Upon initial examination of the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC, its positioning relative to the Soundcore Liberty 4 required clarification. It was unclear whether this was a more economical variant, a successor, an enhanced iteration, or a similar model with improved noise cancellation. After several weeks of practical use in diverse scenarios, the Liberty 4 NC has revealed itself to be a combination of these aspects.
The First Encounter with Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC
In our review of the Soundcore Aerofit Pro, we noted concerns regarding the design’s shift away from a sleek aesthetic towards excessive branding. The Liberty 4 NC marks a return to a more elegant and refined design. As with the Liberty 4, opening the case provides a visually pleasing experience with illuminated headphones. While the case itself is relatively large, it offers substantial charging capacity. Charging is supported wirelessly or via cable, and the headphones are controlled via touch. The Anker Soundcore app provides comprehensive customization options.
Not Entirely Unimpressive Performance
Soundcore claims a 98.5% reduction of ambient noise through the noise cancellation feature. While precise measurement of this figure is inherently difficult, it represents a significant claim. Few over-ear headphones achieve near-total environmental reduction (SONY WH-1000XM4 being a notable exception), and even fewer in-ear models. Objectively, noise cancellation is effective both without music playback and virtually complete isolation with music. The adaptive noise reduction 2.0 effectively adjusts to the environment, avoiding a static, potentially excessive setting. Bluetooth 5.3 ensures rapid connection and supports multi-point connectivity for two devices. Technics remains unique in offering three.
The Soundcore app provides extensive user customization. Notable features include Hear ID 2.0 (personalized EQ via hearing test), 3D Surround Sound, Safe Volume (limiting potentially harmful listening levels), and Wind Noise Reduction. After experimentation, we found Soundcore’s signature EQ setting to be the most comprehensive, despite being slightly bass-heavy. This will be discussed further in the sound experience section.
The Liberty 4 NC omits the health and fitness features present in the Liberty 4, such as heart rate measurement and posture alerts. While not frequently used, these were interesting supplementary features.
Battery capacity is notable, providing 10 hours in the earbuds and 50 hours with the charging case, approaching the levels typically associated with over-ear headphones, though not matching the Aerofit Pro’s 14 hours.
The Sound Experience of the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC
Equipped with 11 mm drivers, Hi-Res Wireless, and LDAC, the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC possesses the necessary attributes for high-fidelity audio reproduction. Performance is commendable across a variety of genres. The driver size facilitates excellent acoustic capabilities, which are effectively utilized. A balanced midrange provides a stable foundation, although it may be perceived as slightly subdued in certain genres. The absence of a harsh high-frequency range (a previous issue with the Liberty 4) contributes to a complete and pleasing sound profile. Soundcore appears to have established a distinct sound signature, which was previously lacking in the Anker Soundcore Space Q45. While difficult to articulate precisely, the prior model felt incomplete. This is no longer the case.
Hans Zimmer – Buyer Beware presents a clear, impactful experience, while Armin Van Buuren – Beatiful Life delivers engaging bass. AIR – La femme d’argent provides immersive sound, and Etherwood- Lighthouse reveals intricate tweeter details without harshness.
Notably, all frequencies maintain their integrity even at near-maximum volume levels, increasing in intensity without disproportionate emphasis on treble or thinning of bass. This is an impressive feat. Overall, the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC exhibits few sonic deficiencies. Direct comparison with the high-end Technics EAH-AZ80 reveals subtle differences: the Liberty 4 NC sounds slightly narrower, less defined, and less cohesive. While still performing well, this comparison highlights areas for potential improvement.
Parts We Miss in the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC
The removal of physical buttons, present in the Liberty 4, is a drawback. While the touch sensors are adequate, they can be imprecise and incompatible with gloves.
Fit is another area of concern. The internal support bulge is relatively large, causing ear pain after short listening periods for some users. This issue persisted regardless of adjustment and was not encountered with the Liberty 4, suggesting potential fit problems for individuals with smaller ears.
Finally, clear charging status information is lacking. Low battery warnings appear abruptly without prior indication, and the charging case provides minimal information beyond its own charge level.
The Conclusion
While the Soundcore Liberty 4 NC exhibits certain shortcomings, its strengths are undeniable. These are highly capable headphones, showcasing both technical proficiency and acoustic prowess. Furthermore, their affordability mitigates some of these drawbacks. The Anker Soundcore Liberty 4 NC retails for approximately one thousand Swedish kronor, representing excellent value for its performance level.
Soundcore provided review samples for this evaluation. Provision of materials does not influence our editorial independence; our reviews are conducted objectively with the reader’s interests as the primary focus.
