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AKG N5005 vs Campfire Audio Andromeda 2020: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Campfire Audio Andromeda 2020 comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 65. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Campfire Audio Andromeda 2020 - Good overall at around $835.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

Neither pulls ahead overall - they trade wins across the measures.

  • AKG N5005
  • Campfire Audio Andromeda 2020
HearWiki score
63
65
Sound
8.1
8.4
Battery
3.5
-
Price (USD)
$290
$830

Generation & platform

The scores rank quality. This is the other question: is the newer one actually newer technology, or the same platform in a new shell?

Same generation

The Campfire Audio Andromeda 2020 is 2 years newer, but it is the same generation of hardware: nothing in the radio, the codecs or the noise cancelling separates them. Nothing separates them on convenience features either, so the choice comes down to tuning and price.

  • N50052018
  • Andromeda 202020202 yr newer

Specifications

N5005Andromeda 2020
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$290
$830
HearWiki score
63
65
Released
2018
2020
Availability
Discontinued
Discontinued
Driver
1DD + 1BA hybrid
5× balanced armature
Driver type
hybrid
balanced-armature
Driver configuration
1DD + 1BA
-
Driver size
9.2 mm
-
Drivers per side
2
5
Frequency response
10 Hz - 40 kHz
5 Hz - 20 kHz
Impedance
18 Ω
6.4 Ω
Sensitivity
116 dB/mW
123 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)
-
94
Bluetooth
4.1
-
Codecs
SBC, aptX
-
Multipoint pairing
No
-
Battery life
8 h
-
Full charge time
120 min
-
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Controls
-
none
Weight
11.4 g
-
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
-
No
Connector
-
MMCX
Model code
-
Andromeda Emerald Sea

What reviewers said

AKG N5005

The AKG N5005 is a premium hybrid in-ear monitor that blends a single dynamic driver with a balanced armature for detailed, reference-style sound. It offers a highly customizable fit with multiple tips and a detachable cable, plus wireless convenience via Bluetooth with SBC and aptX support. While its price was lofty at launch, it remains a technically strong choice for audiophiles seeking versatility.

  • Pro:Excellent, detailed and reference-grade sound quality
  • Pro:Hybrid driver design delivers deep bass and clear highs
  • Pro:Versatile tuning options and comfortable fit
  • Con:High price point relative to some competitors
  • Con:No active noise cancellation
  • Con:Bluetooth 4.1 and only SBC/aptX codecs, no aptX HD

Campfire Audio Andromeda 2020

The Campfire Audio Andromeda 2020 is a premium five-driver balanced-armature IEM that refines its predecessor with smoother, more coherent mids and a lively treble. It delivers a spacious soundstage with excellent imaging and layering, though its low impedance and high sensitivity mean it benefits from a quality source to shine. Built with a detachable MMCX cable and no onboard controls, it's a wired, purely analog listening tool for audiophiles.

  • Pro:Cohesive, well-tuned sound signature
  • Pro:Excellent soundstage, imaging, and layering
  • Pro:Smoother and stronger mids than the original
  • Con:Limited bass texture and impact
  • Con:Requires a good source to avoid hiss or distortion
  • Con:No inline controls or microphone

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

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