Campfire Relay DAC/AMP review: Hi-Fi in your pocket

Experience Portable Hi-Fi with the New Campfire Relay DAC/AMP

Hot on the heels of its futuristic Alien Brain IEMs, Campfire Audio ventures into the world of portable sound upgrades with the compact yet powerful Campfire Relay DAC/AMP. Designed to breathe new life into audio playback from smartphones, tablets, and laptops, this high-performance digital-to-analogue converter and headphone amplifier delivers immersive hi-fi sound wherever you go. Built for tech-savvy audiophiles who demand more than what built-in sound cards can offer, the Relay promises refined sonics in a pocket-sized package that pairs seamlessly with your favorite headphones or in-ear monitors.

Encased in a durable, precision-machined aluminum chassis, the Relay features the renowned AKM 4493 SEQ DAC chip, chosen specifically for its balance of technical precision and warm, analog-style musicality. Support for both 3.5mm single-ended and 4.4mm balanced outputs means it works beautifully with a wide array of high-end gear. Compatible across Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android via USB-C, it also offers six selectable digital filters, high/low gain modes, native 32-bit/768kHz PCM and DSD playback, as well as a physical volume control with 60 steps—empowering users to tailor their sound experience without ever reaching for their device. Learn more about the DAC technologies powering this level of audio quality from AKM’s official site.

With its meticulous design and versatile connectivity, the Campfire Relay DAC/AMP delivers desktop-grade audio performance in a truly portable format. Priced at just £229 | $229 and bundled with premium accessories like a USB-C cable, microfiber cloth, and ripstop carry case, it’s perfect for on-the-go audiophiles looking to step up their listening experience. Want to elevate your entire setup? Check out our Portable DAC/Amp Buying Guide for more hi-fi recommendations tailored to your listening style.