Elysian X-Effect Audio Pilgrim:Noir Review
Intro
Hello everyone, this “sound review” and feature covers one of the latest Elysian Acoustics hybrid iems which goes by the name “Elysian X-Effect Audio Pilgrim: Noir” ($799). Obviously, it’ll be “Noir” for review purposes. So, the Noir is actually a tour iem provided to me from the Audio Geeks US Tour and MusicTeck. So, thank you to both entities as I greatly appreciate the opportunity to try out this most special iem. To be honest, I’ve only tested out one other Elysian Acoustics iem and that happened to be the predecessor to the Noir named the Elysian Acoustics Pilgrim. I did enjoy the Pilgrim, but it simply wasn’t my perfect cup-o-tea. I actually decided to not review that set at the time as I was simply not entirely feeling it. You should all know by now that I only review what I enjoy. At any rate, it’s still a fantastic set for whom it is for. However, this is not a review of the Pilgrim, but a set that I’ve been intrigued by for quite some time, in the Noire.
Elysian X-Effect
The Noir is actually a collaboration effort between Elysian Acoustics Labs and Effect Audio. You know, the amazing cable makers. Yeah, those guys. I couldn’t wait to hear this collaboration with my own ears. Of course, this collab entails adding in one of Effect Audio’s Signature Series cables, which is a huge benefit to the overall sound fidelity of the Noir. I know because I just reviewed Effect Audio’s latest Signature Series ii cable, the Effect Audio Eros S ii (Eros S ii Review). Without question I am very impressed with that cable, front the build, to the design, to the sound influence the Eros S ii impressed. Needless to say, this was one of the more tantalizing aspects of the Noire for me, personally. I don’t have 10 million dollars burning a hole in my pockets and so having the opportunity to spend quality time with the Noire is truly a pleasure for me and I don’t take it lightly.
Pilgrim:Noir
The idea of the Pilgrim Noir was actually an idea born from the mind of Elysian Acoustics Labs Lee (I don’t know who “Lee” is), to redefine exactly how we think of entry level iems. Partnering with Effect Audio on the same shared goal of creating and crafting an iem that goes against the grain of what is thought possible from this price range. Said to be what the original Pilgrim was yet upgraded across the board. Same driver count, and same principle but the two brands brought their expertise together to make it better. Elysian Acoustics promotionals state the “The Noir is said to be what the OG Pilgrim could’ve been in another dimension”. A variant of you will. Said to be designed with these three words in mind: Sophisticated, Sensual, & Seductive. In my opinion, I’d say that nailed it. I also feel that the Noir is a very well-done attempt at creating an earphone which does embody those descriptors. It certainly has a certain mood, a flavor, or a disposition which sways this impression for me. At which point I’d say that Elysian Acoustics Labs and Effect Audio hit their mark wonderfully.
With that all said, I do believe I’m ready to get this one started. So, without further ado, the Elysian X-Effect Audio Pilgrim Noir everyone…
**Oh, one last thing before I begin. This is a sound review folks. I received the Noir without the box or accessories. Only the carrying case, the cable, and the Noir. So naturally I will not be able to speak on the other portions of the packaging. **
Noir Pros
-Build is fantastic, Stainless Steel
-Pentaconn connectors are seriously awesome
-The blacked-out design is the definition of DOPE
-Effect Audio Signature Series custom Eros S cable is outstanding
-Fit and comfort
-Great timbre, warm, yet energetic, clean
-Fast, precise bass with solid texture and a heavy punch
-Melodic and holographic midrange
-Talented treble, extended nicely, smooth, non-offensive
-Details, Imaging, layering, instrument separation
-Nice and vast stage with great depth of field
Noir Cons
-Price addition with cable (not really a con)
-Bass-bois may want a hint more low-end oomph
-Treble could use a hint more sparkle
-The mids energy isn’t going to be to everyone’s liking
Gear used for testing
–iBasso DX240 with Amp8 MK2
Build / Design / Internals / Fit
Build Quality
When it comes to build, the Noir is truly a specimen folks. Made entirely out of stainless steel and built to last. The Noir is slightly above average in size, not too heavy, nice weight displacement in the ear and a very nice fit for me. I really enjoy the Pentaconn connectors which make attaching and taking off the cable extremely easy. It has such a solid feel when attaching. Really a nice addition. At any rate, the nozzle is about medium length with a nozzle size of right around 6 mm in size. Folks, I could go on and on about the actual build quality of this set, but I will sum it up by stating that the Noire is built like an absolute tank. Build Quality is a hard “Pro” in my book.
