Wired IEMs
Hisenior Mega5EST
84Outstanding
$650
Full review dataHisenior Mega5EST 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.
Neither pulls ahead overall - they trade wins across the measures.
- Hisenior Mega5EST
- THIEAUDIO Monarch MKIV
HearWiki score
84
84
Sound
9.1
9.4
Value
8.3
7.6
Price (USD)
$650
$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 2 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.
- Mega5EST2023
- Monarch MKIV20252 yr newer
Specifications
Mega5ESTMonarch MKIV
- Type
- Wired IEMs
- Wired IEMs
- Price (USD)
- $650
- $1,150
- HearWiki score
- 84
- 84
- Released
- 2023
- 2025
- Availability
- Still sold new
- Sold new
- Driver
- 1DD + 2BA + 2EST tribrid
- 2DD + 6BA + 2EST tribrid
- Driver type
- tribrid
- tribrid
- Driver configuration
- 1DD + 2BA + 2EST
- 2DD + 6BA + 2EST
- Driver size
- 10 mm
- 8 mm
- Drivers per side
- 5
- 10
- Impedance
- 25 Ω
- -
- Weight
- 6 g
- -
- Connector
- 2-pin 0.78 mm
- -
What reviewers said
Hisenior Mega5EST
The Hisenior Mega5EST is a premium wired tribrid IEM that pairs a dynamic driver, dual balanced armatures, and dual electrostatic drivers for a cohesive, engaging sound. Its tuning leans toward musical enjoyment rather than clinical analysis, wrapped in a lightweight, well-built shell with a generous accessory set. The overall presentation is balanced and easy to listen to, making it a versatile choice for those seeking high-end performance without fatigue.
- Pro:Engaging, pleasure-oriented tuning that remains balanced and cohesive
- Pro:Premium build quality with a lightweight, comfortable fit
- Pro:Includes a robust accessory set and quality cable
- Con:Shell color may not perfectly match the faceplates aesthetically
- Con:Tuning favors broad appeal over extreme technical precision
- Con:No active noise cancellation, limiting isolation to passive means
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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