Dorado 2020 In-Ear Monitors By Campfire Audio

Since Dorado’s original release in 2016 Campfire has developed a remarkable series of high-fidelity hybrid IEMs that have gone from niche to popularized as some of the very best in the world.

However, Dorado 2020 breathes new life into the name and the legacy of the original with a fresh take on its classic hybrid design. One balanced armature and one dynamic driver. No cross-over, no complications. You’ll find these distilled pairings reproduce sound more faithfully, with improved resolution and cohesion than those with over-complicated cross-over schemes.

The result is a detailed yet natural sound. They are resolving and emotionally engaging—a true hybrid in design and sonic presentation.

A single balanced armature augments the custom-tuned 10mm A.D.L.C. diaphragm dynamic driver. Leaving the sparkling highs to the B.A., this dynamic driver is afforded the space to dig in a bit deeper, reach a bit lower, and deliver rich and satisfying bass. Its vocal delivery is precise and pronounced. Dorado 2020 is very much a high-fidelity hybrid earphone.

In 2015, Campfire Audio was the first company to introduce a ceramic body earphone with the original Lyra. With the new Dorado and Vega, they’ve returned to this excellent material. Ceramic is a dense material. That’s part of its appeal when designing an earphone. The density pairs well with dynamic drivers because it doesn’t let vibrations run wild. It also has the added benefit of ownership by being extremely scratch-resistant.

Dorado’s ceramic shells get their strength through a sintering process. Two days are spent at 600 degrees, followed by three days at 1200 degrees. This extended exposure to high heat dramatically reduces the parts’ size and increases their density as a result. The shells then spend up to 3 days in a tumbler along with small alumina stones and water. This polishing process gives them their attractive high gloss surface finish.

Dorado 2020 uses a machined brass spout with a ‘gunmetal grey’ P.V.D. finish. The conical shape and reduced diameter of the spout provide further tuning enhancements while also improving wear comfort. The super small balanced armature sits centrally in the spout, and its proximity to the exit gives it an enhanced presence in just the right proportion.

Dorado’s acoustic design shares a relatively simple philosophy with Vega; use the best components possible and let them shine. Similar to Vega 2020, there isn’t a cross-over or other electronic clutter in the signal path to endanger the driver’s musical performance.

Being a hybrid IEM Dorado 2020 differs from Vega in adding another component; a single high-frequency focused balanced armature. Dorado uses a custom-tuned dynamic driver as well – one that shares similar elements to its full range sibling found in Vega.

When choosing a Campfire model there are a few important considerations…

• The first is which model(s) fit within your budget.
• The second is whether your amplifier/device has better synergy with a Dynamic Driver, Balanced Armatures, or a combination of the two.
• The third is which kind of sonic characteristics you prefer.

Dynamic Driver vs. Balanced Armature

An IEM Dynamic Driver is like a miniature version of the drivers in your stereo speakers, where electromagnetic impulses move the driver membrane forward and backward. Dynamic Driver sound is rounder, with more groove and body, and is best paired with an amp and music with adequate detail and articulation.

A Balanced Armature is an even smaller assembly, where electromagnetic impulses vibrate tiny rods and those vibrations travel through a membrane. Balanced Armature sound is more finely-detailed, dynamic, fast, and has greater extension, but is also less forgiving and is best paired with an amp and music with adequate warmth and body.

* Don’t hesitate to call us for our feedback on which models are the best fit for your equipment and preferences.

Driver Architecture by Model

Note: The Equinox and the Solstice are custom-fit models that require a scan of your ear canals by an Audiologist.

Measurements

• 5 Hz – 22 kHz Frequency Response
• 94 dB SPL @ 1kHz: 18.52 mVrs
• 10 Ohm @ 1kHz Impedance

Features

• Black Ceramic Shell
• Single Custom Balanced Armature (High)
• 10mm A.D.L.C. Diaphragm Dynamic Driver (Mid+Low)
• Oversized Neodymium Rare Earth Magnet
• Custom Beryllium / Copper MMCX Connections
• Brass Spout with ‘Midnight Grey’ PVD finish

Download the Dorado User Manual