I ended up selling Variations, but I will have to look into those eartips for the Monarch and other IEMs I own ;). Thank you for the suggestion and for watching.
Hey, so just a little tip to help with the weight of the monarch cable, they make iem cable clips that clip on to your shirt, clothes, etc. They are very handy.
As someone who tried both of these on a DX320 and sp2000t, I have to say Monarch MKII is the real deal. It scales sooooo much higher rivaling true high end IEMs demoed at CanJam. Way more authority and detail.
I'm enjoying my Timeless a lot never heard anything like it. Too much of details just gorgeous. Can't imagine how can it get better for 5x the price definitely not 5x better not even 3x I suppose.
I have owned odin, u12t, and mest ii among other cheaper($500-1k) ones. Trust me timeless is a good place to stop unless you are 110% comfortable spending 1k+ on iems.
The Timeless are superb but on oh, sooo many tracks vocals are some weird kind of...shouty? Like there's too much 'air' in them? I mean you can *feel* the vocals viscerally against yr ear, not just hear their sound? Anyone else know what i mean? Seems quite a real flaw...maybe get better with time?
@@lightweed Exactly. Even I got that problem just yesterday. And for me its only in left ear. Is is for you too only one ear? Also same thing mostly in some songs. Billie Eilish very low voice has 0 probs. DOn't know should I use my warranty or not(as not every song and also have to ship it myself). The problem is on anything now and I clearly remember that it wasn't there for so many days. I have found a forum reply by some guy facing same prob.
@@datdudeinred that weird pressure you feel from the vocals, right? The moment those vocals become more forcible or intensified? So 7hz.. or maybe Linsoul is it? - haha can't recall right now from which dealer i ordered mine ! - say they will replace but return shipping must be paid for. From where i live, that means over fifty bucks postage. Aiiiyeee! SUCH a tough decision! One can only wonder how the replacement would sound....so much audio wonderfulness, spoiled by that one crazy feature!
Awesome comparison!! A quick question: How does the Monarch MK2 compare to the EJ07M in terms of resolution/imaging? Wondering which one I should get for vocals/mids/bands/acoustics since the EJ07M is $500 right now. Merry Christmas and happy holidays! Keep up the great work 👍
It's like 90% there. EJ07m has less detail and it has smoother treble. I think both sound nice for acoustics. But keep in mind the non-custom EJ07M is metal not resin so that may affect comfort. If you have the money and don't care about comfort then Monarch MKII is worth the price, but custom EJ07M is my go to IEM as it's comfortable and sounds pleasant. It's a good all rounder iem.
Good round-up, personally driving the Blessing 2 right now and was planning to upgrade to Variations/Monarch Mk I/Monarch Mk II. Missed the chance to demo the Monarch Mk II a couple of weeks ago and I regretted it, well in the flipside, I got to listen to a bit of the U12t and they're damn amazing. 2k bucks is too much tho for me. Have you tried the Monarch Mk I? I'm wondering if I could get pretty much the Mk II experience through Mk I with EQ
I haven't tried Monarch MKI in a while, but based on the graphs and memory the sub-bass is a little more elevated on Monarch MKI but MKII has more elevated mid-bass. The MKII has slighter more elevated mids as well, but MKI has a stronger upper-midrange. In terms of sound the MKII sounds a little more airy/pronounced in treble so a little brighter, but both are not shouty/overly bright IEMs. I think MKII is generally a more refined version than MKI, but both are excellent IEMs. If you can handle B2's weight and thicc nozzle you should be able to handle Monarch's with ease. Variations is a great IEM for the price, but it has less midrange focus (almost recessed mids) than the Monarch, so Variations may be a deal-breaker depending on the music you listen to.
Since you're having trouble with cables, I suggest you look for something like the SSR cable, its light and not microphonic, I jogged for an hour easily without having to re-adjust the fit.
