[ExpatinJapan]

Not sure where to place this.

CA IO is a two driver.

This new model - Campfire Audio C/2019 Q4 is a three driver yet seems to intentionally/ unintentionally?? address some of the IO issues people had. Some were happy with the sound sig,..others were not.

to my ears it is nearing reference if reference is a generally flat response on a frequency chart (i fo not have a freq testing rig so i can not check my theory).

Rich, full, even, delicate, delicious sound

Plus they share the same shell, so the outer dna is in common anyway.

onwards....! C/2019 Q4 limited edition unboxing



C / 2019 Q4 Overview:
Housing material: Anodized aluminum housing
Driver: Balanced armature type
Number of drivers: 3 Drivers
Technology: TAEC, 3D Printed Acoustic Chamber

Mixwave
adopts acoustic chamber molded by ALO audio 10th anniversary special model 3D printer
Japan and USA limited sale
Strato Blue anodized aluminum case
ALO Audio Smoky Litz Cable will be attached
Silver zipper premium leather case

 

[episiarch]

Not sure where to place this.

CA IO is a two driver.

This new model - Campfire Audio C/2019 Q4 is a three driver yet seems to intentionally/ unintentionally?? address some of the IO issues people had. Some were happy with the sound sig,..others were not.

to my ears it is nearing reference if reference is a generally flat response on a frequency chart (i fo not have a freq testing rig so i can not check my theory).

Rich, full, even, delicate, delicious sound

Plus they share the same shell, so the outer dna is in common anyway.

Thank you. This is very interesting.

I found the IO had surprisingly little isolation from outside noise. (Yes, I got a good seal, played with fit, etc.) I believe others have found the same. I'm curious whether the new model isolates any differently (i.e. better) despite sharing the same outer shell.

 

[ExpatinJapan]

Seems fine to me.

but i will have a closer listen next time on my commute and also bring the IO with me.

experiment time

 

[boneburglar]

I'm apprehensive but hopeful that they can turn it around with the MW10 and the C after a previous string of failures. Can't speak for myself on the Polaris v2 and Solaris but they are definitely not adored like the Andromeda. One could even make the argument that they're been missing ever since the Comet and Atlas. I for one only have experience with the Orion, Comet, Io, and Andromeda, and they all have flaws that are hard to ignore at their respective prices. Especially so the Io, which out of every headphone and IEM I've heard, it might be my least favorite. Very hazy and no other redeeming qualities to speak of except for excellent fit.


I don't know what a rich delicate delicious sound means but i hope the C finds success in... Whatever that means.

 

[ExpatinJapan]

I will start by saying i am a fan of Campfire Audios level of experimentation of trying out different IEM signatures.

i am not a fan of every one of their releases, but i guess thats the beauty of it - something for everyone.


The IO release kicked up quite the internet fervor when released and i followed it to t he point where i couldn't objectively listen to the earphone without voices whispering on either shoulder of mine into my ears.

I usually have a media blackout on most new devices so i can gauge them for myself, then publish. Then go back and read opinions and see how off or on track i was. But this seemed unavoidable and popping up everywhere.


Anyway - brief comparisons:

IO - two drivers
C/2019 Q4 - three drivers

iBasso DX220, amp 1mkii, low gain, filter 3/ fast roll off.
Stock Final Audio Tips.
Lazy splitter test. Gd Enuff!

...so theres those differences, same shell and nozzle basically.

IO - As has been already said. Basically
On top a v shape, with recessed upper mids and extended treble.
Underneath - laidback in a way, but technical, treble seems prominent due to the tame mids, wide sound stage.
Decent fast bass.
Some unnaturalness at times.

- i should try them again with a dap in a similar price range.

C/2019 Q4 - More fuller sound. *Hopefully someone measures it so we can compare to the IO. I would hesitantly say that the frequency chart would be fairly flat.
It basically has plenty of everything without being mushy or smeared together. Theres a certain strength to the (wall of) sound.
Sorry, but it is a rich delicious sound, decent fast full hitting deep bass, and luxurious low/upper mids, highs extending correctly and vocals just above the music (and not overly forward - how i like it). Male and female vocals reproduced properly.
Quite easily accessible and enjoyable.

isolation: i will check on the way home.

 

[ejong7]

I will start by saying i am a fan of Campfire Audios level of experimentation of trying out different IEM signatures.

i am not a fan of every one of their releases, but i guess thats the beauty of it - something for everyone.


The IO release kicked up quite the internet fervor when released and i followed it to t he point where i couldn't objectively listen to the earphone without voices whispering on either shoulder of mine into my ears.

I usually have a media blackout on most new devices so i can gauge them for myself, then publish. Then go back and read opinions and see how off or on track i was. But this seemed unavoidable and popping up everywhere.


Anyway - brief comparisons:

IO - two drivers
C/2019 Q4 - three drivers

iBasso DX220, amp 1mkii, low gain, filter 3/ fast roll off.
Stock Final Audio Tips.
Lazy splitter test. Gd Enuff!

...so theres those differences, same shell and nozzle basically.

IO - As has been already said. Basically
On top a v shape, with recessed upper mids and extended treble.
Underneath - laidback in a way, but technical, treble seems prominent due to the tame mids, wide sound stage.
Decent fast bass.
Some unnaturalness at times.

- i should try them again with a dap in a similar price range.

C/2019 Q4 - More fuller sound. *Hopefully someone measures it so we can compare to the IO. I would hesitantly say that the frequency chart would be fairly flat.
It basically has plenty of everything without being mushy or smeared together. Theres a certain strength to the (wall of) sound.
Sorry, but it is a rich delicious sound, decent fast full hitting deep bass, and luxurious low/upper mids, highs extending correctly and vocals just above the music (and not overly forward - how i like it). Male and female vocals reproduced properly.
Quite easily accessible and enjoyable.

isolation: i will check on the way home.

Looks like you are using it with the DX160 (Q4 I mean). How is the pairing?

 

[ExpatinJapan]

Thats the DX220 (see amp).

i should try it with DX160 as the price point is similar.

—————————————


i have asked Campfire Audio for Frequency Measurements but am not holding out much hope as they have not released the last couple.

it would be good to compare with IO i think (Orion, Comet, Nova,...maybe Lyra/ii(?).

I do not have measuring gear myself to make frequency charts - and the release is far off. I am curious and maybe others are as well.

——————————

Isolation on the C/2019 Q4 seems fine in my noisy office and Starbucks Xmas music. (Various tips).

need to recheck with various tips on my commute.

 

[Alabama]

Hello everyone. I'm currently considering picking up the IO or the Comet for use on my LG V40.

I understand the Comet is a little harder to drive than the IO and I just wondered if anyone has any experience of either of these IEMs with the V40. The V40 seems to switch to high impedance mode from around 45 ohms so I expect the Comet will trigger it whereas the IO won't, so that's one of the factors I'm considering.

For context, I recently let go a pair of Tin Hifi P1 which unfortunately didn't work out as they really needed amping to get the best out of them. The P1 were quite clean sounding but felt a little thin and I really struggled with the fit too (probably these two issues are directly linked!). Anyway, I'm just wondering whether the Comets will leave me in a similar position in terms of fit and juice. I really don't want to bolt on a separate amp!

Also, just wanted to add that I've really appreciated all the detailed reviews and comments everyone has provided on the IOs in this thread - a lot of time and effort from everyone and a fantastic resource for people like me.

 

[boneburglar]

Hello everyone. I'm currently considering picking up the IO or the Comet for use on my LG V40.

I understand the Comet is a little harder to drive than the IO and I just wondered if anyone has any experience of either of these IEMs with the V40. The V40 seems to switch to high impedance mode from around 45 ohms so I expect the Comet will trigger it whereas the IO won't, so that's one of the factors I'm considering.