Cable
One of the absolute standout features of the Noir is without question…the cable. Most certainly using this cable ballooned the price tag, but I feel it’s a great addition and worth every penny. Listen folks, this set is $799, and anyone who is willing to purchase a $799 iem likely has no qualms with this awesome cable. They know what they are getting, and they know how much they’re willing to spend to get it. I’ve heard the murmuring in the message boards, in Facebook, in Reddit threads. I’ve heard some of you ask the question “why would they use a $299 cable?!” and the answer is that they were trying to make the best earphone that they could put to market for $799. Also, before you even say it… no… a regular cable for $50 is not going to compete SONICALLY with the Eros S. This much I can promise you. Anyways, I have zero issues with Elysian/Effect choosing this cable. In fact, I love it. The reason why is because I know how good this cable is. I reviewed the Eros S ii for months folks. Undoubtedly it enhanced my listening experience. It’s true, no doubt Elysian Acoustics could’ve gone with a cheaper cable and ultimately a less expensive earphone. But then it wouldn’t have been a collab and there wouldn’t have been such an air of luxury about this set and finally, you wouldn’t have the exact sound that they put together.
What’s it made of?
With all of that out of the way, let’s take a look at the cable itself. So, the provided cable is (once again) a Limited Edition, Effect Audio “custom” Signature Series Eros S cable. The Noire’s internal wires are made using a blend of Palladium, pure silver, and pure oxygen-free copper materials. It is a 26 awg thick 8-wire cable. Each wire is woven beautifully in a Litz pattern with aluminum fittings (Y-split, connectors etc.). The insulation is really cool too. It’s made out of EA Ultra-Flexi (™) coating which adds rigidity as well as pliability which seem as though they are combating principles, but I can assure you that they aren’t. The Eros S: Noir cable is colored all-black to keep the theme and perfect aesthetic with the Noir intact. One of my favorite aspects of these cables is that they adopted Effect Audio’s ConX connectors. Meaning, you can actually screw on and off different connectors like 2-pin, A2DC, MMCX, Pentaconn, and IPX. The Noire’s cable uses the amazing Pentaconn connectors, and I think I’m in love. They push on so smoothly, pull off so smoothly, they stay on, they are perfect. The only issue is that you don’t have many 3rd party cables to purchase for use with the Noire. However, who would ever want to? Anyways, the Noir cable also uses their TermX terminations which is basically 3.5 single ended and 4.4 balanced for the Noire. Folks, this is truly a special cable and I’m very glad to have used it with the Noire.
Design
This is the first place where the Noir really began to stand out from the competition, and I think it is blatantly obvious that its design is truly “top shelf” for its price point. I couldn’t be more impressed by the artistic ingenuity it must’ve taken to come up with such a design language. Designed entirely after the legendary artist Zada Hadid’s radically deconstructivist method. Said to be conceived and crafted after the natural topography of knolls, or small hills, rolling hills. Now, the Noir design is very reminiscent of the original design of the Pilgrim, yet Elysian Acoustics Labs chose instead to use a fully matte black colorway. I like to call it “blacked-out” because that is exactly what it is. Folks, it is utterly and positively DOPE! In every sense of the word. I love the golden logo accents on the faceplates. You’ll see the Effect Audio logo on one and the Elysian Acoustics logo on the other as well as a golden colored nozzle. Black-on-gold always works. I honestly don’t feel there is any iem in its price point designed with such attention to impress, to catch the eye, and to simply command one’s attention. Really a remarkable design, premium from the nozzles to the connectors.
