Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.

What reviewers think

Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.

Product Strengths

  • Offers two distinct tuning options via a switch, a balanced, clean signature (standard mode), and a bass-boosted signature (rumble mode), catering to different preferences and genres
  • Upgraded build with a CNC-machined aluminum chassis provides a more premium feel compared to previous resin shells
  • Great separation and detail retrieval in both modes
  • Treble is sparkly with air and has great extension; the sound is smooth, detailed, and slightly airy

Product Considerations

  • The stock cable is viewed as a downgrade compared to previous models, with a cheaper feel and aesthetic mismatch
  • Its size is large for an IEM, which may cause discomfort or fitting issues for some users
  • If treble-sensitive, caution is suggested as it might be too bright
  • The provided case may be underwhelming given the product's price

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Monarch MK3: The MKIV offers a more versatile experience due to the tuning switch, with a standard mode being faster and more detailed, it is warmer, but the low-end is richer
  • Vs Campfire Audio Alien Brain: It is closer to neutral and balanced, while the Monarch MKIV has bent it into a slightly more V-shaped

Takeaway: The Monarch MKIV is a versatile IEM that is great for music listening and even competitive gaming. With its tuning options and detailed sound, it can cater to various preferences, making it a potential end-game IEM for many.

What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.

All

Monarch MKIV

reviews

[{"title":"The ULTIMATE All-Rounder IEM?! | ThieAudio Monarch MKIV Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LZTqhWOJdRw","source":"Bloom Audio","datePublished":"2025"},{"title":"[Review] THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV: The Ultimate BOGO IEM","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86B3Rr2nLK8","source":"Bad Guy Good Audio Reviews","datePublished":"2025"},{"title":"Monarch MKIV Review (and placement on tier list)","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BC13nPV6I0w","source":"Bad Guy Good Audio Reviews","datePublished":""},{"title":"Thieaudio Monarch MKIV IEM Review: Return of the King 4K","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z4DqoDT4Jdo","source":"Linsoul Audio","datePublished":"2025"},{"title":"Thieaudio Monarch MK4 Review.. Return of the King? 👑 (ULTIMATE COMPARISON vs MK2, MK3, LTD & more)","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZUaJv3gM08","source":"Linsoul Audio","datePublished":"2025"},{"title":"ThieAudio Monarch mk4 + Valhalla REVIEW","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5NK0D6412S4","source":"Fresh Reviews","datePublished":""},{"title":"Should You Upgrade? | Thieaudio Monarch MkIII vs MkIV (featuring MkII) | The Battle for the Throne","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QUIK45WpbTE","source":"Jaytiss","datePublished":"2025"},{"title":"Monarch MKIV: For When Clean Just Ain't Enough","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mm1SzGEFDGM","source":"Super* Review","datePublished":"2025"},{"title":"You're Gonna Flip Out: Thieaudio Monarch MK4 Review","link":"https://bloomaudio.com/blogs/articles/youre-gonna-flip-out-thieaudio-monarch-mk4-review?srsltid=AfmBOoq2hKdlzber-d6fZTE_95FmW1EgfL1d3e2YK6pYwYiUB9r5flnu","source":"bloomaudio.com","datePublished":""}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Driver: 2DD (8mm) + 6 Sonion BA +2EST
  • Frequency Response: 10Hz – 44kHz
  • Impedance: 10/9 ohms (±1 ohm) @1kHz
  • Sensitivity: 100dB ±1dB @1kHz
  • Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): <1% @1kHz
For the first time in Thieaudio's Signature Series lineup, the Monarch MKIV (Mark Four) comes with an adjustable tuning switch. Extensive R&D has led up to a functional tuning switch that is stylish, easy to use without tools, and makes an extensive impact on the tuning. Users can switch between "STANDARD" and "RUMBLE" modes.
Manufacturer Site

Brand highlights

Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:

  • ThieAudio specializes in tribrid IEM designs, uniquely combining dynamic, balanced armature, and electrostatic drivers.
  • They are known for meticulously tuning their IEMs, often aiming for a balance between analytical precision and a musical, engaging listening experience.

