Campfire Andromeda 2020 vs Sennheiser IE 900 Review

The Campfire Andromeda 2020 and Sennheiser IE 900 are two outstanding IEMs that any true audiophile would be thrilled to own. Besides the sheer skill of both of these earphones, it is their undeniably recognizable sound signatures that makes them so memorable and sets them apart from all other IEMs in this price range. What are the contrasting characteristics between the two models, and which is the better overall performer? Let’s find out in this Campfire Andromeda 2020 vs Sennheiser IE 900 Review.

In the Box

Look and Feel

Both IEMs have comfortable and aesthetically impressive shells. The Andromeda’s now famous  Zirconium blasted aluminum emerald green casings have been reduced in size with the release of the 2020 model. They create a great seal and, despite their edgy shape, don’t feel cumbersome even after hours of wear.  Sennheiser employs silver anodized aluminum shells, similar in size to the Andromeda, but with a rounded finish. Both models have one-piece casing designs.

Design

Sennheiser IE 900 uses 7mm dynamic transducer technology with specially designed resonator chambers, which enhance the level detail. In contrast, the Andromeda sports 5 balanced armature drivers: 2 low, 1 mid and 2 high. It also boasts a Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber, which delivers extended high frequencies while minimizing sibilance and fatigue.

The IE 900 packs more options in the box, offering both 2.5mm and 4.4mm balanced cables. However, because both IEMs have detachable MMCX connectors, you could easily replace the Andromeda’s 3.5 mm Litz cable with a balanced Litz cable (same brand) for about 100 bucks.

The last thing to note is that though bothe IEMs share the same sensitivity, the Andromeda has a lower impedance (12.8 Ohms) than the IE 900 (16 Ohms). In shorts the Andromeda gets quite a bit louder. And if you’re listening to them back to back or trying on the Andromeda’s for the first time, make sure you bring down the volume so you don’t blow out your ears.

Sounds Impressions

Soundstage 

Although the soundstage on the Andromeda presents an impressive grandness, the IE 900 is in fact more spacious and has more nuanced imaging in terms of depth and height, revealing gradations in instrument placement with more accuracy. That being said, in addition to being more forward in the mids, since the Andromeda is so tight and beautifully colored, it often feels richer respect to soundstage, especially when it comes to funk and other lively genres; distant instruments retain a similar solidity and tone as instruments that sit closer to the ear.

Low-End

Although both IEMs have a generous low-end, the IE 900 has a rounder and more “doughy” profile than the Andromeda. As such, the bass on the Andromeda feels tighter with more speed and punch, hitting harder especially in the mid-bass frequencies. Both IEMs have ample sub-bass response, though the IE 900 gets a little deeper and more visceral. In terms of transparency, the IE 900 is the winner, showing more detail in the timbre and resolve of string instruments in this range.

Mids

Although both IEMs present a fairly even balance in the midrange, the mids on the Andromeda feel a more prominent, while the IE 900 are more relaxed. Vocals, for example, shine through the mix more on the Andromeda than they do on the IE 900. And as is true for the low-end, the Andromeda reveals more impact in the mids, giving snares, for example, more firmness and oomph. 

Highs

Th Andromeda sounds just slightly more extended in the highs than the IE 900. It exhibits a more sparkly feel in this range, while the IE 900 takes a gentler and smoother approach. But again, the IE 900 reveals more detail and nuance than the Andromeda. And this becomes especially apparent when listening to string instruments and other acoustic genres in this range. 

Summary

Both IEMs are an exceptionally pleasurable listen. And while the IE 900 is the more skilled IEM in terms of detail, the Andromeda shows off more personality. So, if you play a lot of acoustic music or you like to listen analytically, the IE 900 would probably be the way to go. But especially if you listen to more modern genres, you can’t beat the speed, tightness and undeniable charisma of the Andromeda. Still, at the end of the day, both of these IEMs are a trip into sonic bliss, and the choice may ultimately come down to price.

You can buy the Campfire Andromeda 2020 at Audio 46.

You can buy the Sennheiser IE 900 at Audio 46.

Specifications