Internals
Elysian Acoustics and Effect Audio decided not to change up the driver count from the original Pilgrim as they wanted this to instead be a slight variant of the original. Once again, the Noir is built using four drivers in total. To be exact, that’s one 9.2 mm LSR (liquid-silicone-rubber) dynamic driver with a magnesium-aluminum diaphragm which covers the low-end and does a magnificent job at doing so. The midrange is covered using what Elysian/Effect refers to as the Twin Thrust Module featuring two Sonion 2300 balanced armature drivers. One BA covers the low-mids and one BA covers the upper-mids. Finally, the highs are handled by an unnamed Knowles balanced armature driver. All of these drivers are selectively & cohesively dissected and then sent to your ear by a four-way crossover. I should also note that instead of Elysian Acoustics using their own internal wiring they actually had Effect Audio wire every driver element within the Shells. Certainly, a huge leg-up to have a company such as Effect Audio handling such an important piece to the audio chain. Friends, these drivers are hand-picked and expertly tuned and it’s beyond obvious that both of these brands knew exactly what they were doing.
Fit / Comfort
As far as fit and comfort, I’ve partially alluded to the fact that the fit for me is really close to perfect. I never had to worry about earaches, fatigue or any stress to my ears at all. Really a very comfortable set for me. I have zero idea as to how they will fit your ears, but I had a great time listening with this set in my ears and I did that for many days on end. Once I got a solid seal with the Noir, I was good.
Drivability
Output Power
The Noire is rated with an impedance of right around a very low 8 ohms @1khz as well as a sensitivity of 103dbs @1khz. What this means is that the Noir is reasonably easy to drive. However, as with most sets, the Noir most certainly scales with power. In fact, I used my daps at medium to high gain at all times and my dongle dacs on high gain 100% of the time. Yes, you can run this set off of less powerful sources and they will still sound pretty great. Yet when power is added I began to hear a smoother overall sound. Bass comes across better defined (not that it needs it), the midrange has better clarity too while the treble almost sounds better extended. I’m not talking megawatts of power here either but a set like this yearns for better sources, better circuitry, better amping, and a little bit more power which usually comes with better sources.
Source tonality
As far as source pairing with the Noir, I found that it does well with most source tonalities. I used everything from the warmer Shanling M6 Ultra, to the neutral and crisper EPZ TP35, EPZ TP50, Dita Navigator. It sounded fantastic with the M6 Ultra and sounded fantastic with the neutral Fiio Q15. So, what I get out of that is that it really doesn’t matter a whole lot what tonal color your sources have. At least I didn’t think so. Yes, there will be a slightly different influence on the sound per whatever source you do decide to use. But I don’t think you have to buy some specific type of source device to have a good listening session with the Noir.
What do you need?
At the very least I’d try to get my hands on a good dongle dac with a solid amount of output power. This is an earphone which begs you to attach it to something worthy of it. In the same breath, I had this thing on the $59 EPZ TP35 for quite some time and it sounded fantastic. So, in the end, I would simply find a source that you enjoy and go with it. Perhaps up the output if it’s a dongle dac to high gain, but the Noir is not picky in my opinion.
Sound Impressions
*Note: I want to preface this portion of the review with a few things. First off, I did not burn this set in as it already went to a few people prior to me having it on tour. Basically, if it needed burn-in, it probably got that from other users. So, I cannot answer if burn-in is helpful here. I use flac or better files which are stored on my devices, and I listen mainly with UAPP (USB Audio Player Pro), Hiby Player (for some dongle dacs) as well as with Poweramp from time to time.
How does it sound?
