Skip to content
HearWiki

Campfire Audio Andromeda 'Emerald Sea' vs THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 84. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV - Outstanding overall at around $1149.

Score breakdown

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

THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV leads on 3 of 4 measures.

  • Campfire Audio Andromeda 'Emerald Sea'
  • THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV
HearWiki score
68
84
Sound
8.4
9.4
Value
5.8
7.6
Price (USD)
$1,120
$1,150

Specifications

Andromeda 'Emerald Sea'Monarch MKIV
Type
Wired IEMs
Wired IEMs
Price (USD)
$1,120
$1,150
HearWiki score
68
84
Released
2023
2025
Availability
Discontinued
Sold new
Driver
5× balanced armature
2DD + 6BA + 2EST tribrid
Driver type
balanced-armature
tribrid
Driver configuration
-
2DD + 6BA + 2EST
Driver size
-
8 mm
Drivers per side
5
10
Frequency response
5 Hz - 20 kHz
-
Impedance
6.4 Ω
-
Sensitivity
94 dB/mW
-
Controls
buttons
-
Detachable cable
Yes
-
USB-C
No
-
Connector
MMCX
-

What reviewers said

Campfire Audio Andromeda 'Emerald Sea'

The Campfire Audio Andromeda 'Emerald Sea' is a five-driver balanced-armature IEM that delivers impressive resolution, a wide soundstage, and robust build quality. Its tuning is warmer and bass-forward compared to earlier Andromeda models, making it a strong pick for those who want detailed sound with extra low-end presence. The low 6.4-ohm impedance means it pairs best with sources that have a low output impedance.

  • Pro:Excellent detail retrieval and clarity
  • Pro:Spacious and well-layered soundstage
  • Pro:Premium build with comfortable fit
  • Con:Tuning is not neutral or balanced
  • Con:Very low impedance may require specific sources
  • Con:Pricey for the feature set

THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV

The Monarch MKIV is a flagship in-ear monitor built around a ten-driver tribrid configuration, blending dual 8mm dynamic drivers, six balanced armatures, and two electrostatic tweeters. It offers a studio-neutral sound signature with an additional switchable bass-boost mode for listeners who prefer a more impactful low end.

  • Pro:Reference-grade neutral tuning with excellent clarity
  • Pro:Versatile bass boost mode adds flexibility
  • Pro:Detailed and extended treble from electrostatic tweeters
  • Con:High price point limits accessibility
  • Con:Requires a capable source to perform at its best
  • Con:Large shell may not suit smaller ears

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

Compare something else

Swap either side out, or start again from the picker.

New comparisonCampfire Audio Andromeda 'Emerald Sea'THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV