In fact, when I first plugged in Audirect Beam 4, my impression of its sound quality was not simply big and loud. It offers three adjustable gain levels - low gain for most earphones, mid gain for harder-to-drive earphones, and high gain for high-impedance earphones and some low-impedance headphones. Its sound quality is initially characterized by a very healthy and robust structure. Compared to many smaller portable DACs that lack soundstage density and solid three-frequency reproduction, the foundation of its sound feels quite sturdy and robust. Frankly, after listening for a while, you may almost forget that you are listening through a "tail" and start to feel like you're using a reasonably priced player with good sound quality.

In terms of the low frequencies, Audirect Beam 4 doesn't deliver a booming quantity of bass. Instead, it offers a moderate and relatively restrained bass response, which diverges slightly from the brand's usual tendency towards a more enthusiastic, lively sound signature. The Beam 4 exhibits a more cautious approach, emphasizing detail, texture, and control rather than excessive emphasis on warmth and excitement. The bass response is lively and substantial, reminiscent of good studio monitors that offer quality without exaggeration.

The midrange is intended to provide a solid, full, and dense sound within a calm atmosphere. It emphasizes texture and control over flamboyance and exuberance. If you are looking for a highly emotive and dynamic presentation, the Beam 4 may not lean in that direction. Instead, it seems to assert, "Listen carefully, how many portable DACs can provide such solidity and realistic midrange? Our presentation feels solid and real; so much so that it may make other devices seem lacking in comparison." The background is clean and smooth, allowing for a focused and detailed sonic experience, both in single-ended and balanced outputs, with the latter offering more power. Its output is not about direct force but about substantial inner strength and reserve, demonstrating a solid and dynamic character while avoiding monotony.

The high frequencies are bright, smooth, and non-intrusive, effortlessly delivering intricate detail and spatial awareness. The Beam 4 excels in handling string instruments, showcasing an advanced level of extension and integration. Its separation and detail are notable, with exceptional dynamic control rarely found in comparable devices. The non-colored high frequencies ensure adaptability to various music genres, maintaining exceptional transparency and clarity.

While the Audirect Beam 4 may not have a distinct sound signature per se and tends towards a more neutral tonality, it stands out as one of the most meticulously crafted products within its category. Its instrumental timbre is accurate, the background is clean and refreshing, and the vocals are sincere and authentic. It pairs well with a variety of earphones, showing no bias towards specific music genres. It effortlessly handles all types of music, offering a remarkable balance and openness akin to professional studio monitors. It easily discerns flaws in recordings and background noises in live recordings. At first listen, it may seem uncolored, but listeners with experience can appreciate its subtle American-style aesthetics, which provide a sufficient musicality, enhance rhythmic articulation, offer a quick and agile sense of pace, and provide a hint of sincerity and charm.

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