Elysian Annihilator 2023 VS Letshuoer Cadenza 12
IEM Comparison: Expert & Community Scores Side-by-Side
Elysian Annihilator 2023 and Letshuoer Cadenza 12 use 1DD+4BA+2EST and 1DD+11BA driver setups respectively. Elysian Annihilator 2023 costs $2,999 while Letshuoer Cadenza 12 costs $2,299. Elysian Annihilator 2023 is $700 more expensive. Elysian Annihilator 2023 holds a clear 0.6-point edge in reviewer scores (9 vs 8.3). Elysian Annihilator 2023 has better bass with a 0.7-point edge, Elysian Annihilator 2023 has better mids with a 0.8-point edge, Elysian Annihilator 2023 has significantly better treble with a 2-point edge, Elysian Annihilator 2023 has significantly better dynamics with a 1.2-point edge, Elysian Annihilator 2023 has significantly better details with a 2.3-point edge and Letshuoer Cadenza 12 has slightly better imaging with a 0.3-point edge.
Insights
| Metric | Elysian Annihilator 2023 | Letshuoer Cadenza 12 |
|---|---|---|
| Bass | 8.2 | 7.5 |
| Mids | 8 | 7.3 |
| Treble | 9.4 | 7.4 |
| Details | 9.5 | 7.3 |
| Soundstage | 9 | 9 |
| Imaging | 7.5 | 7.8 |
| Dynamics | 8.2 | 7 |
| Tonality | 8.6 | 7.9 |
| Technicalities | 8.9 | 8.4 |
Elysian Annihilator 2023 Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
9Outstanding
Letshuoer Cadenza 12 Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
8.3Very Positive
Reviews Comparison
Elysian Annihilator 2023 reviewed by Jaytiss
9.7
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
The Elysian Annihilator 2023 arrives with a premium yet pared-back presentation: a compact black felt case, a full set of SpinFit W1 tips, cleaning tool, and cable tie. Build feels meticulous with excellent channel matching, and the faceplate options—titanium, steel, or gold—add flair. Fit sits on the larger side but remains manageable; comfort is mostly solid, though the upper cable segment can create minor pressure. Two practical caveats: the stock cable is fixed to a rare Pentaconn-style IEM connector (not MMCX/2-pin), making swaps tricky, and the termination is 4.4mm only, which limits simple dongle use without an adapter.
Sonically, this is all about extension, clarity, and effortless detail. Treble presents as almost holographic yet controlled, aided by a tasteful dip around 5–6 kHz and invigorating energy near 10 kHz. Bass is more present than its reputation suggests, with a satisfying lift up to roughly 200 Hz that supports a clean, “studio-like” presentation and sweet, well-placed vocals. It can get intense: the combination of high resolution and forward brilliance may read as spicy or mildly fatiguing for some, but for those chasing speed, air, and imaging precision, the payoff is big.
Against peers, the character comes into focus. Compared to sets like the Chopin, Annihilator sounds richer and more authoritative while keeping a similarly ergonomic silhouette. The HiSenior Mega5 EST feels lean in the low end by comparison, and while Monarch iterations bring fun bass (MKIII) or sweeter monitoring vibes (earlier versions), they don’t hit the same engagement. The Fatfreq Grand Maestro complements well but its switchable profiles and extra ~3 kHz energy can be fussier; Annihilator stays consistent and “set-and-forget.” Taken as a whole, this is a confidently tuned, ultra-resolving flagship—pricey and a bit particular on ergonomics and connectivity, but outstanding for listeners who value crystalline treble extension, incisive transients, and no-nonsense reliability.
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
Letshuoer Cadenza 12 reviewed by Jaytiss
8.8
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
The 2024 Cadenza 12 makes a strong first impression with premium presentation, though the accessories aren’t flawless. The stock cable looks gorgeous and offers swappable terminations (4.4 / 3.5 / 2.5), but it’s stiff and tricky to coil into the compact case. The metal shell is well-contoured and comfortable with a sensible nozzle lip, yet certain tips can pop off too easily. Overall build feels upscale and weighty without being cumbersome—just expect some practical quirks.
Tonally it sits neutral with a gentle bass lift: clean sub-bass presence without thunder, crisp highs with smooth extension, and a relaxed upper-mid energy that keeps fatigue low. Resolution and imaging are technically adept, but the tuning plays things safe—polished and airy rather than punchy or electrifying. On graphs and by ear it evokes classic “reference” curves (think early Monarch-style balance), trading visceral slam for control and clarity; many audiophiles will find it classy and coherent, while thrill-seekers may wish for more bite.
