HiBy R3Pro II Review

 

Introduction:

HiBy, established in 2011, is a developer of portable audio products, including digital audio players (DAPs), in-ear monitors, and audio software such as HiBy OS and the HiBy Music application. The HiBy R3Pro II represents an update to the R3 series, designed to offer high-fidelity audio in a compact form factor. Its audio architecture includes dual CS43198 DACs and four OPA1622 headphone amplifiers. The device supports high-resolution audio formats, specifically DSD256, PCM up to 384kHz/32-bit, and MQA 8X unfolding. Interaction is provided via a 3.3-inch high-resolution touchscreen running on the HiByOS operating system. Connectivity options include Bluetooth 5.1 and Wi-Fi streaming. The R3Pro II is presented as a device capable of handling various audio tasks. Its design features are available with either an Ultrasuede or matte glass back panel.

This review will cover its design, features, sound characteristics, and overall performance.

 

Price & Availability:

The HiBy R3Pro II retails for approx. $199 USD, offering exceptional value for its premium components and performance. More information’s can be found under the link below; 

• HiBy R3Pro II Digital Audio Player

 

Package & Accessories:

The HiBy R3Pro II came inside a square-shaped black box with a modest size, featuring a colorful design with the HiBy logo, product name, and an illustration of the device on the top.

The box of the R3Pro II contains the following items;

• 1 x HiBy R3 II Digital Audio Player
• 1 x Protective case
• 1 x USB data/power cable with USB-A connector
• 1 x Fabric strap
• 1 x Print Materials (User guide, Warranty card,Quality control (QC) card)

 

Design & Build Quality:

The HiBy R3Pro II maintains a compact form factor with dimensions of 86.9 x 60.6 x 21.6mm and weighs 160g, offering a substantial yet portable feel.

Its aluminum alloy frame is paired with a choice of Ultrasuede backboards (standard in Green and Orange versions) or matte glass back panels (standard in Black and Silver versions), exuding sophistication and durability.

The Ultrasuede finish provides a soft, grippy texture that resists temperature changes, while the matte glass offers a smudge-resistant, elegant look.

The front features a 3.3-inch high-resolution touchscreen with a 720×480 resolution, protected by a pre-installed screen protector. The display is vibrant and responsive, ideal for outdoor use, with a double-tap-to-wake feature accessible via settings. A rarity in non-Android DAPs, this enhances usability. The HiBy logo sits discreetly below the screen, maintaining a clean aesthetic.

The bottom edge houses a USB-C port for charging, data transfer, USB audio, and S/PDIF output, alongside 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced headphone outputs. The 4.4mm port delivers up to 480mW at 32Ω, a significant upgrade for driving demanding IEMs and headphones.

On the right side, a power on/off button is positioned at the top, featuring a status LED indicator that illuminates to show power status or file format. Below this, are the multifunctional button and the PRO branding.

The left side includes a MicroSD card slot with a rubber cover at the bottom, supporting up to 2TB of storage. Above it are two volume control buttons that are easy to use: a volume up button and a volume down button. Just above these buttons, there is a lanyard hole.

The top edge is inscribed with “DESIGNED BY HIBY” in subtle lettering, adding a touch of brand pride to the sleek profile.

The rear panel, whether Ultrasuede or matte glass, displays HiBy branding, is one of the main highlights of the R3Pro II.

The R3Pro II’s build quality is outstanding for its price, blending lightweight materials with a premium feel that rivals more expensive DAPs.

 

Technical Specifications:

• Model: R3Pro II
• Operating System: HiByOS (Linux-based)
• Screen: 3.3” Touchscreen (720×480 pixels)
• DAC: Dual CS43198
• Amplifiers: Quad OPA1622
• CPU: Ingenic X1600E
• Wi-Fi Support: 2.4G
• Bluetooth: Bluetooth 5.1
• Hi-Res Bluetooth Codecs Supported: UAT, LDAC, aptX (send only), AAC, SBC
• Wireless Audio Features: AirPlay, DLNA, HiByLink
• Outputs: 3.5mm Single-Ended, 4.4mm Balanced, Line Out
• USB: USB-C (S/PDIF, USB Audio In, USB Audio Out), USB 2.0 supported (with OTG support)
• SNR: 122dB (4.4mm Balanced)
• THD+N: 0.0003% (4.4mm Balanced)
• Channel Separation: 105dB (4.4mm Balanced)
• Frequency Range: 20Hz–90kHz
• Max Output Power: 120mW (3.5mm SE), 480mW (4.4mm Balanced) @ 32Ω
• Storage: MicroSD Card Slot (up to 2TB)
• Battery Capacity: 4000mAh/3.7V
• Charging Power Supply: 9V=1.67A; 5V=3A; 5V=0.5A
• Play Time: About 21 hours (3.5mm SE), 900 hours standby (as tested at HiBy labs)
• Charging Time: <2 hours (0%-100%)
• Dimensions: 86.9 x 60.6 x 21.6mm
• Weight: 160g
• Audio Formats Supported: mp3, wav, ape, flac, dsf, dff, iso, cue, wma, ogg, aac, opus, aiff
• Misc: Firmware updates (OTA updates supported), Adjustable font size

 

Hardware and Software Features:

The R3Pro II combines cutting-edge hardware with HiBy’s refined HiByOS, delivering a seamless and audiophile-focused experience. The Ingenic X1600E CPU ensures responsive navigation and stable Bluetooth connectivity.

 

Digital to Analog Converter (DAC) and Amplification (AMP):

The R3Pro II features dual CS43198 DACs from Cirrus Logic, renowned for their exceptional clarity and low distortion, forming the cornerstone of its audio performance. These DACs support a wide range of high-resolution formats, including DSD256, PCM 384kHz/32-bit, and MQA 8X unfolding, ensuring precise conversion of digital signals to analog with minimal signal degradation. Complementing the DACs are four OPA1622 amplifiers configured in a dual-channel parallel setup, which deliver robust power output and exceptional dynamic range. This configuration provides up to 480mW via the 4.4mm balanced output, capable of driving a variety of headphones and IEMs with authority.

The audio plan is meticulously designed to maintain a clean signal path, minimizing noise and interference. This is evidenced by an impressive signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of 122dB on the 4.4mm balanced output, ensuring a high level of detail retrieval even at low volumes. Total harmonic distortion plus noise (THD+N) is remarkably low at 0.0003%, indicating a pristine sound reproduction with virtually no audible distortion. Channel separation reaches 105dB, allowing for precise stereo imaging and a wide soundstage.

 

Supported File Formats:

The R3Pro II supports a wide range of audio formats, including mp3, wav, ape, flac, dsf, dff, iso, cue, wma, ogg, aac, opus, and aiff. This ensures compatibility with various audio libraries, including those with high-resolution audio.

In addition, the R3Pro II handles Native DSD up to DSD256. It also supports the MQA Audio standard, providing up to 8X unfold. MQA, which stands for “Master Quality Authenticated,” offers a new way to experience high-resolution audio.

  

 

Independent Audio Clocks:

The HiBy R3Pro II incorporates independent audio clocks to enhance digital audio accuracy. It utilizes two low-phase noise, active crystal oscillators. These oscillators are independently clocked at 45.1584 MHz and 49.152 MHz. This configuration is designed to provide precise timing references for all music sources, accommodating different sample rates (specifically, multiples of 44.1 kHz and 48 kHz). The primary aim of this implementation is to reduce jitter and minimize the impact of phase noise, thereby contributing to improved digital audio accuracy and overall music quality.

 

Connectivity:

The HiBy R3Pro II offers a comprehensive set of connectivity options, supporting both wireless and wired audio transmission, which allows for versatile integration into various audio setups.

Wireless connectivity includes Bluetooth 5.1, which facilitates bi-directional audio transmission. It supports high-resolution codecs such as UAT, LDAC, and AAC, along with aptX (send only) and SBC. For network-based audio, 2.4G Wi-Fi is available, supporting streaming via AirPlay, DLNA, and HiByLink. The device includes pre-installed applications for accessing streaming services.

Wired digital audio output is managed through the USB-C port, which provides S/PDIF and USB audio out capabilities. This allows the R3Pro II to function as a compact digital audio source for external DACs or digital audio systems.

For audio input, the R3Pro II accepts both Bluetooth and USB connections. Its Bluetooth audio input function allows the device to receive audio wirelessly from smartphones, tablets, and computers, utilizing its internal DAC and amplifier to convert the Bluetooth signal to an analog output. Similarly, the USB audio input enables digital audio transfer from these same external devices via a USB-C connection, allowing the R3Pro II to act as an external DAC. The USB-C port is versatile, supporting USB audio in/out, S/PDIF, and data transfer, with additional support for USB 2.0 and OTG for extended functionality.

The R3Pro II also functions as a Bluetooth audio output device. When combined with USB audio input, it can serve as a Bluetooth transmitter for sources like computers. Overall, the HiBy R3Pro II’s range of connectivity features aims to provide flexible options for audio playback and integration with other devices.

 

Battery Life:

A 4000mAh/3.7V battery powers the device, offering impressive longevity. Users can enjoy up to 21 hours of continuous music playback through the 3.5mm output at low gain (with volume set between 55% and 60%). Additionally, the device boasts over 900 hours of standby time. Recharging is quick, taking less than 2 hours to go from 0% to 100% when using 9V=1.67A, 5V=3A, or 5V=0.5A power supplies. Furthermore, the R3Pro II now supports PD2.0 fast charging standart, which is a welcome addition.

  

Software:

HiByOS, optimized for audio performance, offers a fluid and intuitive interface, powered by the new Ingenic X1600E CPU. The user interface has been extensively updated, presenting a more polished appearance compared to older versions.

The main screen provides access to various sections including Music, Streaming Media (Tidal, Qobuz), Wireless features (AirPlay, DLNA, HiByLink), System Settings, and About. Navigation is streamlined through swipe gestures; for example, a top-down swipe reveals quick settings for brightness, volume, gain, and connectivity. Readability is enhanced by an adjustable font size, and OTA (Over-The-Air) firmware updates ensure the device remains up-to-date with future improvements.

A standout feature is the MSEB (Mage Sound 8-Ball) tuning system, an in-house developed digital audio mastering tuning system from HiBy. This system allows users to intuitively adjust specific sound characteristics beyond traditional equalization, offering more nuanced control. Instead of manipulating equalizer bands, MSEB provides direct control over critical traits of your music such as tonal warmth, note thickness, vocal presence, and instrumental airiness, using simple sliders. For users seeking more precise adjustments, a conventional 10-band equalizer is also available.

 

Equipment’s used for this review:

• DAP’s : HiBy R3Pro II, Hidizs AP80 Pro-X
• IEM’s  : HiBy Project ACE, HiBy Yacht 10
• Cables: Stock cables for Project ACE and Yacht 10 (4.4mm balanced)

 

Albums & tracks used for this review:

• Norah Jones – Come Away With Me (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Sarah McLachlan – Angel (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
• Sertap Erener – Aşk (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Edith Piaf – Non Je Ne Regrette Rien (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Diana Krall – So Wonderful (DSF)
• Michael Jackson – Billie Jean (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• David Bowie – Heroes (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• Elton John – Rocket Man ((Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Sting – Englishman in New York – (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
• Eric Clapton – Wonderful Tonight (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Muse – Hysteria (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Red Hot Chili Peppers – Nobody Weird Like Me (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
• Michael Jackson – Billie Jean (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Daft Punk – Instant Crush (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Daft Punk – Doin’ it Right (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Lorde – Royals (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
• Massive Attack – Angel (Flac 24bit/48kHz)
• Gogo Penguin – Raven (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• Gogo Penguin – Murmuration (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• Charly Antolini – Duwadjuwandadu (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• Tchaikovsky – Symphony No. 5 (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Ferit Odman – Look, Stop & Listen (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• Chopin – Nocturn No. 20 In C-Sharp Minor (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Fazıl Say – Nazım Oratoryosu (Live) (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Otto Liebert& Luna Negra – The River (Flac 24bit/192kHz)
• Lunatic Soul – The Passage (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)
• Metallica – Sad but True (Flac 24bit/96kHz)
• Rush’s – Tom Sawyer (Flac 16bit/44.1kHz)

 

 

The Sound:

The HiBy R3Pro II offers a refined and balanced sound signature with a subtle warmth. This evaluation was conducted after an 80-hour burn-in period, primarily using the 4.4mm balanced output. The device was paired with the HiBy Project ACE and HiBy Yacht 10 IEMs, utilizing their standard 4.4mm cables. No MSEB adjustments were applied during testing to assess the digital audio player’s (DAP) inherent sound characteristics.

