Introduction

Sivga Audio debuted on TechPowerUp with the Robin (SV201), a pair of closed-back headphones with good value for money if in the market for a V-shaped tuning that isn't too aggressive at the expense of detail. That set uses a 50 mm dynamic transducer with an in-house developed polycarbonate and fiber diaphragm, but the Sivga Robin was not the first to use the driver. I had mentioned in that review how Sivga had sent two headphones, and we take a look at the second of those today. It was released before the Robin and uses the same driver, but a little birdy tells me to expect a very different experience. Thanks to Sivga for providing TechPowerUp a review sample!


The Sivga Phoenix is the subject of today's review, and as the title suggests, it is an open-back set, while the Robin is closed back. It also only comes in a single color option, but is positioned higher up in the product stack in terms of cost and the overall experience you can expect. Like the Robin, wooden cups are used, and the pads and headband appear to be an upgrade over those on the Sivga Robin. Things are boding well already thus, certainly enough to warrant a detailed examination of the Sivga Phoenix, which begins with a look at the product specifications in the table below.

Specifications

Packaging and Accessories

Do you know how Sivga markets the Phoenix as more premium? Its unboxing experience is more luxurious than that of the Robin. The product box is larger and sealed in plastic, with black cardboard and a faux wooden trim in the middle. On the front is the Sivga logo and product name in both English and Chinese characters, with a large, simplistic render of the headphones. More of this clean minimalist packaging continues on the back, with the monochrome design and product specifications, contact information, certification labels, and marketing tagline. A look from the side reveals a two-piece packaging with an angular cut to better distinguish the lid from the base.


Removing the lid confirms vinyl wrap on the base to mimic wood, which works well enough for the intended purpose. There is a thick foam sheet with a machined cutout to snugly fit the Sivga Phoenix carry case, a molded EVA (ethyl vinyl acetate) case akin to the likes of the Meze Liric and Meze 99 Neo—a hard case with some give that helps absorb bumps and falls. A suede leather texture has been applied to the exterior, and the Sivga logo is embossed into the front. The zipper is sturdy, and there is even a loop-hole for a carabiner should you wish to clip the case to your bag. Four plastic feet on the bottom allow for it to be stood upright; all in all, this is a highly functional case for the market segment of the Sivga Phoenix.


A soft velvet lining inside the case protects the headphones further, which is placed front and center with the ear cups facing outward. This explains the curved nature of the case, and the only other thing inside is a soft white hemp pouch with the Sivga logo in black on the front. Drawstrings are used to close it with the headphone cable inside, and it is stitched neatly.