Elysian Pilgrim VS Aful Performer 5+2

IEM Comparison: Expert & Community Scores Side-by-Side

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Elysian Pilgrim and Aful Performer 5+2 use 1DD+3BA and 2DD+4BA+1Planar driver setups respectively. Elysian Pilgrim costs $400 while Aful Performer 5+2 costs $229. Elysian Pilgrim is $171 more expensive. Aful Performer 5+2 holds a slight 0.1-point edge in reviewer scores (7.4 vs 7.6). Aful Performer 5+2 has better mids with a 0.6-point edge, Elysian Pilgrim has better dynamics with a 0.6-point edge, Elysian Pilgrim has better soundstage with a 0.5-point edge, Elysian Pilgrim has significantly better details with a 1.1-point edge and Elysian Pilgrim has better imaging with a 0.8-point edge.

Insights

Metric Elysian Pilgrim Aful Performer 5+2
Bass 7.6 7.7
Mids 7.1 7.7
Treble 7.3 7.1
Details 7.8 6.8
Soundstage 7.5 7
Imaging 7.5 6.8
Dynamics 7.6 7
Tonality 7.4 7.6
Technicalities 7.6 7.4

Elysian Pilgrim Aggregated Review Score

Average Reviewer Scores

Average Reviewer Score:

7.4

Generally Favorable


Aful Performer 5+2 Aggregated Review Score

Average Reviewer Scores

Average Reviewer Score:

7.6

Strongly Favorable


Reviews Comparison

Elysian Pilgrim reviewed by Gizaudio Axel

Gizaudio Axel 8 Reviewer Score
A+ Tuning
A+ Tech
One of the most resolving IEMs under $1000. Elysian house sound with a balanced tuning, textured sub-bass, smooth mid-range, well extended treble, and excellent resolution. I prefer more bass.

Gizaudio Axel original ranking

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Price: $359.10

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Aful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Gizaudio Axel

Gizaudio Axel 7.5 Reviewer Score
A+ Tuning
A- Tech
A detailed, engaging all-rounder that's exciting without being shouty or harsh. Smooth, neutral tuning with a bass boost, excellent bass quality, clean mids, forward vocals, and sparkly, incisive treble. Great detail. I wouldn’t change a thing.

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Price: $213

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Elysian Pilgrim reviewed by Audionotions

Audionotions 7.5 Reviewer Score
Elysian signature for the masses in terms of price and intensity. Compared to the rest of the Elysian lineup, the Pilgrim loses a bit of dynamics, techs, and separation and imaging, but it does share some of the same DNA to be found in the Diva and Gaea. Fantastic vocals and very clean mids. Fun, fun, fun right out of the box. Great violin timbre. Great techs - wide stage but lacks a bit of depth. Separation is where it can struggle a bit - can sound congested with more busy passages. Somewhat of a colored, more bright listen but this isn't a bad thing in this case. Bass quality on this set is excellent. When it hits it rumbles and punches like very few others I've heard. And in my opinion, it could actually use a bit more of an elevated bass shelf (or maybe one that extends a bit further into the midbass). This set has me wanting to listen to music all the time and at the end of the day, that's what matters. Would serve well as a great counterpoint to a more neutral/natural sounding IEM. Currently my pick for an energetic IEM under $500, maybe even $1k. Not as technically proficient as its Elysian siblings, and not as incisive, but it's also 1/4 the price.

Audionotions original ranking

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Aful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Audionotions

Audionotions 7.5 Reviewer Score
Slightly warm leaning balanced signature - Very engaging, decent clarity. Slight metallic/digital sheen but it's not too bad.

Audionotions original ranking

Website (Audionotions)

Elysian Pilgrim reviewed by Jays Audio

Jays Audio 7.5 Reviewer Score
A+ Tuning
A+ Tech
Clean, clear, all-rounder, similar tuning as the Dusk but with better vocals, bass quality is great as well, aethestically pleasing too. If you want a clean all-rounder, or sensitive in the 3-8K, these are great.
Youtube Video Summary

Hyped for good reason, Elysian’s Pilgrim pairs a sleek, carved metal shell with a genuinely upgraded cable and a refined, clean-balanced tuning. Technicals punch high for the price—resolution sits a notch above sets like Hype 4 and Dusk, while the bass shows tight texture, tidy decay, and neat separation. The low end isn’t as forward or “full” as Hype 4, trading slam for a more neutral and organized presentation that suits listeners seeking clarity over thump.

