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We’ve had a lot of fellow Andromeda fans getting their panties in a twist over the upgraded model. Does the new Andromeda look better? Does it sound different? Let’s calm our little audiophile minds and work this out. What improvements have been made with the release of the Andromeda 2nd Edition? Let’s find out in this New Campfire Audio Andromeda vs Old Campfire Audio Andromeda Review.
(Note: We're not talking about the limited edition, Andromeda S. But if you can still get your hands on it, it's a nice collector's item).
New Version! Campfire Audio Andromeda 2020 is now available.
The Review between New Campfire Andromeda vs Old Campfire Andromeda
FIT
Even though the edges have been slightly modified and the shells may be a touch smaller (it’s hard to tell), I didn’t find any difference in comfort. That being said, the original Andromeda fit was never a problem for me. The other difference here lies in the over-ear memory wire. While the cable on the old Andromeda requires molding around the ear, the cable on the new Andromeda has a kind of elastic design that naturally fits around the ear. No fiddling required.
Don't be fooled by the camera angle. Differences are more negligible than they appear.
DESIGN
The shells, stems and cables on both earphones are made from the same materials.
The difference in color between the two cable is purely aesthetic; Campfire added a “smokey jacket” to the new cable to better match the overall design. I don’t know about you, but I dig the old silver one. A little bling is always nice.
Another difference is the shape and number of edges on the shell. Theoretically, this new shape should make for a better fitting earphone. But as you can see by the photos above, the improvement is so minor that it’s hard to tell. My colleagues and I were staring at both models for minutes. The shell of the new Andromeda looks slightly smaller to me. But others saw no difference at all.
The final improvement seems to lie in the MMCX connection. As you can see below, the connection thingy is a different shape, perhaps to improve longevity and make attachment/detachment easier (or harder. I did find the connection on the new Andromeda a little stiffer and more difficult to detach).
Oh, I almost forgot about the new carrying case, which my aunt Judy tried to steal. It’s a little more feminine than the case that came with the original Andromeda. But any guy who is secure with his masculinity will welcome this now fashionable, retro look.
SOUND
No changes here. If you’re hearing any differences between the old Andromeda and the new one, make sure you compare them with matching tips and give the new Andromeda a few more hours of playtime.
SUMMARY
If you already own the Andromeda, don’t bother with the upgrade. But if you’re a first time buyer and you’re worried about comfort, it may be a safer bet to get the updated design. (After all, it's the same price). Still, for me, the new shape made no difference. And my ears aren’t yuge. But you have to admit, the new packaging is damn pretty.
