Empire Ears Odin MKII vs THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV
Introduction
The Empire Ears Odin MKII and THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV are flagship IEMs designed to deliver an immersive, high-resolution sound experience. 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.
Odin MKII vs Monarch MKIV Price Comparison
The Odin MKII and Monarch MKIV sit at two very different price points.
The Odin MKII comes in at $4,299.00.
The Monarch MKIV comes in at $1,149.00.
The Odin MKII costs significantly more than the Monarch MKIV. 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 Odin MKII
The Odin MKII is the latest iteration of Empire Ears' legendary Odin IEM. New for the MKII model is a stunning 24K Gold-Plated Faceplates and a matte black aerospace-grade aluminum chassis. Inside, the Odin features a revolutionary 11-driver quadbrid system, comprising dual W9+ subwoofers, balanced armatures, electrostatic drivers, and bone conduction drivers, for a vivid sound experience that you can feel.
Empire Ears Odin MKII Features:
- 24K Gold-Plated Faceplates with matte black aerospace-grade aluminum chassis
- Dual W9+ subwoofers for tight, textured bass
- Five Precision Balanced Armature Drivers for organic vocals and instrumentals
- Twin EIVEC MKII-powered Electrostatic Drivers for breathtaking air and resolution
- Twin Bone Conduction Drivers for a tactile and immersive feel
- 2-pin, 4.4mm KVASIR Cable for enhanced sound and aesthetics
Empire Ears Odin MKII Specs:
Driver Configuration: 11 Drivers (Dual W9+ Subwoofers, 5x Balanced Armatures, 2x Electrostatic, 2x Bone Conduction)
Frequency Response: 5Hz–100kHz
Impedance: 2.7 Ohms @ 1kHz
Sensitivity: 105dB @ 1kHz, 1mW
Connector: 2-pin, 0.78mm, 4.4mm Termination
The THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV
The THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV is a flagship tribrid IEM designed to deliver both precision and versatility. With dual dynamic drivers, multiple balanced armatures, and electrostatic drivers, it offers a balanced sound signature that can be enhanced through its adjustable tuning switch. Built with a CNC-machined aluminum shell and paired with THIEAUDIO's modular cable system, the Monarch MKIV blends durability, comfort, and high-end performance without the flagship price tag.
THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV Features:
- IMPACT² Dual Dynamic Drivers: Two 8mm dynamic drivers in an isobaric configuration deliver tight, powerful sub-bass with low distortion.
- Hybrid Driver Array: Six balanced armatures and two Sonion EST drivers extend clarity across mids and highs, with treble reaching up to 40kHz.
- Adjustable Tuning Switch: Choose between STANDARD mode for reference tuning or RUMBLE mode for +3dB sub-bass emphasis and added warmth.
- CNC Aluminum Shell: Crafted from aircraft-grade T6 aluminum for improved scratch resistance, durability, and comfort.
- Chocolate Modular Cable: Includes a high-quality cable with swappable 3.5mm and 4.4mm terminations for flexible source pairing.
THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV Specs:
- Driver Configuration: 2 dynamic (IMPACT²) + 6 balanced armatures + 2 Sonion EST
- Frequency Response: 10Hz – 44kHz
- Sensitivity: ~100 dB/mW @1kHz
- Impedance: ~10Ω @1kHz
- Crossover: 4-way passive network
- Isolation: Passive noise isolation via ergonomic aluminum shell design
Design and Build Quality
The Empire Ears Odin MKII and Monarch MKIV are unmistakably premium IEMs, boasting exceptional build quality, design, and ergonomics.
The Odin MKII is departure from typical Empire Ears design and build. Gone is the multi-colored, Bifröst-inspired faceplates of the original Odin in favor of stunning 24K Gold-Plated faceplates with enigmatic runic engravings and Empire Ears insignia. Empire Ears swapped out the medical-grade resin shells for a more durable matte black, aerospace-grade aluminum chassis. Together, these design elements give the Odin MKII an eye-catching style that's robust and elegant.