The Elysian Acoustics X-Effect Audio Pilgrim: Noir comes across fairly well balanced dynamically, yet with a sub-bass lift causing a subtle warmth in the lower portions of the frequency creating a very organic sound altogether. I’d say that the timbre is close to what I’d think “natural” sounds like. Of course, that is highly subjective, but still, you don’t have anything artificial on this set, at all. Not in the slightest. In fact, the sound is actually very well-tuned to keep all nasty peaks at bay, capped, held in check. Yet all the while I still hear a certain type of vibrance, or a 3d style energy immersion which sounds crystal clear and coming from multiple angles. Layering is fantastic folks; you have great depth of field and obvious front to back layers. This helps so much to add some dimension to the sound. A nicely 3d presentation. Truly a nice soundstage and one which adds to the listening experience in my opinion. Furthermore, the Noir is a very cohesive four driver hybrid iem. The drivers employed within work seamlessly as the crossover easily feathers them into each driver’s respective frequencies. Note fluidity is like a rolling wave. The sound is rhythmic at its heart, effortless in its lithesome ductility, yet agile and nimble enough to make distinct note outlines and separation. It’s somehow atmospheric and compact at the same time. Really a well-tuned, top-class type of sound which brings my music to life beautifully.
Tonality / Timbre
As far as tonal qualities, the Noir has a very smooth take on my music. Now, hearing “smooth” you may infer that the sound will not be as high resolution, or as transparent, maybe less detailed than more analytically inclined sets. Well, I’m here to say that this is not entirely true. The Noir has a very clean sound, from the sub-bass to the upper treble I hear fantastic control over the mix. Notes have a solid density, solid structure, timing, and a solid cadence. I wouldn’t call the Noir a detail beast, but I would say it’s above average at resolving more subtle moments within my music. If I were to label the Noir’s sound sig it would have to be “slightly V-shaped”. Perhaps even U-shaped to a degree as well. To be honest, it’s kind of stuck in this happy place tonally. That said, the bass is elevated, heavy, deep too. The mids are forward enough, rich, yet somewhat sparkly too without going shouty. The treble also has some sparkle, some slight brilliance whilst never getting out of control. It’s warm, yet it can also be neutral depending on the track. Oh, and the note control, transient tightness, and smooth surfaced yet dense note dictation is in my humble opinion… freaking great! The timbre isn’t really skewed in any one direction to a fault and no one area of the mix truly dominates the spectrum. Maybe the bass can be a hair heavy but there is most certainly a dynamic balance that serves an altogether fairly relaxed sound. I’ve asked myself a few times how I’m going to explain a sound which is smooth, relaxed, and rich, yet has enough pointed energy to form a dynamic contrast to the sound as well.
Does any of this make sense to you?
I suppose the Noir can go either way to different people. I’ve read some saying it’s too relaxed, even boring. While others have stated that the Noir is highly energetic, even sprightly (in so many words). Perhaps your source will help dictate how the overall energy is perceived, at least to an extent. I gotta admit to you all though… I’m at least partially tired of trying to describe it and I’d rather just close my eyes and listen. Eh, who am I kidding, I like a good challenge. Let’s just hope my words make any sense to you. Let’s check out each 3rd of the mix shall we…
Bass Region
The low-end of the Elysian Acoustics X-Effect Audio Pilgrim Noir is the backbone of this set while at the same time never infringing too greatly on any other area. Granted, it does keep a warm presence and there’s most definitely a warmth provided to the sound which comes directly from the emphasis down low. The Noir is most certainly a sub-bass focused low-end in which Elysian/Effect decided they’d rather hear a less potent mid-bass which rolls-off just enough to scrape the lower-mids leaving them very clean yet also rich enough. I have to hand it to these collaborating brands because I absolutely adore the bass on this set. So tight and punchy while keeping just enough resonance and lingering harmonics to feel atmospheric at times. However, by-and-large the bass is very tight, with a hard and robust density which decays in a more precise manner. Not at all a basshead set but instead it’s a mature bass which could be described as “quality-over-quantity”, even though the quantity is still pretty authoritative and strong. Notes are well defined, the attack on each note is met with a solid surface (depending on the track), nothing fuzzy or pillowy. The bass has a dense yet compact note body that adds a certain type of vibrance to the presence of some notes and definitely a roundness to the sound. Just a very well-done set.