Vocals are naturally placed: not shouty, not distant, with a touch of air on the tail that avoids harshness. Compared with Dusk, the Pilgrim carries better upper-mid extension and a more complete, detailed midrange; it’s also a bit smoother and more natural up top, and adds a hair more sub-bass for engagement. As a package—sound, build, and unboxing—the Pilgrim reads like a polished, modernized take on that classic balanced recipe.

Context matters, though. As an all-rounder around $300–$400, Pilgrim would be an easy pick, but the Supermix 4 at ~$150 offers roughly “90% of the experience” with an even smoother tilt, pressuring its value case. On the horizon, Simgot EM10—if priced around $399–$450—promises more air, detail, punchier mid-bass, and a wider wrap-around stage, potentially overshadowing Pilgrim’s more chill, laid-back vibe. Practical notes: no obvious channel imbalance was heard, but the ring plating can scratch quickly, the fit is a bit shallow, and wider-bore tips help. Net: a beautifully made, balanced performer for those who value refinement and design, but with fierce competition today, some shoppers may prefer to wait or choose something more specialized (e.g., Hype 4 for bigger low-end).


Jays Audio original ranking

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Aful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Jays Audio

Jays Audio 6.5 Reviewer Score
A Tuning
A Tech
Clean, balanced, neutral sound with good layering and tech. Relaxing vocals, but lacks power and last bit of vocal extension. Bass has good controll, but lacks impact. Has sizzly planar timbre in the treble. Safe but forgettable.
Youtube Video Summary

Performer 7 lands with a neutral-balanced, laid-back tuning and good treble reach. The presentation is clean and generally safe, though there’s a touch of sizzly “planar-ish” timbre up top. Technicals are solid for ~$200—slightly behind sets like Quintet and Super Mix 4, about on par with Nova. Bass from the dual 6 mm DDs is tight, controlled, and free of bleed, but lacks the slam and rumble of competitors using larger drivers; mids are well separated with decent layering.

The weak spot is vocal extension: a push around 1.5 kHz tries to bring them forward, but a dip through 3–6 kHz keeps them from opening up. Tamer upper-mids help avoid fatigue for rock/metal, yet the modest low-end impact leaves drums and basslines feeling uneventful. It’s a mid-volume set that doesn’t scale well—turning it up accentuates the 1.5 kHz emphasis and treble sizzle. Treble isn’t peaky, just a bit glassy at times; for K-pop the smoother mids can work if less extended vocals are acceptable.

As a value play, there are stronger options: Nova, Chopan, and Super Mix 4 offer better bang-for-buck; for a similar clean/neutral target, Tanchjim Origin sounds more natural with better bass texture and vocal reach, and DynaQuattro adds sub-bass and fuller vocals—none with the planar-ish timbre. Even AFUL’s own P5 is cheaper and more fun, while the Explorer undercuts the price and scales impressively. In today’s crowded market, P7 is a competent all-rounder but not distinctive enough to stand out.


Jays Audio original ranking

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Elysian Pilgrim reviewed by Jaytiss

Jaytiss 7.3 Reviewer Score
B Tuning
C+ Tech
Great little set to consider for those after an Elysian Product.
Youtube Video Summary

Elysian’s Pilgrim shows up with a small, comfortable shell and a tidy, premium-feeling case—white on the outside, a bit papery inside, but practical. Fit leans shallow; a grippy tip helps keep things steady. The unit measured with excellent channel matching and tracks closely to a preferred target, setting the stage for a confident first impression.

