Campfire Audio has announced a new high-end in-ear headphone called the Chimera, which combines dynamic, electrostatic, balanced armature drivers and bone conduction technologies in a single design. The result is a listening experience that is both highly detailed and physically immersive. The Chimera will be presented publicly for the first time at CanJam Singapore, which will take place on May 16 and 17. Pre-orders start on May 16, and delivery is expected to begin in early summer 2026. The first production run will be limited.
The core of the Chimera in-ear monitor (IEM) design is a nine-driver architecture combining four different driver technologies, each contributing to a different aspect of performance. This includes, among others, a newly developed 10mm True-Glass dynamic driver for low and low/mid frequencies, a dual-diaphragm balanced armature for detail in the mid-range, and two dedicated balanced armatures for high frequencies for clarity and articulation. Further into the higher frequency range are four electrostatic supertweeters, designed to add airiness and precision to the high frequencies.
For the first time in a Campfire Audio IEM, the Chimera is also equipped with a bone conduction driver, which is built directly into the CNC-machined magnesium housing. As a result, low frequencies are experienced both acoustically and physically, adding a sense of weight and impact and perfectly complementing the rest of the system.
Campfire Audio Chimera: enclosure acoustics
This configuration is supported by a series of internal acoustic elements, including a built-in airflow pressure regulator behind the dynamic driver and a “Master Track” tuning damper integrated into the nozzle in the final stage. Together with Campfire's precise acoustic routing and spatial tuning, these components ensure a balanced output across the entire frequency spectrum, while maintaining cohesion between the different driver types.
“Chimera is the most advanced in-ear monitor we have developed at Campfire to date,” says Ken Ball, founder of Campfire Audio. “It represents a new horizon in Campfire product performance and pushes the boundaries of what is possible with compact, portable audio systems. It combines a range of technologies and engineering techniques to create an experience that truly deepens the listener’s connection with music.”
Campfire Audio Chimera: exterior
The front panel is crafted from a Damascus construction of carbon fiber and brass, in which layers of brass are folded into carbon fiber and machined with a CNC machine to create a unique, pattern-rich surface. Each piece exhibits subtle variations in the finish, giving each pair a unique visual identity with a changing sheen depending on the angle of light.
Additional details include a machined brass nozzle with an integrated mesh filter, custom-made brass fasteners for reinforcement, and standard 2-pin connectors.
Campfire Audio Chimera: included accessories
The Chimera comes with a complete set of accessories, including the ALO Audio Valence-6 cable, which reintroduces the ALO Audio brand. The cable is designed to offer a new level of performance and synergy with the Chimera, featuring four conductors of high-grade copper and two conductors of 50/50 copper and silver-plated copper. The connector housing, the Y-splitter, and the chin adjuster are finished in black anodized aluminum.
Also included are the following items:
- Black leather case with zipper and built-in display
- Breezy Bag Micro mesh bag with two compartments
- Microfiber cleaning cloth
- IEM cleaning tool
- Choice of ear tips: silicone with high and transparent traction (S/M/L), standard silicone (S/M/L) and marshmallow foam (S/M/L)
