Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Powerful and responsive bass
- Custom-like shells offer a tailored fit for the average ear
- Excellent ergonomics, with shells designed for comfortable long-term wear
- Very resolving
- Features a very broad stereo field
Product Considerations
- Driver flex may occur upon insertion
- Sensitive to noise and source quality
- Passive isolation is good, but not great
- Higher treble peaks can sometimes border on sharp on occasion
- Vocal spike around 2–3KHz and 5KHz can occasionally break form and become somewhat grainy, particularly when listening at higher volumes
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs FATfreq Scarlet Mini: The Cascara is more balanced overall, while the Scarlet Mini is even more bass-heavy
- Vs Bellos X4: The Cascara is less resolving, but not as bright
- Vs Moondrop IEMs: Campfire Audio IEMs, like the Cascara, offer more colorful tunings compared to the Harman-targeted Moondrop IEMs
- Vs Campfire Audio Atlas: Ergonomics are an improvement, and the cable also improves
- Vs Meze Audio Advar: The Advar is brighter and less bassy
Takeaway: The Cascara offers a fun, engaging listening experience for those wanting a bass-focused IEM. It is a solid choice if you like dynamic drivers and a non-boring sound.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
Cascara
reviews
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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Frequency Response: 5Hz–20 kHz
- SPL: 94 dB @ 1 kHz: 16.6 mVrms
- Impedance: 23 Ohms @ 1 kHz
- Total Harmonic Distortion: Less than 1%
- Driver: 10mm Dynamic Driver
Description
For the discerning audiophile and live music enthusiast, Cascara offers an auditory journey like no other. Experience acoustic intricacies and live performance energy through a meticulously crafted full-range dynamic driver. Elevate your listening to an immersive, emotional experience.
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- Campfire Audio is known for its unique and often bold aesthetic designs, often employing striking color palettes, transparent housings showcasing internal components, and unconventional shapes.
- They offer a high degree of customization, allowing customers to choose between universal or custom-fit options, select cable terminations, and opt for different accessory packages.
- They often boast a spacious and holographic soundstage, providing excellent instrument separation and precise imaging, creating an immersive listening experience akin to over-ear headphones.
Select products
Select product comparisons
Cascara
- Positioning: The entry-level option designed for affordability and compact design.
- Description: Offers a clear and approachable sound signature with a simplified driver setup that makes it ideal for everyday small-room use. Compared to the more advanced models like Fathom, Solaris Siren, Astrolith, and Trifecta Cosmic Gateway, it provides basic functionality without the extra technical refinements and higher build costs.
Fathom
- Positioning: A balanced midrange option focused on neutral, reference-like tuning.
- Description: Features six custom balanced armature drivers that deliver a neutral and detailed presentation. Compared to the entry-level Cascara or the flagship models such as Trifecta Cosmic Gateway and Solaris Siren, it offers enhanced performance without the additional premium technologies found in the higher-end lineup.
Solaris Siren
- Positioning: A model with linear, neutral tuning placed above the midrange for refined performance.
- Description: Brings a tighter, more agile bass response with a design that emphasizes a linear sound and technical neatness in driver implementation. Compared to the Fathom's broader neutrality and the more complex offerings of both Astrolith and Trifecta Cosmic Gateway, Solaris Siren provides a balanced solution for users looking for clarity in medium-sized rooms.
Astrolith
- Positioning: A premium option built around advanced planar magnetic technology.
- Description: Uses dual planar magnetic drivers that deliver a detailed soundstage with refined precision and technical clarity. Compared to the midrange Fathom and the more linear Solaris Siren, Astrolith stands out for its expansive sonic presentation and higher build quality.
Trifecta
- Positioning: A flagship model featuring an innovative, complex multi-driver layout for maximum performance.
- Description: Features a state-of-the-art six-balanced-armature configuration that pushes the limits of technical sophistication and offers a dynamic, expansive audio experience. Compared to other models like Fathom and Solaris Siren, which provide a more straightforward design, the Trifecta Cosmic Gateway delivers the most advanced performance and functionality.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
0
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
777
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
23
Founding Year
2015
Our take on the brand
Campfire Audio is a hifi headphone brand known for their Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber (TAEC) for balanced armatures and Solid Body Design that mounts drivers into a single 3D-printed "engine block" to improve tuning and reliability. The brand has pioneered several unique approaches, such as crossoverless dual-planar architecture, beryllium-PVD dynamic diaphragms, and 3D-printed ceramic acoustic structures. Their Andromeda model long held a reputation as a benchmark reference for hifi IEM performance.