Like the original Odin, the Odin MKII comes with a custom bespoke cable called the KVASIR - a four-stand braided cable with gold, silver, and copper conductors for enhanced musical detail and clarity. Intricate design details include etched Valknut on the cable's Y-Split piece and a blacked-out plug with Empire Ears branding.
The THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV carries a refined yet modern design. It features a precision CNC-machined aluminum shell that balances durability with long-wearing comfort. Its ergonomic shape ensures a secure fit while maintaining a premium feel in hand and ear. The faceplates feature subtle yet distinctive detailing, giving the MKIV a sleek, understated look compared to flashier flagships. THIEAUDIO offers two default faceplate designs: Stellashot, Kaleidoglow, alongside 14 custom options.
Completing the package is THIEAUDIO's upgraded Chocolate modular cable, a robust and flexible hybrid conductor that comes with interchangeable terminations for both 3.5mm and 4.4mm sources. This premium cable offers enhanced durability while complementing the Monarch MKIV's modern 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.
Odin MKII Sound Signature
The first thing you notice with the Odin MKII's sound is its wide, spacious, and open soundstage. There's excellent width, but the overall tuning goes for a more intimate presentation where the performer sounds closer to you. The overall tuning is now more balanced compared to the original Odin, offering a less-exaggerated sub-bass rumble and a more polite mid-bass impact. Vocals and instruments now sound more weighty compared to the OG Odin, offering a more emotional and life-like tonality for both male and female voices. The treble has also been scaled back, now sounding smoother and less crisp than the previous Odin.
Monarch MKIV Sound Signature
The Monarch MKIV is tuned for balance, refinement, and versatility. Compared to the MKIII, it brings tighter bass control, a smoother treble, and a more natural midrange presentation.
The bass is delivered through its IMPACT² dual dynamic drivers, offering deep extension with clean, textured sub-bass and a punchy mid-bass that avoids bloat. In RUMBLE mode, the low-end gains extra weight and warmth, while STANDARD mode keeps the presentation accurate and controlled. The midrange is neutral and accurate, giving vocals a lifelike tone and instruments a clear, well-layered presence. Treble is airy and extended, with the EST drivers adding crisp detail and shimmer without sounding harsh. The soundstage is wide and spacious, offering excellent separation and imaging that makes the presentation immersive and life-like.
Price and Value
At $4,299, the Odin MKII is a significant step up in price and build quality. It features authentic 24K Gold-plated Faceplates with matte aerospace-grade aluminum shells and an 11-driver quadbrid design for an emotional sound you can feel. It also comes with a brand new KVASIR custom cable in 4.4mm Termination, giving the Odin MKII a stunning look, feel, and sound befitting its flagship price tag.
In the box, the Odin MKII comes with a black leather Odin MKII case, cleaning tool and microfiber cloth, black mesh IEM sleeves, and Final Audio Type E Tips in SS, S, M, L, and LL.
At $1,149, the Monarch MKIV delivers flagship-level performance without the flagship price tag. At that price, you’re getting a tribrid driver setup with dual dynamic subwoofers, Sonion EST treble drivers, and six precision balanced armatures - all tuned for versatility with STANDARD and RUMBLE modes. Add in the CNC-machined aluminum shell, modular Chocolate cable, and THIEAUDIO's crossover design, and the MKIV stands out as one of the best value IEMs in its class, offering near top-of-the-line sound at an accessible price.
Our Thoughts
The Empire Ears Odin MKII is a step up in terms of build quality and aesthetics over past Empire Ears IEMs, highlighted by the 24K Gold-plated faceplate with aerospace-grade shells. In terms of sound, the Odin MKII boasts a more mature, balanced sound signature that's tuned to give you a more emotional sound experience without loss in detail. Get the Odin MKII if like the OG Odin's sound but want a more balanced, vocal-centric sound signature for daily listening.
The Monarch MKIV is designed for audiophiles who want reference-grade performance with the flexibility to dial in more bass when desired. It’s ideal for listeners who value balance, detail, and spacious presentation, but also enjoy the option of added low-end impact for modern genres. If you’re looking for a flagship-level tribrid IEM under $1,000 that blends technical precision with versatility, the Monarch MKIV is the in-ear monitor to get.
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