On sound, Pilgrim delivers punchy bass with real note weight and slam, natural mids, and imaging that locks in place. There’s a touch of metallic/lush timbre and an ear-gain region that can feel a bit forward, but the overall tonality stays engaging. It’s not a “baby Annihilator”: the big sibling still brings deeper sub-bass and a cleaner upper register, while Pilgrim feels a little more fun and lively. Versus Hype 4, the two trade blows—late vs. early ear gain—with Hype 4 getting a slight nod for some tastes; against the Mega 5 EST, Pilgrim is the more exciting listen and, at roughly $150 less, the stronger value.

Ranking wise, Pilgrim sits among the best at its price, even sparring with costlier sets, though it stops short of heavy hitters like Grand Maestro, Annihilator, Jupiter, or Velour. Assuming the rumored $350–$450 bracket, the package—sound, cable, and case—is compelling. Minor quirks in the ear-gain area aside, this is an exceptional IEM with a full recommendation, and there’s even a Noir version on the horizon for those curious about variants.

Mids: B Treble: C+ Dynamics: A- Soundstage: A-

Jaytiss original ranking

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Aful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Jaytiss

Jaytiss 8.5 Reviewer Score
A Tuning
A- Tech
It's spicy treble is something to watch out for, it's unique.
Youtube Video Summary

Aful Performer 5+2 lands as a hybrid of the beloved Performer 5 and the punchier Explorer. The unboxing is the familiar P5 affair—same case, same style of tips—nothing flashy, but solid. The shell mirrors the P5 in size with a comfy little stabilizing wing that locks in well. No metal nozzle or front filter here, yet tip retention is secure and hassle-free. The flat 2-pin socket is straightforward, and the stock cable feels thick and supple with a reliable chin slider and handy red/blue channel markers. Overall: understated build, great ergonomics, daily-driver ready.

Sonically, this one aims neutral with a very distinct top end—clean, dynamic, incisive. Think switching from black-and-white to color; cymbals and overtones pop with a slightly crunchy/pristine edge that energizes detail without turning harsh on good recordings. Bass isn’t about sheer quantity; it’s about slam and dynamics—quick on the draw, well-controlled, and satisfying when called upon. Vocals sit a notch forward, microdetail is strong, and the overall presentation is coherent, clear, and technical with convincing stage, resolution, and imaging. Not a treble-shy or bass-bombed tuning—more a refined all-rounder for those who want clarity and bite.

Versus the original P5, the 5+2 fixes the missing “air” and soft edges, trading them for crisper transients and better extension. Compared with Explorer (a value champ), the 5+2 brings superior upper-treble reach, detail, and vocal focus. Against Performer 8 and Cantor, it feels more visceral—the P8 is smoother and more relaxed, while Cantor pulls finer microdetail but with less bass slam. Sets like Dino Quattro or J’s Estrella bring bigger fun or treble theatrics, yet the 5+2’s balance and everyday versatility win more often. Net take: a neutral-leaning, highly technical upgrade that stands tall in its bracket—easy to recommend to anyone chasing clarity, speed, and controlled impact over pure warmth or excess bass.

Mids: A+ Treble: A- Dynamics: A- Soundstage: A+

Jaytiss original ranking

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Elysian Pilgrim reviewed by Z-Reviews

Z-Reviews 7.2 * score rescaled + normalized
Youtube Video Summary

Elysian Pilgrim hits the rare $400 bracket with a hybrid recipe—1× LSR dynamic and 3× Sonion BA—and a presentation that pulls the stage in. Instead of big, floaty width, the image clamps down with laser focus: vocals and transients sit right there, almost “under the skin.” Well-recorded tracks pop with mic-placement clarity; poorly recorded ones get called out instantly. Bass is punchy and structurally correct rather than boosted—not a basshead set, but it thumps when the mix calls for it. It scales across amps (from clean to tubey), with some chains teasing a bit more soundstage while keeping that intimate, hyper-detailed character.

Build is slick: a comfortable, not-too-thick shell with a machined aluminum back and proper venting. The star quirk is the Pentaconn Ear connector—rotational like MMCX but far more robust—which also means most existing cables won’t fit, so the stock cable (often 4.4 mm, with 3.5 mm or both for extra) becomes the default. The earhooks curve a bit aggressively but can be reshaped; comfort overall is easy listening. Accessories are fine but not lavish: SpinFit tips and a big showpiece case that’s cool, if not pocketable.

