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Campfire Audio Fathom vs Hisenior Mega5EST: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Hisenior Mega5EST comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 84. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Hisenior Mega5EST - Outstanding overall at around $649.

Score breakdown

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

Hisenior Mega5EST leads on 4 of 4 measures.

  • Campfire Audio Fathom
  • Hisenior Mega5EST
HearWiki score
72
84
Sound
8.3
9.1
Value
7.7
8.3
Price (USD)
$800
$650

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

Both shipped in 2023. 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.

  • Fathom2023
  • Mega5EST2023

Specifications

FathomMega5EST
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$800
$650
HearWiki score
72
84
Released
2023
2023
Availability
Discontinued
Still sold new
Driver
6× balanced armature
1DD + 2BA + 2EST tribrid
Driver type
balanced-armature
tribrid
Driver configuration
-
1DD + 2BA + 2EST
Driver size
-
10 mm
Drivers per side
6
5
Frequency response
5 Hz - 20 kHz
-
Impedance
11.7 Ω
25 Ω
Sensitivity
94 dB/mW
-
Active noise cancelling
No
-
Controls
none
-
Weight
-
6 g
Detachable cable
Yes
-
USB-C
No
-
Connector
4.4 mm balanced
2-pin 0.78 mm

What reviewers said

Campfire Audio Fathom

The Campfire Audio Fathom is a wired, all-balanced-armature IEM that delivers a refined, balanced sound with a strong focus on vocal clarity and precise imaging. Its low impedance makes it easy to drive from a wide range of sources, while the smooth, detailed tuning reveals its strengths over longer listening sessions. This model offers a mature, engaging take on the brand's signature sound, wrapped in a sturdy, audiophile-focused design.

  • Pro:Very balanced and refined sound signature
  • Pro:Strong vocal presence and precise imaging
  • Pro:Easy to drive thanks to low impedance
  • Con:Requires a balanced source for optimal use
  • Con:No included controls or wireless features
  • Con:Sound may not impress immediately without extended listening

Hisenior Mega5EST

The Hisenior Mega5EST is a premium wired tribrid IEM that pairs a dynamic driver, dual balanced armatures, and dual electrostatic drivers for a cohesive, engaging sound. Its tuning leans toward musical enjoyment rather than clinical analysis, wrapped in a lightweight, well-built shell with a generous accessory set. The overall presentation is balanced and easy to listen to, making it a versatile choice for those seeking high-end performance without fatigue.

  • Pro:Engaging, pleasure-oriented tuning that remains balanced and cohesive
  • Pro:Premium build quality with a lightweight, comfortable fit
  • Pro:Includes a robust accessory set and quality cable
  • Con:Shell color may not perfectly match the faceplates aesthetically
  • Con:Tuning favors broad appeal over extreme technical precision
  • Con:No active noise cancellation, limiting isolation to passive means

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

Compare something else

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New comparisonCampfire Audio FathomHisenior Mega5EST