Empire Ears ESR MKII vs THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIII
Introduction
The Empire Ears ESR MKII and THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIII 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 Monarch MKIII Price Comparison
The ESR MKII and Monarch MKIII sit at similar price points.
The ESR MKII comes in at $1,099.00.
The Monarch MKIII comes in at $999.00.
The ESR MKII costs slightly more than the Monarch MKIII. 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 Monarch MKIII
The THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIII is a tribrid studio monitor that combines dynamic, balanced armature, and electrostatic drivers to deliver top-tier resolution, balance, and detail. It features THIEAUDIO's IMPACT2 technology for powerful and accurate bass reproduction.
THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIII Features:
- 10-driver tribrid setup: 2 dynamic, 6 balanced armature, 2 electrostatic
- IMPACT² isobaric subwoofer design for enhanced bass
- Medical-grade resin shell with customizable faceplates
- Upgraded modular cable with interchangeable plugs
- Balanced tonal signature with studio-monitor-like accuracy
THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIII Specs:
Driver Configuration: 2DD (10mm composite), 6 BA, 2 EST
Impedance: 20Ω
Sensitivity: 99 dB @ 1kHz
Frequency Response: 20Hz – 40kHz
Cable: 1.2m 22AWG 6N OCC silver-plated and graphene silver-plated
Connectors: 2-pin 0.78mm
Terminations: Modular with 2.5mm, 3.5mm, and 4.4mm plugs
Design and Build Quality
The ESR MKII and Monarch MKIII 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 Monarch MKIII features handcrafted medical-grade resin shells for a robust and lightweight feel. The Monarch MKIII's shells are similar to that of the EE Odin, but feature more aggressive ergonomic bumps for a more secure fit. Its faceplates feature a unique galaxy-inspired aesthetic with the option to customize for a unique look.
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.
Monarch MKIII Sound Signature
The Monarch MKIII features an accurate, detailed, and balanced sound signature with impactful bass.
The bass is the highlight here, offering a deep and textured sub-bass rumble with tight and controlled punch, courtesy of IMPACT2 isobaric subwoofer design. The midrange is clear, clean, and accurate with a slightly warm presentation; vocals sit closer in the mix for a more intimate listening experience. The treble is well-extended on the Monarch MKIII, offering a clear and lively sound without harshness.
The Monarch MKIII's soundstage is spacious and accurate. Instruments and vocals are easy to pinpoint and are well-defined.
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 $999 Monarch MKIII costs just slightly less than the ESR MKII. At that price, you're getting premium medical-grade resin shells with a customizable faceplate design, a 10-driver tribid configuration with dual dynamic drivers, balanced armatures, and electrostatic drivers, and a premium cable with swappable terminations, alongside a generous selection of ear tips and accessories.
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.
For $100 less, the THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIII delivers top-tier sound performance that rivals, and in some applications, bests the ESR MKII. The IMPACT2 dual dynamic drivers deliver superior bass, while the balanced armatures and electrostatic drivers offer exceptional resolution and detail with incredible accuracy. The premium resin shells offer an ergonomic fit, and with the right ear tips, lets you enjoy great sound for hours without discomfort.
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