Lime Ears Terra VS ThieAudio Monarch MK4
IEM Comparison: Expert & Community Scores Side-by-Side
Lime Ears Terra and ThieAudio Monarch MK4 use 1DD+5BA and 2DD+6BA+2EST driver setups respectively. Lime Ears Terra costs $1,200 while ThieAudio Monarch MK4 costs $1,149. Lime Ears Terra is $51 more expensive. ThieAudio Monarch MK4 holds a decisive 1-point edge in reviewer scores (8.5 vs 9.5). ThieAudio Monarch MK4 carries a user score of 9. ThieAudio Monarch MK4 has significantly better mids with a 1-point edge, ThieAudio Monarch MK4 has significantly better treble with a 1-point edge, ThieAudio Monarch MK4 has significantly better dynamics with a 1-point edge and ThieAudio Monarch MK4 has significantly better soundstage with a 1-point edge.
Insights
| Metric | Lime Ears Terra | ThieAudio Monarch MK4 |
|---|---|---|
| Mids | 7 | 8 |
| Treble | 8 | 9 |
| Soundstage | 8 | 9 |
| Dynamics | 7 | 8 |
| Tonality | 7.5 | 8.5 |
| Technicalities | 8 | 9 |
Jaytiss Reviews Comparison
Lime Ears Terra reviewed by
8.5
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
Build and presentation hit boutique vibes: a machined-aluminum shell with a clever nozzle dip that grips tips securely, a flat 2-pin socket with a top filter, and smooth finishing that feels premium in ear. The accessory set fits the price—SpinFit W1 and foam tips, cleaner, pouch—and the leatherette puck case looks simple but feels surprisingly durable. The stock 4.4 mm cable is aesthetically pleasing yet a bit stiff, with a loose chin slider; red/blue markers make orientation easy.
Tonally, Terra skews brighter with a touch of sharpness up top, bringing strong micro-detail and air while keeping a tasteful, impactful bass shelf. The 6-driver hybrid (including a 7 mm titanium DD for lows) delivers confident technicalities: fast attacks, clean separation, and a wide-open stage. FR observations show a gradual bass rise, good treble extension, and a mid-treble lift (around the 8 k region) that adds sparkle and excitement but can read hot for sensitive listeners.
Against peers, Terra tracks a refined “Harman-ish” contour with extra energy, feeling more dynamic and lively than several mid/high-tier alternatives while keeping mids even and uncluttered. Trade-offs exist: a hint of metallic timbre, occasional upper-mid glare, and imaging that can soften at micro level; yet the overall mix of bass quality, clarity, and stage makes music engaging. At $1,200, the Polish boutique package reads as a serious, distinctive choice—highly recommendable if a brighter tilt and vivid treble are on the wish list.
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
ThieAudio Monarch MK4 reviewed by
2025-07-25
9.5
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
Priced between $1,150 and $1,300 depending on custom faceplate options like the butterfly design shown, the Thieaudio Monarch MK IV boasts exceptional build quality with a large but well-contoured titanium shell offering a secure and comfortable fit. Key features include the innovative rumble switch for adjustable bass levels on the fly, a durable two-pin connector, and a solid feel that inspires confidence in longevity. While the included accessories are considered fair but unexciting, the shell's customization potential and rugged construction are major highlights.
Sonically, the Monarch MK IV delivers a detailed, exciting, and clean sound signature that stands as the best in the Monarch lineage. The rumble switch provides two distinct profiles: the red switch (no rumble) offers a balanced, tactful bass presentation, while the gold switch (rumble) adds a satisfying sub-bass shelf ideal for genres like hip-hop. Treble performance is notably improved over the MK III, though a 10k peak requires careful ear tip selection for some listeners. It trades blows with flagships like the $3,000 Annihilator (better sub-bass focus) and the $1,800 Elysian Apostle (more vocal forward), often matching or exceeding their technicalities while offering its unique tuning flexibility.
Scoring a top-tier 9.8, the Monarch MK IV earns its place through a compelling combination of premium build, the highly functional rumble switch, and outstanding sound quality that feels both special and refined. While acknowledging the high price, it represents significant value against competitors like the $2,000 Thieaudio Valhalla or the fiddly Grand Maestro, offering a feature-rich, durable, and sonically excellent package that justifies its position as a current summit-fi favorite.
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
Buy ThieAudio Monarch MK4 on Linsoul
Ad
Price: $1,149
Buy ThieAudio Monarch MK4 on Linsoul
Lime Ears Terra Details
Driver Configuration: 1DD+5BA
Tuning Type: U-Shaped
Brand: Lime Ears Top Lime Ears IEMs
Price (Msrp): $1,200
Support our free service! Buying through our affiliate links costs you nothing extra:
ThieAudio Monarch MK4 Details
Driver Configuration: 2DD+6BA+2EST
Tuning Type: Neutral with Bass Boost, U-Shaped
Brand: ThieAudio Top ThieAudio IEMs
Price (Msrp): $1,149
Support our free service! Buying through our affiliate links costs you nothing extra:
Lime Ears Terra Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
A- It presents a smooth, well-integrated tonal balance that plays nicely with many styles. It maintains natural timbre across the range.
Average Technical Grade
A+- The tuning feels expertly organized, marrying agile dynamics with well-defined spatial cues. Technical listeners will appreciate the poise.
ThieAudio Monarch MK4 Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
S-- The response feels meticulously dialed in, combining neutrality with inviting warmth. Dynamic swings remain tonally accurate.
Average Technical Grade
S- The technical ceiling is high here, revealing fine gradations without breaking composure. Every instrument carves out its own pocket in the mix.
Lime Ears Terra User Reviews
"This is an example review"
Pros
- Example pro 1
- Example pro 2
Cons
- Example con 1
- Example con 2
Share your experience and build your personal ranking list.
You need to be signed in to write your own reviewThieAudio Monarch MK4 User Reviews
Share your experience and build your personal ranking list.
You need to be signed in to write your own reviewImpressive sound experience and the built quality is finally worth the price (compared to Mk3). I "upgraded" my Mk3 and I am happy with it.
Pros
I don't regret buying those. I would not describe them as a huge upgrade to the Mk3 in terms of sound, but it is noticeable. Built quality and overall experience much more premium than MK3.Cons
The designs of the shells are a matter of taste.Find your next IEM:
IEM Finder Quiz
newIEM Comparison Tool
newVS