Hi All,
I don’t consider myself as an audiophile but more of a hobbyist. I recently acquired the Monarch Mk3 for about a month or so. I’m pretty much in a love hate relationship with it due to some genres may sound rather muddy in the mids . I mostly listen to alternative music genres like post hardcore, metal-core, djent, progressive metal and i found it kinda like a hit and miss at the same time. As some of the albums don’t really have a good mix to the point that i have to EQ it using wavelet to clear up the mud. I really love the bass rumble of the MK3 while listening to Bad Guy - Billie Eilish and the it has stupendous amount of imaging and instrument seperation when im listening to Cluster - The Algorithm. The MK3 really open up my taste for music from 7rings - Ariana Grande to classic rock bands like white snake. I’m really glad that I’ve purchased them as an all rounder but i am missing the sound from LSX/LS10 by Rooth Audio and they don’t seem to be around anymore :(. The imaging of the LSX is amazing where you can hear every single hit of the drums so pronounced while listening to White Washed - August Burns Red. If any kind soul could recommend me an IEM specifically for metal-core genres or perhaps point out on how to acquire the LSX would be awesome!
My setup: Hiby R6III ( Tidal only ) - PW no.10s - Monarch MK3 - TRI Clarion Tips
Bands i listen to: August Burns Red, Currents, Architects, Northlane, Darkest Hour, The Ammity Affliction, Saosin,The Bride, Dance Gavin Dance.
Firaudio maybe?
I personally find $1k range just okay ish when I try, since always ended up comparing to i4 (b-stock).
But having more fun with <$500 IEM.
Actually very excited waiting for isn neo 5 to arrive.
Thank you for the recommendation 👍 will look into it. The I4 itself seems like a beast on its own but not fit for daily commute.
Just googled the neo5, some reviewer even compared them to the MEST mk3 🤯. They look amazing though.
I owned the OH10s the bass seems pretty solid imo but the instrument separation and resolution isn’t really there imo. I guess in the <$500 there’s a substantial gap in the characteristics of the sound where there will always be something lacking.
The Letshuoer S12 seems pretty solid based on the reviews and their price point.
Yeah, I like wearing i4 outdoor only when the street is quiet or going to park to read book, otherwise all the noise will kill the sound.
I4 forced me to be able to EQ myself. It's also possible to change the sound significantly, which makes it very versatile.
But pretty much true, there will be some compromise for <$500. But they have some interesting characteristics sometimes.
At some point resolution isn't really big deal, especially during commute. I find the fun factor is more important to boost my mood.
This is provided I have a pair of TOTL when I crave for it.
Havent actually tried ~$100 yet recently, I should give them a try next time!