Firstly I would like to thank Linsoul for sending me this sample to review.
*disclaimer: This sample was provided for the purpose of writing a review, no incentive was given to write a favourable review. All opinions expressed are my own subjective findings
Gear Used:
iBasso DX200 > Legacy 4
Topping D90 / A90 > Legacy 4
Tech Specs:
Frequency range: 20Hz-20KHz
Monitor Plug: 3.5mm
Connecto: 0.78mm 2PIN
Sensitivity: 108±0.5db
Impedance: 9.4Ω
Noise isolation: 26dB
Detachable cable: 120cm
Packaging, Build Quality and Accessories:
The Legacy 4 come in quite an impressive box, it is quite big with the brand name and model number in large font on the front. Once you open the large cardboard outer box you will find a case inside, this is where you will find the IEM’s nearly tucked into place with the accessories also neatly placed around them. It’s a really good unboxing experience, as you are greeted with a high quality box along with a great looking larger case that holds everything neatly inside.
The Legacy 4 look incredibly well built to me, the handmade housings are perfectly finished and the DIP switches and 2-pin sockets feel solid too. The included cable is really good, it’s silver plated copper and nice and pliable, which means it’s super comfortable in use too. The strain relief is great all round and I can’t fault these at all. I have got to point out how good these look in person too, the faceplate is gorgeous and has a slight sparkle to it, they really stand out and look more expensive than they really are.
Accessory wise you get the standard S/M/L silicone tips but in two different varieties, a small tool for changing the DIP switch settings and also a small carry case which fits the IEM’s in it perfectly. I quite like how Thieaudio included a smaller case within the bigger presentation case, a nice touch in my opinion. A few more tips and maybe a balanced cable would have been nice, but overall a good set of accessories.
Comfort and Isolation:
The fit of the Legacy 4 is excellent, I sometimes have trouble with certain universal IEM’s but these fit perfectly once I had found the right tips. The housing has smooth edges and the nozzle is at the correct angle to fit most peoples ears. The soft and pliable cable, along with well fitting pre-moulded ear-hooks definitely helps here and I found no problem with them over long listening sessions.
Isolation is really good, they work well for all sorts of use including noisy commuting and travelling.
Sound:
The Legacy 4 come with 2 switches on each earphone, these change the sound signature slightly to fine tune the sound to your taste. Please note these switches don’t bring about drastic changes to the sound signature.
With both switches down you get the original tuning of the L4, with the left switch turned up you get ever so slightly enhanced bass but this is a very minor adjustment. Turning the right switch up will bring the midrange forward a little, they also benefit from a little added body but at the same time the upper midrange becomes even more forward than stock which won’t be to everyone’s taste.
This review is based on both switches down – the stock configuration.
Lows: The low end on the Legacy 4 can dig really deep when called for, and they have no problem with sub-bass notes when they are needed in the mix, however they are very controlled and tight sounding overall and never miss a beat. Those looking for a more bass oriented signature should definitely look elsewhere, the Legacy 4 have quite a well balanced tuning that has a focus on transparency and resolution rather than boosting any particular part of the frequency response. They are not lacking down low, and kicks are backed up with good body, there is articulation and acoustic has good body to it overall, they are just not overly emphasised down low.
Midrange: The midrange is a real standout point on the Legacy 4, you get a very clean and open presentation. In my personal opinion the midrange is a little too clinical at times, and could use a little more body overall, however if you favour clarity over a more organic tone these should fit the bill. There is a little emphasis in the upper midrange / lower treble that some may be a little sensitive to, but with well recorded material I never found them to be overly harsh. This is where that resolution comes in to play, they really do have the ability to show up flaws in recordings better than quite a few IEM’s in this price range. So apart from the slightly lean presentation the midrange manages to extract an impressive amount of detail, and is far from being recessed or dull and laid back.
Highs: As mentioned in the midrange section, there is a bit of a peak in the upper midrange / lower treble region, that brings out a bit of extra energy but could be problematic to some. Luckily I find this peak to be tolerable and from there upwards the treble is clean and crisp with excellent air and extension but without being too forward in the mix. Tonally the treble is actually very good, with accurate representation for the most part, cymbals sound realistic without ever sounding splashy, snares are snappy and overall the treble is faithful to the recording.
Soundstaging is good, a well focussed centre image with instruments surrounding it creates a good sized stage but without sounding detached. There is excellent separation and layering, and they handle fast and complex mixes without sounding congested. They are very tight and controlled, yet full when called for, this is a great trait to have.
Conclusion:
I personally really enjoy the Legacy 4, they have the kind of tuning that I appreciate and enjoy a lot. It is a well balanced sound overall that has good impact and energy without sounding too coloured overall. They are a little on the brighter side due to the upper midrange / lower treble peak, but it is well within my tolerable limits and most shouldn’t find them problematic. The midrange is really insightful and definitely a focus point on these, yet they are also a brilliant all rounder if you are looking for something that is detailed and technical instead of warm and smooth. They are very good value for money, the build and sound are excellent for the price.
Sound Perfection Rating: 9.5/10 (stunning in both looks and sound)