Performance

The sound of the Westone 4Rs is very close to the original 4s. The fit is totally the same despite the slight cable differences between the two. The memory-wire is a nuisance at least to these ears, but it all comes down to preference. The Westone 4Rs would be slightly more enjoyable if they had come with a cable without memory-wire and perhaps an integrated i-device microphone and controller.

The sound quality of the Westone 4Rs seems to be the same as the Westone 4s with the original cable attached. With an aftermarket cable like the Whiplash TWAg in balanced configuration a little definition and punch is gained, but that is probably just the benefits of proper balanced amplification.

The bass is plentiful, has great punch and extension. It is incredibly linear all the way down to its lower limit and it does not bleed into the mids which gives it that very unique Westone 4 type of sound. The midrange is still superb, not recessed, not bloated and has just a tad of warmth to make it enjoyable with all types of music. There is no doubt that the Westone 4s and now the 4Rs are designed for great low end response and midrange details. While not being a complete slouch treble wise it is dialed back a bit, but is still very present in the mix and is highly detailed albeit not on the level of custom in-ears like the Westone ES5, JHAUDIO 16|PROs or Ultimate Ears In-Ear Reference Monitors.

Overall the sound signature is highly enjoyable, a good mix of analytical and musical properties that will do most genres of music justice. They can be powered to near perfection straight out of an iPhone or regular i-devices which is nice. Powered out of a full blown balanced setup, reveals that the Westone 4 design scales quite well, although nothing spectacular. It gains a more smooth sound with a marginally better separation and layering.
Sound stage performance and instrument separation wise the Westone 4Rs are ahead of the pack if you look besides its elderly brother the Westone 4.

On the move the Westone 4Rs are just as brilliant as its predecessor, the cable transmits very little microphonic noise to the earpieces and the rubbing noises are kept at an absolute minimum. The cable is very durable and flexible, definitely one of the best cable solutions on the market today for portable use.