Empire Ears ESR MKII vs THIEAUDIO Prestige LTD
Introduction
The Empire Ears ESR MKII and THIEAUDIO Prestige LTD 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.
ESR MKII vs Prestige LTD Price Comparison
The ESR MKII and Prestige LTD sit at two different price points.
The ESR MKII comes in at $1,099.00.
The Prestige LTD comes in at $1,699.00.
The ESR MKII costs significantly less than the Prestige LTD. 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 Prestige LTD
The THIEAUDIO Prestige LTD is a tribrid flagship in-ear monitor. Inside its medical-grade resin shells are a single dynamic driver, 4x BA, and 4x EST tuned to deliver a clean and balanced sound.
THIEAUDIO Prestige LTD Features:
- Nine drivers per side: 1 dynamic, 4 balanced armature, 4 electrostatic
- Five-way crossover for precise frequency distribution
- Medical-grade resin housing for comfort and durability
- Modular cable system with interchangeable plugs
THIEAUDIO Prestige LTD Specs:
Driver Configuration: 1DD + 4BA + 4EST
Frequency Response: 20Hz – 80kHz
Impedance: 22Ω
Sensitivity: 98 dB @1kHz
Cable: 1.2m 6N OCC silver-plated and graphene silver-plated with modular terminations
Design and Build Quality
The ESR MKII and Prestige LTD are premium IEMs with 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 Prestige LTD features a medical-grade resin shell for a robust, lightweight feel, while its faceplates feature a stunning unique galaxy-inspired design. In terms of size, the Prestige LTD's shells are slightly larger than average but its ergonomic shape delivers a natural and comfortable fit.
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 has a neutral, slightly warm sound signature, with tight, controlled bass, clear mids, and smooth, extended treble. Its hybrid five-driver setup, including dual electrostatic drivers, delivers detailed resolution, wide soundstage, and precise imaging, making it ideal for critical listening, mixing, and mastering.
Prestige LTD Sound Signature
The Prestige LTD offers a balanced, refined sound with slightly enhanced bass and smooth treble. Its tribrid design and 5-way crossover provide coherent timbre, clear layering, and controlled dynamics, making it perfect for listeners who want an engaging and enjoyable audiophile experience.
ESR MKII vs Prestige LTD Sound Comparison
The ESR MKII is the choice for those seeking pure accuracy and technical excellence, while the Prestige LTD is better for those who value refined musicality and a comfortable, enjoyable listening experience.
Price and Value
The ESR MKII is priced at around $1,099 for the universal version and $1,299 for the custom-fit model. For this price, you get a hybrid BA + electrostatic driver setup, neutral tuning, and a medical-grade resin shell, making it an excellent tool for detailed listening and professional use. It’s built for precision, revealing micro-details and nuances in music while remaining comfortable for long sessions, making it a worthwhile option for those who prioritize accuracy over musicality.
The Prestige LTD comes in at approximately $1,299 and delivers a tribrid configuration with a 5-way crossover, producing a balanced, refined sound with slightly enhanced bass and smooth treble. The build quality, ergonomic shell, and coherent tuning provide an engaging and enjoyable listening experience, giving audiophiles a premium, musically satisfying option at flagship-level pricing.
While both IEMs are similarly priced, the ESR MKII is ideal for critical listening and accuracy, whereas the Prestige LTD is better for a fun, detailed, and immersive musical experience.
Our Thoughts
Get the ESR MKII if you want a neutral, accurate, and detailed sound with hybrid BA + electrostatic drivers, spacious soundstage, and precise imaging. The ESR MKII is ideal for critical listening, mixing, or mastering, and for those who value long-term comfort with a high-quality medical-grade resin shell.
Get the Prestige LTD if you want a balanced, engaging, and musical sound with tribrid drivers, a 5-way crossover, and smooth treble extension. The Prestige LTD is perfect for listeners who enjoy slightly enhanced bass, clear instrument separation, and ergonomic comfort, offering a premium audiophile experience that’s enjoyable across a wide variety of genres.
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