THEAUDIO Prestige LTD  

  • Positioning: A balanced in-ear monitor designed for entry-level users seeking clear performance at a moderate price.  
  • Description: Features a mix of dynamic, balanced armature, and electrostatic drivers that keep the sound natural and neutral while maintaining a straightforward design. Compared to the V16 Divinity and flagship models, its simpler driver setup makes it a good choice for smaller spaces, tighter budgets, and essential functionality without extra tuning complexity.

THEAUDIO V16 Divinity  

  • Positioning: A mid-tier option offering warmer tonal quality and a wider soundstage.  
  • Description: Built with advanced tuning that delivers a warmer tone and an expanded soundstage, making it stand out from the more neutral Prestige LTD.

THEAUDIO Valhalla  

  • Positioning: A high-end model positioned as a flagship option with detailed driver architecture and refined performance.  
  • Description: Combines a high driver count and modern design to offer detailed, nuanced sound performance that appeals to critical listeners. Compared to the Divinity and Prestige LTD, its enhanced driver array and broader tuning are suited for larger listening spaces.

THEAUDIO Oracle MKII  

  • Positioning: A premium upgrade in the lineup that refines the flagship experience with improved neutrality and brightness.  
  • Description: Adds refined driver alignment and tuning refinements that yield a more balanced and detailed sound profile, catering to users with high functional needs. When compared with the Valhalla and V16 Divinity, its sharper resolution and technical upgrades make it a strong contender for precise, high-fidelity performance in demanding use cases.

THEAUDIO Oracle  

  • Positioning: A top-tier product aimed at enthusiasts who demand the utmost in technical sophistication and sound quality.  
  • Description: Pushes advanced driver design and innovative technology to deliver exceptional dynamic range and clarity that stand apart from other models in the series. In contrast with the Oracle MKII and other offerings like the Valhalla, its cutting-edge features and superior performance are intended for users with the highest budgets and demanding complete functionality.
See All Products
Avg. Product Price
$1,001-$2,500
Used For Sale
1
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
598
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
16
Founding Year
2019

Our take on the brand

Thieaudio is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones with IMPACT2 technology—an in-ear "subwoofer" using two dynamic drivers in an isobaric chamber to boost bass power while keeping frequency constant—and dedicated sound bores to achieve studio-monitor layering and separation. The brand has established a benchmark reputation among reviewers for top-tier tonality at its price tier

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

What's your approach to customer support?

What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

What other products pair best with yours?

From our interview with
.
Brand Page

Used

Thieaudio

No items found.

What if you spend more?

Product image
Empire Ears
Legend Evo (Universal)
3099
3099
/
12
Reviews
Empire Ears is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones featuring their proprietary Weapon IX 9mm rare-earth magnet "subwoofers" with bass-reflex systems. The company hand-builds synX crossover networks without PCBs, assigning more individual audio bands per driver than any other IEM crossover. They also developed EIVEC electrostatic control to integrate EST drivers with dynamic and balanced armature drivers.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Excellent technical performance and detail retrieval, considered several cuts above other IEMs
  • Outstanding imaging performance, with precise soundstage and instrument separation
  • The bass response is a highlight, delivering a punchy sub-bass with texture and articulation
  • Offers a warmer tonal balance that is easy to get into with a mostly 'neutral' sound
  • Bone conduction enhances low-frequency extension, reverb, and detail

Product Considerations

  • Large chassis that may be uncomfortable for some users, particularly those with smaller ears
  • The subdued treble range may not provide enough energy and sparkle for some listeners
  • Stock cable is lackluster in terms of usability due to its plasticky feel, rigidity, and microphonic feedback
  • Driver flex (a harmless crinkling sound upon insertion) is present

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Legend Evo delivers a stronger bass impact, depth, and extension than the Legend X
  • Legend Evo produces better constructed highs than the Legend X
  • Legend Evo shows better clarity than the Legend X, and has more detail
  • The Legend X can sound veiled concerning the Legend Evo
  • The Legend Evo feels a touch smoother than the Empire Ears ODIN

