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Campfire Audio Andromeda 2020 vs Symphonium Audio Helios: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Campfire Audio Andromeda 2020 comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 80. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

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

Score breakdown

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

Campfire Audio Andromeda 2020 leads on 2 of 4 measures.

  • Campfire Audio Andromeda 2020
  • Symphonium Audio Helios
HearWiki score
80
78
Sound
9.0
9.0
Value
6.5
7.0
Price (USD)
$830
$1,100

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

Symphonium Audio Helios (2021) against Campfire Audio Andromeda 2020 (2020). These are 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.

  • Andromeda 20202020
  • Helios20211 yr newer

Specifications

Andromeda 2020Helios
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$830
$1,100
HearWiki score
80
78
Released
2020
2021
Availability
Discontinued
Discontinued
Driver
5× balanced armature
balanced armature
Driver type
balanced-armature
balanced-armature
Drivers per side
5
-
Frequency response
5 Hz - 20 kHz
-
Impedance
6.4 Ω
8.5 Ω
Sensitivity
123 dB/mW
-
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)
94
-
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Controls
none
-
Detachable cable
Yes
-
USB-C
No
-
Connector
MMCX
2-pin 0.78 mm
Model code
Andromeda Emerald Sea
-

What reviewers said

Campfire Audio Andromeda 2020

The Campfire Audio Andromeda 2020 is a premium five-driver balanced armature IEM that refines the original's signature with smoother, more coherent mids and improved treble. It delivers an expansive soundstage with excellent imaging and layering, though its low impedance and high sensitivity mean it demands a quality source to shine. A worthwhile update for both newcomers and existing fans, it excels in clarity and detail but has some limitations in bass texture.

  • Pro:Cohesive and smooth midrange
  • Pro:Excellent soundstage and imaging
  • Pro:Strong, detailed treble
  • Con:Requires a high-quality source
  • Con:Limited bass texture and weight
  • Con:No controls or ANC

Symphonium Audio Helios

The Symphonium Audio Helios is a high-performance all-balanced-armature IEM that delivers exceptional bass, treble detail, and holographic imaging, making it a standout in its price range. However, it demands significant amplification and features a large, angular shell that may pose fit challenges for some users. Its energetic, incisive sound signature appeals to critical listeners but may not suit those seeking a warm or relaxed tuning.

  • Pro:Outstanding bass and treble extension for an all-BA design
  • Pro:Excellent imaging and holographic soundstage
  • Pro:Strong technical performance and detail retrieval
  • Con:Requires substantial power to perform at its best
  • Con:Large, angular shell can be difficult to fit comfortably
  • Con:Aggressive, gritty tuning may not suit all preferences

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

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