Campfire's Portable USB Headphone Amp/DAC: A Unique Sound Worth Trying

Overview of the Campfire Audio Relay

Campfire Audio, a company based in Portland, Oregon, is not typically known for entering markets that are dominated by more conventional players. However, the company has taken a step into the portable USB headphone amp/DAC market with its product, the Relay. This device may not stand out visually compared to other offerings from Campfire Audio, but it is compact and well-made enough to compete effectively. The Relay is equipped with an AKM 4493 SEQ DAC chip, which supports a wide range of file formats and resolutions. It also offers both balanced and unbalanced analog outputs, making it a versatile choice for audiophiles.

In terms of user interface, the Relay does not provide any indication of the resolution of the file being played, which can be seen as somewhat basic when compared to its competitors. Despite this, the Relay delivers a revealing and organized listening experience that is upfront and forthright. While this approach works well for certain types of recordings, it might not be ideal for extended listening sessions due to its direct and energetic nature.

Price and Availability

The Campfire Audio Relay was released in July 2025 and is available at a price of $229 in the United States, £229 in the United Kingdom, and AU$399 in Australia. While there are several alternatives in the market, such as those from Audioquest, Helm, and iFi, the Relay still stands out as a strong contender.

Key Features

The Relay features an AKM 4493 SEQ DAC chipset, which is capable of handling DSD and PCM content up to 32bit/768kHz. This ensures high-quality audio playback. The device includes both balanced and unbalanced analog outputs, allowing users to connect a variety of headphones and earphones. The digital audio input is via a USB-C 2.0 slot on the top of the device, and the analog output is delivered through two low-noise, high-output drivers.

Design and Build Quality

The design of the Relay is relatively simple, with a size of 57 x 23 x 10mm (HxWxD). The aluminum casework is available in only one finish, which is a departure from Campfire Audio's usual design flair. The device includes a microfiber cloth and padded pouch to protect the finish. The rear panel has a small window that allows a glimpse of the AKM DAC chip.

Sound Quality

When connected to an Apple MacBook Pro and using Sennheiser IE900 IEMs, the Relay significantly improves upon the laptop's built-in audio capabilities. The sound is forward and very positive, revealing a lot of detail in the recording. The tonal balance is even-handed, and the frequency response is well-judged. However, the direct and unequivocal nature of the sound can become fatiguing over time, especially with more relaxed or pastoral music.

Usability and Setup

The Relay has a rudimentary user interface, with a red glowing logo when operating and a lilac blink when changes are made. The device includes buttons for play/pause, skip, volume control, and filter settings. Campfire Audio recommends using filter #5 for optimal performance and setting the source device volume to maximum. The Relay is compatible with Windows, Mac OS, Android, and iOS devices, though older Windows versions may require a driver.

Value for Money

While the Relay may seem expensive for what it offers, the impact it can have on the music listening experience is significant. The minimal amount of hardware can make a profound difference in audio quality.

Should You Buy the Campfire Audio Relay?

Consider buying the Relay if you have an ordinary laptop or smartphone and want to enhance your music playback. It is particularly beneficial if you own headphones with a 4.4mm balanced connection. The upbeat and forward sound is ideal for those who enjoy an energetic listening experience.

Avoid the Relay if your iOS device uses a Lightning connector, as it may restrict performance. If you need to know the resolution of the files you are listening to, the Relay does not provide this information directly. Additionally, if you prefer a variety of colors, the Relay is only available in black.

Alternatives to Consider

For those looking for alternatives, the Helm Audio Bolt offers effective performance at a lower price. The iFi GO Link Max is another affordable option that is highly regarded for its performance.

Testing Methodology

The testing involved various headphones, audio file types, and sources of music. The Relay was connected to a FiiO M15S Digital Audio Player or an Apple MacBook Pro for over a week, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of its capabilities. Different genres of music were listened to, both indoors and outdoors, with a mix of high-end and standard headphones.