For context, I recently let go a pair of Tin Hifi P1 which unfortunately didn't work out as they really needed amping to get the best out of them. The P1 were quite clean sounding but felt a little thin and I really struggled with the fit too (probably these two issues are directly linked!). Anyway, I'm just wondering whether the Comets will leave me in a similar position in terms of fit and juice. I really don't want to bolt on a separate amp!

Also, just wanted to add that I've really appreciated all the detailed reviews and comments everyone has provided on the IOs in this thread - a lot of time and effort from everyone and a fantastic resource for people like me.

If there's a way you can demo either, I would strongly recommend that you do so. I have tried the Io, Comet, and Orion and I personally believe a used Orion at around $175 is the best option if you can find one. The Comet was a bit unexciting for my tastes, but the Io is tonally gronked. The Orion on the other hand, has that awful treble extension but the lower mids are pretty nice so it at least has some merit to me. That being said, I would not limit your choices to those three in the first place because cheaper options such as the FiiO FA1 beat all three in my opinion if we are staying in the balanced armature realm. Ideally at $300 you could start looking into DDs and hybrid setups if you're interested.

 

[nephilim32]

I purchased the IO’s back in May of this year and they were the first IEM’s I’ve ever bought. I feel this IEM really educated me a lot on what I may like (consistently) from an IEM. One thing I can say is driver Burn In is definitely needed and very real with the IO. The sibilance really cut down quite a bit and the sparkle of hi hats being hit just sounded far more realistic rather than a bit shouty. I appreciate the wide soundstage and the highs on this IEM and listening to such songs that are fast paced like Metallica’s Disposable Heroes is a real engaging treat.
My feeling now is to upgrade. The IO’s are no slouches, but I find them introductory. I’m ready for a dynamic driver that delivers more shattering bottom end.

Atlas! I’m looking at you!!!

 

[ExpatinJapan]

I got an response to my email today after i requested a CA C/2019 Q4 Frequency Chart.

And it was a yes!



(my apologies - i could not upload the file, so had to remount it via an app).

non shrunk freq pic here: https://www.headpie.net/2019/11/campfire-audio-c2019-q4-frequency-chart.html?m=1

*I will leave to those more experienced in these matters to interpret the chart for us all.

IO - two drivers
C/2019 Q4 - three drivers.
- Same shell and nozzle.

- Looks pretty flat as my listening sessions expected.
__________________________

@jude s Campfire Audio IO measurements:
https://www.head-fi.org/threads/campfire-audio-io.905408/page-27#post-14972084






...might be time for a C/2019 Q4 thread.

 

[boneburglar]

I got an response to my email today after i requested a CA C/2019 Q4 Frequency Chart.

And it was a yes!



(my apologies - i could not upload the file, so had to remount it via an app).

*I will leave to those more experienced in these matters to interpret the chart for us all.

IO - two drivers
C/2019 Q4 - three drivers.
- Same shell and nozzle.
__________________________

@jude s Campfire Audio IO measurements:
https://www.head-fi.org/threads/campfire-audio-io.905408/page-27#post-14972084






...might be time for a C/2019 Q4 thread.

No pinna gain? Or are the graphs compensated?

 

[aminus]

I pray that the graph is compensated, lest it be the 5th or 6th example of Campfire not understanding pinna compensation.

 

[twiceboss]

I got an response to my email today after i requested a CA C/2019 Q4 Frequency Chart.

And it was a yes!



(my apologies - i could not upload the file, so had to remount it via an app).

non shrunk freq pic here: https://www.headpie.net/2019/11/campfire-audio-c2019-q4-frequency-chart.html?m=1

*I will leave to those more experienced in these matters to interpret the chart for us all.

IO - two drivers
C/2019 Q4 - three drivers.
- Same shell and nozzle.

- Looks pretty flat as my listening sessions expected.
__________________________

@jude s Campfire Audio IO measurements:
https://www.head-fi.org/threads/campfire-audio-io.905408/page-27#post-14972084






...might be time for a C/2019 Q4 thread.

