Elysian Pilgrim | Unboxing | FR graph | vs. IE600 & DIVA

This is a video review of the Elysian Acoustic Labs Pilgrim and comparison to the Sennheiser IE600 and Elysian DIVA.
Chapters
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0:00 Intro
0:20 Unboxing
4:00 Bass Performance
6:40 Mid-range Presentation
10:50 Treble Clarity
12:25 Imaging and Soundstage
13:00 Technical Details and Resolving Ability
14:00 Amplifier Pairing
14:25 Comparison with the Elysian DIVA
16:50 Comparison with the Sennheiser IE600
20:20 Final Thoughts
Check out my frequency response graphs here: atechreviews.squig.link/
For those interested in sending review samples, please contact me at [e-mail]

[@GBCabral]

Great, great review! Congratulations

[@Atechreviews]

Thanks a lot!

[@shaunbrady15]

Nice review. The diva is one of my favorite iems all time

[@Atechreviews]

Same here!

[@Jaytiss]

Great review, thanks.

[@Atechreviews]

Thanks for watching! 😊

[@NetZero11]

Great review as always. Even though I don't always agree with your impressions I fully respect them. This hobby is subjective isn't it so its interesting to hear how other people perceive iem's I've heard. It's not about whos right or wrong, its just how we hear differently, what we personally enjoy and how we might be more sensitive to certain frequencies than others. Mine arrived yesterday. Its a really lovely iem, especially for the price. In regard to other iems I have around its price point, I have the Mega5EST and Dusk. its better than the Dusk (for me) in analog mode. I really like the Dusk in analog but there's something just a bit off with the treble timbre, I can't quite put my finger on it, but I read Precogs impressions and what he said makes sense, the treble can sound a little brittle. In default DSP that issue is completely gone. Its still a great iemin analogue regardless, just the Pilgrim is superior for me. I haven't compared to the Mega5EST yet. Only negative I have with the Pilgrim is I dont like the cable that much, it just gets twisted easily and isn't very supple. Small gripe though.

[@Atechreviews]

Thank you for your kind words! I completely agree-this hobby is indeed subjective. I understand what you mean about the Dusk's treble timbre in analog mode-it can be a bit brittle at times, and Precogvision is probably on to something here. Actually, I liked the treble of the Dusk 2 with USB default mode a lot. As for the cable, I get what you mean about it getting twisted easily. That's why I wrap mine after I use it and store it in the case. We have to love that cable because we can't easily change it due to the connector LOL.

[@h1a8]

Excellent review! I have the Quintet and it still sounds great (especially when I eq them). My question is how does the Pilgrim compare to the Quintet in detail retrieval, resolution, imaging, soundstage, treble air, and bass texture? Same comparison between Pilgrim and Chopin? Thanks. I really love your honesty and your take. I respect you highly.

[@Atechreviews]

Thank you for the kind words. I own the Quintet, but to be honest, I'm not a big fan. Even with EQ adjustments, there's something about its sound that feels off to me. It has a metallic timbre that doesn't sound natural, and despite my efforts to adjust it with EQ, I eventually gave up. What I do appreciate about the Quintet, though, is its bass-it delivers a strong slam and impact. On the other hand, the Pilgrim offers a completely different experience and is an upgrade in every way. Firstly, there's no BA or metallic timbre present. Secondly, the clarity, detail retrieval, and instrument separation of the Pilgrim are among the best in the under $1k range. The more I listen to different IEMs, the more I appreciate this aspect. The Pilgrim also boasts a strong and detailed sub-bass performance that's hard to find in other IEMs. Excellent bass texture. It excels in imaging and has good soundstage. I do wish that it had a bit more mid-bass, but overall, it's an excellent performer. It offers great clarity and airiness in the high frequencies. One thing I particularly value about the Pilgrim is that it never sounds harsh to me, regardless of what I'm listening to. The Chopin has a more pronounced mid-bass, vocals that are more forward, and notes that carry more weight, so to speak. While its treble is similar, it has a slightly different character. The Chopin offers less detail retrieval, clarity, and resolution compared to the Pilgrim, but it is still impressive. Overall, the Chopin is another IEM that I highly value, and I have no complaints about it.

[@marumaru5480]

This comes at the right moment. I was about getting a IEM for under 450. I will add it to the list! Ps. I hope Elysian will sell proprietary cables just in case.

[@Atechreviews]

That's perfect timing! I'm happy to say that similar cables are now available from many third-party stores, and they even offer MMCX/2-Pin to Pentaconn adapters.

[@Stoyakoff2024]

@@Atechreviews As far as I understand, these adapters are not suitable for this Elysian model, given the non-standard electrical resistance of the original cable. Correct me if this is not true. Great video!

