Elysian Apostle VS Unique Melody Maven II
IEM Comparison: Expert & Community Scores Side-by-Side
Elysian Apostle and Unique Melody Maven II use 1DD+2BA+2EST and 2DD+4BA+4EST driver setups respectively. Elysian Apostle costs $1,799 while Unique Melody Maven II costs $1,799. Elysian Apostle holds a decisive 1-point edge in reviewer scores (8.8 vs 7.8). Unique Melody Maven II carries a user score of 8.2. Elysian Apostle has significantly better mids with a 2.5-point edge, Elysian Apostle has significantly better treble with a 1.8-point edge, Elysian Apostle has significantly better dynamics with a 1-point edge and Elysian Apostle has significantly better soundstage with a 3.5-point edge.
Insights
| Metric | Elysian Apostle | Unique Melody Maven II |
|---|---|---|
| Bass | 8.8 | 8 |
| Mids | 9 | 6.5 |
| Treble | 8 | 6.3 |
| Details | 8.8 | 7.5 |
| Soundstage | 8.5 | 5 |
| Imaging | 8.8 | 7.5 |
| Dynamics | 8 | 7 |
| Tonality | 8.7 | 7.6 |
| Technicalities | 8.7 | 7.7 |
Elysian Apostle Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
8.8Excellent
Unique Melody Maven II Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
7.8Strongly Favorable
Reviews Comparison
Elysian Apostle reviewed by Jaytiss
9.4
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
Elysian Apostle steps in as the spiritual successor to the beloved Diva, mirroring the Annihilator’s driver count at a lower price (~$1,800) while charting its own course. The build is full-metal, compact, gunmetal/black, and notably durable with a comfortable fit. Packaging feels premium—sturdy puck case, plentiful tips—and the two-tone red/black cable impresses with supple handling (minor microphonics, loose chin slider aside). Overall, the accessories and ergonomics are dialed in without unnecessary bling.
Sonically, Apostle is clean, clear, dark and detailed: a neutral with bass boost presentation, subtle 1 kHz energy, and a tasteful 4–6 kHz dip that keeps upper mids smooth. Compared with Annihilator 2023, there’s less upper-treble sparkle and bass quantity, trading flash for tonal correctness and long-term listenability; it simply doesn’t come across as bright. Tip depth shifts perceived treble peaks a touch, and an impedance adapter (e.g., 8 Ω) can add bass heft if desired. The net effect is a “beautiful darkness” with excellent separation, space, and crisp transients.
Against peers, Apostle reads as a next-gen Diva—retaining the charm while improving extension, detail, staging, and overall refinement. Versus Monarch (Mk II/Mk III), it takes a slightly smoother treble contour without dulling clarity. It outresolves sets like Grand Maestro SE (treble timbre quirks noted) and stands strong beside Europa (which offers more bass but fit can vary). Budget-minded listeners might find echoes of its tonality in options like AFUL P7, albeit with spikier upper treble. For those prioritizing mids, technical performance, and a refined, non-fatiguing tilt over sheer bass output, Apostle earns a full recommendation—a top-tier, deeply revealing listen that feels special from top to bottom.
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
Buy Elysian Apostle on HiFiGO
Ad
Price: $1,799
Buy Elysian Apostle on HiFiGO
Unique Melody Maven II reviewed by Jaytiss
2025-07-16
6
Reviewer Score
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
Buy Unique Melody Maven II on Linsoul
Ad
Price: $1,799
Buy Unique Melody Maven II on Linsoul
Elysian Apostle reviewed by Yifang
8.5
Reviewer Score
Unique Melody Maven II reviewed by Yifang
8.5
Reviewer Score
Elysian Apostle reviewed by Web Search
8.5
Reviewer Score
The Elysian Apostle delivers a V-shaped signature with a powerful, sub-bass-focused low end that offers substantial rumble and physicality, though some listeners might find it occasionally overwhelming or lacking in tight control. Its dual electrostatic drivers provide crisp, extended treble with good air and minimal harshness, while the midrange remains clear and natural despite slight recession, particularly excelling with vocal clarity and emotional delivery.
Comfort is mixed due to the large nozzle diameter, which demands extensive tip-rolling for a secure fit, though the lightweight aluminum shells are ergonomic for extended wear once settled. The Pentaconn ear connectors offer stability but limit third-party cable options, and the included accessories like the Divinus Velvet tips are functional but basic for the price tier.
Positioned as an "Annihilator Junior", the Apostle captures much of Elysian’s energetic house sound at a lower cost, offering strong technical performance like wide staging and solid resolution. However, its bass dominance and fit quirks make it less versatile across genres, appealing mainly to those seeking a fun, dynamic listen rather than strict neutrality.
Unique Melody Maven II reviewed by Web Search
9
Reviewer Score
The Unique Melody Maven II delivers a balanced yet colored sound signature that excels across diverse genres. Its elevated bass offers deep rumble and punchy mid-bass without bleeding into the mids, while the boosted upper treble provides air and detail retrieval without harshness—though the stock cable can introduce graininess, resolved via aftermarket options . A subtle lower-mid dip prevents vocal shoutiness, maintaining warmth and coherence, while the expansive soundstage and precise imaging create an immersive listening experience .