Takeaway: The Legend Evo is a top-tier IEM with innovative bone conduction technology that creates a unique and immersive listening experience with enhanced bass. It is a great option for those seeking flagship-level performance with a warm, bass-focused sound signature.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Empire Ears is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones featuring their proprietary Weapon IX 9mm rare-earth magnet "subwoofers" with bass-reflex systems. The company hand-builds synX crossover networks without PCBs, assigning more individual audio bands per driver than any other IEM crossover. They also developed EIVEC electrostatic control to integrate EST drivers with dynamic and balanced armature drivers.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Noble
Viking Ragnar (Universal Fit)
4000
4000
/
9
Reviews
Noble is a hifi audio brand built around founder Dr. John "Wizard" Moulton, an audiologist renowned for hand-carving custom earphones from exotic materials like wood, carbon fiber, and aluminum instead of standard acrylic, with each ear requiring up to 30 hours to complete. The brand distinguishes itself by using bone conduction drivers across multiple models and bringing rare metallurgical techniques like Japanese Mokume-Gane and titanium Damascus to earphone faceplates.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Excellent detail retrieval, resolving with the best over-ear headphones, challenging the brain to take it all in.
  • Wide soundstage with precise imaging, creating an immersive, holographic 3D image.
  • Easy to drive, delivering speed and impact even with low-power sources.
  • High level of craftsmanship and build quality, using premium materials like CNC-machined aluminum and Damascus steel faceplates.
  • Comes with the Magnus cable, a high-quality 8-core cable constructed with graphene, monocrystalline silver, and copper-silver alloy.

Product Considerations

  • Treble can become a bit hot and fatiguing over long periods, but can be mitigated by using foam ear tips.
  • Bass presence is more nominal and cohesive, not dominant or overpowering like some bass-head IEMs.
  • Fit may be an issue for some due to the larger-than-average size of the IEM.
  • Could be fatiguing over time due to sensory overload from extreme detail.
  • Some reviewers found that the upper mids/lower treble frequency range could use a little boost.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Offers a stronger balance of detail, performance, and musicality, a fuller, richer midrange, and better texture and timbre, when compared to the Empire Ears Odin—Odin has stronger holographic separation, an intense sense of vocal performance, and more potential for fatigue.

Takeaway: The Noble Viking Ragnar is a top-tier IEM, offering incredible detail and a wide soundstage for an immersive listening experience. Its build quality and design are exceptional, making it a great choice for those who want some of the best IEMs in the market.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Noble is a hifi audio brand built around founder Dr. John "Wizard" Moulton, an audiologist renowned for hand-carving custom earphones from exotic materials like wood, carbon fiber, and aluminum instead of standard acrylic, with each ear requiring up to 30 hours to complete. The brand distinguishes itself by using bone conduction drivers across multiple models and bringing rare metallurgical techniques like Japanese Mokume-Gane and titanium Damascus to earphone faceplates.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Empire Ears
Odin (Universal)
3399
3399
/
9
Reviews
Empire Ears is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones featuring their proprietary Weapon IX 9mm rare-earth magnet "subwoofers" with bass-reflex systems. The company hand-builds synX crossover networks without PCBs, assigning more individual audio bands per driver than any other IEM crossover. They also developed EIVEC electrostatic control to integrate EST drivers with dynamic and balanced armature drivers.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Tremendous transparency, offering a wealth of microdynamics and spatial cues, critical in determining positioning and layering.
  • Incredibly clear sound, yet wrapped in a warm, lush, and inviting overall picture.
  • Highs are extended, detailed, and wonderfully resolved, easily able to summon the ethereal or holographic when called for.
  • The soundstage is quite impressive—deep, wide, with very good headroom, and holographic when called to be so.
  • The shell design is comfortable with a short nozzle, and light weight.

