Campfire Audio Lyra II IEM Discussions | Drop

Mar 17, 2017

Anyone have anything to compare these to? I have a pair of Westone W40's that I am now going to be selling (if anyone is interested), and would be interested in how they may relate...I am hoping for something very relaxed yet clear...

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Mar 17, 2017

GreatLifeGearSounds like a question found in Head-Fi. Try asking in that forum or looking up reviews there. I know a user, Twister6, who has quite a lot of reivews on Westone products and I think he did a review on the Lyra.

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Mar 17, 2017

ZilventI actually have asked Twister6 with no success there or any other forums yet...surprisingly I know....

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Mar 17, 2017

GreatLifeGearWell, if you like the dark/warm signatures, the Lyra II is perfect. I noticed it is warmer than my Vega. In fact, there is no sibilance with the Lyra II from what I can tell. My brother purchased the Lyra II from Massdrop and I got to try it out and do some comparisons between it and my Vega. Its performs very well and is quite detailed despite its warm and darker sound presentation. And while its nowhere close to detail and separation of its bigger brother, Vega, it still is a strong performer and especially at this price. $499 makes this IEM an excellent performer against similar priced competition.

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Mar 17, 2017

Zilventcan ask what you mean by warmer? How did the mid/vocals sound.? Is the soundstage open airy on your opinion? TIA

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Mar 17, 2017

nelahFor an IEM or headphone to sound airy it generally has lower bass and mid emphasis with it leaning towards the highs. In this case, it's not airy but it's soundstage is what I classify as decently wide. I'll ask my brother to demo it and get back to you in what it really sounds like in size. By warmer, I mean it has a mid and low emphasis. There's more emphasis on low harmonics too. It's been since Christmas since I have heard it so I'll have to get back to you on true sound. The bass, I remember, hits hard and fast. It's pretty controlled but has the uumph in its hit. The mids detailed but again, I'll have to listen to them again. I'll see when I get home.

Mar 17, 2017

ZilventThank you very much. That's very helpful information

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Mar 18, 2017

nelahNo problem, mate. I did test my brother's Lyra II. It is actually really good. Soundstage is decently large. I would say that it isn't technically mid centric. Vocals are right around middle. But the most important is that they are extremely clear and detailed for a dynamic driver. If I was going to say, it beats away most BA drivers within the same price range. The important part to note is that you wouldn't notice that right off the bat. The Lyra II are extremely musical and I feel the music. If you get past the hypnotizing frequency range, you can hear it is quite detailed. It replicates the buzz of acoustic violin strings quite well. Hi-hats are shimmery without sounding sibilant. Mids are detailed but they just flows. The bass compliments the mids and give them a more texture. If I was to describe them, the bass fills in the harmonics of voices. One thing I would say is that it sounds like the Lyra II hits harder than the Vega. I do prefer the Vega because the hit is like an acutal speaker, but Lyra II hits you like a smack. Though, it doesn't really cover the other frequencies and simply compliments them. It fills in low end harmonics and adds some detail while adding bass slam. While I would always pick the Vega, I would be MORE than happy with the Lyra II. My little brother LOVES his. And while I do love BA drivers, I feel the drivers in the Lyra II perform just as good as 3 to 6 BA driver setups. To describe my audio preferences, I value musicality and soul over perfect detail. I am a violinist and guitarist and I need to feel the music when I am actually listening. Its what separates an artist from another performing the same song. If I can believe your performance, I will love it. And while I do require high detail and separation, I will never separate that feeling. The Lyra II and Vega are the IEMs that can do that for me. The last IEM I owned that did something similar was the Westone UM Pro 50 but both the Lyra II and Vega are a league on their own. In fact, my Vega makes me air violin and I can really believe I am playing my violin. The Lyra II is similar to the Vega but just with some things toned down and less emphasis on the highs. As many say, the Vega is XXX (lows, mids, highs) and the Lyra II is XXx.

Mar 18, 2017

ZilventThanks very much for your mini review! Glad to hear more impressions!

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Mar 18, 2017

ZilventThank you. That was a very impressive Review and very helpful. Your descrption is very easy to understand. The Vega sounds truly impressive. Lyra2 sounds really good. Decisions?!

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gward4

Mar 18, 2017

ZilventThank you so much for your thoughts! Really helpful.

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Fenya

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Mar 18, 2017

GreatLifeGearSince you're actually pretty decent, I do have a pair of W40s and I have heard the Lyra 2 before. How would you like me to compare?
I can tell you right now, compared to the W40, the Lyra 2 is a lot warmer. It feels almost like having a cushion put over my head in comparison (but other people have already noted this). Second thing you'll notice is that bass presence is much more pronounced in the Lyra 2 compared to the W40. If you listen to songs with a lot of bassline thumps, you'll be able to notice that, for the Lyra 2, the way the bass punches is more rounded (and has more weight to it). Like if someone were to punch you with their fist compared to punching you with the knuckle of a single finger. You'll also get much more sub bass detail from the Lyra 2 in comparison, by that I mean the rumbling goodness of any good bassline.
The thing that wowed me the most with this IEM was that the vocals were surprisingly clear despite how warm it was. The reason I bought the W40 was because of the way it did vocals at first (my Shure 530s were getting rather old and I didn't want to risk ruining them, if you ask why I didn't just get the Shure 535s, I just wanted something different). What I mean by at first, is that for some tracks the vocals can sometimes sounds slightly off to the side. This could be an attribute that you may enjoy, but I prefer my vocals in the center (unless there are multiple voices it just feels... odd). It could be because the W40 is wider, but I'll be honest, there's at most a slight increase but that's just my ears and inexperience.
Now treble... decently detailed, but I can't say more since it's been too long and I wasn't really paying attention to that aspect. I can say that there wasn't any sibilance to be heard as far as I remember, and I am rather sensitive to anything sharp or scratchy sounding. I'd say it's about on par with the W40.
Comfort, well there's not much to say they're both super comfortable, and about the same weight (the Lyra 2 might be a tad heavier. I do prefer the way the W40 covers my ear more though, but that may just be because I'm used to it.
The reason why I didn't get the Lyra 2 however, was because it was just a tad too warm for my tastes. I do mean just a bit. But when I have to pay full retail price for it where I am, I'd rather look elsewhere.

Mar 18, 2017

FenyaHey hey! I really appreciate your comparison! Yeah I am kind of in a similar boat with the W40's and their vocals. I too got the W40's because of all the hype about their ability to be relaxed and yet very clear, and while I agree with that as a whole, I feel like my goal wasn't quite met. I have unfortunately had to have a couple of craniotomies to remove a tumor and it left my hearing altered. I have severe tinnitus, loss of about 50%, and a very unique sensitivity to certain frequencies and sounds. So on top of finding the right sound being a difficult search for anyone, it becomes exceptionally so for me. I share that so that people may understand why I am asking to gain as much information as possible about similar style headphones. Also, I find the bass in the W40's to be too muddy and broad. It is another thing that can affect me. I can handle bass, in any amount really, as long as it's clear and tight. I absolutely love that the Westone's are laid back and inoffensive, as that is what I need, but essentially I am looking to have that laid back signature with tighter punchier bass, with vocals that are clearer without being more forward if that makes sense. Thanks again for all your help, I'm grateful!

Mar 18, 2017

FenyaAlso, I was considering the W60's as I have read that a lot of the things mentioned are what was refined in them. Have you had any experience with them?

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Fenya

207

Mar 18, 2017

GreatLifeGearI was thinking of trying the W60s... I just never got around to doing so. I just found the Westone W series to be too laid back for my tastes sadly (tried the 30, 40 and 80).
Anyways back to the bass. I can't say the bass in the W40 is muddy or broad to me, it's more that it's recessed? Then again all the frequencies just sound pushed back for me. It isn't the tightest bass I've heard tho that's for sure. As for the Lyra 2, I have a feeling the warmth of it might give you a headache. I don't have tinnitus though so I'm not sure.
Regarding your tinnitus though. Have you heard of Asius Technology and their Adel modules ( https://asiustechnologies.com/pages/technology )? Supposedly they help with your hearing but I'm no expert in this field but they seem like a friendly bunch. Now this reviewer says he has tinnitus and the Adel modules on the IEMs apparently helped with extended use ( http://www.head-fi.org/products/64-audio-u10/reviews/17168 ). Be sure that you're not getting IEMs with the Apex modules however, since they apparently don't offer the same relief. Currently Asius is partnering with Empire Ears to push out their modules ( https://www.empireears.com/ )
Now mind you, I haven't heard any of the Empire Ears lines with the Adel modules so I can't say how different the sound may be but I think the Athena might be the best fit for you. Vocals were great, bass was tight, but that price tag makes me cry haha. The vocals on the Spartan are pretty nice too but that bass just doesn't have as much presence compared to the Athena. The Cerebus was pretty nice too but the bass might be too muddy and broad as you put it. Now this might be different with Adel modules installed for you but honestly it's better to get some on hands testing. I've talked to some Empire Ears reps and they're very accommodating, you might be able to work something out with the testing.
Best of luck to finding the perfect IEMs for you man!

