[Astell&Kern] The Hybrid IEM Redefined

Campfire Audio and Astell&Kern have earned the recognition of audiophiles around the world thanks to their excellent technology introduced with the first collaboration model, AK Solaris X, which is a celebrated product that recreates the deep, rich sound of Astell&Kern. Now, Astell&Kern and Campfire Audio join forces once again to present PATHFINDER, a new hybrid IEM that offers amazing technology and sound. Astell&Kern and Campfire Audio take innovation to a new level by combining their advanced technologies and designs to create a product worthy of the name PATHFINDER. To realize this dream, they repeatedly tested numerous designs to produce a structure different from existing IEMs and added an innovative Dual-Diaphragm Balanced Armature Driver, finally achieving the best sound. Enjoy a unique experience through PATHFINDER, a more advanced Hybrid IEM.

Campfire Audio springs from a passionate focus on refined audio reproduction. Each model in our earphone line is designed and assembled by hand in our Portland, Oregon workshop; our earphones are second to none in performance and finish. With a small team of highly skilled and dedicated craftspeople, we continuously experiment with materials and techniques to create something unique and special for the people who care most about it.

A radical new driver design was needed to achieve a wider frequency range, realistic reproduction, and a more balanced sound. At the heart of this innovative new driver assembly is the all-new Dual-Diaphragm Balance Armature Driver from Knowles. By employing a single-coil operating two individual diaphragms, the design is akin to the twin-cylinder engine – delivering more horsepower and smoother operation than one with a single, larger piston. Compared to a traditional BA model with a single, larger diaphragm, this all-new design incorporates two chambers, each housing its own diaphragm and drive rod actuated by a single coil. The result is a higher, more powerful output for its size than any other BA driver design while expressing a warmer and more natural mid-range in key areas of the music.

Delivery of the rich and visceral bass sounds, while bringing greater definition to the lower midrange, arrives courtesy of dual-custom dynamic 10mm drivers. Boasting hybrid diaphragms and housed in a Radial Venting Acoustic Chamber 3D printed acoustic chamber, this all-new design by Campfire Audio, creates a faster and more powerful low-frequency response without unnecessary pressure or bass bloat. Each dynamic driver is vented through a specially designed opening located at the face of the driver. This acoustic chamber dramatically improves the expression of the drivers, and creates a larger soundstage, while preserving the unique sound of the dynamic driver.

Further custom-dual BA drivers focus on delivering clearer and more precise high-frequency reproduction. Benefitting from Campfire Audio’s patented Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber technology (T.A.E.C.) technology, this design optimizes the performance by adjusting the volume of space available in front of the driver and provides a direct passage from the driver to your ear. This clever design extends high frequencies without sibilance or fatigue, delivering unsurpassed clarity and a smooth top end.

PATHFINDER comes with three different flavored cables to cover all unbalanced and balanced headphones connections (2.5mm, 3.5mm and 4.4mm.) The all-new Silver-Plated Copper Litz Cable consists of four conductors arranged side by side, designed to provide the most transparent and extended sounds possible. The soft-touch molded jacket that wraps around each conductor ensures both flexibility and durability. At the same time, a flat cable design prevents tangling, can be wound for easy storage and offers minimal cable distortion. The cable terminates with a robust metal connector housing. Elsewhere, the custom beryllium/copper MMCX connectors provide more resilience against wear and tear, compared to regular brass connectors, while also offering a more robust mating mechanism. This harder material selection extends the life of the component and the earphone.

SPECIFICATION
Transducer type:
· [High] Custom Dual Balanced Armature Drivers + T.A.E.C.
· [Mid] All-New 'Dual Chamber' Balanced Armature Driver Technology from Knowles
· [Mid-Low to Sub-Bass] All-New Dual Custom 10mm Dynamic Drivers paired with Radial Venting Technology

Frequency response: 5Hz-20kHz
Impedance: 6.2 Ohm @ 1kHz
THD: <1%
Housing Material: Aluminium Shell + Stainless Steel Spout
Cable: 2.5mm 3.5mm 4.4mm Silver-Plated Copper Cable

Accessories:
· 5 pairs of Final Audio E-Type Tips (XS/S/M/L/XL)
· 3 pairs of Campfire Audio Marshmallow Earphone Tips (S/M/L)
· 3 pairs of Silicon Earphone Tips (S/M/L)
· Earphone Cleaning Tool
· Leather Zipper Case
· Earphone Protection Sleeve
· Earphone Tips and Cable Storage Pouch