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Brand Page
Our interview with the brand
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
What's your approach to customer support?
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
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Used
Campfire Audio
All of the Brand's Used Products
What if you spend more?
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Campfire Audio
Alien Brain
999
999
/
9
Reviews
Campfire Audio is a hifi headphone brand known for their Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber (TAEC) for balanced armatures and Solid Body Design that mounts drivers into a single 3D-printed "engine block" to improve tuning and reliability. The brand has pioneered several unique approaches, such as crossoverless dual-planar architecture, beryllium-PVD dynamic diaphragms, and 3D-printed ceramic acoustic structures. Their Andromeda model long held a reputation as a benchmark reference for hifi IEM performance.
Expand Details
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Solid build quality, feels premium.
- Smaller shell size contributes to a more comfortable and snugger fit, especially for those with smaller ears.
- Balanced sound signature with good bass extension and clarity.
- Comes with a generous accessory package, including two cables (3.5mm and 4.4mm) and a USB-C dongle DAC.
- Impressive soundstage with good imaging presentation, specifically with peripheral imaging.
Product Considerations
- Some found the upper mids on the Alien Brain can be too subdued, while others find them good.
- Some have reported a 10k peak that may cause fatigue.
- The stock cable quality could be better, feeling generic and cheaply built for the price.
- Fit can be tricky due to the angled nozzle, requiring experimentation with different ear tips to achieve a good seal.
- Very sensitive to source and prone to picking up background noise and interference, not recommended with tube amps.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs the Audio Monarch MK3: Alien Brain has a smaller shell, better build, and offers a more universally comfortable fit, the sound is smoother than the Monarch MK3 which is brighter and more energetic.
- Vs Campfire Audio Fathom: Alien Brain offers a more traditional target tuning, while Fathom is warmer and more focused in the low-mid to mid-bass range.
- Vs Campfire Audio Bonneville and Cascara: The dual-magnetic dynamic driver is the same iteration that has been used in both the Bonneville and Cascara IEMs.
- Vs the Audio Hype 4: Alien Brain provides better technical performance with a better fit and comfort.
- Vs Campfire Audio Supermoon: Alien Brain is more fleshed out due to having better stock tips as well as a type-C dongle.
- Vs Campfire Audio Blackstar: Alien Brain has very good sub bass extension and very good rumble.
Takeaway: The Alien Brain stands out with its unique design, comfortable fit, and balanced sound, and is well-suited for those looking for an IEM that delivers a smooth, detailed, and enjoyable listening experience across various genres. Good build quality and a great accessory package make it a worthwhile option in its price range.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Campfire Audio is a hifi headphone brand known for their Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber (TAEC) for balanced armatures and Solid Body Design that mounts drivers into a single 3D-printed "engine block" to improve tuning and reliability. The brand has pioneered several unique approaches, such as crossoverless dual-planar architecture, beryllium-PVD dynamic diaphragms, and 3D-printed ceramic acoustic structures. Their Andromeda model long held a reputation as a benchmark reference for hifi IEM performance.
