Elysian Annihilator 2023 [9/10]

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Super* Review original ranking

Super* Review Youtube Channel - Super* Review

Treble extension is insane, I always think I'm over it, but I may never be over it.

Jaytiss original ranking

Jaytiss Youtube Channel - Jaytiss

Hands down, my favorite IEM. Powerful, impactful bass, the best treble I’ve experienced in an IEM, endgame-level detail. The bass might be too much for some people.

Gizaudio Axel original ranking

Gizaudio Axel Youtube Channel - Gizaudio Axel

More of an all-rounder with better bass compared to the 2021 version, sacrifices some soundstage.

Precogvision original ranking

Precogvision Youtube Channel - Precogvision

More defined bass than 2021 version 2021 is cleaner and more open sounding

Tim Tuned original ranking

Tim Tuned Youtube Channel - Tim Tuned

Top-tier resolution with world-class treble. Great dynamics. Could use better bass texturing. An exciting listen.

Smirk Audio original ranking

Smirk Audio Head-Fi Profile

- Smirk Audio

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.

- IEMRanking AI