Empire Ears ESR MKII vs THIEAUDIO Hype 4
Introduction
The Empire Ears ESR MKII and THIEAUDIO Hype 4 are premium IEMs designed to deliver studio-accurate, high-resolution sound. Let's compare both models so you can find the best in-ear monitors for your listening preferences.
Not the right fit? Browse other In-Ear Monitors from Empire Ears and THIEAUDIO.
Empire Ears ESR MKII vs THIEAUDIO Hype 4 Price Comparison
The ESR MKII and Hype 4 sit at two different price points.
The ESR MKII comes in at $1,099.00.
The Hype 4 comes in at $399.00.
The ESR MKII costs significantly more than the Hype 4. Let's dive deep into the specs, design, sound signatures, and features of both so you can get a better idea of what each IEM brings to the table.
The Empire Ears ESR MKII
The ESR MKII is Empire Ears' studio-reference IEM. It features a five-driver hybrid setup with three BA and two Electrostatic drivers. In terms of features, the ESR MKII packs SynX, EIVEC, and A.R.C technology for enhanced sound and reliability.
Empire Ears ESR MKII Features:
- 5-driver hybrid system with 3 BA + 2 electrostatic drivers
- 4-way synX crossover with EIVEC for electrostatic integration
- A.R.C. technology to reduce resonance for cleaner sound
- Brushed Silver aluminum faceplate with ergonomic resin shell
- Includes Alpha IV UPOCC Copper Litz cable
Empire Ears ESR MKII Specs:
Driver Configuration: 3x Balanced Armature Drivers + 2x Electrostatic Drivers
Frequency Response: 10Hz - 100kHz
Sensitivity: 111dB @ 1kHz, 1mW
Crossover: 4-Way synX Crossover Network
Impedance: 3.9 Ohms @ 1kHz
The THIEAUDIO Hype 4
The THIEAUDIO Hype 4 is a precision-engineered IEM designed for listeners who want both clarity and impact. Its 2 IMPACT² dynamic drivers combined with 4 balanced armature drivers create a full, detailed soundstage, delivering tight, controlled bass and clear, articulate highs. Comfortable and durable, the Hype 4 pairs advanced driver technology with effortless everyday usability, making it a standout choice for serious listeners.
THIEAUDIO Hype 4 Features:
- Hybrid driver setup: 2 × 10 mm IMPACT² dynamic drivers + 4 balanced armature drivers
- Deep sub-bass presence with clean transition to mids
- Tuned midrange with pinna-boost for clarity without harshness
- Resin shell with venting and acoustic filters to manage resonance
- Detachable OCC silver-plated cable (3.5 mm termination)
THIEAUDIO Hype 4 Specs:
Driver Configuration: 2 × 10 mm Dynamic + 4 × Balanced Armature
Impedance: 17 Ω
Sensitivity: 105 dB @ 1 kHz
Frequency Response: 10 Hz – 22 kHz
Connector Type (to IEM): 0.78 mm 2-pin
Cable: Silver-plated OCC, detachable, 3.5 mm termination
Design and Build Quality
The ESR MKII and Hype 4 are premium IEMs inside and out, boasting exceptional build quality, design, and ergonomics.
The ESR MKII keeps things professional yet simple. Its medical-grade resin shell is ergonomic and lightweight, ensuring long-term comfort, while the brushed aluminum faceplate adds a subtle touch of refinement. With A.R.C. applied inside the housing, internal resonances are minimized, making the sound cleaner and more accurate.
The THIEAUDIO Hype 4 features a unique design that combines long-term comfort with striking aesthetics. It features durable, lightweight resin shells, optimized fit, and comfort.
The faceplates are the highlight here and come in three unique colors: Black, White, and Blue. The Black option dons a blue and black galaxy-inspired design, while the white option bedazzles with its diamond-inspired look. The Blue variant features a bold and eye-catching blue and pink marble design paired with a black shell.
To complete the package, the Hype 4 comes with a detachable OCC silver-plated cable, enhancing the Hype 4's versatility and overall aesthetic.
Sound Signature
You're probably looking to see how these IEMs stack up on sound. We'll share our thoughts here, although keep in mind this information tends to be anecdotal and subjective.
ESR MKII Sound Signature
The ESR MKII is built around accuracy and balance, making it ideal for professionals or listeners who want to hear music exactly as it’s recorded.
Its bass is tight and controlled, never overpowering the mix. The midrange is clean and transparent, bringing out vocals and instruments with lifelike clarity - perfect for mixing or critical listening. The treble is extended yet smooth, revealing subtle details without harshness, ensuring long listening sessions stay fatigue-free. This combination gives you the confidence to make precise judgments on recordings while still enjoying natural musicality.
Hype 4 Sound Signature
The THIEAUDIO Hype 4 delivers a dynamic and engaging sound that balances punchy lows with clear, natural mids and detailed highs.
Its IMPACT² dynamic drivers provide tight, controlled bass that hits with authority without overwhelming the mix. The balanced armature drivers bring out vocals and instruments with clarity and precision, while the highs remain airy and well-extended, offering crisp detail without harshness.
Overall, the Hype 4 presents a refined, versatile sound signature that works across genres, from bass-heavy tracks to acoustic and electronic music, making it both exciting and accurate.
Price and Value
At $1,099, the ESR MKII offers impressive value for professionals, studio engineers, or anyone who wants a reliable reference tool. Its neutral, accurate tuning gives you confidence in what you’re hearing, making it a cost-effective investment for critical work. The lightweight design and excellent isolation further enhance its practicality, delivering studio-grade performance without the premium price tag. For those who want precision sound and build, the ESR MKII delivers exactly that.
The $399 Hype 4 offers excellent value in the premium IEM segment. Its 2 IMPACT² dynamic drivers and 4 balanced armature drivers deliver a full, detailed sound that rivals more expensive models. The detachable OCC silver-plated cable adds flexibility and reliability, enhancing both usability and aesthetics.
Overall, the Hype 4 delivers flagship-style performance at a fraction of the cost, making it an excellent IEM for both casual and serious listeners.
Our Thoughts
Get the ESR MKII IEM if you're looking for a flat, accurate, and detailed sound for music production or mixing. The ESR MKII's reference-grade sound will help reveal subtle details in music making it a joy to use for mixing and mastering at home or in the studio.
The THIEAUDIO Hype 4 is for listeners who want to experience a detailed, balanced, and engaging sound without the premium price tag. It’s ideal for audiophiles and music enthusiasts who enjoy everything from bass-heavy electronic tracks to acoustic and vocal-focused genres. With its engaging sound and excellent build quality, the Hype 4 proves you don't have to spend $1000 to experience great sound quality in today's IEM market.
Elevate Your Listening Experience With These Related Articles
Enjoyed this article? Check out our other product comparisons!