Sonically it’s a “punch-drunk focus” specialist: drives through track after track, rewards great recordings, and refuses to sugarcoat weak ones. The Pilgrim feels special because of that concentrated energy and neutral-honest bass—more “truth serum” than lounge lizard. Verdict: 9/10. Docked for cable ecosystem quirks and a modest accessory spread, but the sound is compelling enough to make that nitpicking feel small. Curiosity about the pricier Pilgrim Noir stays high, yet this standard model already delivers a distinctive, addictive ride.


Z-Reviews original ranking

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Aful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Z-Reviews

Z-Reviews 8.5 * score rescaled + normalized
Youtube Video Summary

Naming drama aside (P5+2? just call it Performer 7), this Aful packs a quirky driver party: 2DD for low end, 4 BA split across mids/treble, plus a tiny micro-planar for the highest sparkle, all marshaled by Aful’s neat miniature crossover. The shells are lightweight, comfy and prettier than they need to be; the cable feels “don’t bother swapping” nice, with 3.5 or 4.4 options. The box is loaded with silicone tips but no foam—a miss, because the right seal changes everything. Price target sits around $250, which sets expectations high but not ridiculous.

Stock silicone yields a surgical, respectful tuning with bass that skews neutral and controlled. Swap to well-sealing foam or hybrids and feed a juicy source (warm Class A or tubes) and the set wakes up—stage snaps into a cohesive scene right in front, imaging gets laser-etched, and that micro-planar adds a pinch-of-salt treble spice without turning harsh. It’s an up-close presentation—sometimes almost claustrophobically detailed—in the best way: think “men with trumpets in the head,” precise placement, and excellent extension up top. Not as rowdy as the Explorers; more like a surgeon in a Hawaiian shirt—technical, but with a wink.

Practical upside: the clarity and positioning make this great for gaming and even viable for mixing/mastering checks; just don’t crank it into pain territory. Bass stays tight and responsive, treble sails high, and coherence holds. Tip and source matter a lot: with foam + warm power, it sings; with plain silicone, it’s merely polite. Final tally: a confident 8.5/10—doing a lot right at its price, dinged half a point for making everyone do math on the name.


Z-Reviews original ranking

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Elysian Pilgrim reviewed by Tim Tuned

Tim Tuned 7 Reviewer Score
A- Tuning
S Tech
Most technical sounding IEM under $1000
Youtube Video Summary

Elysian Pilgrim hits that rare sweet spot: a truly affordable entry into the brand’s house sound that still feels flagship-adjacent. Think Gaia DNA with a more tamed signature—the bass is dynamic, punchy, thumpy yet modest in quantity, staying clean with no bleed into the lower mids. Vocals sit center-stage with a touch of thickness, generally natural timbre and only a hint of grain that comes from the energetic top end. It’s a balanced, non-boomy low end for everyday listening; bassheads may want +1–2 dB more.

The star is the treble: incisive, nuanced, and genuinely “end-game” in detail retrieval at this price. Treble quality tracks closely with Gaia, still shy of the Annihilator, but astonishing for $399. Overall technical performance is the wow factor—notes feel crisp, tactile, high-definition, sitting well above sets like the Blessing 3 while only lightly trading away smoothness, and doing so tastefully. It reads as a “high-res” listen without slipping into harshness.

Against peers: Studio 4 stays smoother and more natural, but Pilgrim brings more energy and clearly higher detail. Versus the Hype 4, the latter has more bass quantity, yet Pilgrim wins in treble timbre and overall resolution. Compared with Moondrop x Crinacle Dusk, rankings shake out with Pilgrim first in treble and technicals, while the DSP Dusk often leads for bass/vocals over the analog version. Verdict: a big green thumbs up—an A+ for delivering thrilling, highly technical performance that competes above its class. (Interview notes: the Pilgrim Noir variant aims warmer, includes an Eros S cable and luxe case at a higher price, while standard Pilgrim stays the brighter, value-focused pick.)

