DUNU x Z Reviews SA6 Ultra 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

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.

DUNU x Z Reviews SA6 Ultra
THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV

HearWiki score

Sound

8.1

9.4

Value

7.6

Price (USD)

$600

$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 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.

x Z Reviews SA6 Ultra2022
Monarch MKIV20253 yr newer

Specifications

x Z Reviews SA6 UltraMonarch MKIV

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $600; $1,150
HearWiki score: 70; 84
Released: 2022; 2025
Availability: Discontinued; Sold new
Driver: -; 2DD + 6BA + 2EST tribrid
Driver type: -; tribrid
Driver configuration: -; 2DD + 6BA + 2EST
Driver size: -; 8 mm
Drivers per side: -; 10

Specification comparison of DUNU x Z Reviews SA6 Ultra vs THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV
Spec	DUNU x Z Reviews SA6 Ultra	THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$600	$1,150
HearWiki score	70 / 100 Good	84 / 100 Outstanding
Released	2022	2025
Audio
Driver	-	2DD + 6BA + 2EST tribrid
Driver type	-	tribrid
Driver configuration	-	2DD + 6BA + 2EST
Driver size	-	8 mm
Drivers per side	-	10

What reviewers said

DUNU x Z Reviews SA6 Ultra

The DUNU x Z Reviews SA6 Ultra is a limited-edition wired IEM that packs six balanced-armature drivers per side, delivering a highly detailed and refined sound signature. Designed as a retuned and upgraded take on the original SA6, it targets audiophiles seeking a more polished and engaging listening experience through its 0.78 mm 2-pin connection.

Pro:Detailed and layered sound from six BA drivers per side
Pro:Upgraded tuning offers a more audiophile-friendly presentation
Pro:Comfortable and secure fit with standard 2-pin cable

Con:No active noise cancellation, limiting isolation to passive means
Con:Premium price point may not suit casual listeners
Con:Limited availability due to its special-edition status

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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New comparison DUNU x Z Reviews SA6 Ultra THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV