Tokyo Wire
I’ve been reviewing headphones for a long time, covering everything from budget options to premium audiophile gear. Recently, I’ve been frustrated by mainstream headphones lacking distinct character. I sought something unique and decided to attend CanJam 2026, a small but influential audio event produced by Head-Fi.org, featuring boutique manufacturers like Campfire Audio, Dan Clark Audio, HiFiMan, and Écoute.
The event took place in Irvine, California, with exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge gear, including the Campfire Audio Chimera—a nine-driver in-ear monitor with a quad-brid design, priced at $7,500, featuring carbon fiber and brass construction. The Chimera delivered exceptional sound quality, though its size and cost made it a standout but expensive option. Other notable entries included Fosi Audio’s under-$150 wired earbuds, Dan Clark Audio’s $900 Aeon Core headphones with a wide soundstage, and HiFiMan’s $1,449 Arya headphones with onboard Wi-Fi.
A standout innovation was the Écoute TH2, vacuum-tube-powered headphones with built-in ANC and an 8-band EQ, offering immersive audio but with some high-frequency boosts. The event highlighted niche brands and innovative designs, emphasizing the importance of such gatherings for audiophiles seeking specialized gear. CanJam’s focus on boutique manufacturers and enthusiast-driven discussions underscores its role in the audio community.
Source: The Verge
