Elysian Pilgrim VS Crinear Daybreak

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

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Elysian Pilgrim and Crinear Daybreak use 1DD+3BA and 1DD+2BA+2mPT driver setups respectively. Elysian Pilgrim costs $400 while Crinear Daybreak costs $170. Elysian Pilgrim is $230 more expensive. Both score 7.3 from reviewers. Crinear Daybreak carries a user score of 7.4. Crinear Daybreak has slightly better bass with a 0.3-point edge, Crinear Daybreak has better mids with a 0.9-point edge, Elysian Pilgrim has better treble with a 0.7-point edge, Crinear Daybreak has better details with a 0.8-point edge and Crinear Daybreak has better imaging with a 0.8-point edge.

Insights

Metric Elysian Pilgrim Crinear Daybreak
Bass 7.3 7.6
Mids 6.6 7.6
Treble 6.9 6.2
Details 7.3 8
Soundstage 7 6.9
Imaging 7 7.8
Dynamics 7.3 7.3
Tonality 7.2 7.5
Technicalities 7.4 6.8

Elysian Pilgrim Aggregated Review Score

Average Reviewer Scores

Super* Review
Audionotions Jays Audio Jaytiss Shuwa-T Smirk Audio Tim Tuned
Gizaudio Axel Head-Fi.org

Average Reviewer Score:

7.3

Generally Favorable


Crinear Daybreak Aggregated Review Score

Average Reviewer Scores

Z-Reviews
Jaytiss Fox Told Me So Jays Audio Web Search
Super* Review Audionotions

Average Reviewer Score:

7.3

Generally Favorable


Reviews Comparison

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. Previously Owned

Audionotions original ranking

Website (Audionotions)

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Price: $399

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Crinear Daybreak reviewed by Audionotions

Audionotions 8 Reviewer Score
Slightly V-Shaped take on the JM-1 Meta. Some may find it a bit intense - especially in the upper treble, and perhaps the upper mids - it can sometimes border on being a tad shouty. Clean sounding throughout with great mids. Good contrasty sound. Mostly neutral sound signature. Thank you Crin, for making this non-limited vs. the Crinear Meta. I thoroughly enjoy this much more than the limited release. Previously Owned

Audionotions original ranking

Website (Audionotions)

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Price: $169.99

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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.

Jays Audio original ranking

Jays Audio Youtube Channel

Crinear Daybreak reviewed by Jays Audio

2025-07-16
Jays Audio 7 Reviewer Score
A+ Tuning
A Tech
Here we go again. Very similar tuning as P50 and SL224. Less vocal centric vs P50s, but more bassy and all-rounded. Slightly slightly less technical than SL224.
Youtube Video Summary

The CrinEar Daybreak offers a balanced, clean, and non-fatiguing sound signature, functioning effectively as an all-rounder. Every frequency region is solid, delivering a smooth presentation without harshness or overwhelming warmth. The bass provides a slight sub-bass rumble and integrates cleanly into the mids, avoiding bleed, though it lacks significant impact, slam, or deep texture. Similarly, the mid-range and vocals are well-separated and forward enough, free from congestion or odd timbre, but don't specialize. The treble has enough extension and air, avoiding darkness or excessive sharpness, but misses out on micro-detail, sparkle, and expansive staging. It’s a decent, inoffensive performer across the board, described aptly as a "very good vanilla ice cream cone".

Technically, the Daybreak is competitive but not class-leading. Sets like the Meta, Ziigaat Crescent, Kiwi Ears Astral, Simgot EM6L, or TruthEar Nova offer slightly better detail retrieval, imaging, and resolution. Its main challenge comes from remarkably similar competitors, particularly the EPZ P50 and SLIIVO SL224, which share nearly identical tuning, driver configurations, and technical performance around the same $160-$180 price point. The P50 leans slightly more vocal-centric, while the SL224 offers marginally better bass texture and treble detail (though costing more). If you already own either, the Daybreak becomes largely redundant. Against alternatives like the bassier, more dynamic Ziigaat Odyssey ($200), the Daybreak feels safer but less engaging at higher volumes. Compared to Harman-tuned sets like the Supermix 4, Chopin, or Nova, the Daybreak boasts fuller tonality and less fatigue but gives up some layering and detail.

Ultimately, the Daybreak is a competent, well-packaged all-rounder at $170, delivering a balanced and inoffensive listen suitable for any genre library. However, it fails to stand out uniquely in a crowded field. Its sound signature is replicated almost exactly by the existing P50 and SL224. While it earns a half recommendation as a solid option for those seeking a non-fatiguing all-rounder who *don't* own those twins, it's unlikely to become a favorite due to its lack of distinctive character. Value is decent, but alternatives offer more specialization or technical prowess for similar or lower cost.


Jays Audio original ranking

Jays Audio Youtube Channel

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

Jaytiss Youtube Channel

Crinear Daybreak reviewed by Jaytiss

2025-07-31
Jaytiss 7.4 Reviewer Score
B Tuning
C+ Tech
Lacks silky treble, but it's fine. But fine isn't good enough.
Youtube Video Summary

The CrinEar Daybreak features a metal nozzle and metal faceplate with comfortable contours, though the fit is noted as a bit dainty and small. Isolation is practically non-existent, and the fit isn't particularly secure. The included cable looks nice and photographs well, featuring interchangeable terminations for versatility, but its chin slider moves too easily and isn't recommended for those needing a functional one. The case is deemed aesthetically pleasing and feels good, though not especially premium, magnetically shutting with adequate space.

Sonically, the Daybreak leans boring and somewhat sterile or dry. It offers nice bass and a lot of upper mids, which are done decently with a standard 3K peak. However, the combination of this upper-mid focus and an incisive peak around 8K contributes to a perceived harshness and sharpness, lacking in overall detail retrieval. Graph comparisons reveal its signature has significantly more upper mids and often more bass than competitors like the Moondrop Dusk or TruthEar Nova, resulting in a less engaging listen. Sets like the Defiant, Chopin, and Performer 7 are cited as more engaging alternatives at similar or lower prices, with the Defiant specifically recommended over the Daybreak. Even the Punch Audio martillo and Moondrop Meteor, sharing driver configurations, are considered more fun or better tuned.

Ultimately, the Daybreak is a solid A-minus IEM, well-packaged and a commendable first effort for the brand, but it's not hypeworthy or a benchmark. It lacks imagination and falls short against numerous compelling alternatives around its price point, such as the Performer 7, ZOS Defiant, Chopin, or discounted planar options like the Aether. While a good value, especially if found on sale via Linsoul or the used market, its piercing upper mids and failure to truly excel make it hard to fully recommend over the competition.

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

Jaytiss original ranking

Jaytiss Youtube Channel

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.

Super* Review original ranking

Super* Review Youtube Channel

Crinear Daybreak reviewed by Super* Review

2025-07-25
Super* Review 8* * score rescaled + normalized
Spot-on tonality. Everything sounds very natural and not contrasty. Vocal texturing is above average. Low-contrast sound signature. Bass is not that tight.
Youtube Video Summary

The CrinEar Daybreak lands at $170 as the second IEM from Crinacle, positioned as a more accessible follow-up to the limited-edition Meta. This tribrid features a single dynamic driver, two balanced armatures, and two micro planars handling the highs. The build includes compact, semi-custom dark smoky resin shells offering good stability and comfort, though the molding might be slightly aggressive for some. The included cable provides swappable terminations (3.5mm and 4.4mm) but is noted for being somewhat stiff and kink-prone. Accessories are solid for the price, including a leatherette case and multiple tip options, with the stock silicones recommended for optimal fit due to the slightly longer nozzle.

Sonically, the Daybreak delivers what the review calls the best tonal balance yet within the popular "new meta" tuning category. Its frequency response is described as exceptionally neutral and natural from the mid-bass upwards, creating a low-contrast, chill, and non-fatiguing listen with forward, textured vocals and non-existent sibilance. However, this comes with trade-offs: the bass lacks ultimate tightness and slam, and the treble exhibits a light, wispy quality (likened to cotton candy) that lacks some bite and definition. While technical performance like imaging is solid, it doesn't stand out as exceptional.

In direct comparisons with six competitors around $200 (including the Meta, Binary x Chopin, EPZ P50, Ziigaat Lush, Truthear Pure, and Kiwi Ears KE4), the Daybreak consistently ranked highest for tonality. It was praised as a modern benchmark for natural tuning at its price. However, it fell behind in bass physicality and treble incisiveness. Ultimately rated a strong four stars, the Daybreak is highlighted as an excellent choice for those prioritizing a refined, natural midrange and easy listening experience over sheer technical prowess or visceral impact, earning the label of a "modern-day Etymotic ER2XR" with far better comfort.


Super* Review original ranking

Super* Review Youtube Channel

Elysian Pilgrim (more reviews)

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

Gizaudio Axel Youtube Channel

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 Tim Tuned

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

Tim Tuned original ranking

Tim Tuned Youtube Channel
Bass: A+ Mids: A- Treble: 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

Crinear Daybreak (more reviews)

Crinear Daybreak reviewed by Fox Told Me So

2025-09-26
Fox Told Me So 7.2 Reviewer Score
A- Tuning
A- Tech
What could you expect from JM-1?
This is it.

Crinear Daybreak's tuning follows the New Meta family with two quirks: a dip at 400 Hz that slightly thins male vocals, and a dip around 8 kHz that smooths treble but softens cymbals/overtones. Otherwise it’s safe, balanced, and within preference bounds.

Bass has moderate body with audible rumble and quick decay, though slam could hit harder; Mids sit neutral, neither pushed nor recessed, keeping instruments evenly balanced; Treble rolls off smoothly—pleasant, but lacks the final lift that would open it up. Resolution is average for the price: clear layers but compressed depth, like a lasagna being pressed flat.