Comfort and build quality are highlights, with aerospace-grade titanium shells that feel lightweight yet durable, though cold temperatures can cause initial discomfort during insertion . The long nozzles and crescent-moon faceplate design facilitate a secure fit, but tip-rolling is essential as the included Azla Xelastec tips max out at medium size and stock silicone tips seal poorly . Some users report driver flex due to insufficient venting in the faceplate, though isolation is excellent with optimal tips .
While not a basshead IEM, the proprietary dual dynamic drivers (9.8mm + 6.9mm) deliver textured lows that complement its technical prowess, making it a compelling all-rounder at its price . The sensitive nature rewards cable experimentation, with options like Astral Acoustics Mars enhancing sub-bass or Lavricables Master Silver boosting soundstage . Despite minor accessory shortcomings, its cohesive tuning and titanium craftsmanship justify its position as a standout hybrid .
Elysian Apostle (more reviews)
Elysian Apostle reviewed by Gizaudio Axel
9
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
Elysian Apostle is a tribrid 1DD + 2BA + 2EST with a four-way crossover priced around $1,800. The package is premium: leather puck case, protective pouches, cleaning tools, and multiple Divinus Velvet tip sets, plus detailed info cards. The stock 4.4 mm Pentaconn cable (mixed copper/gold-plated copper/silver) is medium-thick, supple, and quiet, while the all-metal shells with venting, a secure-lip nozzle (~6.3 mm), and excellent isolation deliver a comfortable, stable fit.
The tuning follows Elysian’s balanced, energetic house sound: bass-boosted yet controlled, vocal-focused mids, and reference-grade EST treble. Low end hits with textured slam and deep sub-bass rumble without bleed; mids are rich, natural, and forward, giving voices and instruments lifelike weight; highs are airy, crisp, and hyper-detailed with zero harshness or sibilance. Technicalities stand out—top-tier resolution, laser-precise imaging, layered separation, and a wide, deep stage that feels immersive without sounding exaggerated.
Against peers, Apostle trades the Annihilator 2023’s bigger slam and extra air for clearer vocals, finer bass texture, and larger stage, and it out-resolves the Diva 2023 while the Diva stays smoother/softer overall. Best for vocal lovers, detail seekers, EST-treble fans, and those wanting a lively but balanced presentation; less ideal for bassheads or listeners preferring darker, laid-back treble. Verdict: an exceptional all-rounder that earns a solid 5-star rating.
Gizaudio Axel original ranking
Gizaudio Axel Youtube ChannelElysian Apostle reviewed by Jays Audio
8.5
Reviewer Score
Jays Audio Youtube Channel
Elysian Apostle reviewed by Head-Fi.org
9
* score rescaled + normalized
Unique Melody Maven II (more reviews)
Unique Melody Maven II reviewed by Smirk Audio
7.7
Reviewer Score
Elysian Apostle Details
Driver Configuration: 1DD+2BA+2EST
Tuning Type: V-Shaped
Brand: Elysian Top Elysian IEMs
Price (Msrp): $1,799
Support our free service! Buying through our affiliate links costs you nothing extra:
Unique Melody Maven II Details
Driver Configuration: 2DD+4BA+4EST
Tuning Type: Bright, V-Shaped
Brand: Unique Melody Top Unique Melody IEMs
Price (Msrp): $1,799
Support our free service! Buying through our affiliate links costs you nothing extra:
Elysian Apostle User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score: n/a
Based on 0 user reviews
No user reviews yet. Be the first one who writes a review!
Unique Melody Maven II User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score:
Based on 1 user reviews
8.2Very Positive
Elysian Apostle Gaming Score
Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
7.2Gaming Grade
A-Unique Melody Maven II Gaming Score
Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
6.1Gaming Grade
BElysian Apostle Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
S-- Tonal balance reaches a highly refined state, sounding seamless from lows to highs. Everything locks together with satisfying coherence.
Average Technical Grade
S-- The presentation is crisp and expansive, handling complex passages with impressive ease. Low-level details remain audible in quiet passages.
Unique Melody Maven II Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
A- It presents a smooth, well-integrated tonal balance that plays nicely with many styles. It maintains natural timbre across the range.
Average Technical Grade
A- It delivers a confident technical showing with defined layers and satisfying clarity. You can follow backing vocals with relative ease.
Elysian Apostle User Reviews
"This is an example review"
Pros
- Example pro 1
- Example pro 2
Cons
- Example con 1
- Example con 2
Share your experience and build your personal ranking list.
You need to be signed in to write your own reviewUnique Melody Maven II User Reviews
Share your experience and build your personal ranking list.
You need to be signed in to write your own reviewOne of the best sets fitting my neutral warm preference, period.
Pros
Timbre and detail retrieval. Pinna gain elevation is ideal for my HRTF.Cons
Metallic tinge to treble, due to elevation around 6k - a region I'm sensitive and experience canal resonance at.Find your next IEM:
IEM Finder Quiz
newIEM Comparison Tool
newVS