Product Considerations

  • The treble is a little bit relaxed, and some songs may not cut through the way they need to.
  • Amplifiers for this particular headphone are going to matter, and they are going to make a difference between several different amplifiers.
  • The bass does not bring the rumble, nor the impact, nor does it reach to the stygian depths of the Holy-Bass-Head-Grail.
  • Though the Odin provides for a comfortable fit, it can be uncomfortable for people who have really small ear holes, as the stem itself is quite wide.
  • The 'Bifröst' faceplate design might be too flashy for some.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Empire Ears Zeus: The Odin smashes the Zeus all day, every day, for sound quality, with a better midrange and significantly nixed highs.
  • Vs 64 Audio U12T: Odin is at least as good, if not better, in the mids and the bass, and has better punch and slam to the bass frequencies.
  • Vs Empire Ears Legend X: The Odin is a much more balanced-tuned IEM.
  • Vs 64 Audio Tia Forte: The Odin has a more agreeable frequency response.
  • Vs Thieaudio Monarch: The Monarch has a really nice bass shelf, but the Odin has better technical performance and a better frequency response.

Takeaway: The Empire Ears Odin offers an easygoing listening experience and clear sound, and has tight bass response with a great midrange. It could be a great choice for those seeking a warm IEM with finesse.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Empire Ears is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones featuring their proprietary Weapon IX 9mm rare-earth magnet "subwoofers" with bass-reflex systems. The company hand-builds synX crossover networks without PCBs, assigning more individual audio bands per driver than any other IEM crossover. They also developed EIVEC electrostatic control to integrate EST drivers with dynamic and balanced armature drivers.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Empire Ears
Odin (Custom)
3599
3599
/
9
Reviews
Empire Ears is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones featuring their proprietary Weapon IX 9mm rare-earth magnet "subwoofers" with bass-reflex systems. The company hand-builds synX crossover networks without PCBs, assigning more individual audio bands per driver than any other IEM crossover. They also developed EIVEC electrostatic control to integrate EST drivers with dynamic and balanced armature drivers.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Incredibly clear and detailed sound, offering a transparent window into the music
  • Well-defined, punchy, and high-quality bass response, with good impact and rumble, without being muddy
  • Smooth and well-defined treble, avoiding sibilance or harshness, and retaining excellent resolution
  • Broad and deep soundstage with excellent imaging, layering, and separation of instruments
  • Visually striking and beautiful Bifrost faceplate design

Product Considerations

  • The fit may be uncomfortable for users with smaller ears, as the stem is quite wide and the monitors themselves are fairly large
  • Upper mid-range can be forward, and at times can be borderline shouty or fatiguing in some tracks
  • Treble response, while detailed, might be a little relaxed for some, not cutting through as much as some other IEMs
  • Some reviewers found the build quality of the resin shell to be just okay, not feeling particularly premium or durable relative to the price

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. 64 Audio U12T: The Odin has better punch and slam in the bass, while the U12T has a more layered and separated sound with slightly more micro-details
  • Vs. Empire Ears Legend X: The Odin is much more balanced and refined compared to the bass-heavy Legend X
  • Vs. Fir M5: The M5 has a more forward and clearer treble response and wider soundstage, but the Odin's midrange is more forward and produces a more enjoyable vocal response
  • Vs. Empire Ears Zeus: The Odin is smoother with more bass response and a better mid range
  • Vs. Vision Ears Elysium: The Elysium brings an analog-like ease to the midrange, but is not a match for the Odin in detail and transient speed

Takeaway: The Empire Ears Odin is a technically impressive IEM with a smooth, clear sound, detailed bass and a striking design. If one is seeking a high-end listening experience where details are clearly displayed in an immersive 3D stage, these could be a great match.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Empire Ears is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones featuring their proprietary Weapon IX 9mm rare-earth magnet "subwoofers" with bass-reflex systems. The company hand-builds synX crossover networks without PCBs, assigning more individual audio bands per driver than any other IEM crossover. They also developed EIVEC electrostatic control to integrate EST drivers with dynamic and balanced armature drivers.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