Within the $169 bracket, Daybreak is neutral, natural, and non-fatiguing—an easy daily driver.

Fox Told Me So original ranking

Fox Told Me So Youtube Channel

Crinear Daybreak reviewed by Z-Reviews

2025-08-23
Z-Reviews 6 * score rescaled + normalized
Youtube Video Summary

The Crinacle Daybreak is a technically excellent IEM that offers exceptional clarity and detail retrieval without being fatiguing. Its five-driver configuration delivers a cohesive and precise sound signature that is clean, flat, and incredibly balanced. The bass is present and punchy but never exaggerated, making it a perfect tool for studying music and hearing every nuance in a recording.

However, this precision comes at the cost of fun. The tuning is described as a little dry and somewhat intimate, lacking the expansive soundstage and flavorful character that makes other IEMs more engaging for pure enjoyment. While the build is solid with an acceptable cable and nice connectors, its looks are admittedly boring. It’s a perfectly cooked meal that follows the recipe without any surprises.

Ultimately, the Daybreak is a highly respected and much-loved IEM that fills a specific niche for a clean, reference-like sound. It’s a business suit of an IEM, but it wouldn't be the first choice for someone looking for a more exciting, fun, or "f***ed up" sound signature to get them moving. It commands respect for its technical merits, even if it isn't to everyone's personal taste.


Z-Reviews original ranking

Z-Reviews Youtube Channel

Crinear Daybreak reviewed by Web Search

2025-07-25
uses AI-Search to turn user, reddit and head-fi reviews into clear, concise summaries.
Web Search 7.5 Reviewer Score
A+ Tuning
A Tech

The CrinEar Daybreak is a tri-brid IEM built around a 5-driver array—1DD + 2BA + 2 micro-planar tweeters—with a moderate 20 Ω load and 105 dB/mW sensitivity, making it easy to drive from portable sources. MSRP sits at $169.99, placing it squarely in the competitive mid-budget segment. These core specs are confirmed on the official product page and retail listings.

Tonally, Daybreak trends toward neutral with a mild sub-bass lift and restrained warmth, but listener experience can swing with tip choice. Multiple independent impressions note a touch of upper-mid / lower-treble energy (ear-gain region) on stock narrow-bore tips, which relaxes with wide-bore options; overall midrange balance and resolution are strong for the price. These observations are echoed in in-depth evaluations and measurements from Headphones.com’s reviews.

Build is a resin shell with metal faceplate and a compact pseudo-custom profile; comfort is generally good, though the 6 mm nozzle and angle may not be ideal for every ear. Accessory quality is serviceable—SPC cable with interchangeable 3.5 mm / 4.4 mm terminations, a leatherette case, and basic tips—leaving room for aftermarket tip rolling to fine-tune treble behavior and staging. These physical details and inclusions are documented by the maker and retailers.


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

Elysian Pilgrim 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!

Crinear Daybreak User Review Score

Average User Scores

Average User Score:

Based on 1 user reviews

7.4

Generally Favorable

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

7.1

Gaming Grade

A-

Crinear Daybreak Gaming Score

Gaming Score & Grade

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

Gaming Score

7

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-
  • A competent technical showing keeps separation intact while delivering modest staging. It feels tidy even when recordings stack layers.
Bass A-
Bass is strong and well-defined, delivering slam with admirable control. Electronic drops hit with authority.
Mids B+
The region sounds composed and expressive, giving vocals a natural spotlight. It keeps vocals front and center nicely.
Treble B+
Expect crisp, well-balanced treble that keeps shimmer intact. You hear reverbs decay naturally.
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.

Crinear Daybreak Scorings

Average Technical & Tuning Grades

Average Tunign Grade

A
  • Tuning lands in a pleasing sweet spot with mostly coherent frequency integration. Tonality stays consistent from track to track.

Average Technical Grade

B+
  • The presentation is steady if unspectacular, holding onto essential details when the music stays simple. Fine details occasionally slip through the cracks.
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
Midrange performance is excellent, with natural timbre and great detail. Vocals feel lifelike and full-bodied.
Treble B
Treble is articulate and clean, adding excitement without harshness. It adds sparkle without harshness.
Dynamics A-
It delivers crisp, authoritative dynamics that keep music thrilling. Subtle level shifts are clearly conveyed.
Soundstage B+
Lateral spread stretches comfortably while front/back cues start to feel convincing. You can trace front-to-back movement.
Details A+
Complex productions unravel completely, letting you examine every thread. Textures are rendered with exquisite finesse.
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.

Elysian Pilgrim User Reviews

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Crinear Daybreak User Reviews

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Strix
7.4

A well-toned, easy-listening IEM that excels at midrange clarity even if it doesn’t dazzle technically.

Tuning: A+ Tech: A- Bass: B+ Mids: S- Treble: A- Dynamics: A+ Soundstage: A Details: A- Imaging: A-
Pros
Balanced and non-fatiguing tuning with smooth, natural mids.
Cons
Bass lacks slam and treble can feel veiled or lacking crisp sparkle.

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