Bass: A+ Mids: A- Treble: A+

Tim Tuned original ranking

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Aful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Tim Tuned

Tim Tuned 7 Reviewer Score
A- Tuning
A+ Tech
check links for more info:

Tim Tuned original ranking

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Bass: A+ Mids: A+ Treble: A+

Elysian Pilgrim reviewed by Super* Review

Super* Review 6* * score rescaled + normalized
Not a bad IEM. Very solid but in this price range it's really competetive. Very safe tuning.
Youtube Video Summary

The Elysian Pilgrim brings boutique flair to a more reachable $400 tier with a metal shell that mixes matte and glossy milling, a comfy medium fit, and a plush two-core cable that’s nicer than most in the class. Notable is the Pentaconn connector—smooth to rotate and said to be durable—though cable swapping is less convenient if the stash is mostly 2-pin/MMCX. Accessories feel thoughtful (including unique black-core SpinFit tips), while the case skews a bit large.

Sonically it’s a well-balanced, slightly midrange-focused tuning with a clean sub-bass lift (below ~150 Hz) that can read “bass-light” on tracks heavy in mid-bass. Treble isn’t pushed; presentation comes off a touch brighter/open than the curve suggests, with solid imaging and agreeable vocal clarity. Compared to an earlier show demo, the production unit’s top end feels nerfed: those delicate, Plucky treble transients and the weight in high-hat percussion that once stood out are dialed back for a safer listen.

In the $400 cohort—Yanyin Canon 2 (warm, meaty), Thieaudio Hype 4 (leaner mids, thicker bass), Moondrop Dusk (clinical neutral with sub-bass and forward vocals), and Softears Studio 4 (brightest, most lively)—Pilgrim slots squarely mid-pack: agreeable, but less distinctive than the more characterful peers. Had the show tuning shipped, it would spar closer to the front; as is, the take is competent yet conservative. Final verdict: three stars out of five—a quality set that favors balance over excitement in an increasingly competitive bracket.


Super* Review original ranking

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Aful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Super* Review

Super* Review 8* * score rescaled + normalized
Overall it is sounding more visceral and incisive than the Performer 5.
Youtube Video Summary

Aful’s Performer 5+2 upgrades the original hybrid with 2DD + 4BA + 1 micro-planar tweeter and lands around $240–$250. The unboxing is practical: three sets of silicone tips, a pocketable puck case, and a soft, nicely draping cable (available in 4.4 or 3.5), though the braid can look a bit loose and the pre-formed hooks run large. The resin shells shift between blue and green under different light; fit is medium-large, very stable, and comfortable once the right tips are found. Note the narrow nozzle without a retaining lip and partially exposed bores/filters—tip grip is key and a little care prevents ear-gunk ingress.

Tonally this leans mild V-shaped: a clean midrange with a confident bass boost, a touch of lower-treble presence for bite, and well-extended air up top. The result is more incisive and punchy than the original P5, with clearer on/off transients that aid separation and layering. Trade-offs show as a hint of gritty/plasticky treble texture on cymbals and brushes—not harsh, but less natural than ideal—while the bass stays tight and exciting.

Against Aful’s Explorer, this sounds brighter, more spacious, and more technical; Explorer plays warmer/denser with smoother treble but less openness. Versus the pricier Thieaudio Oracle MK3, tuning is broadly similar: Oracle is smoother and deeper with a softer attack, while the Performer 5+2 brings more snap and engagement for less money. As a modern mid-tier hybrid, it absolutely still has a place—energetic, spacious, and well-executed—earning a solid four stars.