[@lee-tm6my]

How is comfort ? I can only fit something like EM6L but i would really love to have these

[@heeku_]

how is it compared vs monarch mk3 in terms of bass, vocals and comfort? the mmk3 is relatively on the bigger end and not so comfy.

[@Atechreviews]

The Monarch MK III has a bit more sub-bass and a lot more mid-bass, along with more forward vocals. Personally, I find the Pilgrim more comfortable for my ears.

[@siddr3153]

Would you have access to review the Xelento 2? I’d be curious to hear your view on those iems

[@Atechreviews]

Unfortunately, I don't have the Xelento 2.

[@h1a8]

Have you heard the new X Crinacle dusk 2 or the Mega5 est ? If so then how does the Pilgrim compare?

[@Atechreviews]

I've listened to the Dusk 2 numerous times and am currently working on a review for the Mega5est. The Pilgrim, in analog mode, sounds similar to the Dusk 2 but with significantly more sub-bass rumble and much greater technicalities and detail retrieval, placing it a few steps above. While the Mega5est also sounds good, its tuning is a bit more laid-back and offers less overall detail retrieval than the Pilgrim, so your preference will depend on your taste.

[@False_Star]

What kind of VU meters are those in the top right corner?? Those are cool!

[@Atechreviews]

It's actually a sound visualizer/VU meter/clock that I purchased from AliExpress quite a while back.

[@joshuaolaekeji1254]

Will these work for jazz? They graph very similar to the hbb mahina

[@Atechreviews]

Absolutely.

[@verbatim_transfer]

for someone who’s never heard a flagship priced set, how much better is the diva over the pilgrim? i’m personally not put off by diminishing returns if it is within reason. everyone will have their own opinion on this, but if you could give a percentage from your own opinion and experience, how much better is something like the diva over the pilgrim?

[@Atechreviews]

Check out my latest video on the DIVA, where I compare it to the Pilgrim. In short, I'd say the DIVA is twice or three times better, though numbers don't really do it justice. They have almost the same tuning and tonality with the Pilgrim having slightly more air and mid-bass compared to the DIVA with the tuning switch set in the middle (white) and the DIVA having a more realistic, detailed sound. Let me put it this way: the Elysian Pilgrim is the only IEM I know that sounds close to flagship-level IEMs. It's the closest to the top and outperforms some IEMs in my collection that cost over $1,000, including one priced at $1,600. Upgrading from the Pilgrim to a better IEM is challenging unless you're looking for a different sound signature. When I use the DIVA 2023 after listening to the Pilgrim, I feel that DIVA 2023 has more clarity, more detail, better imaging, soundstage, separation, and sounds more realistic with better vocals. They are more similar than different.

[@verbatim_transfer]

@@Atechreviews thank you for the long reply even tho you had already uploaded a video. it shows you really care about your content and your viewers.

[@Stoyakoff2024]

@@Atechreviews Actually, as for the price...))

[@ThanhNguyen-lu5nl]

what is difference between Elysian Pilgrim and Elysian Pilgrim Noir ? Noir price $799 with a few improve but i feel it not worth. Please review Noir , thanks

[@shaunbrady15]

So far what I’ve read, 4 way crossover instead of 3, warmer and bassier tuning, effect audio upgraded cable

[@Atechreviews]

Just as @shaunbrady15 mentioned, the Noir comes with a 4-way crossover (up from 3), a warmer, bassier tuning, a different treble response, and a fancy new cable from Effect Audio. The higher price tag is probably mostly due to the higher cost of the Effect Audio cable. Some folks who've listened to both online say the OG Pilgrim has a bit more resolution than the Noir. The Noir is set to be released later, so maybe I'll do a comparison when it's out!

[@jeremiascordero6513]

How is it compared to Performer 8? Coz I'm looking for rich vocals and details. TIA 😊

[@Atechreviews]

The Elysian Pilgrim offers more sub-bass, rumble, resolution, and overall detail and separation compared to the Performer 8. Its vocals are lovely, rich and balanced, positioned perfectly in the middle-neither recessed nor forward. In my opinion, the Elysian Pilgrim is the king of resolution and details at this price point.

[@jeremiascordero6513]

@@Atechreviews Many thanks!🙏😊

[@littlesukka6727]

How do these compare to yanyin mahina or xenns top?

[@Atechreviews]

I don't have the Mahina. The Mangrid Top has a lot more bass, which, while fun, might be too much for my daily use preference. The Pilgrim has better treble and much more detail retrieval than the Mangrid Top.

[@H-4-D3423]

What price did you pay on these? Nice to see a review... easy like from me

[@Atechreviews]

Glad you like the video. I paid exactly $400 for the 3.5mm version.

