AudioFlies: Klipsch S4 review

I got the Klipsch a year ago when the new S4 was launched out. As a tactic to clear out the old versions of S4s, they launched a one-for-one deal for the old version which was priced at SGD$ 148 if I remember correctly. That figures to about slightly more than SGD$70 for a earphone that does pretty well based on reviews prior. It has won some reviews including the c net editor's choice and also DL choice awards for earpiece. 

The good
Design
The design of the earbuds have to be the best buying point for the Klipsch S4. Not only the S4 however uses the "egg-shaped" earbuds. The rest of the Klipsch products also uses these fantastic earbuds. They are great for kids who find their parents nagging a bore and would simply like a break from it. I tell you from experience that the sound isolation is so good that you cant even hear shouting just a meter away from you if you have these earbuds on. It's great to know that only Klipsch can use these earbuds that are uniquely shaped to fit the ear completely and block out ambient noise. Also, I would like the add that it gives a very comfortable fit.

Build Quality

Quality wise, the earpiece has a rather decent to good built quality. I bought the white model and though I thought it would get dirty easily, it seemed as though it was out to prove me wrong. The sides of the earpiece is chromed and laser embossed with the brand name.Overall, I would say they did a pretty decent job on making the earpiece itself.

Sound Quality
Sound wise, the Klipsch S4 does pretty good on the lows. It scores in its ability to drive up low powered devices such as the ipod and smart phones and still give the listener the punchy bass it promised. The highs are pretty decent for the price. The earpriece on the overall sound quality seems pretty much the same as the aJays Three in terms of sound profile. However, it does have its edge for its ability to drive punchier bass and still not distort the highs for the pop songs and top 40 songs listeners. I think it's a great earpiece for the casual listeners who don't intend to use the earpiece for long times at one go because they are not good for keeping sound pressure due to the nature of the earbuds.

The bad
Sound Quality
Sound wise, the earpiece has some flaws including the fact that they are so isolated. Don't get me wrong, being ambient noise isolated is a good thing but there are also bad things which include not being aware of the surroundings and the fact that it creates too much sound pressure such that I can only stand the music at 50-60% volume for only 40 minutes at max at one go. After that, your ears will feel fatigue. This is because of its enclosed design that is designed to block out ambient noises. As such, the sound stage in this earpiece is compromised as well. It does only decently for the highs and mids as it sacrifices mostly for its punchier than usual bass. I would say if you want to buy a Beats by Dr. Dre, then the Klipsch S4 would be a better choice for you for its price and its performance for the bass.

Design

If you are looking for a tangle free cable in the Klipsch, you will be dissapointed that it doesn't come with it. However, they made an improvement in the new model which features not only tangle free cables but also sweat proof cables in the new sports edition of the Klipsch S4i.

The connector is also the one that is sticking out so users of the L-shaped connector previously would find it annoying to have a connector sticking out of your pocket. Plus, it only serves to add on to the chances of it spoiling because the design allows for the cable to rub against other things especially if you are the messy type (like me) to throw he phone and all into the bag. This probably isn't for you.

Durability
I would like to add that the Klipsch S4 is also a durable earpiece despite the flaws in its design including non-tangle free cables and the normal audio jack connector. However, it undergone a washing cycle in the washine machine accidentally. Again, just like the aJays Three, it survived relatively unharmed. It seems as though I love to check for durability of my earpieces by throwing them into the washing machine. But trust me, I do not intedn it to be a consistent way to test for durability. It just happens as an accident. 

My overall Verdict
The earpiece might be on the higher side in price for its poor quality in its highs and lows but pop songs and bass lovers will beg to differ. But hey, to each his own. I personally prefer warm and more balanced music so the Klipsch S4 won't be in the top list of heavily recommended earpiece and especially not recommended for beginner to budding audiophiles. I would say that to all punchy bass lovers, buy this earpiece. You will love it!

Interestingly, I also tried out the X7 and the X10 which will be discussed in the following post: Comparisons: S4 vs X7 vs X10. Peace out and till we meet again! :)