Thieaudio
V16 Divinity
1499
/
Released
2021
With 16 Knowles and Sonion balanced armatures in each side, the V16 Divinity stands as not only Thieaudio's summit of technical innovation, but also as one of the world's most capable in-ear monitors. We set out to develop our final flagship model with not only flamboyant internal specifications, but also our most integrative tuning and engineering strategy, culminating in a professional performance unlike anything the market has seen before.
Check Amazon
Thieaudio is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones with IMPACT2 technology—an in-ear "subwoofer" using two dynamic drivers in an isobaric chamber to boost bass power while keeping frequency constant—and dedicated sound bores to achieve studio-monitor layering and separation. The brand has established a benchmark reputation among reviewers for top-tier tonality at its price tier
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Impressive detail retrieval and resolution
  • Balanced and well-tuned sound signature across bass, mids, and treble
  • Excellent bass performance for a balanced armature IEM, with good speed and impact
  • Smooth and natural midrange, especially for vocals and acoustic instruments
  • Wide soundstage and good imaging

Product Considerations

  • High price point puts it in competition with other strong contenders
  • Large size may not fit smaller ears comfortably
  • Bass, while good, may lack the texture and realism of dynamic driver bass
  • Some reviewers found the sound slightly congested and lacking airiness
  • Treble response may be too tame for those seeking a crispy and detailed sound

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Opinions vary with the 64 Audio U12t; some find that it has better bass texture and treble and is more refined, while others indicate the V16 is similar
  • Some reviewers preferred the V16's bass and smoother sound compared to the Thieaudio Monarch MKII, while others liked the Monarch MKII's clarity and treble

Takeaway: The V16 Divinity offers very detailed sound and great balance across the frequencies. If one desires an all-BA IEM that handles many different kinds of music really well, this could be a solid choice.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Thieaudio is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones with IMPACT2 technology—an in-ear "subwoofer" using two dynamic drivers in an isobaric chamber to boost bass power while keeping frequency constant—and dedicated sound bores to achieve studio-monitor layering and separation. The brand has established a benchmark reputation among reviewers for top-tier tonality at its price tier
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Thieaudio
Prestige LTD
1299
/
Released
2023
Like the original Prestige, the Prestige LTD features the same extensive and comprehensive engineering strategy. 4 Sonion electrostatic drivers + 2 Knowles mid-treble balanced armatures + 2 Sonion low-mid balanced armatures + 10mm dynamic subwoofer are used per each side of the Prestige LTD. With an over-engineered 5-way crossover tuning strategy, the Prestige provides extreme layering and texture across the whole spectrum.
Check Amazon
Thieaudio is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones with IMPACT2 technology—an in-ear "subwoofer" using two dynamic drivers in an isobaric chamber to boost bass power while keeping frequency constant—and dedicated sound bores to achieve studio-monitor layering and separation. The brand has established a benchmark reputation among reviewers for top-tier tonality at its price tier
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Delivers a smooth, balanced, and refined sound signature that is effortlessly non-fatiguing
  • Presents music in a controlled, tight, and clean manner, with great detail retrieval
  • Features excellent build quality and a gorgeous design
  • Offers a wide soundstage with terrific layering
  • Includes a high-quality modular cable

Product Considerations

  • The large size of the IEMs may not fit all ears
  • Bass response may not satisfy bass-heads looking for a more powerful low-end
  • Limited faceplate choices compared to other models
  • Bundled eartip selection isn't as extensive as some competitors

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Thieaudio Monarch, the Prestige LTD trades some of the punch and sizzle of the Monarch for a smoother presentation and is more balanced rather than boosted in the low frequencies