Hi good review. I had original EJ07 and sold it after getting Dunu SA6 but miss the DD punch and bass I was looking for Monarch MKii but do you think EJ07M are better option. Thanks 🙏
If we ignore comfort, between the Mk2 and the EJ07M, which is more enjoyable to listen to, and which would you tend to grab most often (if we assume the Mk2 is just as comfortable).
If both were comfortable the Monarch MKII would be the only pair I'd need. It has better detail and frankly has advantages in build quality as well as resale value.
tnx for video 🙏🏻 this video helped me get a better understanding of the Monarch Mk2 as well as the xenns up !! but what i really want is a combination of the two!!! that is, i want an earphone that has the bass power of xenns up & midrange & details like Monarch Mk2 !!!!!! can you introduce me an earphone with these specifications? in sub-bass, bass , midrange, treble like perfect, in fact, I'm looking for a complete & perfect earphone
Can you do a comparison of the Variations vs Sennheiser ie600? Closer in price range and ie600 looks t be more comfortable. The only question left is the sound...
That's tough, they are both fantastic IEMs. I think if comfort s important to you, the 64 Audio UT12T would have an advantage, additionally you'd be buying a brand that has less cases of driver failure (but ThieAudio isn't bad in this regard, just slightly worse than 64Audio).
Hey man thanks for the review. Im on the fence to purchase mkii. Im a basshead and i think im ok to accept that mkii might be softer in low tones as compared to Monarch OG, but just today, someone from the community told me that mkii might be a bit shouty and sibillance in upper mid areas. I dont get it? Is it true? Because many reviewers said that mkii is a very controlled iem for mid and high. If you can clarify will be much appreciated
It's not shouty to me, but if you're coming from a dark IEM like Xenns Up or EJ07M I could see a person finding it a bit bright. Still it isn't shouty to me even with Metal or Vocaloid songs. Most people don't find Monarch MKII shouty, this is the first I've heard of someone hearing that. :O
@@tcc5750 thanks man really appreciated. Im kinda doubt his opinion though because ive never seen him with the iem. So are you going to keep it? Is it worth for the money?
hello ! what the best iem you recommend that you can wear for long period of time ? I would like to buy the monarch but i'm someone who listen to music h24 so the comfort is important 😄
CIEMs if budget isn't an issue. If it is, then IE600, Moondrop Aria and Kato, EJ07M w/ Resin chassis. Those are the most comfortable universal IEMs IMO.
I got issues with ear shape, my channels are very tight, so basically only xs xelastecs or actually small foams from etymotic work for me. Any recommendations for sound similar-ish to monarch mk2 with this caveat? I do like analytical presentation, less colored, neutral tuning, and not laid-back in some sort of sense? Strongly hate sibilants though.
You could try the IE600, they aren't sibilant IMO, but they aren't close to Monarch MKII's performance IMO. Moondrop Aria and Kato, EJ07M w/ Resin chassis are also comfortable universal IEMs. If you are willing to try customs, then Hidition Viento-B would be a great option for neutral and detailed.
can u quickly check the sound differences when using the Final Type E eartips vs stock? audiophileon did a review on the Mk2 and said "Eartips can change the sound significantly. While you can get aftermarket tips like Azla or Final installed, I wouldn’t advise doing so as you sacrifice sound quality." PS: from what i've read, the AZLA should be closest to the original sound and increase soundstage (earfit light), if you don't mind checking that too. thanks
Since the Monarch stock tips leave me in pain within 5 minutes or less I really have to use the Final Audio Type E tips. I tried the Azla tips but my small ears didn't like the weight in canal or on my concha.
Great detail review about the small things no one touches upon in previous reviews, love the comparison. Just one question how bad is the microphonics on the mk2 cable?
The bottom part of the cable past the metal splitter isn't bad at all, but the parts that go to the left and right have some microphonics. Like if I'm playing Stellaris or Civ and need to move around the keyboard a lot the microphonics on the Monarch MKII can be a little annoying. It isn't that bad though if you don't move your arms or head excessively. So for critical listening sessions where I'm not moving my head or arms around much it's perfect.
