HiBy R4 HiFi Music Player User Manual

1. Introduction

The HiBy R4 is an entry-level HiFi digital audio player designed for exceptional audio performance and a user-friendly experience. It combines a unique industrial design with smooth operation, excellent sound quality, and an intuitive interface. The R4 is suitable for various modern music styles, providing an enjoyable and well-balanced sonic experience for extended listening sessions.

Key features include a cyborg-inspired design, a quad-chip HiFi DAC array, dual customized PCM/DSD conversion pathways, a powerful Snapdragon 665 SoC, 3GB RAM, 32GB ROM, an open Android 12 system, Class A amplification, femtosecond-grade audio clock crystal oscillators, and versatile audio output options.

Figure 1: HiBy R4 Digital Audio Player in various colors.

New Generation Audio Evangelism

• Cyborg-inspired industrial design
• Quad-chip HiFi DAC array (ES9018C2M*4)
• PCM / DSD dual customized conversion pathways
• Qualcomm Snapdragon 665 SoC
• 3G RAM + 32G ROM
• Open Android 12 system
• SRC HiByOS systemwide bitperfect audio
• Class A amplification
• Femtosecond-grade audio clock crystal oscillators
• 3.5mm SE + 4.4mm balanced output ports
• 4.7” large hi-res display
• 11 hour run time
• DSD 256, PCM768kHz/32bit
• MQA 16x unfolding
• HiByCast wireless remote control
• User-defined function toggle
• Bidirectional Bluetooth audio (send and receive)

Figure 2: Seventeen key features of the HiBy R4.

2. What's Included

The HiBy R4 package contains the following items:

• HiBy R4 Digital Audio Player
• Type-C to Type-C Charging and Data Cable
• User Guide
• Warranty Card
• QC Card
• Front Screen Protector (2 included, 1 pre-applied)
• TPU Protective Case

Figure 3: Package contents of the HiBy R4.

3. Setup

3.1 Initial Charging

Before first use, fully charge your HiBy R4. Connect the provided Type-C to Type-C cable to the device's USB-C port and a compatible 20W PD charger. A full charge takes approximately 2 hours.

3.2 Power On/Off

• To Power On: Press and hold the power button (usually on the side) until the screen illuminates.
• To Power Off: Press and hold the power button, then select "Power Off" from the on-screen options.
• To Restart: Press and hold the power button, then select "Restart" from the on-screen options.

3.3 Inserting a Micro SD Card

The HiBy R4 supports expandable memory up to 2TB via a Micro SD card. Locate the Micro SD card slot on the device, insert the card gently until it clicks into place. Ensure the device is powered off before inserting or removing the card to prevent data corruption.

3.4 Connecting Headphones/Amplifiers

The R4 features both 3.5mm Single-Ended (SE) and 4.4mm Balanced audio output ports. Connect your headphones or external amplifier to the appropriate port. The 4.4mm balanced output offers enhanced power and signal separation for compatible headphones.

Figure 4: Audio output and USB-C ports.

3.5 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Connectivity

Access the device settings to configure Wi-Fi (2.4GHz / 5GHz dual band) and Bluetooth 5.0 connections. This allows for streaming, file transfer, and connecting to wireless audio devices.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Android 12 Operating System

The HiBy R4 runs on an open Android 12 system, providing excellent compatibility and stability. This allows for smooth operation of mainstream applications, including popular music streaming services. You can install third-party applications from the Google Play Store or other trusted sources.

Figure 5: HiBy R4 with Open Android 12 system interface.

4.2 HiBy OS and Bitperfect Audio

The R4 utilizes the in-house developed HiBy OS, optimized for professional HiFi audio. This system architecture ensures true systemwide bitperfect audio by bypassing Android's native audio resampling. This means you get the purest audio quality directly from your source files, even when using third-party streaming apps or USB audio output.

Figure 6: The HiBy OS interface.

Figure 7: True systemwide bitperfect audio.

4.3 Music Playback and High-Resolution Formats

The HiBy R4 supports a wide range of high-resolution audio formats, including DSD256 and PCM up to 32bit/768kHz. It also features 16x unfolding of MQA files, delivering master-tape quality audio reproduction for an immersive listening experience.