Sub-Bass
The Noir most definitely has a sub-bass focus. Perhaps the anchor frequency of this set. The sub-bass is a special blend of guttural and tight which isn’t the easiest thing to be for a sub-bass. Notes don’t really hang around, at least not in the atmospheric sense. Like lingering resonances. I never hear a flabby or stuffy sub level drone. It’s concise yet it’s bold, heavy-handed, and commanding when it is called upon. Very much a haptic style of sub-bass that you can feel as well as hear. In the track “Tell Me What’s on Your Mind” by The Decemberists you’ll be exposed to a very gravely and deep bass drone which you can most certainly feel with the Noir in your ears. I know I can, and it’s awesome. So, the song begins with this electric sounding abrasive and excellently deep pitched bass guitar. Listening with the Noir is wonderful because the bass is so well separated from the quickly incoming drums as well as the leads vocals. It feels and sounds like partitioned-off elements without any true masking happening. I mean, obviously the ridiculously guttural bass line will take precedence within the sound field, but it’s not blended. It’s clean. There are so many instances like this. Or “Groove” by Ashley Monroe. Again, a heavy and weighted bass guitar reaches some droning low pitches, yet it’s also very kinetic, you can feel it. While at the same time Ashley’s gorgeous vocals remain relatively untouched. I honestly feel that the Noir has fantastic sub-bass. It’s deep, authoritative, well-defined, but it’s also not going to steal all focus, all the time.
Mid-Bass
Like I said in the “Bass” section Intro, the mid-bass is held back a bit and less up front than the sub-bass. However, that doesn’t mean it can’t be substantial or satisfying. I hear some very nice density in this region. Notes have concrete style rigidity which is nice. I’d venture to say it actually has some pretty hefty slam when a track calls for it. However, mostly the mid-bass is a very quick, very resolving. A very clean and tidy mid-bass. So tidy in fact, that it almost comes across with more of a central focus with a hard, snappy, and direct punch. It hits-n-gets. The crest of each note is certainly hard edged (some tracks will prove me wrong) with a more exact note outline. Again, nothing grainy, fuzzy, pillowy, and definitely nothing weak. The Noir has a hard punch will show up only when a track presents it. Also, the mid-bass doesn’t impede on other areas of the mix to the point that overarching warmth and veil is colors the sound. Not to say it doesn’t color the mids either. I definitely hear some added richness and warmth to the midrange. Again, it isn’t to the point of veil though, not one-noted either and the midrange retains its clarity. It’s not so intrusive to the point that midrange notes sound too wide, too lazy, or non-energetic. To my ears, this is a detailed bass that is the polar opposite of the words “one-noted” and keeps a very clean presence in the midst of its weight. Also, it’s a very fast bass, transients are perceivably quicker than most with that pointed, weighty slam. It’s just nice.
Mid-Bass cont…
In the incredibly fast bass replay of Iron Maiden in their track “Run to the Hills” somehow, I can hear each individual note. Obviously, you can only get so good on a track like this until you need something like a faster planar, or BA to really run at breakneck speeds. However, those driver types will usually never replay the bass region with the same authentic feel as a DD. So, for a single dynamic driver covering the bass, it is very impressive in this song. Another track is “Hysteria” by Muse where the Noir is absolutely showing out! Such a meaty tightness. The feel of the sub-bass haptic buzz & thrum coupled with the fast, very articulate, and authentic mid-bass punch is a nice mixture. I’ll take it any day of the week. Now, I’m not saying this bass will change your life. Yes, other sets can do this. Shoot, cheaper sets can do this. So, this isn’t some hype/fluff piece covering the Noir. However, it has to be stated how nice the bass is. Clean, very well textured, layered, well-defined, but also gratifying in its guilty-pleasure style rumble and slam. Add in every other frequency and you have one helluva coherent and pleasing hybrid set.
