Wired IEMs
Campfire Audio Andromeda Gold
63Good
$1,800
Full review dataCampfire Audio Andromeda Gold 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.
Wired IEMs
THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV
84Outstanding
$1,150
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV leads on 4 of 4 measures.
- Campfire Audio Andromeda Gold
- THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV
HearWiki score
63
84
Sound
8.3
9.4
Value
-
7.6
Price (USD)
$1,800
$1,150
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 MKIV is 4 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 4 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.
- Andromeda Gold2021
- Monarch MKIV20254 yr newer
Specifications
Andromeda GoldMonarch MKIV
- Type
- Wired IEMs
- Wired IEMs
- Price (USD)
- $1,800
- $1,150
- HearWiki score
- 63
- 84
- Released
- 2021
- 2025
- Availability
- Discontinued
- Sold new
- Driver
- 10× balanced armature
- 2DD + 6BA + 2EST tribrid
- Driver type
- balanced-armature
- tribrid
- Driver configuration
- -
- 2DD + 6BA + 2EST
- Driver size
- -
- 8 mm
- Drivers per side
- 10
- 10
- Frequency response
- 5 Hz - 20 kHz
- -
- Impedance
- 8.5 Ω
- -
- Sensitivity
- 116 dB/mW
- -
- Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)
- 94
- -
- Active noise cancelling
- No
- -
- Connector
- 2-pin 0.78 mm
- -
- Model code
- Andromeda 10
- -
What reviewers said
Campfire Audio Andromeda Gold
The Andromeda Gold is a top-tier wired IEM that reimagines the classic Andromeda formula with a 10-driver balanced-armature setup, delivering a more powerful, bass-forward yet highly detailed sound. It pairs a striking, premium design with an expansive soundstage, making it a standout choice for audiophiles seeking maximum resolution and low-end weight. Its ultra-low impedance and high sensitivity make it easy to drive but also reveal the quality of your source device.
- Pro:Powerful, extended bass response
- Pro:Exceptional detail and resolution
- Pro:Wide, immersive soundstage
- Con:Very low impedance can highlight source noise
- Con:High price point
- Con:No detachable cable strain relief
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.
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