There’s a distinct quality to Soundcore’s products. While we can’t definitively say that Soundcore’s engineers directly address every critique we publish at senses.se, testing the Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 gave us that impression. The level of flexibility, customization, and the sheer number of intelligent features within the companion app are remarkable. Furthermore, the audio performance approaches near-perfection. Overall, the Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 impresses, though we do have a few observations, which we will detail in order.
Overall – Anker Soundcore Liberty 4
The packaging includes standard accessories, but Soundcore distinguishes itself by offering eartips in varying depths. The medium size is provided in two depths, catering to users who prefer a deeper in-ear fit. Currently, this option is limited to the medium size, potentially serving as a pilot program to gauge user demand. The charging case boasts a streamlined design and a compelling aesthetic, further enhanced by the internal illumination that activates upon opening. The front-facing LED also serves multiple functions. For instance, it mimics the scanner of Kit from Knight Rider during firmware updates and displays a red glow reminiscent of Robocop (the modern iteration) when charging is required.
The comfort level is noteworthy. Similar to the Anker Soundcore Sport X10, the lightweight construction of the earbuds (4 grams each) is initially surprising, leading to a comfortable fit that is easy to forget. The advertised battery life is 28 hours in conjunction with the charging case, and our experience suggests ample power availability.
The Soundcore App
Typically, this section highlights a specific key feature. However, the Soundcore app offers a plethora of functionalities, making it challenging to pinpoint a single standout element. The extensive control options necessitate a selective approach in this review.
The triple-click function – a fully programmable feature on the Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 – allows for customized control assignments. Some options even include submenus for further refinement. As an example, assigning playback mode control to the triple-click function presents a submenu where users can select the desired modes to cycle through. The headphones utilize physical buttons on each stem, eliminating concerns related to glove compatibility and providing tactile feedback upon activation.
Transparency and ANC
The transparency mode functions adequately, but, as with other Soundcore products, improved treble processing would be beneficial. While ambient sounds are audible, the overall audio profile sounds somewhat muffled.
The Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) effectively attenuates low frequencies, but its performance is less pronounced with sudden, sharp noises. The Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 incorporates an ear canal analysis feature, which measures frequencies inside and outside the ear canal to optimize noise cancellation. While this provides some improvement, sudden noises still tend to permeate the noise cancellation. Overall, Soundcore has room for improvement in noise cancellation, as the effect is primarily noticeable in the lower frequencies. The specific cause—whether related to eartips, insulation, fit, or inherent ANC limitations—is difficult to isolate. Nevertheless, further refinement is warranted.
Additional Features
The “Sound effects” section encompasses a variety of features. Beyond the now-standard support for LDAC, Soundcore includes Spatial Audio and HearID Sound. Spatial Audio simulates the origin of sound from a particular direction, creating a directional sensation when the user turns their head. While interesting, its practical application is limited, potentially appealing to users seeking a simulated surround sound experience on the go. HearID Sound is a hearing test involving the playback of different frequencies, similar to Skullcandy’s approach. Users listen to a series of musical excerpts, selecting between two options six times. The headphones then generate a personalized EQ profile based on the user’s hearing characteristics.
The final feature we will discuss is soundcore Wellness. The headphones measure pulse rate in the ear canals, which is utilized for both pulse-based training assistance and a form of stress monitoring. Furthermore, integrated sensors track posture, encouraging users to avoid neck strain. The accuracy of these latter functions remains to be determined, but the underlying technological innovation is commendable.
The Soundscape – Anker Soundcore Liberty 4
Our primary observation regarding the audio performance concerns the treble, which can be somewhat overemphasized and potentially fatiguing. While Soundcore has made strides in defining its distinct sonic signature in recent headphones, further refinement is warranted. While enhanced treble contributes to improved clarity, achieving an optimal balance is crucial to avoid discomfort. In our personalized EQ settings, we significantly reduced the treble to mitigate this issue.
Otherwise, the overall soundscape of the Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 is impressive and well-developed. Individual elements are clearly audible, each occupying its distinct space, resulting in a powerful and cohesive sound experience. We have few complaints beyond the aforementioned treble characteristics. Each genre is rendered with aplomb, exhibiting acoustic qualities comparable to higher-end audio products. Our entire playlist was faithfully reproduced, revealing the nuances and details of each track.
It is important to note that these headphones occupy a higher price bracket. Approaching the 2000 SEK mark places them in competition with alternatives such as the Sony WF-1000XM4, necessitating strong performance. The Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 delivers on this front. The soundscape is, in fact, comparable, which is a remarkable accomplishment.
What don’t we like then?
Beyond the treble characteristics and the noise cancellation’s shortcomings compared to top-tier offerings, we identified other areas for potential improvement. While the sliding mechanism of the case is aesthetically pleasing, the lack of tactile cues makes it difficult to orient, often requiring multiple attempts to open correctly. This could potentially lead to instability over time. Furthermore, while the internal LEDs are stylish, they can be excessively bright in dark environments. Finally, the case’s surface, while attractive, is prone to scratches.
We also found it undesirable that certain app functions cannot be completely disabled. For example, once pulse measurement is calibrated, it remains active. While logging and the measurement itself can be disabled, soundcore Wellness continues to run in the background.
Conclusion – Anker Soundcore Liberty 4
Anker Soundcore consistently impresses with its affordable, technologically advanced, and innovative headphones. The Liberty 4 is no exception, offering considerable flexibility with a wide array of features. The refined and detailed sound, after some equalization adjustments, rivals that of formidable competitors. The primary area for improvement remains comprehensive noise cancellation that matches the performance of industry leaders.
Nevertheless, we anticipate advancements in this area and are prepared to monitor their progress.
Anker Soundcore provided a test unit for this review. The provision of review units does not influence our editorial objectivity.