Mar 18, 2017

GreatLifeGearI actually owned the W60s. Its a very laid back IEM. Its quite detailed and everything is quite nice. Its warm in the sense of Westone's house signature sound. If I had to simply describe them the W60 is a laid back IEM with a balanced but a lean in warmth sound signature. Though I would signal caution by buying it because the colored plates are really weak plastic. I have had them crack and I never cranked down on them. At least their warranty is great. But I would personally look elsewhere on that note. The Lyra II are not laid-back but not in your face. If you are looking for something that isn't off the bat engaging, the Lyra II might be something to look at. Its definitely warmer but I wouldn't really say the bass if flabby either. It hits hard, like HARD, but its controlled really well. Treble is never veiled and the hi-hats are shimmery but they strangely don't hurt. The sound stage is a pretty good size and I can tell location of people in live performances quite well with it. It truly has the effect of being at the concert without any of the disadvantages.

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Mar 18, 2017

nelahThe Vega is my current end game IEM. And while I love my Vega, far more than the Lyra II, I wouldn't mind to have either if someone handed them to me. Both perform beautifully on their own. Though, the Vega needs a good, powerful source to make them come alive. I use my Questyle QP1R. The Lyra II will sound far better out of any kind of device than the Vega will.

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Mar 18, 2017

ZilventWow. Thanks for the info on the source "issue". I bought a ZuperDac (usb amp/dac) for my iphone7 from massdrop. Obviously nothing fancy and if I bought Vega, I would have to upgrade the AMP/DAC but if I spent $1300 on an IEM to get the desired sound I could understand that. I might be better off with the Lyra2.

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Mar 18, 2017

nelahThe Lyra II is used by my little brother out of his iPhone 6S. They sound pretty good coming out of it. Just like with anything, a better source will make it sound better. The Vega sounds alright but not as good as the Lyra II when terminated from the same iPhone. Same goes for my Samsung S7. If your source, AMP+DAC, has good amount of power, then the Vega will definitely fair well in your setup. Though, a sure fire solution is the Lyra II. Lots of DAPs today function as USB sources too so I thought to point that out.

Mar 18, 2017

ZilventThank you. The ZuperDac outputs 30mW and I have no idea if that would be enough for the Vega but I'm sure a better AMP/DAC would be more appropriate

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Mar 18, 2017

nelahIf that is 30mW @ 32 ohms, its not too bad. I think that would be sufficient for the Vega. Though I run between 31 - 40 mW. Either way, the power is not a problem at that point and the source now is the main problem. Though, I can't say if it sounds good since I have never tested the ZuperDac. Though, I still recommend the Lyra II since its pretty much a guarantee to be good at all levels. Besides, the price on Massdrop is insane and definitely worth the money.

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Mar 19, 2017

ZilventI'm trying to verify the power output. What I stated is based on Massdrop specs. Lyra2 price is amazing for sure. I really appreciate the input its very helpful.

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Mar 19, 2017

nelahGlad I could help. I hate seeing people waste money on stuff when they are don't have the equipment to allow it to perform. But if that is the output voltage, then you will be fine. You'll love the sound from the Lyra II if your sound preferences are similar to what I describe.

natty135

Mar 19, 2017

FenyaHi!
I own a pair of w4r and am looking to get these lyra ii for a change/slight upgrade as my w4rs are about 6 years old now. I am looking for something with more soul/more musical, with punchier bass and less rolled off highs (like in the w4r). I love my westones for its mids although at times i do wish voices were thicker. Just a couple of questions: 1. would you say they clarity and detail in reproduction is on par or better than the w4r/w40? 2. what would you say is the main/biggest difference between the w40 and the lyra ii, is the latter better in any distinct regards?
thanks alot!

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Fenya

207

Mar 20, 2017

natty135I've never heard the W4R but it's different from the W40 from what I read. It's been too long since I last heard the Lyra 2 to say but from what I remember it was about the same, maybe a slight edge to the Lyra 2 (clarity, detail).
I've already noted in the comparison I did above but from what you're saying you're looking for, the Lyra 2 would be an okay choice. The Oriolus Forsteni from an earlier drop would have been a better option. Reason being I don't know if you'll like how very warm the Lyra 2 is in comparison to the Westone Ws whereas the Forsteni was only slightly warm.
Of course for this price the Lyra 2 is quite the steal. If you're willing to pay for the price of a Vega though, or if it goes on sale, you should most definitely grab them.

