Celest Audio Pandamon SPD 2.0 is the new guy in the scene after his predecessor Gumiho. Pandamon is a more neutral Gumiho with some advantages. Celest Audio appears to be making progress with SPD 2.0.
Pros__
Organic
Wide soundstage
Neutral
Background is dark
Cons__
Scales with power
Layering is so so
Bass isn’t earth shattering
No more cons for me for its price
The Sound
Kinera has reworked and improved upon its recently developed SPD Planar magnetic driver, and as a result, we now have the brand-new SPD 2.0 Planar driver. This improvement was made possible because of Kinera’s commitment to continuous development. In comparison to the SPD gen 1 driver units, the newly developed 10mm x 10mm SPD 2.0 driver unit boasts a more accurate frequency response in the treble range and is simpler to drive. As a result of the professional tuning changes and further optimizations that have been made, the Celest Pandamon can now produce better sound at a price that is still affordable. Not only does the pair deliver a dramatic and deep-diving lower-end response, but it is also easier to drive than the Gumiho IEMs, which were the pioneer in this category. The 4-core OFC stock cable that Celest Pandamon’s cable. The connectors that are used are standard connectors with two pins measuring 0.78 millimeters each, and the termination plug has a diameter of 3.5 millimeters.
In terms of clarity and specificity, the Pandamon is typically of high quality. Instruments sound well-integrated and balanced, with a suitable dynamic range. Details like as transient strengths and resolution are acceptable, however they might be poorer in the upper-midrange and treble areas. There is a rather high amount of middle brightness, which is a characteristic of amonics (which some may find fatiguing). Across the majority of ranges, detail retrieval is typically satisfactory, though not often exceptional. Due to their slightly amplified presence, men’s voices often sound a little shaky or rough, but this is usually not a problem.
Bass
You won’t have earth shattering basses due to its neutrality. The Pandamon’s bass response is satisfyingly deep and pounding, and it has a remarkably joyful demeanor. Despite the fact that they are just modestly bass-heavy, the quality of their bass is rather satisfying, as it has a dynamic, planar-like bass without sacrificing subtleties or clarity, and a very unique feel. There is some attention to detail, but it is not really spectacular. Their prominent midbass lift and rather sloppy decay distinguish them. The low frequencies (or “sub-bass”) reach a considerable depth and emit a commanding growl. Certain genres of heavy bass music may experience bleeding, however this is often not an issue. A good bass performance overall, with a dynamic rumble and deep sub-bass that contribute to an enjoyable listening experience.
Mid
The Pandamon have a balanced, quiet, and smooth midrange, and their bass response is improved by a slight weight at the low end. Listening to them is soothing because of their kind demeanor. The resolution of the midrange is low, but acceptable for the price. They may need tweaking in the specifics, but overall they’re clear and precise. These Pandas perform well with both male and female vocals, but the latter may miss some of the edge and sharpness that the former benefits from. Their midrange is tuned to make it easier on the ears without sacrificing clarity or precision. Its midrange is balanced, smooth, and quiet. Listening to them is soothing because of their kind demeanor. They may need tweaking in the specifics, but overall they’re clear and precise. These drivers’ somewhat dark and warm tones work best with male vocals, but they also support female vocals while maybe lacking edge and sharpness. Overall, its midrange is made to be more relaxing to listen to without sacrificing clarity or detail.
Treble
Higher frequencies are showing themselves freely. However, the BA and its ability to produce treble should not be overlooked in light of the SPD (Square Planar Magnet) driver it possesses. Their upper register was more consistent and natural sounding than that of the Gumiho. You’ll love their warm tone and the brighter-than-average treble that tops it off. Consequently, the show will have greater depth. For the price, you can hear a well-tuned treble. Its reaction is organic, free of harshness, and its energy for listening is strong and crisp, so it won’t wear you out.
Comparisons
vs Tin Hifi C2: C2’s vocals are brighter than Pandamon’s, with less body in the treble and midrange. It’s a salutation to its grandfather T2. Crispier in comparison, which reduces Pandamon’s relaxing effect. Basses have lower weight when compared.
vs Tanchjim Zero: The Zero has the speed and fun that Pandamon has in dubstep. But its unable to separate multiple instruments at once and is lifeless compared to Pandamon.
vs Celest Gumiho: Compared to the Celest Audio Pandamon, the Pandamon’s tone is more open and airy, while still retaining a decent amount of detail and clarity. Their high register sounded more natural and was more under control than that of the Gumiho. Their pleasing tonal profile is complemented by treble that is noticeably more dominant than usual in the upper register, resulting in a performance that is both more complex and more engaging. Exemplifying This, Over all, I think they have a very polished quality to their upper register. It has a natural, unforced reaction, and it keeps a strong, sharp energy for listening that doesn’t tire out the listener.
Celest Audio Pandamon Review
Verdict
Although the monster is not without flaws, Celest Audio Pandamon creates music that is not only appealing but also consistent throughout a vast variety of musical styles. Because of it’s neutral timbre, smooth decay, and relatively modest weight in the lower end, the Panda is great for music that doesn’t require a lot of excitement or impact.