I liked the Monarch MKII more for female vocals and realistic imaging. As for timbre both have their strengths, but honestly Monarch MKII is probably the better IEM for most in terms of overall SQ.
Do you have any cable recommendations for the Variations? I'm looking for something flexible and thin (similar to the one that comes stock with the Andromeda).
I wish I had a suggestion for a thin cable, but sadly the only cable I bought for Variations was a 16 core IEM cable off Amazon. It's thick and a bit heavy but it has zero microphonics.
I liked it a lot, it has significantly less bass and is more neutral, but it has an impressive soundstage and incredible detail. Probably my favorite instrument separation so far. The issue I had was comfort; even with several third-party tips, I could not get a perfect fit and got soreness with IER-M9 after 2-3 hours of wearing. U12T was better for me in that regard, but soon I should have some custom IEMs. Fingers crossed, that finally solves my ear aches.
Depends on how important getting that last 5-10% of detail is to you. Also if you want slightly less bass but more midrange and treble emphasis, those are the main differences. For me it is, but for many it might not be.
Thanks for the confirmation.. the Thieaudio Oracle 2 is easily the best IEM that Thieaudio has to date. It has the things that great about monarch and original Oracle and yet corrects both flaws from the lack to sub bass and treble extension on the first Oracle to the weight,bulk, and lack of comfort, and veiled signature of the monarch 2.
@@tcc5750 Hello, which one is better, Sony IER-Z1R or Monarch Mk2? and What do you think about Moondrop S8? I havent unboxed it because should I upgrade to Sony IER-Z1R or Monarch Mk2? Thank you
Monarch MKII, but the bass is nice on Mest MKII. Both are quite uncomfortable universal IEMs, but Mest MKII CIEM would give you excellent comfort if that's important to you. ThieAudio still does not offer Monarch MKII as a CIEM.
Just found you. You're definitely needed in the sea of IEM reviewers, not just a redundant other one. Thanks. Keep it up! 👍
Thank you! :)
Redundant who?
Thanks a lot for this comparison. Super helpful! Think I'll hold off on buying the Monarch MK2. Loving the variations as an all rounder at the moment.
Honestly, been looking forward to a solid comparison of these two iems. This is great. Thank you sir.
Glad you enjoyed!
Bro you rock! The audio community need more reviewers like you!
Thank you! :)
Exactly.
don't stop, I'm sure your channel will grow. u have my sub sir. keep it up
Nice Review Sir 👍
Btw, Spinfit CP155 will address the complaint of uncomfortable fitting in Variation.
I have proven myself.
I ended up selling Variations, but I will have to look into those eartips for the Monarch and other IEMs I own ;). Thank you for the suggestion and for watching.
please consider to make more videos. thanks for making them, and posting them. cheers
Thank you, will do for sure. Just been a little under the weather and had some dental work. I'm starting to recuperate now.
Hey, so just a little tip to help with the weight of the monarch cable, they make iem cable clips that clip on to your shirt, clothes, etc. They are very handy.
Please do more IEM videos man, I really like your style of review!
TCC -"I do like these though for metal" Me - "YEAHHHH BOIIIIIII"
As someone who tried both of these on a DX320 and sp2000t, I have to say Monarch MKII is the real deal. It scales sooooo much higher rivaling true high end IEMs demoed at CanJam. Way more authority and detail.
My IEM habit makes me so happy to have big ole ear holes
You're fortunate.
Love your DAP.
Thanks :)
You sound interesting, good job.
Thank you
I'm enjoying my Timeless a lot never heard anything like it. Too much of details just gorgeous. Can't imagine how can it get better for 5x the price definitely not 5x better not even 3x I suppose.
Diminishing returns 101
I have owned odin, u12t, and mest ii among other cheaper($500-1k) ones. Trust me timeless is a good place to stop unless you are 110% comfortable spending 1k+ on iems.
The Timeless are superb but on oh, sooo many tracks vocals are some weird kind of...shouty? Like there's too much 'air' in them? I mean you can *feel* the vocals viscerally against yr ear, not just hear their sound? Anyone else know what i mean? Seems quite a real flaw...maybe get better with time?
@@lightweed Exactly. Even I got that problem just yesterday. And for me its only in left ear. Is is for you too only one ear? Also same thing mostly in some songs. Billie Eilish very low voice has 0 probs. DOn't know should I use my warranty or not(as not every song and also have to ship it myself). The problem is on anything now and I clearly remember that it wasn't there for so many days. I have found a forum reply by some guy facing same prob.
@@datdudeinred that weird pressure you feel from the vocals, right? The moment those vocals become more forcible or intensified? So 7hz.. or maybe Linsoul is it? - haha can't recall right now from which dealer i ordered mine ! - say they will replace but return shipping must be paid for. From where i live, that means over fifty bucks postage. Aiiiyeee! SUCH a tough decision! One can only wonder how the replacement would sound....so much audio wonderfulness, spoiled by that one crazy feature!
Epic review 😎
Awesome comparison!!
A quick question: How does the Monarch MK2 compare to the EJ07M in terms of resolution/imaging?
Wondering which one I should get for vocals/mids/bands/acoustics since the EJ07M is $500 right now.
Merry Christmas and happy holidays! Keep up the great work 👍
It's like 90% there. EJ07m has less detail and it has smoother treble. I think both sound nice for acoustics. But keep in mind the non-custom EJ07M is metal not resin so that may affect comfort. If you have the money and don't care about comfort then Monarch MKII is worth the price, but custom EJ07M is my go to IEM as it's comfortable and sounds pleasant. It's a good all rounder iem.
Good round-up, personally driving the Blessing 2 right now and was planning to upgrade to Variations/Monarch Mk I/Monarch Mk II. Missed the chance to demo the Monarch Mk II a couple of weeks ago and I regretted it, well in the flipside, I got to listen to a bit of the U12t and they're damn amazing. 2k bucks is too much tho for me.
Have you tried the Monarch Mk I? I'm wondering if I could get pretty much the Mk II experience through Mk I with EQ
I haven't tried Monarch MKI in a while, but based on the graphs and memory the sub-bass is a little more elevated on Monarch MKI but MKII has more elevated mid-bass. The MKII has slighter more elevated mids as well, but MKI has a stronger upper-midrange. In terms of sound the MKII sounds a little more airy/pronounced in treble so a little brighter, but both are not shouty/overly bright IEMs. I think MKII is generally a more refined version than MKI, but both are excellent IEMs. If you can handle B2's weight and thicc nozzle you should be able to handle Monarch's with ease. Variations is a great IEM for the price, but it has less midrange focus (almost recessed mids) than the Monarch, so Variations may be a deal-breaker depending on the music you listen to.
crinacle.com/graphs/iems/graphtool/?share=Monarch_S2,Monarch_Mk2
Please make a detailed review of the Shuoer ejo7m resin custom.
Hope you come back to do more iem reviews you’re a natural at this
I appreciate it; I haven't had much time between work and Uni.
How do you feel about this comparison in 2023?
Since you're having trouble with cables, I suggest you look for something like the SSR cable, its light and not microphonic, I jogged for an hour easily without having to re-adjust the fit.
Hi good review. I had original EJ07 and sold it after getting Dunu SA6 but miss the DD punch and bass I was looking for Monarch MKii but do you think EJ07M are better option. Thanks 🙏
Monarch MKII if they aren't uncomfortable for your ears.
If we ignore comfort, between the Mk2 and the EJ07M, which is more enjoyable to listen to, and which would you tend to grab most often (if we assume the Mk2 is just as comfortable).
