FiiO FX17 vs Thieaudio Monarch MkIII: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the FiiO FX17 comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 83. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: FiiO FX17 - Outstanding overall at around $1499.

Wired IEMs

FiiO FX17

83Outstanding

$1,500

Full review data

Wired IEMs

Score breakdown

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

Thieaudio Monarch MkIII leads on 3 of 4 measures.

FiiO FX17
Thieaudio Monarch MkIII

HearWiki score

Sound

9.0

9.2

Value

6.0

7.8

Price (USD)

$1,500

$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 FiiO FX17 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.

FX1720263 yr newer
Monarch MkIII2023

Specifications

FX17Monarch MkIII

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $1,500; $1,000
HearWiki score: 83; 77
Released: 2026; 2023
Availability: Sold new; Discontinued
Driver: 1DD + 4BA + 8EST tribrid; tribrid
Driver type: tribrid; tribrid
Driver configuration: 1DD + 4BA + 8EST; -
Driver size: 10 mm; 10 mm
Drivers per side: 13; -
Impedance: 16 Ω; 20 Ω
Sensitivity: 99 dB/mW; -
Active noise cancelling: No; No
Weight: 12.2 g; -
Detachable cable: Yes; -
Connector: 4.4 mm balanced; -

Specification comparison of FiiO FX17 vs Thieaudio Monarch MkIII
Spec	FiiO FX17	Thieaudio Monarch MkIII
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$1,500	$1,000
HearWiki score	83 / 100 Outstanding	77 / 100 Great
Released	2026	2023
Audio
Driver	1DD + 4BA + 8EST tribrid	tribrid
Driver type	tribrid	tribrid
Driver configuration	1DD + 4BA + 8EST	-
Driver size	10 mm	10 mm
Drivers per side	13	-
Impedance	16 Ω	20 Ω
Sensitivity	99 dB/mW	-
Features
Active noise cancelling	No	No
Design
Weight	12.2 g	-
Detachable cable	Yes	-
Connector	4.4 mm balanced	-

What reviewers said

FiiO FX17

The FiiO FX17 is a premium wired tribrid IEM that combines a 10mm dynamic driver, four balanced armatures, and eight electrostatic drivers per side for a detailed, multi-layered sound. Its titanium shell and five-way crossover aim to deliver a refined, high-resolution listening experience, while the included 4.4mm balanced cable offers versatility for audiophile setups.

Pro:Precision-milled titanium shell for durability and resonance control
Pro:Hybrid driver array (1DD + 4BA + 8EST) offers expansive treble and dynamic bass
Pro:Swappable plugs on the cable provide flexible connectivity

Con:No active noise cancellation, requiring a quiet environment or isolation tips
Con:High price point may limit accessibility
Con:16-ohm impedance may need a powerful source for optimal performance

Thieaudio Monarch MkIII

The Thieaudio Monarch MkIII is a wired tribrid in-ear monitor that delivers a refined, balanced sound with impressive imaging and a spacious stage. Its technical prowess and engaging tuning make it a strong contender in the premium price bracket, though its larger shells and plain aesthetic may not suit everyone.

Pro:Excellent imaging and soundstage
Pro:Rich, textured bass with good balance
Pro:Clear and resolving vocal reproduction

Con:Bulky shells may fit poorly for some
Con:Plain stock design lacks flair
Con:Not ideal for office or sport use

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

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