Super* Review original ranking

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Elysian Pilgrim (more reviews)

Elysian Pilgrim reviewed by ATechReviews

ATechReviews 8.8 * Score computed by IEMRanking.com
S- Tuning
S- Tech
Pilgrim OG delivers an open, airy and highly resolving tuning with excellent sub bass and insane value for the money, even if the mid bass could use a touch more weight. For most listeners it remains the more compelling choice over the Noir thanks to its clarity and spaciousness. Outstanding value with open, airy, highly detailed sound and excellent sub bass performance. Mid bass is on the lighter side, so listeners seeking extra warmth and slam may find it a bit lean.
Youtube Video Summary

The Elysian Pilgrim OG comes across as the more open, energetic and value focused tuning in this duo. Its sub bass reaches very deep with excellent texture and detail, giving EDM and cinematic tracks a satisfying rumble, while the mid bass remains more restrained than on the Noir, prioritising definition over sheer weight. The midrange sits clearly in the spotlight, with vocals placed firmly in the centre and benefiting from the airy treble, so singers and instruments cut through the mix with impressive clarity.

Treble is one of the strongest cards for the Pilgrim OG: there is plenty of air and subtle sizzle up top without crossing into harshness, giving cymbals and high frequency effects a crisp halo and enhancing the sense of openness. Detail retrieval, instrument separation and soundstage sit at a level that legitimately challenges far more expensive sets, making it easy to pick out layers in busy mixes and giving the presentation a spacious, high resolution feel. Despite the slightly leaner mid bass, the overall tuning feels balanced, engaging and controlled rather than thin.

Where the Pilgrim OG truly stands out is value: the combination of technical performance, engaging tonality and solid build quality creates a package that comfortably challenges IEMs well above its price bracket. For listeners who enjoy a clean, open and resolving signature with strong sub bass, vivid mids and airy treble, the Pilgrim OG remains the clear pick over the Noir, trading a bit of warmth and relaxation for extra clarity, spaciousness and that addictive upper treble sparkle.

Bass: A+ Mids: S- Treble: S- Dynamics: A+ Soundstage: S- Details: S- Imaging: S-

ATechReviews original ranking

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Elysian Pilgrim reviewed by Yifang

Yifang 7.5 Reviewer Score
A Tuning
A Tech

Elysian Pilgrim reviewed by Shuwa-T

Shuwa-T 7.2 Reviewer Score
A- Tuning
A- Tech
The most chaotic and in your face of the triple threat, more focus to subbass and treble

Shuwa-T original ranking

Shuwa-T Website

Bass: A- Mids: B+ Treble: A Soundstage: A- Details: A+ Imaging: A-

Elysian Pilgrim reviewed by Smirk Audio

Smirk Audio 7 Reviewer Score
A- Tuning
A- Tech
check links for more info:

Smirk Audio original ranking

Smirk Audio Head-Fi Profile

Bass: A- Mids: A- Treble: A- Dynamics: A Details: B+ Imaging: A-

Elysian Pilgrim reviewed by Head-Fi.org

Head-Fi.org 8.1 * score rescaled + normalized
40 community members have rated the Elysian Pilgrim at an average of 4.3/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.

URL to full Review

Head-Fi.org original ranking

Aful Performer 5+2 (more reviews)

Aful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Audio Amigo

Audio Amigo 8 * score rescaled + normalized
Evolution of the Performer 5 tuning. Smoother, airier treble, deeper, punchier bass. Fantastic All-rounder with incredible resolution for the price. 2-Pin connectors have some quality issues
Youtube Video Summary

The AFUL Performer 5+2 (Performer 7 / P7) takes the P5 recipe and adds a second 6 mm dynamic for the lows and a micro-planar for the highs, nudging MSRP to $240. Unboxing mirrors the P5: nine pairs of tips and a decent case, but the accessories feel bare-bones at this price—no foam tips and a non-modular cable, even though the included 8-wire is supple and well-behaved. Build is classic AFUL: 3D-printed resin, blended nozzle (no mesh or lip—watch tip retention), single rear vent, and striking blue-green mosaic shells inspired by Suzhou gardens—cool-wall approved with four compliments to one “meh.” Fit is semi-custom and a touch chunkier than P5; comfortable for most, a conditional pass for small ears. Note a sporadic batch quirk: some units have over-tight 2-pin sockets; exchanges fixed it for affected buyers.

Tuning sits in warm-leaning neutral territory. The dual dynamics deliver punchy, textured bass that rumbles without bloating; guitars and drums carry convincing weight. Mids are the star—rich, full-bodied, vocal-forward without shout, with clean separation and natural tone. Treble from the micro-planar is smooth yet energetic: cymbals and vocal harmonics sparkle, special effects have bite and body, and only treble-sensitives may find hot mixes a bit lively. Technicalities impress for the money—detail retrieval and nuance feel a class up—while stage and imaging are solid rather than showy.

Against peers: the Tangzu x HBB budget pick mirrors the overall tonality but P7 offers higher resolution and more treble finesse; the planar “Heyday” alternative is brighter/faster with leaner bass; versus Performer 5, P7 brings tighter low-end, smoother treble, and better extremes detail; the Fresh-collab competitor pushes vocals further forward with bigger stage but leaner lower mids. Verdict: a versatile all-rounder that suits broad libraries and even content creation thanks to its balanced tonality and detail. Not for bassheads, trebleheads, or strict Harman-lean seekers, and the accessory pack/cable quirk holds it back from a slam-dunk. For roughly $240, though, it’s a brilliant, resolving upgrade in the AFUL line.


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Aful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Kois Archive

Kois Archive 7.8 Reviewer Score
S- Tuning
S Tech
Rating: A+ | Value: ⭐⭐⭐ | Gaming: 🎮🎮 | Comfort: 9 very nice neutral sound recessed female vocals

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Aful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Paul Wasabii

Paul Wasabii 6.1 * Score computed by IEMRanking.com
B Tuning
B- Tech
AFUL Performer 5+2 is a vocal focused hybrid with strong sub bass but a small, intimate stage and uneven treble. It will work best for listeners who want vocals up front and can tolerate some brightness and congestion. Very forward, engaging vocals with solid sub bass level and a relatively smooth overall tone at moderate volumes. Small, flat stage with limited separation and an energetic treble that can sound sharp and unnatural, especially around sibilants.
Youtube Video Summary

The AFUL Performer 5+2 takes the familiar hybrid recipe of dual 6 mm dynamics, four balanced armatures and a micro planar and spins it into a distinctly vocal focused presentation. Vocals are pushed very close, giving an intimate, close talker character that will immediately stand out from more typical U shaped hybrids. This forwardness comes at a cost, as the overall soundstage feels flatter and smaller than many competitors, with the midrange taking center stage at the expense of a more spacious image.

The dual 6 mm drivers deliver a sub bass tilted low end that has respectable rumble and enough level to support genres that appreciate extra weight, while avoiding obvious boom or bloat. Impact and tactility are on the softer side, and combined with the elevated midrange and treble, bass presence tends to sit very close to the vocals rather than carving out its own layer. This crowding effect, together with the warm, smoothed textures, means layering and separation never really open up, giving the Performer 5+2 a more compact, blended presentation than many modern tribrids.

The treble region is where the tuning feels least controlled, with peaks across the upper mids, presence and air bands that can bring out snare hits and sibilants and push the micro planar into an overdriven, slightly unnatural timbre. The intended advantage of the micro planar is largely lost in this boost, keeping overall technicalities such as detail retrieval, imaging precision and stage depth firmly in the moderate camp rather than a clear step up from AFULs other models. As a result, Performer 5+2 emerges as a niche choice for listeners who strongly prioritize upfront vocals and do not mind a smaller, more intense stage, while those looking for a more balanced, spacious and natural presentation will likely find better options elsewhere.

Bass: A- Mids: B+ Treble: C+ Dynamics: B- Soundstage: C+ Details: B- Imaging: B-

Paul Wasabii original ranking

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Aful Performer 5+2 reviewed by Web Search

uses AI-Search to turn user, reddit and head-fi reviews into clear, concise summaries.
Web Search 7.7 Reviewer Score
A+ Tuning
A Tech

The AFUL Performer 5+2 (also listed as “Performer 7”) uses a 2DD+4BA+1 micro planar driver array and AFUL’s LC-network crossover plus a 3D-printed acoustic tube system, aiming for clean band splits without smearing. The shell also integrates a high-damping air-pressure balance system, a design AFUL has used across its line. Official listings put MSRP around $229 and outline the same core tech features.

Tonally it trends neutral with a sub-bass lift: bass has solid depth and texture, mids stay relatively linear, and the presence/treble region adds energy without veering into sharpness on most chains. Multiple reviews characterize it as warm-neutral with bass boost or slightly V-shaped depending on perspective, which matches listening notes about a lively but controlled upper end. Sensitivity and load are portable-friendly (≈109 dB, 15 Ω), so it reaches performance without demanding amplification.

Technicalities are competitive for the class: imaging is tidy with good instrument separation, micro-detail retrieval is above average, and soundstage is moderate (more width than depth). Build and comfort are typical resin-shell fare; some users note occasional lower-treble bite depending on tips and recordings, so treble-sensitive listeners may wish to pair accordingly. Overall value is strong at its price, especially if a clean, bass-supported neutral curve is the priority.


Bass: A+ Mids: A+ Treble: A Dynamics: A+ Soundstage: A Details: A Imaging: A

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Elysian Pilgrim Gaming Score

Gaming Score & Grade

  • The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.

Gaming Score

7.3

Gaming Grade

A-

Aful Performer 5+2 Gaming Score

Gaming Score & Grade

  • The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.

Gaming Score

7.5

Gaming Grade

A

Elysian Pilgrim Scorings

Average Technical & Tuning Grades

Average Tunign Grade

A-
  • It balances warmth and clarity well, showing only minor quirks along the way. Timbre feels believable with most instruments.

Average Technical Grade

A
  • You get a well-rounded technical package that keeps separation, detail, and staging in harmony. It's a solid middle ground between fun and fidelity.
Bass A
Bass is strong and well-defined, delivering slam with admirable control. Electronic drops hit with authority.
Mids A-
Midrange performance is excellent, with natural timbre and great detail. Vocals feel lifelike and full-bodied.
Treble A-
The treble is exquisitely tuned, combining crystal detail with relaxed delivery. Micro-details emerge effortlessly.
Dynamics A
The system snaps into action with precision, highlighting every swell. Recordings feel energetic and alive.
Soundstage A
All dimensions bloom together, producing an expansive venue that feels carefully rendered. You can map the ensemble easily.
Details A
Micro-details glide to the forefront effortlessly while timbre remains natural. Ambient cues are vivid and lifelike.
Imaging A
Excellent imaging delivers precise, stable placement with instruments occupying tangible points in space. It locks each element into a steady position.
Gaming A-
Good fundamental spatial awareness for most gaming scenarios. Handles basic positioning well but may lack nuance in complex situations. Value-to-cost may not be optimal for gaming-focused users.

Aful Performer 5+2 Scorings

Average Technical & Tuning Grades

Average Tunign Grade

A
  • Tuning feels well executed, keeping a natural flow across the spectrum. Switching genres feels seamless.

Average Technical Grade

A-
  • It manages detail and layering well enough, even if the stage feels only moderately sized. You get a clear sense of left and right, if not depth.
Bass A
Expect a commanding bass response that reaches deep without clouding the mix. There's both slam and nuance in equal measure.
Mids A
Expect lifelike vocals and instruments with impressive nuance and realism. You can easily follow harmonies and backups.
Treble A-
It provides outstanding treble finesse, balancing brightness and control gracefully. It's engaging yet remarkably controlled.
Dynamics A-
Expect energetic dynamics that bring music to life without harshness. It injects enthusiasm into fast music.
Soundstage A-
Lateral spread stretches comfortably while front/back cues start to feel convincing. You can trace front-to-back movement.
Details B+
Nuance retrieval becomes reliable, highlighting expressive touches in every instrument. It rewards attentive listening.
Imaging B+
Layered vocals and harmonies remain distinct and easy to track. Layered vocals remain easy to track.
Gaming A
Clear spatial presentation handles directional cues effectively. Distinguishes key gameplay sounds while maintaining decent immersion.

Elysian Pilgrim User Reviews

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Aful Performer 5+2 User Reviews

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