Campfire Audio IO specs: from 5Hz to 22kHz frequency response, 26 Ohms, 109 dB sensitivity, dual balanced armature driver (1 BA driver for low + 1 BA driver for high + TAEC), MMCX connections, stainless steel spout, machined aluminium body, 3.5 mm stereo plug.
Back then in the Fujiya Avic Headphone Festival 2019, Campfire Audio announced a new model called Campfire Audio IO. Since then, release after release has been taking place in many other countries. Campfire Audio IO has been slated as a solid replacement of the previous model, Nova.
If you are looking for a mid-tier IEM with such high quality sound, then Campfire Audio IO can really make a great choice for you. Contrary to its predecessors, it comes with a bigger packaging. I know a bit of philosophy about this. The company is raising the brand like a child. Look how growing they have been!
The differences between the new packaging and the packaging for the previous models are huge. I can blatantly say that the new packaging is more grandeur and exclusive. The color theme is also hugely different from Nova, its predecessor.
The box color is relevant to the IO shell color. So, if you choose the red one, the box color will be red. I was amazed with the accessories the moment I unpacked it. It will welcome you with a red leather case with the IO sitting there. The description of the case is red curry puff. Fancy enough to tease you, isn’t it? Then you will also find the accessory box. Here are what you’ll get in accessory section:
- Final Audio tips which come in five different sizes from XS to XL;
- Campfire audio marshmallow tips which come in three different sizes from S to L;
- Silicone earphone tips which come in three sizes from S to L;
- Campfire Audio lapel pin;
- Cleaning tool.
These accessories are all included in the package. You can fit them all into the original Campfire Audio mesh IEM bag. So, you just need to store them inside the bag to protect it from preventing them from getting worn off. Campfire Audio has really paid attention to the details.
Now let’s move to the design and comfort level parts. One thing that I’d notice from Campfire Audio IO is that its nozzles have become longer. Then there is the red color with the gold screws and silver nozzle. This could remind me of the Marvel superheroes universe.
I think that the longer version of nozzle is the big improvement here. Then the noise isolation is superb. I have tried to commute between the office and home. To conclude, this IEM is a perfect choice for an outdoor activity.
The cable is detachable. The chord is superb as well. It is both physically and aesthetically astonishing. Of course, ones should really pay attention to the sound quality details that it can offer. I have tried this for a few hours and do not notice any significant discomfort or audible changes. Some experts who tested it non-stop around 24 hours also stated the same thing as I did.
Campfire Audio IO - Sound
The bass is quick and detailed. However, it is not abundant if you compare it with the higher-end driver. For a bass lover, it has slight room for improvement. But I think it provides enough power for all genres. Bass lovers will also be fond of this unit. It is also hard to dislike the mids quality. It comes with such clear and detailed demonstration. The upper mids parts are also great. The sound quality is above the average I can say.Campfire Audio IO indeed has unique characters that not many entry level products have. Some users have reported that the IO is much prevalent with the female vocals and acoustic recordings. Well, I have hit many different genre music tracks on this buddy and didn’t find any mistakes from it. This buddy wouldn’t fail me at all.
The sensitivity to the specific recording quality is also great. I have played some of the classic records like 86’s Slippery When Wet by Bon Jovi and enjoyed it from the track one to the encores. The “Livin on a player” track gave me such a vibe when Tico Torres’ drums hit. It can pop up the quality work of sound engineer that happened 33 years ago. But it will also be prevalent for the modern tracks as well.
What I like
- the crisp and dynamic sound;- catchy design and color schemes;
- high quality with affordable tag price.
What I dislike
- the shell which is prone to impacts and scratches;- the IEM might be damaged by standard audio sources, that don't offer high quality outputs (for signal).