Product Page
Product Page
Campfire Audio
Supermoon
899
899
/
9
Reviews
Campfire Audio is a hifi headphone brand known for their Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber (TAEC) for balanced armatures and Solid Body Design that mounts drivers into a single 3D-printed "engine block" to improve tuning and reliability. The brand has pioneered several unique approaches, such as crossoverless dual-planar architecture, beryllium-PVD dynamic diaphragms, and 3D-printed ceramic acoustic structures. Their Andromeda model long held a reputation as a benchmark reference for hifi IEM performance.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Excellent build quality due to its solid body design, 3D printed housing, and stainless steel faceplate
- The planar magnetic driver provides clarity, accuracy, and speed, which enhances versatility across diverse music collections
- Great extension in the bass provides sub-bass rumble along with firm and punchy mid-bass, never feeling overly dark or heavy
- Good isolation when paired with foam tips
- Planar bass is of a high-quality, delivering speed, punch, slam, and even good texturing
Product Considerations
- The upper mids might be too forward for some listeners, resulting in shout that becomes noticeable in tracks with sparse instrumentation, little to no bass presence, and high-pitched vocals
- Treble may be too energetic for some
- The lower-mids lack weight and appropriate “thickness” for baritone vocals
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Moon Rover: More colored, warmer, and thicker sounding, the Moon Rover is more neutral
- Vs Sennheiser IE 900: More impact in EDM and pop tracks, and tracks with a sub-bass focus
Takeaway: The Supermoon by Campfire Audio provides accurate, clear sound through its innovative design. Its impressive ability to evenly distribute sound makes it a worthwhile choice for sound enthusiasts.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Campfire Audio is a hifi headphone brand known for their Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber (TAEC) for balanced armatures and Solid Body Design that mounts drivers into a single 3D-printed "engine block" to improve tuning and reliability. The brand has pioneered several unique approaches, such as crossoverless dual-planar architecture, beryllium-PVD dynamic diaphragms, and 3D-printed ceramic acoustic structures. Their Andromeda model long held a reputation as a benchmark reference for hifi IEM performance.
Product Page
Product Page
Campfire Audio
Ponderosa Achromatic
899
899
/
5
Reviews
Campfire Audio is a hifi headphone brand known for their Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber (TAEC) for balanced armatures and Solid Body Design that mounts drivers into a single 3D-printed "engine block" to improve tuning and reliability. The brand has pioneered several unique approaches, such as crossoverless dual-planar architecture, beryllium-PVD dynamic diaphragms, and 3D-printed ceramic acoustic structures. Their Andromeda model long held a reputation as a benchmark reference for hifi IEM performance.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Technically capable and versatile IEM with widespread appeal due to its warm, robust low-end, and energetic, non-fatiguing mid and upper range performance
- Easy to drive and isolates well from background noise
- The universal shell design is based on the average of thousands of ear impressions, making it comfortable and secure for most users
- Balanced soundstage between width, depth, and height with precise and accurate channel-to-channel imaging
Product Considerations
- Moderate soundstage size compared to some other Campfire Audio products
- Some harshness can occur in the lower treble on certain tracks
- The universal Ponderosa is larger than average, which may not be comfortable for users with smaller ears
- Those who prefer a more neutral bass might find that it colors the sound more than they’d like, potentially making it boomy
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Versus Andromeda: Ponderosa does not give that wow factor since there is not a huge difference in sound signature, Ponderosa has all the exhilarating elements that are unmistakably Campfire, and it may be hard to tell them apart in a blind test
Takeaway:
The Ponderosa is a versatile IEM that offers a warm and engaging sound signature, and is comfortable to wear. If you appreciate the classic Campfire Audio sound and are looking for a more affordable alternative to the Andromeda, the Ponderosa is worth considering.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Campfire Audio is a hifi headphone brand known for their Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber (TAEC) for balanced armatures and Solid Body Design that mounts drivers into a single 3D-printed "engine block" to improve tuning and reliability. The brand has pioneered several unique approaches, such as crossoverless dual-planar architecture, beryllium-PVD dynamic diaphragms, and 3D-printed ceramic acoustic structures. Their Andromeda model long held a reputation as a benchmark reference for hifi IEM performance.
Product Page
Product Page
Campfire Audio
Fathom
799
799
/
4
Reviews
Campfire Audio is a hifi headphone brand known for their Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber (TAEC) for balanced armatures and Solid Body Design that mounts drivers into a single 3D-printed "engine block" to improve tuning and reliability. The brand has pioneered several unique approaches, such as crossoverless dual-planar architecture, beryllium-PVD dynamic diaphragms, and 3D-printed ceramic acoustic structures. Their Andromeda model long held a reputation as a benchmark reference for hifi IEM performance.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Balanced sound signature with a natural, agreeable quality, excellent vocal presence, and impressive imaging
- Sleek, compact, and smooth form factor is comfortable, even for hours of listening
- Exceptional build quality with flawless solidity and perfect tolerances
- Improved end-to-end extension and excellent imaging
Product Considerations
- Lacks sub-bass power
- Foam tips dull the vibrancy of the performance
- Smoother edging and smaller form factor make it slightly slippery
- Bass is a touch tubby
- Sensitive to hiss and output impedance
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Campfire Audio Andromeda Emerald Sea: Fathom fills the gap created by the more radically changed Emerald Sea as Campfire Audio’s premium all-rounder
- Vs Campfire Audio Solaris Stellar Horizon: Fathom is more relaxed in the midrange and brighter on top, making it a more entertaining listen focused more on being unique than to always be as accurate as possible, whereas the Solaris is more neutral
- Vs Campfire Audio Supermoon: Fathom is more forgiving, more universal, has a nice smoothness to the midrange, and a nice, impactful bass, where the Supermoon is a hyper-detailed oriented IEM that has basically zero warmth to it
- Vs Campfire Audio Bonneville: Fathom is brighter, not as dynamic, and offers a more chill midrange performance, while the Bonneville is a rather dark and dynamic sounding IEM with fantastic bass response
- Vs Unique Melody MEXT: Fathom is more natural and effortless sounding, also being significantly more universal when it comes to music and equipment pairing, and has better detail retrieval and a more airy presentation
- Vs Campfire Audio Ara: Fathom is warmer and fuller, subjectively a bit more balanced, and also easier to drive
Takeaway: The Fathom is a beautifully crafted IEM with a design that is engaging yet polished and easy to listen to. It fills a void in Campfire Audio’s lineup and can be considered the company’s new BA-based all-rounder.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Campfire Audio is a hifi headphone brand known for their Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber (TAEC) for balanced armatures and Solid Body Design that mounts drivers into a single 3D-printed "engine block" to improve tuning and reliability. The brand has pioneered several unique approaches, such as crossoverless dual-planar architecture, beryllium-PVD dynamic diaphragms, and 3D-printed ceramic acoustic structures. Their Andromeda model long held a reputation as a benchmark reference for hifi IEM performance.
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What competes at this price?
Campfire Audio
Axion
249
/
Released
2025
Axion utilizes a first-of-its-kind Silicon Dynamic Driver (SDD); a unique, compact, driver that allows for powerful performance in a small footprint. Axion features a sound that is sonically smooth, precise, and detailed. With USB-C connectivity, a built-in, high-quality DAC, and an in-line microphone for seamless call and media playback control, Axion is a plug-and-play portable, everyday HiFi solution.
Campfire Audio is a hifi headphone brand known for their Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber (TAEC) for balanced armatures and Solid Body Design that mounts drivers into a single 3D-printed "engine block" to improve tuning and reliability. The brand has pioneered several unique approaches, such as crossoverless dual-planar architecture, beryllium-PVD dynamic diaphragms, and 3D-printed ceramic acoustic structures. Their Andromeda model long held a reputation as a benchmark reference for hifi IEM performance.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Delivers premium audio quality in a user-friendly package with a built-in DAC and USB-C connection
- Balanced tuning that doesn’t place too much emphasis on any particular frequency range
- Lightweight and comfortable for long listening sessions due to the small size and shell design
- Convenient for use with smartphones, tablets, and laptops, bypassing low-quality DACs in those devices
- Wide, immersive soundstage for its price point, with accurate instrument placement
- USB-C connectivity makes it convenient
Product Considerations
- Resolution could be better
- Some reviewers note a lack of transparency in the midrange, potentially affecting imaging quality
- May not satisfy bassheads due to a less emphasized low-end
- USB-C connectivity limits compatibility with dongles and certain audio sources that may not support USB-C audio
- The cable can be noisy
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Meze Audio Alba: Alba offers more impressive packaging, clearer sound, and better transparency, but Axion has a built-in DAC, microphone, and playback controls
- Vs. Sennheiser IE 300: The IE 300 is a higher-level IEM with excellent clarity, resolution, and detail, while Axion is more enjoyable and musical
Takeaway: The Campfire Audio Axion is a convenient, easy-to-use IEM with a balanced and enjoyable sound, perfect for everyday listening and modern devices. Its built-in DAC and comfortable design make it a great choice for those seeking quality audio without extra gear.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Campfire Audio is a hifi headphone brand known for their Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber (TAEC) for balanced armatures and Solid Body Design that mounts drivers into a single 3D-printed "engine block" to improve tuning and reliability. The brand has pioneered several unique approaches, such as crossoverless dual-planar architecture, beryllium-PVD dynamic diaphragms, and 3D-printed ceramic acoustic structures. Their Andromeda model long held a reputation as a benchmark reference for hifi IEM performance.