Did Ken release any pricing yet?

 

[recondude]

Just thought I would post the following as I know that there many people like myself who have read this thread (and other sources) to carry out research prior to buying the IO. I judge a headphone/IEM by how much I enjoy them rather than to mentally analysis and break down the sound. I respect other peoples opinions and appreciate the work that gets put into detailed analysis. However on a number of occasions I have been put off buying by negative reviews only to find actually I really enjoy what they can do or bring to the table. An example of this is the Audioquest Nighthawks Carbon. I totally get why so many people are scathing of them but for me they bring something totally different to the table and by adding them (and others that are different) to my headphone rotation everything remains fresh and tonally different. Neutral sounding or there about headphones are plentiful but bring nothing new to the table. An example of this is the Oppo PM3, technically excellent but after awhile a little boring for me to listen with (shockingly bad ear pad and headband quality as well).

I have now had the IO's for over two weeks and put a fair amount of time in listening and experimenting. My experience has been the IO is highly dependant on the tips used, far more so than any other IEM I have ever experienced. For me the large marshmallow foam tips give the best fit, isolation and sound signature that I expected from the description given by CA. Alternatives such the included silicone's, Final E's, spinfits all gave a significantly different sound around the frequency range. With these I could hear some of the issues that others have commented on e.g. the hollowness to some female vocals - not so with the foams.

With the foams I find vocals are forward but not to the extent of being too distant from other instruments. I hear a touch of sibilant with pronunciation of 'S' sounds but not to the extent that I find it bothersome. They are genre specific. I find acoustic music, folk, jazz, country, blues, metal all to be very enjoyable with the IO's. Examples of albums listened to:- David Crosby- Here if you listen, Nick Cave- Ghosteen, Ry Cooder- The prodigal son, Mansur Brown- Shiroi, Metallica- Metallica, Otis Taylor- Fantasising about being black, Purple Mountains- Purple mountains, Portico quartet- Memory Streams. For these albums and anything similar I would pick the IO to listen with (as a favourite) out of the IEM & CIEMS I own (FIBAE 2, FIBAE 3, Cosmic Ears CE 6P, Inear Stage Diver SD2, Ibasso IT01, CA Polaris 2, 1more triple driver). The reasons I would choose the IO's over the others are the clarity, instrument separation and the forward presentation of the vocals.

In terms of other genres as a generalisation whilst okay, the IO's are some way down my list to listen with. For EDM, hip hop, R & B, general pop, trap, synthwave, I find the IO's lack of bass punch really doesn't provide the warmth that I like with those genres. They feel a little flat and less 'musical' than say the FIBAE 2.

The IO's are not and should never be thought of as an all-rounder. However with the genres they excel at they are a joy to listen with particularly given there price point.

I have not tried to talk about specific frequencies ie. 1khz because although I have a good understanding of the range I can't honestly say that I can accurately identify them with my ageing 53 year old ears when listening. To do so could be very misleading which is why have used more generalised terms and examples of the music I have listened to with the IO's.

As a side note the Polaris 2 is probably all over the place with its frequency response. I don't care because they are just so much fun when listening to more bass orientated music, at least for awhile anyway - again something different brought to the table.

Finally just to state again how much influence the tips have on the IO's. They of course have flaws but I can't help but think that some of the negatives others have found may well be down to the choice of tips. This type of signature is never going to suit everyone but if you like any of the artists I have mentioned above then I think (hope) the IO's may well be for you.

I hope some will find this useful and to those that don't just ignore my rambling.

EDIT:- Should have stated my sources. Ibasso DX160, LG G7, Mojo, Iphone with dragonfly red, Ifi Hip dac, Questyle CMA400i, Arcam IR DAC 2 & Head amp. Streams or offline down loads from Tidal Hifi, Qobuz Premier. Streams and owned music via Audirvana. IO to my ears paired fine with all of these. Probably had the best synergy with the Mojo and the dragonfly from a portable/transportable view point.