If both were comfortable the Monarch MKII would be the only pair I'd need. It has better detail and frankly has advantages in build quality as well as resale value.
tnx for video 🙏🏻
this video helped me get a better understanding of the Monarch Mk2 as well as the xenns up !! but what i really want is a combination of the two!!! that is, i want an earphone that has the bass power of xenns up & midrange & details like Monarch Mk2 !!!!!!
can you introduce me an earphone with these specifications?
in sub-bass, bass , midrange, treble like perfect,
in fact, I'm looking for a complete & perfect earphone
Can you do a comparison of the Variations vs Sennheiser ie600? Closer in price range and ie600 looks t be more comfortable. The only question left is the sound...
I tried out the IE600, other than comfort I don't really see them as anything special.
Bruh, your videos is so informative, subscribed. I have a question, monarch mk2 or 64 audio ut12 if the price tag is not a factor.
That's tough, they are both fantastic IEMs. I think if comfort s important to you, the 64 Audio UT12T would have an advantage, additionally you'd be buying a brand that has less cases of driver failure (but ThieAudio isn't bad in this regard, just slightly worse than 64Audio).
Why don't these iem manufacturers actually design iems for human ears?
Lol
Hey man thanks for the review. Im on the fence to purchase mkii. Im a basshead and i think im ok to accept that mkii might be softer in low tones as compared to Monarch OG, but just today, someone from the community told me that mkii might be a bit shouty and sibillance in upper mid areas. I dont get it? Is it true? Because many reviewers said that mkii is a very controlled iem for mid and high. If you can clarify will be much appreciated
It's not shouty to me, but if you're coming from a dark IEM like Xenns Up or EJ07M I could see a person finding it a bit bright. Still it isn't shouty to me even with Metal or Vocaloid songs. Most people don't find Monarch MKII shouty, this is the first I've heard of someone hearing that. :O
@@tcc5750 thanks man really appreciated. Im kinda doubt his opinion though because ive never seen him with the iem. So are you going to keep it? Is it worth for the money?
I'm keeping my Monarch MKII for sure, it's my most detailed IEM.
please do a review on yr m3x. thanks!!
hello ! what the best iem you recommend that you can wear for long period of time ?
I would like to buy the monarch but i'm someone who listen to music h24 so the comfort is important 😄
CIEMs if budget isn't an issue. If it is, then IE600, Moondrop Aria and Kato, EJ07M w/ Resin chassis. Those are the most comfortable universal IEMs IMO.
I got issues with ear shape, my channels are very tight, so basically only xs xelastecs or actually small foams from etymotic work for me.
Any recommendations for sound similar-ish to monarch mk2 with this caveat? I do like analytical presentation, less colored, neutral tuning, and not laid-back in some sort of sense? Strongly hate sibilants though.
You could try the IE600, they aren't sibilant IMO, but they aren't close to Monarch MKII's performance IMO. Moondrop Aria and Kato, EJ07M w/ Resin chassis are also comfortable universal IEMs. If you are willing to try customs, then Hidition Viento-B would be a great option for neutral and detailed.
can u quickly check the sound differences when using the Final Type E eartips vs stock? audiophileon did a review on the Mk2 and said "Eartips can change the sound significantly. While you can get aftermarket tips like Azla or Final installed, I wouldn’t advise doing so as you sacrifice sound quality."
PS: from what i've read, the AZLA should be closest to the original sound and increase soundstage (earfit light), if you don't mind checking that too. thanks
Since the Monarch stock tips leave me in pain within 5 minutes or less I really have to use the Final Audio Type E tips. I tried the Azla tips but my small ears didn't like the weight in canal or on my concha.
@@tcc5750 spinfit Cp 155 for variations and Cp500 for mkii it’s like a knife on a butter
Great detail review about the small things no one touches upon in previous reviews, love the comparison.
Just one question how bad is the microphonics on the mk2 cable?
The bottom part of the cable past the metal splitter isn't bad at all, but the parts that go to the left and right have some microphonics. Like if I'm playing Stellaris or Civ and need to move around the keyboard a lot the microphonics on the Monarch MKII can be a little annoying. It isn't that bad though if you don't move your arms or head excessively. So for critical listening sessions where I'm not moving my head or arms around much it's perfect.
