[rev_slider alias=”dali-io-4″]
4.5/5
Dali IO-4
Hi-res capable over-ear headphones with Bluetooth 5 and outstanding battery life
Divide:
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The hi-fi manufacturer Dali from the Danish town of Nørager has specialized in loudspeaker construction since the company was founded in 1983. The two headphones IO-6 (for testing) and our test device, the cheaper IO-4, are now aimed at a mobile clientele as an over-ear Bluetooth system.
Of course, Dali’s audiophile standards should continue to be maintained. In a nutshell, the IO-4 could be described as the cheaper version of the IO-6, which comes up with the same sound properties, but does without noise canceling. But we don’t want to keep it that close …
The closed over-ear headphones are available in black or caramel / white. The design corresponds to the more expensive model and the lightweight construction is robust and equally decorative. Instead of a carrying case, there is unfortunately only a simple cloth bag.
The headband is adjustable in length and the ear cups can be rotated 90 degrees in any direction, but cannot be folded in. Both elements have memory foam padding with a synthetic leather cover, which can be exchanged in the case of the ear pads. The result is a comfortable fit, even over several hours. Also noteworthy: The synthetic leather used does not lead to heat build-up, at least in my case.
practice
The functionality of the test device is manageable and consciously subordinates itself to the tonal focus. All controls can be found on the right earcup. The device can be switched on and off and pairing can be carried out using a switch. There is also the USB-C charging connection, which can also be used for audio transmission from the computer if necessary.
The music playback is controlled via the outside of the auricle. The raised manufacturer’s logo acts as a multi-function switch for start and stop commands, allows title jumps via double and triple clicks and call management. The voice assistant can also be called up from the smartphone.
The volume is controlled via concealed switches by pressing the top or bottom of the earpiece. This works very well in practice and, in my opinion, is more reliable and more accurate than the solutions offered by most of our competitors. Dali completely dispenses with app control. The same applies to the noise canceling of the IO-6 .
Otherwise, the test device shines with a quick setup of the radio link and an extremely practical range over several rooms. The passive noise insulation, which in many cases hardly misses a noise canceling, is also exemplary. Conversely, the enjoyment of music does not disturb the people sitting next to you, even at high levels.
The IO-4 scores a big plus for its maximum battery life of 60 hours (manufacturer information), which is twice as long as in the larger model and with which you can use the receiver for days without charging. Admittedly, we didn’t let the test device run for 2.5 days, but we did let it run for a full day in order to be informed of a plausible and extremely considerable remaining charge via the voice announcement
sound
Like the IO-6, the test device relies on Bluetooth 5 and, in addition to the audio codecs SBC, AAC and aptX, also provides the 24-bit capable aptX HD. The latter naturally requires a compatible smartphone in practice (in this case a Sony Xperia 10).
Via the USB port, high-resolution files can be streamed to the listener via Audirvana Pro (for testing) without complaint. For this purpose, the IO-4 also offers an input for cable operation, which works both with the electronics switched on and purely passively with any resolution. The latter mode is by no means only useful for operation with an empty battery. In fact, the qualities of the in-house, patented 50 mm drivers are already evident here.
In practice, the IO-4 delivers a coherent, stable sound image with a focus on neutrality via the aptX HD radio link. In addition, you can enjoy a good resolution of details and an airiness that is by no means a matter of course for closed systems.
If you like bass boost and party sound, you won’t find the right partner here. Dali pursues the goal of an uncolored sound reproduction. In view of the price range, this works surprisingly well and across all genres. In the bass, the dynamic drivers act with precision and reliable drawing of the pitch and dynamics. You don’t have to do without deep bass either, but you do have to hum.
The subtleties of acoustic instruments, vocals and generally central elements of a mix are easily delivered by the midrange without any “noses” in the frequency response. Whether you play chart pop, powerful rock, jazz, classical or club sound, the results are always convincing.
The pleasantly coordinated, airy and quickly appealing height range also contributes to this. The reproduction of the stereo panorama and the room also gains from this richness of detail. There is no hardship to complain about. Whether it’s an intimate piano ballad, a broadly shimmering electronic composition, aggressive metal or a multi-layered, dynamically acting symphony orchestra – the vote is actually always right. Congratulations!
Finally, there is a compliment for the voice quality during phone calls.
Available here:
€ 289.00 *
rating
Rating: 4.25
4.25/5
Sound
4.25/5
Handling
4.25/5
Price-performance
4/5
function
4/5
Measurement data
Frequency response:
External damping:
More measurement data
Technical specifications
- DesignOver-ear
- Constructionclosed
- Converter principledynamic
- Audio transmission range (listener)10-20,000 Hz
- Impedance25 ohms
- Sound pressure level (SPL)100 dB
- Weight without cable320 g
scope of delivery
- 3.5 mm stereo jack cable
- USB C cable
- Carry bag
particularities
- BT codecs: SBC, AAC, aptX, aptX HD
- BT version: 5.0
- BT profiles: A2DP, AVRCP, HSP, HFP
- Charging time: approx. 2.5 hours
Brand
Test reports from Dali (2)
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Your top 10 in January
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With regularity, and precisely at the beginning of the month, we present you here the most widely read headphone tests of the previous month.You can find your most popular reviews of January here.
12 months ago by Ulf Kaiser
rating
Rating: 4.25
4.25/5
Sound
4.25/5
Handling
4.25/5
Price-performance
4/5
function
4/5
Popular guides
FAQ
Dali’s IO-4 offers the same convincing sound quality as the larger model IO-6 . This also applies to the successful wearing comfort and straightforward ease of use. Only active noise canceling has been omitted, which saves the buyer a hundred euros. On the other hand, the nominal battery life is twice as much. With a price of 299 euros, the IO-4 is a real recommendation for sound-conscious music lovers.
Available here:
€ 289.00 *
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Catchwords
aptX Bluetooth remote control Speakerphone closed IP53 microphone splash-proof
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