Not neglecting the bass lovers out there, Campfire have brought out an affordable model that hits hard, digs deep but is less recessed in the midrange compared to their old Polaris II.
PROS
- Bold and powerful bass
- Fun overall sound signature
- Superb build quality
CONS
- Bass bleeds into the midrange
Fit and Comfort
These have the same for factor as a lot of Campfire Audio’s models, it’s a tried and tested design that fits well in most peoples ears. The new-ish longer nozzle design means they fit more securely without any difference in comfort for me. The shell is angular on the outside but the inner edges are smooth, the size is also great meaning they don’t stick out too far.
Comfort with the right tips is excellent, the smooth inner housing, the soft cable and correct tips will allow you to listen to these for hours on end without any discomfort.
Compatibility
The Mammoth are not hard to drive, however due to their low impedance and high sensitivity it is best you pair them with a high quality source – this will ensure you hear them as they are designed and also reduces the risk of any unwanted background hiss. Ideally you need a DAP with sub 1 Ohm output impedance to help with this.
Sound
Bass: This is a new hybrid model from Campfire Audio, and we all know that means lot of lovely bass, the Mammoth are no different. There is a real emphasis on the bass, and it is quite a broad emphasis, there is effortless sub-bass extension paired with hard hitting and impactful mid-bass presence. The slight downside to this presentation is that there is inevitable bleed into the midrange, and on certain tracks this does lead to lower male vocals sound a bit muffled. For the most part though these are incredibly energetic and engaging and the bass is just fun yet articulate and detailed.
Midrange: The midrange is surprisingly good, it seems to depend on the mix and genre a lot as to whether it cuts through well or sounds a bit muffled and overly warm. These are no way near as v-shaped as the Polaris II, the midrange is well presented with good detail, female vocals are less affected from the bass bleed and thus sound a little more faithful. Electric guitars have sufficient bite to them, and the midrange is well presented when you take in to account the power from the low end. Just remember these are not tuned for those wanting a neutral and intimate midrange, and you should be pretty impressed with them.
Treble: The treble isn’t as boosted as the old Polaris II, it isn’t quite as sharp or in-your-face however it isn’t laid back and lacking sparkle. These have great detail in the treble region and there is plenty of energy and good extension, they do roll off a little which robs them of a little bit of air and space, but the tonality is very good. They are crisp and responsive, they are snappy and clean without being fatiguing or over the top.
Soundstaging and Genres
The Mammoth may have a warm and thick sound but the sound is quite spacious and has good width and air, the treble presence greatly helps these from sounding closed in. There is excellent stereo imaging too, with a very accurate placement of instruments within the soundstage.
Genre wise these work well with a lot to be fair, rock is engaging and powerful, pop is snappy and full sounding, however they wouldn’t be my first pick to jazz/acoustic/classical just due to them having a more engaging sound that doesn’t really suit these genres. EDM lovers will really enjoy the Mammoth – the amount of bass on show without missing out the midrange and treble works wonders with this kinds of music.
Who are they for?
- Anyone wanting a more fun and powerful sound
- Those looking to get in to the Campfire Audio sound without breaking the bank
Conclusion
The Mammoth are really fun, they take a lot of the strengths of the old Polaris II but improve the midrange and tone down the slightly aggressive treble. This leads the Mammoth to have a more refined and slightly better balanced sound signature, but make no mistakes these are still tuned to hit hard and deliver a powerful bass driven sound signature. This is definitely one for those who enjoy a fuller and bolder sound signature but don’t want to lose the midrange and treble. The Mammoth is incredibly engaging yet crisp and detailed at the same time, a very accomplished hybrid earphone.
