Thieaudio Origins: Audiophile IEM Review

The ThieAudio Origin IEMs have entered the market as a high-end in-ear monitor offering, promising premium sound quality with a sophisticated driver setup. Retailing at $849, these IEMs aim to deliver a balance between precision, musicality, and immersive depth. But do they live up to the expectations? Let’s dive into their design, features, and sound performance.

What Comes In The Box

• ThieAudio Origin IEMs
• x3 Silicon Eartips
• x3 Foam Eartips
• ThieAudio EliteNoir Cable
• 3.5mm and 4.4mm connections
• Soft Hardshell Carry Case

Aesthetics and Functionality

ThieAudio consistently delivers some of the most visually striking IEM designs, and the Origins are no exception. Their craftsmanship stands out, with beautifully designed outer casings. However, the size of the housings may not be ideal for those with smaller ears. Personally, I found them too large for a truly comfortable fit, even with the smallest eartips. Extended listening required frequent breaks due to the slightly bulky casing. That said, fit is subjective, and those with larger ears may not encounter the same issue.

Using these IEMs is extremely easy and adaptable into any audio setup. With interchangeable terminations of 4.4mm and 3.5mm, you can plug these directly into your device and begin listening with ease. For my setup, I opted to use a DAC/Amp to get the most out of my listening. The iFi xDSD Gryphon was a perfect match up for these IEMs, giving a boost of power and hi-res sound for my testing. 

Tech Specs

• Drivers: 
  • 1 Dynamic Driver
  • 2 Sonion Electrostatics
  • 2 Knowles TWFk-30017 Balanced Armatures
  • 2 Sonion 2600 Balanced Armatures
  • 1 Bone Conductor
• Frequency Response: 20Hz - 44kHz
• Sensitivity: 102 dB (±1dB) @ 1 kHz
• Impedance 9 Ω @ 1 kHz
• Included Plug: 3.5mm and 4.4mm
  
  

Listening Review

Soundstage

The ThieAudio Origin IEMs offer an impressively wide soundstage, enhancing the immersive listening experience. Imaging and separation are precise, allowing instruments and vocals to breathe naturally. The spatial presentation feels expansive, giving the impression of an open and layered sound field rather than a confined, in-ear experience. This makes them particularly enjoyable for orchestral, live, and well-mastered studio recordings, where a sense of space and depth enhances the realism of the performance.

These IEMs manage to strike a rare balance between warmth and precision. While the bass is prominent, it does not overshadow the mids and highs. The tuning ensures a smooth and engaging listen, with no overly exaggerated frequencies that cause listening fatigue. Whether you're an analytical listener or someone who enjoys a musical and immersive experience, the Origin provides a satisfying mix of detail and fun.

Low Frequencies

The bass is tight, punchy, and well-controlled, avoiding the excessive boominess that some bass-heavy IEMs exhibit. The bone conductor driver adds an extra dimension, making the bass feel more tactile rather than just audible. It works exceptionally well across genres, from rock and pop to R&B and country, consistently delivering a strong and textured low end without overpowering the mix. Sub-bass frequencies extend deep, giving electronic and cinematic tracks a powerful sense of rumble, while mid-bass remains impactful yet well-balanced. This allows bass guitars, kick drums, and synths to shine without bleeding into the midrange.

Midrange Frequencies

The midrange is one of the strongest aspects of the Origin, offering clear and natural vocal reproduction. Instruments retain their authenticity, with each layer distinctly defined in the stereo field. Given that most of a song’s core instrumentation resides in the midrange, it’s essential for clarity, and the Origin does an excellent job of preserving detail and separation. Acoustic guitars have a crisp attack, pianos sound resonant and full-bodied, and string sections maintain an organic tonality. Vocals, whether male or female, remain forward and intimate, making these IEMs excellent for singer-songwriter, jazz, and classical recordings. The level of refinement in the midrange ensures that every breath and subtle vocal inflection is captured with stunning realism.

High Frequencies

Despite being bass-forward, the Origin doesn’t neglect the treble. The electrostatic drivers ensure crisp, airy highs that provide balance to the sound signature. High frequencies remain detailed and well-extended without becoming harsh, giving an extra shimmer to cymbals, strings, and high-pitched vocals. This treble presence prevents the bass from feeling overly dominant, contributing to an overall well-rounded sound. The treble extension allows for excellent micro-detail retrieval, making ambient and classical recordings particularly engaging. The sparkle and brilliance in the highs contribute to a sense of openness, and the electrostatic drivers ensure a fast, resolving nature that prevents sibilance while keeping details intact.

Summary

The ThieAudio Origin IEMs stand out with their beautifully crafted design, wide soundstage, and engaging sonic character. Their bass-forward signature is well-executed, complemented by clear mids and refined highs. While their large casing may not be suitable for all ear shapes, those who can achieve a secure fit will find a rich and immersive listening experience. For audiophiles looking for a blend of warmth, depth, and detail, the Origin makes a compelling choice at its price point.

Try the ThieAudio Origin IEMs at Audio46 today.