A Respected American Hi-Fi Brand’s New Headphones Promise Elite Sound for Less

They are the Portable-based audio maker’s most affordable headphones to date. Plus, they’re primed for the latest iPhones.

By Tucker Bowe

Published April 7, 2025

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Campfire Audio is a Portland-based hi-fi company known for its audiophile-grade in-ear headphones, which can range from a few hundred bucks to several thousand. For example, its flagship Trifecta earphones cost $3,300.

This week, the brand has seemingly switched tunes, releasing what it’s calling its “most accessible pair of earphones yet.” They are Campfire Audio’s most affordable models to date. Plus, they’re designed to work seamlessly with today’s iPhones and Androids.

Campfire Audio Axion

Primed for smartphones

The Axion are Campfire Audio’s most affordable pair of in-ear headphones. They cost $249, which is the same price as Apple’s AirPods Pro, and, not-so-coincidently, are designed to as a hi-fi alternative.

The Axion are in-ear headphones that are primed for the today’s smartphones. They have a USB-C connection — not 3.5mm — so they can plug into directly into any of the latest iPhones or Android smartphones.

Unlike many of the brand’s other in-ear headphones, the cable features an in-line microphone and three-button controls for playback and managing calls.

Plug-and-play hi-fi

The Axion in-ear headphones feature full-range silicon dynamic drivers that, according to the brand, allows for “powerful performance in a small footprint.”

The USB-C cable is integrated with a high-quality DAC that supports audio up to 32-bit/384kHz. So, unlike many other wired features that would require an external DAC/amp for them to sound their best, the Axion promises to be a one-stop plug-and-play hi-fi solution for your smartphone (or laptop).

If you’re used to wireless earbuds (which are limited to Bluetooth codecs) and want to experience better audio, Campfire Audio’s Axion promises to be a relatively affordable solution. Plus, you don’t have to remember to charge them.

Price and availability

Campfire Audio’s Axion in-ear headphones are now available from the company’s website. They cost $249.

Campfire Audio Axion

The Axion are the Portland-based hi-fi company’s most affordable pair of in-ear headphones. They pack full-range silicon dynamic drivers and have a USB-C cable that is integrated with a high-quality DAC that supports audio up to 32-bit/384kHz. The USB-C connection means these headphones are also primed to be used with today’s iPhones and Android smartphones.