Downsides to the Bass Region
I have a few downsides to the bass region and even more so because this set costs so much. It is held to a higher standard. That said, I cannot fault this set for its technical prowess down low. Especially with the amount of emphasis afforded to the bass region. To be heavy and tight is a very nice combo. Not every set does it convincingly. Still, there will be those who feel that the mid-bass is not lifted enough. That it doesn’t add enough warmth to the mids. Some will say that the sub-bass is too elevated, and it’ll mask over too much of the spectrum. There isn’t enough resonant information and reverb from the back plate of the acoustic cavity. Too many absorbed resonances. Others will say that the bass isn’t nearly lifted enough, that the mid-bass is weak, not authoritative enough. Among other complaints. Folks, I hear all of that, and I just don’t buy it. No way. What this all comes down to is “preferential” and “subjective” ideals that particular people have. Those “issues” are in no way indicative of how well Elysian & Effect Audio tuned the bass. This is a case where I’d say that some will like it, and others won’t, but everyone should at least respect its game. Nice work Elysian & Effect Audio.
Midrange
The midrange on the Elysian Acoustics X-Effect Audio Pilgrim Noir has a very immersive and engaging presence. This all occurs without any forced glare or exaggerated pinna rise too. The Noir’s midrange has this thin layer of warmth which feathers the neutrality of this region. What I hear is a more organic midrange that doesn’t sacrifice the subtleties (details) to achieve authentic note weight. There is some very expressive fluidity within that warmth. I wouldn’t say that macro-dynamics are ultra vibrant, but they are there. I’d say it’s slightly laid-back, but never boring or too relaxed. There’s still some energy and some spunk to the midrange. Yet that spunk and vibrance is capped. Though, the midrange is certainly not some energy-fest, sparkling with copious amounts of zestiness and shimmer either. Now, transient attack through sustain is semi-swift, tighter, condensed, with very little hanging fat. Though the note body is richer than it isn’t, with good note density. The midrange is nicely textured, well-detailed, with well separated instruments, even somewhat airy too. Add to that a full-bodied sound and lean-lush type of note body like I was referring to and you’ll have yourself a nice midrange.
Mids cont…
To me the midrange is actually quite forward in the mix and with the subtle warmth and density, the presence of vocalist notes lean savory, melodic enough, and pretty rhythmical. Then again, I say “forward”, but what I really mean is “not overly recessed”. Of course, I have most certainly heard sets which are better for vocalists, made for vocalists, even vocal-centric if you will. However, I cannot knock the Noir for having a very engaging midrange. It is tuned very well and replays very nicely. No, it isn’t vocal-centric, but vocals of both males and females sound authoritative and dulcet, great for moderate vocal lovers.
Instruments
Instruments come through very naturally too. Strings carry a very melodic and clean sound with just enough edginess, and the same goes for violin, for the most part. I get those sparkly and textured guitar riffs along with a silvery violin, banjo, etc. Percussion all seems to have that meaty body with just enough snap at attack to sound legitimate and true-to-life. Timpani drums have the sharp, dry, attack and bellowing hollow resonance sound as though they have depth on the Noir. Trumpets, horns, sax, along with any other brass instrument all usually sounded naturally resounding, reasonably edgy, clean. In truth, this section could go on forever but I will cut it short by simply noting that I didn’t hear anything which sounded “off” when listening to instruments with the Noir. Every track displays these items a little differently and so it’s difficult to speak on every instrument. Just know that the Noir has the power to sound authoritative and robust with solid depth. Or feathery, soft, and sweet with smooth transitions, good transparency and authentic note body.