Takeaway: The Prestige LTD offers a refined and detailed listening experience with a comfortable design, making it a great choice for those seeking a balanced and high-quality sound. The attractive design and build quality add to the overall value, making them worth considering.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Thieaudio is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones with IMPACT2 technology—an in-ear "subwoofer" using two dynamic drivers in an isobaric chamber to boost bass power while keeping frequency constant—and dedicated sound bores to achieve studio-monitor layering and separation. The brand has established a benchmark reputation among reviewers for top-tier tonality at its price tier
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Thieaudio
Valhalla
1999
/
Released
2024
At THIEAUDIO, we combine innovative technology with thoughtful acoustic design to create In-Ear Monitors that bring your music to life. The R&D behind the THIEAUDIO Valhalla took over two years, with input from engineers from multiple countries contributing to its development. The Valhalla was designed with three core goals: (1) Push the limits of driver capacity in an IEM format; (2) Achieve the highest degree of technical performance; (3) Establish THIEAUDIO's tonal superiority.
Check Amazon
Thieaudio is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones with IMPACT2 technology—an in-ear "subwoofer" using two dynamic drivers in an isobaric chamber to boost bass power while keeping frequency constant—and dedicated sound bores to achieve studio-monitor layering and separation. The brand has established a benchmark reputation among reviewers for top-tier tonality at its price tier
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • The Valhalla is the best IEM that Thieaudio has made to date.
  • It delivers endgame tuning with tasteful bass response, a sweet and clean midrange, and treble that feels airy and highly detailed.
  • Midrange is perhaps the Valhalla’s biggest strength, with incredible detail, layering, and separation.
  • The sound signature is very well balanced, offering a clean, highly cohesive, transparent and spacious delivery that’s also engaging and musical.
  • The bass part has really solid low emphasis, with a wide soundstage, impressive sub-bass extension and clean emphasis on the sub-bass, while the mid-bass is more restrained but still delivers good thickness.

Product Considerations

  • The cable design is not as emphatic with Vahalla, similar to the Origin cable, but it's not something new which should come with a flagship IEM.
  • The unboxing experience feels no different from other Thieaudio products, and the accessories are almost the same that were shipped with the Origin, which is less than half the price of Valhalla.
  • The shells are larger than typical IEMs, and the size may present a challenge, especially for those who have smaller earlobes.
  • The puck-style carry case has limited space inside, making it hard to store the IEMs and the cable properly.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Origin: Valhalla offers a more natural reproduction of the music, and the bass is better, not by much, but it is better, with better quality bass.
  • Vs Monarch MK3: The bass is better on the Valhalla, and the detail, the layering, the masking, the note weight, as well as the sibilance are also better.

Takeaway: The Thieaudio Valhalla is a high-end IEM that offers excellent sound quality across the board. For those who want a well-rounded IEM that delivers a detailed and engaging listening experience, the Valhalla is a great option.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Thieaudio is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones with IMPACT2 technology—an in-ear "subwoofer" using two dynamic drivers in an isobaric chamber to boost bass power while keeping frequency constant—and dedicated sound bores to achieve studio-monitor layering and separation. The brand has established a benchmark reputation among reviewers for top-tier tonality at its price tier
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Campfire Audio
Astrolith
2199
/
Released
2024
The latest from the acoustics team at Campfire Audio, Astrolith represents the tip-of-the-spear for IEMs using a pure planar magnetic architecture. Further expanding on Campfire's lineage of planar earphones, Astrolith incorporates two new drivers wrapped in our PPR and AAOI tuning elements. Combining the inherent advantages of planar magnetic drivers with decades of acoustic engineering experiences brings about an incredible new horizon in the realm of planar magnetic IEMs.
Check Amazon
Campfire Audio is a hifi headphone brand known for their Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber (TAEC) for balanced armatures and Solid Body Design that mounts drivers into a single 3D-printed "engine block" to improve tuning and reliability. The brand has pioneered several unique approaches, such as crossoverless dual-planar architecture, beryllium-PVD dynamic diaphragms, and 3D-printed ceramic acoustic structures. Their Andromeda model long held a reputation as a benchmark reference for hifi IEM performance.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Impressive technical performance, clarity, detail retrieval, and resolution due to its planar magnetic drivers.
  • Features a new, comfortable, and ergonomic shell design that's also lightweight and durable.
  • Includes two upgraded Time Stream Metal cables, providing both 3.5mm and 4.4mm terminations.
  • Delivers a strong, extended bass response, with texture and speed, plus a nimble, airy top-end.
  • Exhibits a spacious, wide, and holographic soundstage with good imaging and instrument separation.

Product Considerations

  • Lower sensitivity might require a dedicated DAP or amplifier for optimal performance, and can sound anemic when paired with just a phone.
  • Can be sensitive to source pairings, warmer DACs might wash out the mids and some pairings may bring out sibilance.
  • Stock tips might not provide the best seal for everyone, and the stock tip selection is poor.
  • Silicone eartips can make the treble sound harsh.
  • The mirror-finished stainless steel faceplate is prone to fingerprints and smudges.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. Campfire Audio Bonneville: Astrolith has superior mids, clarity, detail and transparency, and better treble extension, articulation, and overall resolution.
  • Vs 64 Audio Volür: Astrolith offers bigger bass and a more exciting presentation, as well as faster and more resolving sound, but Volür is more accurate overall.
  • Vs. Oriolus Monachaa: Astrolith has a faster and more controlled bass with better texture, a more natural and realistic midrange with a fabulous timbre.
  • Vs. Elysian Acoustic Labs Annihilator: Astrolith delivers a more robust and organic mid-range with realistic and natural timbre and more defined lower mids.

Takeaway: The Astrolith is a technically impressive IEM with a comfortable design that delivers a powerful and detailed sound. It could be a great pick for listeners who want high-end sound that can play all kinds of music well.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Campfire Audio is a hifi headphone brand known for their Tuned Acoustic Expansion Chamber (TAEC) for balanced armatures and Solid Body Design that mounts drivers into a single 3D-printed "engine block" to improve tuning and reliability. The brand has pioneered several unique approaches, such as crossoverless dual-planar architecture, beryllium-PVD dynamic diaphragms, and 3D-printed ceramic acoustic structures. Their Andromeda model long held a reputation as a benchmark reference for hifi IEM performance.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
HIFIMAN
Svanar
1999
/
Released
2023
SVANAR — HiFiMAN's Flagship Single Dynamic Driver IEM with Over-Ear Detail.
Check Amazon
HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Captures the sound of the original Svanar, with a balanced tuning emphasizing bass and treble while maintaining the mids
  • Incredible imaging performance, offering a wide, well-rounded, three-dimensional soundstage with excellent positioning and separation—highly competitive, even compared to non-TWS IEMs under $1000
  • Has an R2R DAC which permits unreachable technical performance
  • Very light and comfortable
  • Excellent connectivity and usability

Product Considerations

  • LDAC connectivity issues with invasive intermittence and noise cutting
  • ANC and Transparency mode aren’t very useful and lack dynamic, delivering leaner dynamic, less musicality
  • Plastic build might not be most durable if dropped
  • High-frequencies are quite sensible to the source, making it one of the least forgiving TWS
  • Hiss is also present

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Svanar Wireless is punchier, with better bass detail and imaging, and a wider soundstage, while the Final ZE8000 has a warmer, more neutral sound
  • The Svanar Wireless has stronger imaging performance, a wider soundstage, and a better balance between separation and cohesion
  • The Svanar Wireless is superior in technicalities and tonal balance, as well as timbre and tone naturalness, and ultimately musicality
  • The Svanar Wireless' soundstage is taller and wider but not as deep, since clarity isn’t as sharp and clean, silence being more "noisy"
  • The Svanar Wireless has better sound and performs better technically
  • The Sony TWS has bloated bass that overwhelms everything else; in comparison, the soundstage and treble performance of the Svanar Wireless is miles ahead, presenting a much more detailed, natural, and sophisticated kind of sound

Takeaway: The Svanar Wireless sounds impressive for wireless earbuds, and it has great connectivity and features. For those seeking high-end wireless sound, these are worth considering.

Video review

Our take on the brand

HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

Questions? Ask the brand's dealers.

All Dealers

How to buy

Headphones

Search all hifi products

Explore our database of 10,000+ new and 25,000+ used hifi products.