Do you like the Xenns up?
I just know the monarch wouldn't fit me well. Sad :(
some say Monarch's sub bass is a bit soft and lacks that tight punch...do you feel that way?
Hi
How do they compare for female vocals, more forward, back, timbre, realistic, imaging.?
I liked the Monarch MKII more for female vocals and realistic imaging. As for timbre both have their strengths, but honestly Monarch MKII is probably the better IEM for most in terms of overall SQ.
Do you have any cable recommendations for the Variations? I'm looking for something flexible and thin (similar to the one that comes stock with the Andromeda).
I wish I had a suggestion for a thin cable, but sadly the only cable I bought for Variations was a 16 core IEM cable off Amazon. It's thick and a bit heavy but it has zero microphonics.
KBEAR Inspiration-C 4 Core Upgrade 4N Single Crystal Copper Woven Litz Cable
have u heard sony ier-m9? if so, how would it compare to monarch mk2?
I liked it a lot, it has significantly less bass and is more neutral, but it has an impressive soundstage and incredible detail. Probably my favorite instrument separation so far. The issue I had was comfort; even with several third-party tips, I could not get a perfect fit and got soreness with IER-M9 after 2-3 hours of wearing. U12T was better for me in that regard, but soon I should have some custom IEMs. Fingers crossed, that finally solves my ear aches.
@@tcc5750 what iem do you use most now?
Have the Variations, are the MKII’s worth double the price?, thanks.
Depends on how important getting that last 5-10% of detail is to you. Also if you want slightly less bass but more midrange and treble emphasis, those are the main differences. For me it is, but for many it might not be.
Listened to kpop a lot, is Variations better than Monarch MK2?
I'd probably pick Monarch MKII for Kpop, unless you get fatigued from their weight or perhaps with it being a bit brighter sounding.
@@tcc5750 thanks for the suggestion! 😁👍
@@tcc5750 I got Variations for kpop cause I have Timeless and Kato and love Kpop on Timeless... Hope when arrive I like 🙏🏻👍🏻
I have the same DAP what number is yours? Mine's number 57. Cheers m8
Thanks for the review... I got your point 👍🌹
Glad you enjoyed it 😊
Thanks for the confirmation.. the Thieaudio Oracle 2 is easily the best IEM that Thieaudio has to date. It has the things that great about monarch and original Oracle and yet corrects both flaws from the lack to sub bass and treble extension on the first Oracle to the weight,bulk, and lack of comfort, and veiled signature of the monarch 2.
oracle > oracle 2
I want the mk2s just for the looks. They’re like a piece of art
They do look lovely.
Monarch x EJ07!
Monarch Mk2 one of the best iems for metal?
IMO, yes. It has speed and dynamics but never comes across fatiguing/shouty. Just sounds great for metal all-round.
@@tcc5750 Thanks man, great review
@@tcc5750 Hello, which one is better, Sony IER-Z1R or Monarch Mk2? and What do you think about Moondrop S8? I havent unboxed it because should I upgrade to Sony IER-Z1R or Monarch Mk2? Thank you
Scusa sono italiano quindi non capisco ma c'è tanta differenza tra i due modelli ? Possiedo le variations vale la pena fare upgrade ?
good Lord, that sounds like a nightmare of a cable... which is the opposite of quality.
Bruh i just upgrade my dq6 to timeless. Why im here?
Good vid tho
Variations or oracle mostly rap and metal
Monarch MKII.
Monarch MK2 vs MEST mK2?
Monarch MKII, but the bass is nice on Mest MKII. Both are quite uncomfortable universal IEMs, but Mest MKII CIEM would give you excellent comfort if that's important to you. ThieAudio still does not offer Monarch MKII as a CIEM.
$500 IEM vs $1000 IEM, seems fair
more expensive doesn't mean better