The dual CS43198 DACs and quad OPA1622 amplifiers contribute to a clean and dynamic sound, characterized by effective detail retrieval. This synergy complements the Project ACE’s neutral, slightly bright tuning and the Yacht 10’s V-shaped, bass-emphasized profile. The R3Pro II’s amplification capabilities aim to ensure both IEMs perform across various music genres, demonstrating distinct strengths in instrument reproduction and vocal clarity.

 

Bass:

The bass response of the R3Pro II is characterized by its controlled and tight delivery, providing a well-defined low-end foundation. When paired with the Project ACE, the R3Pro II delivers a precise and textured bass, suitable for rendering low-frequency details with quick decay that maintains clarity. The mid-bass is articulate, contributing definition to instruments without overwhelming the overall mix, aligning with the Project ACE’s balanced tuning. For its segment, the R3Pro II’s ability to provide such controlled and textured bass with the Project ACE is noteworthy.

In contrast, the R3Pro II enhances the Yacht 10’s more pronounced bass response while maintaining control. Sub-bass is fuller, providing weight to low-frequency instruments, though with a slight trade-off in absolute precision compared to the Project ACE. Mid-bass exhibits a punchier presence, complementing the Yacht 10’s V-shaped tuning. The R3Pro II’s amplification aims to ensure the Yacht 10’s bass remains dynamic and avoids bleeding into other frequencies, while the Project ACE benefits from the DAP’s neutrality for a more reference-oriented bass presentation, demonstrating excellent versatility for its class.

 

Midrange:

The R3Pro II’s midrange is designed to be transparent and natural, with an emphasis on vocal and instrumental reproduction. When paired with the Project ACE, the R3Pro II presents a smooth, slightly forward midrange, emphasizing clarity. Male vocals exhibit richness and body, while female vocals are clear and articulate, aiming for natural timbre without harshness. Instruments are detailed and well-separated, with the R3Pro II’s clean power complementing the Project ACE’s balanced tuning. This level of midrange fidelity is a strong point for a device in this price segment.

When paired with the Yacht 10, which typically has a slightly recessed midrange due to its V-shaped signature, the R3Pro II provides clarity and presence, effectively compensating. Male vocals maintain a warm quality, although they are less prominent than with the Project ACE. Female vocals are presented with a degree of brightness. Instruments aim for a crisp, defined sound. The R3Pro II’s amplification supports vivid midrange reproduction for both IEMs, with the Project ACE offering vocal intimacy and the Yacht 10 providing a more dynamic presentation for instrumental leads, showcasing commendable performance for its price.

 

Treble:

The R3Pro II’s treble is characterized as smooth and extended, aiming to deliver detail without causing listening fatigue, which is a significant achievement for its segment. With the Project ACE, the treble is clean and articulate, complementing its slightly bright tonality. The lower treble is precise, rendering instruments with clarity and definition, capturing subtle nuances. The upper treble is described as airy yet controlled, aiming to add sparkle without introducing sibilance. The R3Pro II’s neutral amplification contributes to the Project ACE’s treble resolution, intending to ensure a fatigue-free experience.

When used with the Yacht 10, which can exhibit edginess in its treble, the R3Pro II’s smooth delivery is noted as a mitigating factor. The lower treble remains crisp, while the upper treble can be somewhat pronounced, which may suit energetic genres. The R3Pro II’s power aims to ensure the Yacht 10’s treble retains detail while minimizing harshness, while the Project ACE benefits from greater control and extension, highlighting the R3Pro II’s capable treble handling for its price category.

 

Soundstage & Imaging:

The HiBy R3Pro II demonstrates effective soundstage presentation and imaging, contributing to the spatial characteristics of connected IEMs, a notable achievement for its price point. With the Project ACE, the soundstage is described as expansive with distinct instrument separation and precise imaging, allowing for clear placement of individual elements within complex arrangements. The R3Pro II’s output aims to provide natural depth and an accurate soundstage.

For the Yacht 10, despite its tuning, the R3Pro II helps to produce a wide soundstage with instruments broadly positioned. While depth may be comparatively shallower than with the Project ACE, imaging remains strong with clear delineation of instruments. The R3Pro II’s dynamic range aims to enhance the immersive quality, and its precision supports layering and spatial accuracy, particularly beneficial for the Project ACE. Overall, its performance in these areas offers good value for its segment.

 

Comparisons:

HiBy R3Pro II versus HiBy R3 II:

The R3Pro II builds on the R3 II’s foundation with significant sonic and hardware upgrades. Both devices share a warm, musical tonality, but the R3Pro II elevates the audio experience with its dual CS43198 DACs and quad OPA1622 amplifiers, offering a more dynamic and detailed sound profile. The bass on the R3Pro II is deeper and more textured, with enhanced subbass depth and midbass articulation that provides greater impact and control, particularly noticeable with demanding tracks like electronic beats or orchestral bass lines. The midrange is more open and transparent, delivering richer vocal textures and improved instrument separation, making it ideal for classical or jazz where nuance is key. The treble is airier and more refined, with smoother extension and reduced sibilance compared to the R3 II, enhancing clarity on high-frequency instruments like cymbals or violins. In terms of hardware, the R3Pro II’s larger 4000mAh battery significantly outlasts the R3 II’s 2000mAh, providing up to 21 hours of playback versus the R3 II’s 10-12 hours, while the 3.3-inch 720×480 screen offers better visibility and usability. The design remains similar, retaining the robust build and vibrant display, though the R3Pro II’s updated layout and materials add a slight edge in aesthetics and ergonomics.

 

HiBy R3Pro II versus Hidizs AP80 Pro-X:

Compared to the Hidizs AP80 Pro-X, the R3Pro II offers a warmer and more engaging sound signature that appeals to a broader range of listeners. The bass on the R3Pro II is richer and more dynamic, with a fuller subbass response that adds weight to low-end elements like kick drums or synth bass, and a punchier midbass that enhances rhythm sections without muddiness, contrasting with the AP80 Pro-X’s leaner, tighter bass that can feel less impactful. The midrange on the R3Pro II is lusher and more natural, providing superior vocal reproduction with greater warmth and body, especially for male and female vocals in genres like pop or folk, while the AP80 Pro-X tends to present a slightly thinner midrange that can lack emotional depth. The treble on the R3Pro II is smoother and more controlled, avoiding the occasional sharpness or sibilance heard on the AP80 Pro-X, which makes it more comfortable for prolonged listening, particularly with bright IEMs. The R3Pro II’s soundstage is wider and more immersive, with better instrument separation and spatial accuracy, creating a more three-dimensional listening experience compared to the AP80 Pro-X’s narrower stage. Beyond sound, the R3Pro II’s 4.4mm balanced output delivers 480mW at 32Ω, significantly outperforming the AP80 Pro-X’s 100mW, making it better suited for power-hungry headphones. Its 21-hour battery life and Wi-Fi streaming capabilities, including AirPlay and DLNA, provide a clear advantage in versatility and endurance over the AP80 Pro-X’s 8-10 hour runtime and limited wireless features.

  

Conclusion:

The HiBy R3Pro II positions itself as a portable audio device with a balance of sound quality, build, and features within its price point. Its sound signature, influenced by dual CS43198 DACs and quad OPA1622 amplifiers, aims to provide a detailed listening experience. The device incorporates the MSEB tuning system, runs on HiByOS, and offers extensive connectivity, including Bluetooth 5.1, Wi-Fi streaming, and versatile USB audio functionalities. It can function as a standalone DAP, a USB DAC, or a Bluetooth receiver. Its refined aesthetics, impressive power reserve, and versatile functionalities create a compelling option for those passionate about portable audio players in a compact size.

 

Pros & Cons:

• + Dynamic, musical sound with excellent clarity
• + Premium build with Ultrasuede or matte glass options
• + New HiByOS looks more polished
• + Unique MSEB tuning for personalized sound
• + Extensive connectivity (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB audio)
• + Long 21-hour battery life, standby time and fast charge
• + Outstanding value for money

 

• – Online Streaming limited to Qobuz and Tidal
• – MQA unfold limited to x8
• – No Internal Storage