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Campfire Audio
Axion (First-Run Edition)
249
/
Released
2024
Pulling technology from a future timeline, this all-new Multiverse edition IEM uses a first-time driver tech in our new Silicon Dynamic Driver; we are proud to be the first to implement this new driver type! This compact, full range driver brings a new range of speed to dynamic driver performance with its compact size allowing for minimal, lightweight, overall footprint.
Campfire Audio is a hifi headphone brand known for their Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber (TAEC) for balanced armatures and Solid Body Design that mounts drivers into a single 3D-printed "engine block" to improve tuning and reliability. The brand has pioneered several unique approaches, such as crossoverless dual-planar architecture, beryllium-PVD dynamic diaphragms, and 3D-printed ceramic acoustic structures. Their Andromeda model long held a reputation as a benchmark reference for hifi IEM performance.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The Axion features a built-in DAC chip with a sample rate of up to 32-bit/384 kHz, bypassing lower-quality DACs in smartphones
- The shells are lightweight and comfortable for long listening sessions
- It features a balanced tuning with punchy bass, and an immersive soundstage
- It has a warm character with a thick texture often found in many Campfire Audio IEMs, delivering satisfying impact and punch in the mid-bass, while the sub-bass has solid depth and extension
- The treble possesses all the right qualities, as it is smooth yet highly detailed, the kind of treble one desires for long listening sessions
Product Considerations
- The USB-C connectivity limits compatibility with dongles, and certain audio sources that may not support USB-C audio
- Some people have criticized it for its technical performance
- Resolution could be better
- The upper midrange’s energy does not extend much, as a result, vocals and instruments can occasionally miss out on finer nuances and extension
- The included USB-C cable offers decent comfort, though it falls short of being remarkable
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- It stacks up against IEMs such as the Volume S in this crowded budget market
- Axion’s bass is more aligned with the Bonneville than the Alien Brain
Takeaway: The Axion is a comfortable and convenient option for everyday listening with its built-in DAC and balanced sound. It is a fun and versatile choice that will work well with smartphones and other devices.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Campfire Audio is a hifi headphone brand known for their Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber (TAEC) for balanced armatures and Solid Body Design that mounts drivers into a single 3D-printed "engine block" to improve tuning and reliability. The brand has pioneered several unique approaches, such as crossoverless dual-planar architecture, beryllium-PVD dynamic diaphragms, and 3D-printed ceramic acoustic structures. Their Andromeda model long held a reputation as a benchmark reference for hifi IEM performance.
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Truthear
Nova
169
/
Released
2023
NOVA is a 1DD+4BA in-ear headphone with 3-way crossover composite structure. Compared with HEXA, the original design intention is to further improve the high-frequency performance while maintaining a reasonable and efficient configuration, and also strive to bring users a mature earphone with a hybrid 3-way crossover structure at a reasonable price.
Truthear is a brand that has continued to design products not just in response to but in collaboration with the audio community and influential figures such as Headphones.com's 'Listener' and The Hangout's 'Crinacle'. Delivering products that achieve excellent adherence to preferred targets at extremely accessible prices.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Sound signature is likely to be palatable for a wide range of people at its price point.
- Good emphasis in the upper midrange, decent timbre, good resolution, the upper midrange is upfront with the vocals, nice details, and it works well with a smooth treble.
- Very smooth treble and the absence of sibilance.
- Good dynamic bass that's nicely textured and has a decent rumble.
- Imaging is accurate.
Product Considerations
- The Truth Ear Nova does not sound better or more balanced than the Hexa, since the reviewer prefers a more balanced sound signature.
- Nova is not a thick-sounding IEM, it's quite thin.
- The midrange is chiefly defined by a cavernous suckout in the low-midrange.
- Soundstage is a little narrower than preferred.
