Kinera Mimisbrunnr 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.

Kinera Mimisbrunnr
THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV

HearWiki score

Sound

8.6

9.4

Value

7.1

7.6

Price (USD)

$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

Kinera Mimisbrunnr (2026) against THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV (2025). These are 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.

Mimisbrunnr20261 yr newer
Monarch MKIV2025

Specifications

MimisbrunnrMonarch MKIV

Type: Wired IEMs; Wired IEMs
Price (USD): $800; $1,150
HearWiki score: 78; 84
Released: 2026; 2025
Availability: Sold new; Sold new
Driver: 2DD + 2EST hybrid; 2DD + 6BA + 2EST tribrid
Driver type: hybrid; tribrid
Driver configuration: 2DD + 2EST; 2DD + 6BA + 2EST
Driver size: -; 8 mm
Drivers per side: 4; 10
Frequency response: 20 Hz - 40 kHz; -
Impedance: 43 Ω; -
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms): 102; -
Detachable cable: Yes; -
Connector: 2-pin 0.78 mm; -
Balanced connection: Yes; -

Specification comparison of Kinera Mimisbrunnr vs THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV
Spec	Kinera Mimisbrunnr	THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV
Type	Wired IEMs	Wired IEMs
Price (USD)	$800	$1,150
HearWiki score	78 / 100 Great	84 / 100 Outstanding
Released	2026	2025
Audio
Driver	2DD + 2EST hybrid	2DD + 6BA + 2EST tribrid
Driver type	hybrid	tribrid
Driver configuration	2DD + 2EST	2DD + 6BA + 2EST
Driver size	-	8 mm
Drivers per side	4	10
Frequency response	20 Hz - 40 kHz	-
Impedance	43 Ω	-
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)	102	-
Design
Detachable cable	Yes	-
Connector	2-pin 0.78 mm	-
Balanced connection	Yes	-

What reviewers said

Kinera Mimisbrunnr

The Kinera Mimisbrunnr is a wired hybrid IEM that pairs two dynamic drivers with two electrostatic drivers for a vibrant, V-shaped sound signature. Its deep, punchy bass and natural midrange make it engaging, though the midrange can sit slightly behind the other frequencies. With a striking artistic shell and solid build, it's a distinctive choice for listeners who prioritize bass impact and design flair over absolute neutrality.

Pro:Punchy, deep bass response
Pro:Natural timbre in the midrange
Pro:Artistic, well-constructed shells

Con:Midrange can feel recessed in the mix
Con:Large shells may not fit all ears comfortably
Con:No noise cancellation, so isolation depends on fit

THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV

This flagship in-ear monitor packs a ten-driver hybrid setup—pairing dual 8mm dynamics with six balanced armatures and two electrostatic tweeters—to deliver a reference-grade, studio-neutral signature. It also offers a switchable RUMBLE mode for those who prefer a more pronounced low-end, catering to both purists and bass enthusiasts. The wired-only design focuses on audiophile-grade sound without active noise cancellation.

Pro:Reference-neutral tuning with optional bass boost
Pro:Layered, detailed treble from dual electrostats
Pro:Solid build and premium fit for long sessions

Con:No wireless or ANC options
Con:Large shell may not suit smaller ears
Con:Requires a quality source to shine fully

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

Compare something else

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New comparison Kinera Mimisbrunnr THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV