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Campfire Audio Andromeda 2020 vs Thieaudio Monarch MkIII: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Campfire Audio Andromeda 2020 comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 80. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Campfire Audio Andromeda 2020 - Great overall at around $835.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

Campfire Audio Andromeda 2020 leads on 3 of 4 measures.

  • Campfire Audio Andromeda 2020
  • Thieaudio Monarch MkIII
HearWiki score
80
79
Sound
9.0
8.8
Value
6.5
7.5
Price (USD)
$830
$1,000

Generation & platform

The scores rank quality. This is the other question: is the newer one actually newer technology, or the same platform in a new shell?

Same generation

The Thieaudio Monarch MkIII is 3 years newer, but it is the same generation of hardware: nothing in the radio, the codecs or the noise cancelling separates them. Nothing separates them on convenience features either, so the choice comes down to tuning and price. For 3 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • Andromeda 20202020
  • Monarch MkIII20233 yr newer

Specifications

Andromeda 2020Monarch MkIII
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$830
$1,000
HearWiki score
80
79
Released
2020
2023
Availability
Discontinued
Discontinued
Driver
5× balanced armature
tribrid
Driver type
balanced-armature
tribrid
Driver size
-
10 mm
Drivers per side
5
-
Frequency response
5 Hz - 20 kHz
-
Impedance
6.4 Ω
20 Ω
Sensitivity
123 dB/mW
-
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)
94
-
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Controls
none
-
Detachable cable
Yes
-
USB-C
No
-
Connector
MMCX
-
Model code
Andromeda Emerald Sea
-

What reviewers said

Campfire Audio Andromeda 2020

The Campfire Audio Andromeda 2020 is a premium five-driver balanced armature IEM that refines the original's signature with smoother, more coherent mids and improved treble. It delivers an expansive soundstage with excellent imaging and layering, though its low impedance and high sensitivity mean it demands a quality source to shine. A worthwhile update for both newcomers and existing fans, it excels in clarity and detail but has some limitations in bass texture.

  • Pro:Cohesive and smooth midrange
  • Pro:Excellent soundstage and imaging
  • Pro:Strong, detailed treble
  • Con:Requires a high-quality source
  • Con:Limited bass texture and weight
  • Con:No controls or ANC

Thieaudio Monarch MkIII

The Thieaudio Monarch MkIII is a premium tribrid in-ear monitor that delivers a refined, balanced sound with impressive technicalities like detailed imaging, clear vocals, and a spacious stage. While its tuning and overall performance earn high praise, the large shell and plain design may not suit everyone, and it lacks features like noise cancellation or wireless connectivity, making it less ideal for active or office use. Overall, it stands out as a strong contender in the high-end IEM market for those prioritizing audio quality over portability or versatility.

  • Pro:Exceptional soundstage and imaging
  • Pro:Rich, textured bass with balanced tuning
  • Pro:Clear and detailed vocal reproduction
  • Con:Large shell may be uncomfortable for some
  • Con:Plain stock design lacks visual flair
  • Con:No noise cancellation or wireless support

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

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New comparisonCampfire Audio Andromeda 2020Thieaudio Monarch MkIII