In short, Ara produces a sound that feels like a “fog-peeled-off” version of the Andromeda with enforced clarity and airiness. Being such a deeply subjective hobby, it becomes difficult to provide an undisputed upgrade, however, I feel Campfire Audio have addressed this issue with great tact; the new Andromeda is even more balanced, detailed and coherent as promised. Instrument separation is strong on both but the Andromeda pulls ahead as it’s able to make use of its stage depth for vastly improved layering. If you don’t do the hard work, your competition will eat you alive, and this business is *extremely* competitive.

There is some haze, but it isn't much like the OG Andro since the treble response to me mostly gets rid of it. If you would rather choose the good thickness and weighty punches (seeking more basshead sound, really), then the conclusion for weighting between two IEMs would end up suggesting Andromeda 2020 over Ara. It’s strangely natural with nothing that really stands out as obtrusive to the listening experience.When used with balanced amps and silicone tips, we are getting much closer to the “old ways”, but we sacrifice the isolation of foam tips. Resolution is excellent but not to the next level when coming from mid-fi like you would expect when crossing the thousand-dollar threshold.

The fact that you either receive an expensive toy or can resell the gear for hundreds of dollars makes it hard to be totally impartial.And part of that luxury is the question of whether or not the product brings a unique experience not found anywhere else.

Campfire’s patented driver treatment technology, TAEC is a specially crafted, unique space in which a balanced armature is housed.While it is not a kick of dynamic or bone-conduction drivers, it still pumps enough air to give an enjoyable experience.