Empire Ears Odin vs THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIII
Introduction
The Empire Ears Odin and THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIII are premium IEMs designed to deliver an exciting high-resolution sound experience. We compare both models to help you 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 Odin vs THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIII Price Comparison
The Empire Ears Odin and Monarch MKIII sit at two very different price points.
The Odin comes in at $3,399.00.
The Monarch MKIII comes in at $999.00.
The Odin costs significantly more than the Monarch MKIII. Let's examine the specs, design, sound signatures, and features of these in-ear monitors to get a better idea of what each IEM offers.
The Empire Ears Odin
The Odin is Empire Ears' ultra-flagship model, featuring stunning Bifrost Faceplates, Weapon IX subwoofers, synX Crossover, and A.R.C. technology so you can experience an impactful, high-resolution sound in style.
Empire Ears Odin Features:
- 11-driver setup for unmatched impact, clarity, and detail.
- Dual W9+ subwoofers for deep, powerful bass.
- Five Balanced Armatures for natural vocals and instrumentals.
- Four Electrostatic Drivers for an airy and detailed sound.
- synX Crossover for a smooth and cohesive sound.
- A.R.C. for reduced driver vibrations and distortion.
- Premium Stormbreaker cable for seamless sound and connectivity.
Empire Ears Odin Specs:
Driver Configuration: 2x W9+ Dynamic Subwoofers, 5x Balanced Armatures, 4x Electrostatic Drivers
Frequency Response: 5 Hz - 100kHz
Sensitivity: 108dB @ 1kHz, 1mW
Crossover: 7-Way synX Crossover Network
Impedance: 3 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 Empire Ears Odin and THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIII are unmistakably premium IEMs, boasting exceptional build quality, design, and ergonomics.
The Empire Ears Odin boasts an eye-catching, bold design, combining a unique faceplate design with an ergonomic resin shell for a blend of style, comfort, and durability.
The Bifröst-inspired faceplates are the star of the show, featuring nine individual polymer layers in three proprietary lamination steps, which produce a multi-color aesthetic that shifts under different angles and lighting conditions.
The Odin's premium design extends to its premium cable. The included Stormbreaker cable from PWAudio boasts outstanding build quality for added style and comfort.
The THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIII uses a handcrafted medical-grade resin shell 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.
Odin Sound Signature
The Odin was designed to showcase balance and precision, delivering a sound that’s both powerful and refined.
Its dual W9+ drivers provide deep, textured sub-bass with tight mid-bass punch - impactful yet controlled. The midrange is clear and natural, bringing vocals and instruments to life with detail and realism. Treble extends smoothly with sparkle and air, adding energy without harshness.
The soundstage is wide and holographic, creating a 3D-like experience where sound wraps around the listener with excellent layering and pinpoint imaging for an immersive experience.
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 $3,399, the Odin represents Empire Ears’ ultimate vision of summit-fi performance. It features an ambitious 11-driver tribrid design, delivering impact and immersion you won't get with lower-tier IEMs. Its Bifrost faceplates and bespoke Stormbreaker cable give it aesthetics and feel unlike any other in-ear monitor on the market.
In the box, the Empire Ears Odin comes with a premium case, cleaning cloth, cleaning tool, and Final Audio Type E ear tips in various sizes.
The $999 Monarch MKIII comes in at half the price of the U12t. 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
The Empire Ears Odin is a flagship IEM designed to deliver an exciting and bold sound. The Odin doesn't aim for the ultimate accuracy and detail, instead offering a more musical and enjoyable sound that will make your favorite playlists sound alive and exciting. Get the Odin if you love bass and want an immersive listening experience for music, movies, and games.
At just a third the price, the THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIII delivers top-tier sound performance that rivals the Odin. The IMPACT2 dual dynamic drivers deliver equally impressive bass, while the balanced armatures and electrostatic drivers offer exceptional resolution and detail with incredible accuracy. The premium resin shells offer a more ergonomic fit, and with the right ear tips, you can enjoy the great sound for hours without discomfort.
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