Against peers, it recalls sets that graph beautifully yet feel a touch reserved in the bass and presence regions. Comparisons to options like Europa highlight how a bit more sub-bass and 4–6 kHz zest can add sparkle and engagement; a light EQ lift to bass and upper mids wakes the Cadenza 12 up nicely. As delivered, it’s a refined, wide, and airy listen that prioritizes neutrality and detail over spectacle—recommended for listeners chasing a mature, low-fatigue signature rather than a high-octane ride.
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
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Elysian Annihilator 2023 reviewed by Precogvision
8.7
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
Elysian Annihilator 2023 is a boutique flagship from Malaysia built with a clear resin shell, gold faceplate, and uncommon Pentaconn Ear connectors—well finished but on the larger side. The tuning follows a bright V-shape with a forward, energetic presentation. Bass from the Foster dynamic is mid-bass emphasized yet dry and slightly compressed, and persistent driver flex detracts from the low-end quality at this price.
The midrange is striking for its clarity and resolution—one of the cleanest among IEMs—though notes can carry a faint digital edge. Treble is the showstopper: a rare, truly convincing implementation of Sonion EST drivers that delivers exceptional speed, micro-detail, and near-linear extension to the upper limits of hearing. A subtle ~6 kHz dip gives transients an “from-thin-air” immediacy, yielding generous air without crossing into fatigue for most listeners.
On technicalities, detail retrieval sits at least on par with heavy hitters like the U12t and peers, with noticeably wider stage and crisp imaging; height and depth trail the very best, but space and separation are excellent. Macrodynamics are lively, yet overall coherency is the Achilles’ heel—notes lack weight and transient density, giving an occasionally raw, ultra-quick character. As a package, this is one of the few IEMs that genuinely feels world-class; value remains tough at $3,700, but for a reference of state-of-the-art treble and resolution, the Annihilator 2023 sets a formidable benchmark.
Precogvision Youtube Channel
Letshuoer Cadenza 12 reviewed by Precogvision
6.2
Reviewer Score
Precogvision Youtube Channel
Elysian Annihilator 2023 reviewed by Tim Tuned
8.5
Reviewer Score
Tim Tuned Youtube Channel
Letshuoer Cadenza 12 reviewed by Tim Tuned
7
Reviewer Score
Tim Tuned Youtube Channel
Elysian Annihilator 2023 reviewed by Smirk Audio
8.4
Reviewer Score
Letshuoer Cadenza 12 reviewed by Smirk Audio
8.1
Reviewer Score
Elysian Annihilator 2023 reviewed by Head-Fi.org
8.5
* score rescaled + normalized
Letshuoer Cadenza 12 reviewed by Head-Fi.org
8.6
* score rescaled + normalized
Elysian Annihilator 2023 reviewed by Web Search
2025-07-25
8.9
Reviewer Score
The Elysian Annihilator 2023 delivers a distinctive U-shaped signature, prioritizing an ethereal, hyper-detailed treble that remains its crown jewel. The dual electrostatic drivers produce a sparkling, linear upper register with exceptional air and micro-detail retrieval, often cited as best-in-class for its effortless extension and lack of harshness. Mids are clear and resolving but lean slightly thin due to a deliberate 1-1.5kHz recession, lending vocals an "ultra-clear" rather than lush character.
Bass performance, while improved over earlier iterations, remains contentious at its $3k price. The single Foster dynamic driver offers good sub-bass quantity and slam but struggles with speed and textural nuance, leading to smearing on complex passages. Technicalities impress with razor-sharp transients and strong macro-dynamics, though soundstage width and layering fall short of flagship expectations, and imaging is merely competent.
Practical considerations include large resin shells that may challenge smaller ears, though comfort is generally good with deep-seating tips. The included Liquid Links Martini cable is well-built but uses proprietary Pentaconn connectors, limiting aftermarket options. Low sensitivity (94dB) demands a powerful source to avoid dynamics compression.
Letshuoer Cadenza 12 reviewed by Web Search
8.9
Reviewer Score
The Letshuoer Cadenza 12 delivers a balanced sound signature with a slight warmth in the low end, providing clean and textured bass that avoids overwhelming the midrange. Its midrange presentation is natural and resolving, though some listeners noted a recession around 1-2kHz that could thin male vocals slightly, while the treble offers good extension but exhibits a noticeable peak around 10kHz that occasionally introduces harshness or an "echo" effect on certain instruments . Technical performance is a strength, with precise pinpoint imaging and an expansive, holographic soundstage that excels in complex orchestral passages, though some critics felt its resolution doesn’t fully justify the price against established flagships .
