Right now’s article critiques the brand new $249 USD Campfire Audio Axion, a day by day carry IEM with a full-range SDD driver.
Campfire Audio
Campfire Audio, based by Ken Ball of Audio Line Out fame, is a boutique audio model famend for its revolutionary earphones that function patented applied sciences and ship efficiency. Primarily based in Portland, Oregon, a devoted workforce of expert craftspeople designs and hand-assembles every product.
The model thrives on experimentation, utilizing distinctive supplies and strategies to redefine the listening expertise. Each earphone undergoes numerous design iterations, intensive listening classes, and rigorous efficiency exams, guaranteeing audiophile-grade high quality.
Campfire Audio has been recognized for placing musical enjoyment to the entrance, and that’s why they’ve a definite fan base. We just lately reviewed the Darkstar, a really particular IEM, as follows:
Campfire Audio Axion
In keeping with CA, Axion is the primary earphone to make use of a full-range SDD (silicon dynamic driver). Initially offered as an idea mannequin on the 2024 Campfire Multiverse Occasion, the Multiverse version provided a preview of a future that’s now realised, together with tuning enhancements and an thrilling new housing design.
The primary model of Axion contains additional tuning enhancements. On the surface, the shell has been redesigned for kind and performance, showcasing a extremely ergonomic form, a sturdy brass fastening system, and a trendy clear housing with dyed-in elements.
Moreover, the brand new Axion targets individuals who wish to have a daily-driver IEM to make use of with numerous gadgets by way of a USB-C connection. The USB-C has a built-in DAC so smartphone customers can get pleasure from high-quality sound with out additional dongles.
The Silicon Dynamic Driver seems to be like a balanced armature unit (BA). Nonetheless, as you may see within the diagram under, it has numerous elements that differ from a typical BA. Campfire Audio claims this driver is way fuller-sounding than a primary BA.
Packaging
The Campfire Audio Axion arrives in a small cardboard field. Inside, the IEMs are neatly saved in a pocket bag, with a paper bag containing numerous ear ideas and a cleansing instrument for upkeep, guaranteeing the IEMs keep pristine. The compact and important packaging for this entry-level day by day IEM launch is comprehensible, however that is lower than what you get with Campfire’s higher-end choices.
So it’s not a wonderful unboxing expertise, it’s simply common, and that’s okay.
Design, Construct High quality, Expertise
The Axion IEM retains Campfire Audio’s iconic design language with a darkish end. This modern {and professional} aesthetic is complemented by a futuristic edge, making a visually putting but understated fashion. Its sturdy development combines acrylic and brass, providing a stable and premium in-hand really feel.
Craftsmanship is a standout function of the Campfire IEMS, and the Axion is not any exception, with a seamlessly built-in composite answer. The brass nozzles improve longevity, whereas stiff MMCX connectors present a way of rugged reliability. Though the included USB-C cable presents respectable consolation, it falls in need of being outstanding.
Nonetheless, the USB connector feels inflexible. Total, the Axion displays Campfire Audio’s dedication to top-tier construct high quality, delivering a sturdy, refined design that upholds the model’s legacy.
The CA Axion has a USB-C DAC and playback/quantity controls contained in the cable. The DAC inside is able to 32/384 kHz decoding. The unit on the cable additionally has a microphone for telephone calls.
Match
Since I began utilizing IEMs that go behind the ear in 2013, I’ve by no means favored straight-down earphones. Nonetheless, the Axion supplies good ergonomics, and the light-weight shells supply nice consolation for lengthy intervals. The design is smart for an earphone supposed to be a day by day driver, particularly contemplating that not-so-hardcore audiophiles would use the Axion.
When paired with foam ideas, the Axion achieves glorious isolation, successfully sealing out exterior noise for an immersive listening expertise. Its compact design strikes the proper stability between consolation and performance, and the thoughtfully engineered chassis additional enhances wearability.
The isolation efficiency is outstanding for a common earphone with foams, nearing the degrees sometimes related to precise in-ear screens. Total, the Axion’s match is safe, snug, and extremely commendable, delivering a seamless carrying expertise.
Sound Common
The brand new Axion presents a really easy, non-fatiguing and non-bothering sonic expertise. The unit sounds full-bodied, with a particular mid-bass focus. The presentation is meaty and darkish, which isn’t the very best kind of tuning in technicalities or sheer decision. However it will get the job performed in case you take a look at it as a day by day earphone, fulfilling its goal by way of and thru.
The bass space is notable for its pure and detailed supply; regardless of its deeper tone, the IEM performs nicely musically. Its frequency administration ensures a harmonious and fulfilling listening expertise with none harshness. Nothing comes off as bothersome, as each ingredient is well-controlled. The Axion presents a gorgeous selection in case you’re looking for a easy, darker IEM with a lush tonality.
