a rather different animal than the Aspire 4 on paper.
Solely because of its use of a single dynamic driver, while the Aspire is a four-driver hybrid design. Comparing their sonic characteristics, it is obvious that they offer distinctively different choices.
The Aspire 4 has a warm and full bass, with a noticeable midbass focus. While it offers good impact, it doesn’t reach as deep as the Electron, which sounds more defined and controlled. The Electron provides a punchier and more dynamic bass compared to the Aspire. The FIR monitor also feels tighter and more precise in comparison.
The 64 Audio IEM features a warmer, more analogue and fuller sound throughout, compared to the dryer and more neutral Electron 12 in my opinion. Especially the weight and body of the lower midrange is where the Aspire outshines the Electron. Deeper tuned instruments and vocals come across with more heftiness and texture, which to me also makes them sound more convincing.
Electron 12 has more midrange energy than the Aspire 4. Which to me is most obvious when it comes to speed. The FIR sounds grander and more open than the Aspire, which is narrower. Vocals on the Electron sound more spacious and more holographic, while they sound weightier and more emotional on the Aspire.
In terms of technical performance, it is the Electron who wins every contest. Stage size, resolution, imaging, layering and dynamic range are all superior on the FIR.
Treble is vastly different on both IEMs. The Aspire has a treble performance that is more in the back of the frequency spectrum. While the Electron 12 puts the highs more in front, with noticeably more energy and sparkle. The treble of the Electron contributes to a more spacious feel compared to the Aspire 4. It also adds more shine and glimmer to instruments like cymbals or high-pitched tones.
Conclusion
The Aspire 4 is 64 Audio’s most affordable IEM to date, and with a price tag of 899 USD it offers a great step into their lineup. It is a simpler, more budget-friendly option that still delivers great sound quality with its hybrid driver design and fixed Apex module. It upholds 64 Audio’s reputation for innovation and quality.
The design and sound signature clearly target the professional audio market, though it might miss some features that appeal to audiophiles. The Aspire 4 has a full and warm sound, that delivers great emotions. It features a traditional consumer tuning that will please professional musicians alike.
Overall, the Aspire 4 prioritizes warmth and natural sound over analytical detail, making it a comfortable and non-fatiguing listen for extended periods.
While the ABS shells might cause for raised eyebrows by some, I think it’s a decent choice from 64 Audio to offer their quality products at a lower price range.
Summary
Pros:
Price
Warm and full sound
Build Quality
Apex Core
Cons:
Bass tuning might not be for everyone
Technical performance falling behind competition
IPX connector limits cable rolling choices
