Softears Studio 4 - A Clear Reference for Recording and Performance
The Studio 4 is built around the practical demands of hearing a recording clearly. Designed for studio recording, mixing and stage monitoring, these wired in-ear monitors combine four balanced armature drivers per earpiece with a three-way crossover. Their tuning prioritises tonal balance, vocal intelligibility and a coherent presentation of instruments, helping musicians and engineers follow the details of a performance. The same approach also suits listeners who appreciate a restrained, monitor-style sound for everyday music playback.
Four Drivers with Carefully Integrated Output
Each earpiece contains four customised balanced armature drivers working through a dedicated three-way crossover. The system distributes the audio signal between frequency bands while coordinating the drivers’ output through the transition regions. Softears places particular emphasis on phase consistency, aiming to preserve the relationship between musical elements rather than allowing separate driver groups to sound disconnected.
This architecture supports clear articulation across voices, instruments and percussion. Controlled bass and a balanced midrange help keep the arrangement readable, making it easier to concentrate on phrasing, timing and the relative levels of individual parts. The design focuses on a cohesive monitoring experience across the audible spectrum.
Consistent Behaviour Across Audio Sources
The crossover was developed with the output characteristics of professional audio interfaces in mind. Its nearly flat impedance curve helps limit frequency-response changes caused by differences in source output impedance. This is a practical benefit when moving between a recording interface, a monitoring system and a portable player, where consistency can be as valuable as detail retrieval.
Nominal impedance is 12 ohms at 1 kHz, and sensitivity is specified at 123 dB for a 1 Vrms input at the same frequency. Studio 4 is designed to work efficiently with suitable headphone outputs, allowing it to fit into a compact listening setup or a professional recording workflow.
Medical-Grade Resin and a Contoured Fit
Precision 3D printing gives the medical-grade resin housings consistent geometry and a smoothly contoured surface. Softears refined the fit using experience gained from its RS-series monitors, with slimmer nozzles intended to improve comfort and accommodate a wider selection of ear tips. Its understated black finish keeps the attention on the performance, while the contoured resin shells support a secure over-ear fit.
The supplied silicone tips come in small, medium and large sizes, allowing the seal to be adjusted to the listener. A well-fitted seal helps maintain the intended bass response and provides passive isolation from surrounding sound. This makes Studio 4 useful in recording and monitoring environments where external noise can interfere with concentration.
Detachable OFC Cable with Extended Reach
Studio 4 includes a twisted oxygen-free copper cable with standard 0.78 mm two-pin connections and a 3.5 mm stereo plug. The detachable design allows the cable to be replaced independently of the earpieces, while the connector construction is designed for a stable connection during regular use. Over-ear cable routing helps keep the monitors securely positioned.
A matching 3.5 mm extension cable provides additional reach when the headphone output is further away, such as at a desk or recording station. Devices without a compatible analogue output require an appropriate DAC adapter, while equipment with a larger headphone socket can be used with a suitable adapter.
Defined Specifications and Everyday Protection
The manufacturer specifies a frequency range of 5 Hz–40 kHz using a quarter-inch free-field measurement at −3 dB. The effective frequency response is 20 Hz–20 kHz when measured with an IEC 60318-4 ear simulator, and total harmonic distortion is rated below 1% at 1 kHz. These figures describe the measurement conditions behind the specifications and complement the model’s focus on balanced monitoring.
A hard carrying case provides organised storage for the monitors and cable between sessions. Individual protective bags help keep the earpieces separated, while the included cleaning tool and microfibre cloth support routine care. Together, the accessories make Studio 4 a practical companion for work at a desk, rehearsal sessions and travel between venues.
In the box:
- Softears Studio 4 in-ear monitors,
- detachable OFC cable with 0.78 mm two-pin connectors and a 3.5 mm stereo plug,
- 3.5 mm male-to-female extension cable,
- silicone ear tips - small, medium and large,
- hard carrying case,
- individual earpiece protection bags,
- cleaning tool,
- microfibre cleaning cloth,
- user manual.