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Mar 23, 2017

ZilventHi. Another question about LyraII did the vocal seem more toward the front of your head when listening ? I have seen the soundstage described as having more height with a little less width but still feeling spacious, does that seem accurate to you? TIA

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Mar 23, 2017

nelahHm. Comparing it to my Vega, their DD flagship, its spacious no doubt. I feel it has about medium width with medium-high to high height. Interestingly enough, if your main focus is being able to distinctively tell the location of something, it does it very well. I noticed from even my quick tests that I hear instruments a tad higher than I do with the Vega, which really threw me off. Width wasn't much of a noticeable difference. As for vocals, I would actually call it pretty normal. The Vega is often quoted to be forward, but the Lyra II can either range from laid back to right between recessed and forward (so balanced). It all depends on the ears, but my safe estimate would be it sounds balanced in the vocal range. Looking at the FR graphs and from testimonies, the Lyra II is Bass and Mid focused and High recessed. From what I also understand, from both mine and others experiences, is that the Bass is strong and powerful (much more forward in nature than the Vega is) but quite quick. The mids don't take the same nature and is never really too forward nor too back. So to simplify, the vocals sound balanced and isn't too forward at all. The soundstage does in fact have more height than its width, which is about medium, and is quite spacious. The instrument separation, combined with the separation, makes for a wonderful experience and its amazing with live and binaural tracks.

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Mar 23, 2017

ZilventIf the vocals don't seem toward the front of the listeners head Thus may not be the IEM for me. I listen to a lot of pop/contemporary music that is vocal heavy and I really like that sense of the vocals being out in front of my head

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Mar 23, 2017

nelahFrom what it sounds like, you like a very small soundstage? Vocals aren't distant but the aren't in your head. I would put them about maybe 10ft or so away. Listening to Maroon 5's albums, there are some live tracks and I feel like the distance was roughly that. I was thinking almost like a small performance stage. Though, I can hear people behind me around 20ft or so. Kind of like hearing cheering from the bar from behind you. For the most case, music won't be in your head but they aren't way out like I know some IEMs and Headphones to be. If the music is mastered to be close, it will sound close and vise versa. But I have no clue what your spacial preferences are. If you in fact like vocals and pretty much everything to be in your head or within what feels like 1ft or less from your face, then I agree you should avoid these.

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Mar 23, 2017

Zilventin an ideal world I like a wider and forward spacious soundstage. Ideal world- I am hoping LyraII would provide a punchy base with some thump without being over done. I would like the vocals To be the focus and toward the front of my head. Ideally the high-end would be clear detail with a touch of sparkle but no harshness or too bright Also, I love a soundstage that seems to be somewhat 3-D and spacious around you with the vocals in front of you

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Mar 23, 2017

nelahThat's a hard sound to find in IEMs. You would mostly find that in headphones. However, that sounds closest to the Vega within Campfire Audio's lineup. Its more forward than the Lyra II. Its much more detailed and "quality sounding" but at a price which sits MUCH higher. I currently don't know of any IEM around this price range that has those kinds of qualities as I usually buy the TOTL IEMs. I would have to search around Head-Fi to find a good recommendation.

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elau

Mar 23, 2017

ZilventI thought Andromeda's were the rage these days?

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Mar 23, 2017

ZilventThx. I understand what I wish for maybe unrealistic and asking too much. Such is life. Good is still good! The price is great and likely will give the Lyra II a try

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Mar 23, 2017

elauOh, they are. Campfire has two flagships, Andromeda (BA) and Vega (DD) . They also have a subflagship which is the Dorado (Hybrid). But the thing is the sound is very different from each one. From experience DD is the only one with the visceral bass. BA has bass but not like the thrust that DD outputs. Honestly, you can't go wrong with them. Just find what you like in your sound and pick the one that closely matches your preferences.

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Mar 23, 2017

nelahIt's not asking too much. It's just harder to find. Most of the solutions you want is found on the higher priced markets and that's where recommending becomes a challenge. Most people aren't too thrilled to spend over a grand.

Mar 23, 2017

ZilventI really can't find many people or for that matter anybody who is not happy with their Vega

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