- Shell size may be slightly large for smaller ears.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Moondrop Variations: Nova is significantly cheaper and close enough in performance that one should save money and go for Nova.
- Vs. Truthear Hexa: Nova easily has a smoother treble presentation, has more dynamic bass, and is more ergonomic, but Hexa has one of the best midranges in this price tier.
- Vs. Truthear Zero: RED: Zero: RED beats Nova almost across the board in tuning and simply sounds more normal.
Takeaway: The Truth Ear Nova is commendable for achieving its tuning at its price point, especially for those looking for a V-shaped presentation or Harman-esque kind of sound signature. If the Harman IE target is to one's liking, Nova is probably as safe a choice as any of the other Harman options out there.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Truthear is a brand that has continued to design products not just in response to but in collaboration with the audio community and influential figures such as Headphones.com's 'Listener' and The Hangout's 'Crinacle'. Delivering products that achieve excellent adherence to preferred targets at extremely accessible prices.
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Thieaudio
Legacy 4
195
/
Released
2020
The Legacy 4 was designed concurrently with the Legacy 5 to provide a unique twist to the lineup. With the beloved budget model, the Legacy 3, and the natural and smooth sound signature of the Legacy 5 in mind, we wanted the Legacy 4 to be a middle ground - both in terms of the tuning and price.
Thieaudio is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones with IMPACT2 technology—an in-ear "subwoofer" using two dynamic drivers in an isobaric chamber to boost bass power while keeping frequency constant—and dedicated sound bores to achieve studio-monitor layering and separation. The brand has established a benchmark reputation among reviewers for top-tier tonality at its price tier
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Great build quality and a generous accessory set
- Decently wide soundstage for closed-back IEMs, presenting a three-dimensional space for instrument placement
- Strong technical performance for the price, with standout resolution
Product Considerations
- The lack of a lip on the nozzle makes it impossible to use even slightly-larger-than-perfect eartips, as they just fall off
- Treble is a tad brighter than preferred, which some may find fatiguing over time
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Thieaudio Legacy 3, the Legacy 4 has faster and more detailed bass, more detailed and extended treble, and better imaging and instrument separation
- Compared to the Moondrop KXXS, the Legacy 4 has a solid technical edge in resolution and imaging
Takeaway: The Thieaudio Legacy 4 is a competent earphone that offers a clean, clear rendition of music with excellent resolution and detail retrieval. It is enjoyable across various genres and provides a high-quality listening experience for audiophiles.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Thieaudio is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones with IMPACT2 technology—an in-ear "subwoofer" using two dynamic drivers in an isobaric chamber to boost bass power while keeping frequency constant—and dedicated sound bores to achieve studio-monitor layering and separation. The brand has established a benchmark reputation among reviewers for top-tier tonality at its price tier
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FIIO
FH5S/FH5S Pro
254
/
Released
2021
Thanks to the excellent designs and great sound, FiiO balanced armature and dynamic driver hybrid earphones have always been highly praised and become best sellers due to positive word-of-mouth. The all-new rookie FH5s is a true upgrade from the veteran FH5, with significant advancements and innovations in all aspects including appearance, comfort, sound quality. The student has now surpassed the master.
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Detailed and clean sound, putting plenty of micro-details on the foreground
- Good build quality and comfortable design
- Swappable audio plugs included
- Tuning switches featured
- Open and wide soundstage
Product Considerations
- Treble can be a bit sharp and metallic sounding
- A dedicated DAP, Bluetooth dongle, or external DAC/Amp is needed to shine
- Below-average noise isolation due to its semi-open nature
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Approaches the FiiO FH7 closely, but is not exactly as punchy and engaging when bass notes are coming to play, FH7 has a better midrange rendition
- The FH5s gives a harder edge to treble notes, but at the same time creates a wider and more spacious soundstage
- The FiiO FD5 emphasizes warmth, smoothness, and a lush sound with prominent bass and midrange, where the FH5S has a more textured midrange, and a cleaner bass with less emphasis
Takeaway: The FiiO FH5S provides an outstanding unboxing experience and impressive features, along with a clear sound. The IEM allows for long listening sessions.
Video review
Our take on the brand
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
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