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Campfire Audio Andromeda S vs FiiO FX17: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the FiiO FX17 comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 83. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: FiiO FX17 - Outstanding overall at around $1499.

Score breakdown

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

FiiO FX17 leads on 3 of 4 measures.

  • Campfire Audio Andromeda S
  • FiiO FX17
HearWiki score
61
83
Sound
8.1
9.0
Value
-
6.0
Price (USD)
$1,100
$1,500

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 FiiO FX17 is 7 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. For 7 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • Andromeda S2019
  • FX1720267 yr newer

Specifications

Andromeda SFX17
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$1,100
$1,500
HearWiki score
61
83
Released
2019
2026
Availability
Discontinued
Sold new
Driver
5× balanced armature
1DD + 4BA + 8EST tribrid
Driver type
balanced-armature
tribrid
Driver configuration
-
1DD + 4BA + 8EST
Driver size
-
10 mm
Drivers per side
5
13
Frequency response
10 Hz - 28 kHz
-
Impedance
6.4 Ω
16 Ω
Sensitivity
112.8 dB/mW
99 dB/mW
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Weight
5.9 g
12.2 g
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
No
-
Connector
-
4.4 mm balanced
Model code
Andromeda Emerald Sea
-

What reviewers said

Campfire Audio Andromeda S

The Campfire Audio Andromeda S is a wired, multi-driver in-ear monitor built around five balanced armature drivers, delivering a highly detailed and analytical sound signature. With a low 6.4-ohm impedance and high sensitivity, it pairs well with quality sources, though it lacks wireless or noise-canceling features. Its compact, lightweight build and detachable cable make it a portable reference option for critical listening.

  • Pro:Extremely detailed and resolving sound
  • Pro:Lightweight and comfortable fit
  • Pro:Detachable cable for easy replacement or upgrade
  • Con:Sensitive to source impedance and may hiss with noisy gear
  • Con:Lacks wireless connectivity and noise cancellation
  • Con:Upper mids can sound harsh or aggressive to some ears

FiiO FX17

The FiiO FX17 is a premium wired tribrid IEM that combines a 10mm dynamic driver, four balanced armatures, and eight electrostatic drivers per side for a detailed, multi-layered sound. Its titanium shell and five-way crossover aim to deliver a refined, high-resolution listening experience, while the included 4.4mm balanced cable offers versatility for audiophile setups.

  • Pro:Precision-milled titanium shell for durability and resonance control
  • Pro:Hybrid driver array (1DD + 4BA + 8EST) offers expansive treble and dynamic bass
  • Pro:Swappable plugs on the cable provide flexible connectivity
  • Con:No active noise cancellation, requiring a quiet environment or isolation tips
  • Con:High price point may limit accessibility
  • Con:16-ohm impedance may need a powerful source for optimal performance

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

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