Figure 8: High-resolution audio format support.

4.4 HiByCast Wireless Remote Control

Utilize HiByCast for systemwide remote control of your R4 via a connected device. This feature allows for convenient management of your music and player settings from a distance.

Figure 9: HiByCast systemwide remote control.

4.5 Bluetooth Audio

The R4 supports bidirectional Bluetooth 5.0, allowing it to both send and receive audio. It is compatible with multiple high-resolution Bluetooth codecs, including UAT, LDAC, aptX, aptX HD, AAC, and SBC. UAT (Ultra Audio Transmission) is HiBy’s proprietary codec, offering up to 192kHz transmission sample rate and 1.2Mbps bandwidth for superior wireless audio fidelity.

Figure 10: Bidirectional Bluetooth audio support.

4.6 User-Defined Function Toggle

The R4 features a unique physical function (Fn) toggle that can be customized for various actions, such as button lock or screen flip, enhancing usability and convenience.

Figure 11: User-defined function toggle.

5. User Tips

• Streaming Apps: Since the R4 runs on an open Android 12 system, you can easily install popular streaming applications like Spotify, Deezer, Qobuz, and Apple Music directly from the Google Play Store.
• Expandable Storage: Don't hesitate to use a high-capacity Micro SD card. The R4 supports up to 2TB, allowing you to carry an extensive music library.
• External Amplification: The R4 can be connected to an external amplifier to further enhance audio quality and drive more demanding headphones. Use the 3.5mm SE or 4.4mm balanced output for this purpose.
• Firmware Updates: Ensure your device's firmware is kept up-to-date. The R4 supports OTA (Over-The-Air) automatic firmware upgrades, which can improve performance, add features, and fix bugs.

6. Maintenance

6.1 Cleaning

To maintain the appearance and functionality of your HiBy R4, regularly clean the device. Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth to wipe the screen and body. For stubborn smudges, a slightly damp cloth with a small amount of electronics cleaner can be used, but avoid excessive moisture. Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.

6.2 Battery Care

The R4 is equipped with a 4500mAh lithium battery. To prolong battery life:

• Avoid exposing the device to extreme temperatures (hot or cold).
• Do not let the battery completely drain for extended periods.
• For long-term storage, charge the device to about 50-60% and store it in a cool, dry place.
• Use only the provided charging cable and a compatible 20W PD charger.

6.3 Software Updates

The HiBy R4 supports OTA (Over-The-Air) automatic firmware upgrades. Regularly check for and install updates to ensure optimal performance, access new features, and benefit from bug fixes and security enhancements.

7. Troubleshooting

• Device Not Turning On: Ensure the battery is charged. Connect the device to a charger for at least 15 minutes before attempting to power it on again. If it still doesn't turn on, try a hard reset (refer to the full user guide for specific instructions).
• No Sound Output:
  • Check headphone connections (3.5mm or 4.4mm).
  • Verify volume levels on the device.
  • Test with different headphones or audio files.
  • Ensure the correct output mode is selected in settings if applicable.
• Wi-Fi/Bluetooth Connectivity Issues:
  • Toggle Wi-Fi/Bluetooth off and on in settings.
  • Restart the HiBy R4.
  • Ensure the device is within range of the Wi-Fi network or Bluetooth accessory.
  • Forget and re-pair Bluetooth devices.
• App Crashes/Freezes:
  • Close and reopen the application.
  • Clear the app's cache and data in Android settings.
  • Restart the HiBy R4.
  • Ensure the app is updated to its latest version.
• Slow Performance:
  • Close unnecessary background applications.
  • Clear system cache (if an option is available in settings).
  • Consider performing a factory reset as a last resort (back up all data first).

For more detailed troubleshooting steps, please refer to the comprehensive user guide available on the HiBy official website.

8. Specifications

8.1 Hardware Specifications

Figure 12: Detailed hardware specifications.

8.2 Audio Specifications

Figure 13: Detailed audio specifications.

9. Warranty and Support

The HiBy R4 comes with a warranty as detailed in the included Warranty Card. For technical support, service, or warranty claims, please contact the official HiBy customer support or the authorized retailer from whom you purchased the device. Keep your purchase receipt and warranty card for reference.

10. Product Video