[@H-4-D3423]

@@Atechreviews I am getting really tempted for either this, or the GAEA... I read that the tuning is divisive, but some of tuning benefits sound nice to me. It's just that whether, as a single-IEM owner (at one time) whether it could a GAEA would be too in my face lol. Especially for the genre's I like... thanks for sharing your unboxing etc. You know how it compares to a Moondrop S8?

[@howardroark3670]

Just curious. Why didn't you get 4.4?

[@Wei_03487Ghq]

Nice review! How is it compared to Nicehck HIMALAYA

[@Atechreviews]

Thanks! The Himalaya comes with three nozzles, but it tends to have a bit less bass and detail compared to the Pilgrim. Its treble can also be on the hotter side, especially depending on which nozzle and ear tip you use. On the other hand, the Pilgrim offers more sub-bass and mid-bass, along with a more detailed sound overall. Plus, it never sounds harsh, no matter what you're listening to.

[@Wei_03487Ghq]

Thanks!!

[@DJHaworth]

good review. Not a fan of the dancing hands waving the iem

[@Atechreviews]

Thanks! The hands waving the IEMs have stopped in the latest videos.

[@mageborn23]

So where can i buy them?

[@Atechreviews]

I purchased mine at CanJam, but you can likely find them at various online retailers, possibly even Amazon later on. You might also be able to purchase them directly from the manufacturer's website.

[@KkkPpp-jt4eh]

Can i use this for gaming?

[@Atechreviews]

Absolutely! The Elysian Pilgrim IEMs are great for gaming. Their exceptional imaging and high level of detail, especially in the airy frequencies, allow you to easily distinguish between different sounds and pick up positional cues. Plus, their comfort makes them perfect for long gaming sessions. Just keep in mind, they offer slightly less sound isolation compared to other IEMs and they don't have a built-in microphone.

[@howardroark3670]

What is the price in dollars?

[@Atechreviews]

$400

[@Viewer13128]

need elysian pilgrim vs dita project m comparison

[@Atechreviews]

I'm not familiar with this brand, and I haven't tried their IEMs, but I'm open to giving them a listen if I ever get the chance. Based on the online reviews I read, It seems like they're in a lower price range and might offer lower performance and sound quality compared to the Elysian Pilgrim.

[@pluviofilcactus]

If you compare it with tanchjim origin, which one is better, especially in terms of vocals?

[@Atechreviews]

The Origin really shines with its upfront male and female vocals, making them sound incredibly intimate. It also has a nice boost in the treble, giving its sound a more open and airy feel. But the Pilgrim takes the lead in two important areas: sub-bass and mid-bass, and overall technical performance (detail retrieval). While the Pilgrim's vocals aren't quite as forward as the Origin's, they're super detailed and never harsh, even with music that tends to be a bit edgy. The Pilgrim also delivers more detailed treble. It's all about the Pilgrim offering loads of detail without ever sounding harsh.

[@pluviofilcactus]

@@Atechreviews Thank you. After I ordered Origin, Pilgrim was announced. To console myself, I ask people who reviewed it how it compares to Origin. lol

[@pluviofilcactus]

@@Atechreviews I hope I will be satisfied with Origin since the most important part for me is the vocals.

[@Atechreviews]

@@pluviofilcactus Lol

[@Atechreviews]

@@pluviofilcactus I think you will be happy with the Origin. It is one of the few IEMs that are a benchmark and a reference. If they had more bass they would be perfect IMO. I use EQ with it sometimes.

[@shurikenflip9818]

Is it good for fps gaming?

[@Atechreviews]

Yes, the Elysian Pilgrim is great for FPS gaming because of its resolution, detailed sound and clear imaging.

[@masterazlan6999]

Kinda U shapes tuned..wutz the freq ranges anyway?.. Ranges k not responses.. Peace!

[@Atechreviews]

10Hz to 20kHz.

[@mageborn23]

Not to mention the Sennheiser are ugly, I mean am I right? I like the look of all these iems, but the Sennheiser are all function over form. Get them out of here.

[@Hijynx87]

I don't think the sen iems are ugly. They are definitely comfortable and low profile.

[@mageborn23]

@@Hijynx87 Really? I thing they’re terrible looking I don’t care how good they sound I don’t want anything to do with them

[@masterazlan6999]

Aesthetics person u r indeed.. W r talkin sonic not beauty bra when its comes to senn.. Ha4.. Peace!

[@Atechreviews]

While looks aren't my top priority, I don't find the Sennheisers to be unattractive. They're okay in my book. I do think their fit and cable could be improved, though. Ultimately, sound and fit matter most to me, and the Sennheisers sound fantastic.

[@Lost1ntheSauc3]

Interesting take. I think ie600 is one of the best looking iems out there.

[@Espada_no_4]

Pity that Pilgrim is like a huge fingerprint magnet.

[@Atechreviews]

Only a few of the semi-circular, shiny metal pieces on top are susceptible to that. I handled it frequently while shooting the video.