In this video I review the Thieaudio Monarch MK3, and yeah… it shook me. The Monarch MK2 was already an “endgame” IEM for a lot of people, and for me it was one of the best Thieaudio ever released until the Prestige LTD. So the big question is: can the MK3 justify a $1,000 price tag and actually improve on something that was already a classic? I go through the unboxing (and I’m blunt: the packaging and accessories are not up to scratch for this price), then I focus on what matters—fit, build, and sound. The MK3 is, in my opinion, the best-looking IEM I’ve seen in 2023 with a faceplate design that genuinely changes color depending on the angle. It’s also more comfortable than the older Monarch shape thanks to refinements like a slimmer profile and recessed 2-pin connectors. Sound-wise, the headline is the new “Impact2” dual dynamic bass setup. Sub-bass was already strong on the MK2, but the MK3’s mid-bass is the real upgrade: more presence and better quality, especially obvious with jazz and double bass. The mids are smooth and lush with great vocals, and the treble is eerie-nice with strong imaging and good width. I also compare it to Monarch MK2, Prestige LTD, and even my Sony IER-Z1R in terms of overall value and performance.