Comfort is generally strong due to the surprisingly lightweight titanium shells and ergonomic shape, allowing for extended listening sessions despite their size, though some users reported eventual ear fatigue . The mirror-finish shells attract fingerprints and scratches easily, and the included hybrid cable, while versatile with modular terminations, is often criticized for its stiffness and unwieldy handling . While the packaging and accessories—including a functional leather case and customizable ear tips—are premium, the overall value proposition is debated, particularly when comparing its technical performance to competitors near its $2,300 price .
Elysian Annihilator 2023 (more reviews)
Elysian Annihilator 2023 reviewed by Super* Review
10*
* score rescaled + normalized
Elysian Annihilator 2023 reviewed by Gizaudio Axel
9
Reviewer Score
Gizaudio Axel original ranking
Gizaudio Axel Youtube ChannelLetshuoer Cadenza 12 (more reviews)
Letshuoer Cadenza 12 reviewed by Jays Audio
9.5
Reviewer Score
Jays Audio Youtube Channel
Letshuoer Cadenza 12 reviewed by Z-Reviews
9
* score rescaled + normalized
Youtube Video Summary
Letshuoer Cadenza 12 goes full flagship spectacle: a 12-driver per side build (1 dynamic + 11 BA from Knowles/Sonion), six-way crossover, and heavy metal shells that feel like a prize out of a treasure chest. The unboxing is decadent—fabric-wrapped stock cable with interchangeable plugs, a big faux-leather case, tip sets (foam, Symbio, Xelastec-style), and even a quirky bulldog stand. Fit can be finicky, tip choice matters, and the shells beg for constant polishing; once seated, isolation and comfort are solid.
Sonically, this set is hyper-analytical yet immersive. It “3D-prints” instruments in space, letting a gentle kick drum’s air, pedal thumps on a piano, and micro-dynamics pop with almost studio-monitor precision. Detail retrieval is wild and imaging is pinpoint; mixes get deconstructed so clearly it’s easy to tell what’s acoustic, what’s processed, and where DSP tricks are hiding. The catch: it’s extremely chain-sensitive. Use the stock cable (impedance clearly matters), prefer single-ended over balanced on many amps, and pair with a clean, muscular amplifier—get the combo wrong and mids can go dull or staging collapses; get it right and it’s pure fireworks.
Verdict: an elite, picky flagship that demands careful setup but rewards with one of the most dissecting, vividly placed presentations available in IEMs. Not the most “natural” tuning on earth and far from cheap, yet when everything clicks, the Cadenza 12 delivers a peak listening experience that can ruin lesser gear for good.
Z-Reviews Youtube Channel
Letshuoer Cadenza 12 reviewed by Yifang
9
Reviewer Score
Yifang Youtube Channel
Elysian Annihilator 2023 Details
Driver Configuration: 1DD+4BA+2EST
Tuning Type: U-Shaped
Brand: Elysian Top Elysian IEMs
Price (Msrp): $2,999
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Letshuoer Cadenza 12 Details
Driver Configuration: 1DD+11BA
Tuning Type: Neutral, Bright
Brand: Letshuoer Top Letshuoer IEMs
Price (Msrp): $2,299
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Elysian Annihilator 2023 User Review Score
Average User Scores
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Letshuoer Cadenza 12 User Review Score
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Elysian Annihilator 2023 Gaming Score
Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
7.3Gaming Grade
A-Letshuoer Cadenza 12 Gaming Score
Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
6.8Gaming Grade
B+Elysian Annihilator 2023 Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
S-- The response feels meticulously dialed in, combining neutrality with inviting warmth. Dynamic swings remain tonally accurate.
Average Technical Grade
S-- This level balances openness and accuracy, showcasing excellent clarity across busy mixes. A great match for analytical listening sessions.
Letshuoer Cadenza 12 Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
A- Overall balance feels confident and refined, rewarding long listening sessions. A reliable all-rounder for everyday listening.
Average Technical Grade
A+- A very capable technical display delivers articulate layers and poised imaging. It portrays reverbs and echoes with confidence.
Elysian Annihilator 2023 User Reviews
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