Tag: high-end headphones

Key Takeaways

1. Campfire Audio celebrates its 10th anniversary with a refreshed Andromeda model, the Andromeda 10, featuring an updated design without visible screws.
2. The new Andromeda 10 has ten balanced armature drivers, doubling the original’s five drivers for enhanced audio performance.
3. The driver configuration includes four drivers for low frequencies, four for mid frequencies, and two for high frequencies, maintaining the signature sound of the original.
4. The Andromeda 10 is priced at $1,699, while limited edition versions in gold or black are priced at $2,499.
5. More information on global availability will be released soon on Campfire Audio’s official website.

Campfire Audio has been in the headphone game since 2015, and just a year later, they introduced the first Andromeda model. Now, to celebrate their 10th anniversary, the Andromeda is getting a refresh. The Campfire Audio Andromeda 10 maintains its classic green hue, but the design has been updated with sharper edges and no longer shows screws like the earlier version.

Design Variations

These earbuds are typically crafted from aluminum, but Campfire Audio is also releasing two limited editions made from PVD-coated stainless steel, which can be finished in either black or gold Damascus. The original Andromeda featured “only” five drivers, while the new Andromeda 10 boasts ten balanced armature drivers to mark this special anniversary.

Enhanced Audio Performance

The driver configuration includes four for low frequencies, four for mid frequencies, and two for high frequencies. Campfire Audio claims this arrangement boosts audio performance while preserving the signature sound that fans love from the original Andromeda. Additionally, the cable features copper strands that are gold-plated, complementing the special edition’s finish. Campfire Audio also notes an impedance of 8.5 ohms at 1kHz, a sensitivity of 94dB at 12.1mV, a total harmonic distortion under 1%, and a frequency response ranging from 5Hz to 20kHz.

Pricing and Availability

In the United States, the Campfire Audio Andromeda 10 is priced at $1,699, whereas the special edition in gold or black is available for $2,499. Information about a global release is still to come, but more details are expected to be shared soon on Campfire Audio’s official website.

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Key Takeaways

1. High-End Design: FiiO FX17 earbuds feature a lightweight titanium shell with 13 drivers, including a 10mm dynamic lithium-magnesium driver, four Knowles Balanced Armature drivers, and eight electrostatic drivers from Sonion.

2. Complex Driver Setup: The earbuds use five crossovers for optimal sound quality, with electrostatic tweeters covering frequencies above 50kHz and a combination of drivers handling bass and mids.

3. Sensitivity and Cable Features: The FX17 has a sensitivity rating of 104 dB/mW, an impedance of 16 ohms, and comes with a replaceable MMCX cable that supports multiple plug types (3.5mm, 4.4mm, USB-C) and includes a built-in DAC.

4. Pricing and Availability: The FiiO FX17 is priced at $1,515 and is available on Aliexpress.

5. Included Accessories: The package includes 22 pairs of eartips for a customized fit, a cleaning brush, and a carrying case.

The brand-new FiiO FX17 are high-end earbuds that feature a lightweight titanium shell. Each earbud is equipped with 13 drivers, including a 10mm dynamic lithium-magnesium driver. Moreover, there are four Knowles Balanced Armature drivers specifically designed for the FX17, along with eight electrostatic drivers from Sonion.

Complex Driver Setup

To achieve optimal sound, FiiO has implemented five crossovers in this configuration. The diverse mix of driver types is expected to enhance audio quality. The electrostatic tweeters can theoretically cover frequencies above 50kHz and have a sensitivity of just 99 dB/mW, which means they may be less loud than dynamic drivers. However, with eight of these drivers in the in-ear design, their volume should be higher overall. The mids are handled by the Knowles Balanced Armature drivers, while the dynamic driver takes care of the bass.

Sensitivity and Cable Features

The FiiO FX17 boasts a sensitivity rating of 104 dB/mW and has an impedance of 16 ohms. These new earbuds come with a replaceable MMCX cable, making it easy to swap out if necessary. The included 4ft cable is a combination of gold, silver, and copper materials and can be fitted with either a 3.5mm, 4.4mm, or USB-C plug. The USB-C adapter includes a built-in DAC that supports audio quality up to 32 bit at 384kHz.

Pricing and Accessories

Currently, the FiiO FX17 flagship earbuds can be found on Aliexpress for $1,515. To provide the best fit, these headphones come with 22 different pairs of eartips. The plug of the supplied cable can be changed, as FiiO provides options for 3.5mm, 4.4mm, and USB-C connectors. Additionally, a cleaning brush and a carrying case are included in the package as well.

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