Lower-Midrange
The low-mids have a certain lean style richness, although I don’t feel that the lower midrange is overly warm. The mids actually sound pretty realistic to me. I suppose. I can say for sure that males in this region sound full, congruent with life, poised and authoritative, yet never overcast in too much warmth. The low-mids have solid note mass with nothing coming across dull It has very nice timbre here as males like Dermot Kennedy in his track “Rome” sound great with the Noir. His voice is never too sharp. On many sets the edges of his vocal notes can sometimes have a coarse, edgy sound. With the Noir it’s just smooth and bodied enough to sand down those coarse edges. “This is How You Walk On” by Gary Lightbody not only emphasizes his vocals but comes across as emotionally gratifying to me. The musicality shows off a bit and Gary’s voice has the clean presence and density needed to stand out while remaining very fluid and rhythmic. These are only a couple examples out of hundreds of male vocalist tracks, but the sentiment never really changed for me. Generally, nice timbre, solid note body, clear sounding, forward enough to sound highlighted and etched out against the rest of the melody but not forward to a fault. I hear good depth, nice layering of sounds and a more organic timbre. Sure, there will be hobbyists who would rather hear an even warmer and fuller sound here. Vice-versa there will be those who prefer a drier and sharper sound with a more exact transparency. I feel the Noir is a little bit of both, which is a thing to be.
Upper-Midrange
The upper mids have just enough elevated shimmer attached to higher pitched voices and instruments. Just enough sparkle while never coming across “sparkly” per se. The pinna rise is not one which will induce fatigue, and that pinna isn’t coupled with some highly energetic treble to exaggerate that rise. Again, it’s a natural sound here. Vocals and instrumentation have solid depth with female voices coming across highly emotional when needed. Moist-over-dry, dense-over-papery, while sounding elated enough for female voices too. Norah Jones sounds simply ambrosial, savorous, and honeyed in the track “Visions” off her latest album “Vision”. Well, take any track with this woman singing lead and you’ll hear the same thing with the Noir. As though it’s made for a voice like hers. The tonality of the Noir just seems to benefit a voice such as hers. Lainey Wilson in “Broken Hearts Still Beat” is another example of an amazing female voice sounding just lustrous enough without coming across artificial. These tracks are emotional in one sense or another and the Noir does emotion very well while still drawing out those subtle micro-dynamics and details. Really a nice sounding upper-midrange.
Musical/Analytical
So far, I think I’ve described something more musically inclined, but the Noir misses nothing on the technical side of things either. In truth, I’d probably say that the Noir is a nice in-between of musical and analytical. Again, detail retrieval is solid with a resolving sound and enough air that the midrange does not feel cramped or congested. So far, I’m really happy with the midrange folks.
Downsides to the Midrange
I would say the only real “downsides” within the midrange would be subjective tonal preferences from different hobbyists. Like, some folks want a more analytical, even more transparent or clinical sounding midrange. The Noir isn’t that. Also, some folks desire an almost rolled-off upper-mid without any hint of levity. Some will desire more weight and lushness in the lower midrange. Some will likely call this set too relaxed in the mids, and I understand that too. I don’t agree, but I get it. Those would be the downsides that I could possibly see. Guys and gals, this set has a very fine sounding midrange. Is it perfect? Of course not. Nothing is perfect. Something will have at least one problem for someone… all the time. However, the Noir had such a nice mix of both musical and technical, well defined, nice separation of instruments and an organic timbre. It’s fun, yet mature, very clean whilst keeping solid note richness. And of course, the layered and well-dimensioned sound field comes across nicely holographic. So no, it won’t be for everyone, but I can tell you that the Noir is 100%… For me.
Treble Region
This is a treble region which strays almost entirely from fatigue. There are no harsh peaks anywhere in the latter parts of the mix. That said, Elysian Acoustics didn’t need peaks or a forced lift in the treble region to add some brilliance to the sound. Albeit I’d probably call it “semi” brilliant. Yet there’s some levity and enough emphasis to spread that levity across the mix, just enough. Similar to the way the bass feathers itself into the rest of the range, just enough. Some may call it relaxed, but I wouldn’t call it that because I hear solid energy here. I hear sparkle, shimmer, and fantastic upper treble extension. The treble is very well refined (as it should be for $799) and has a very smooth take on this area of the mix. It’s fairly obvious that the new drivers have been put to work and Elysian/Effect did a fine job of implementing those drivers because not only is the treble very pleasant, it’s also extremely cohesive with the rest of the mix. There’re no odd transitions from mids-to-treble. To add to that, the treble follows suit with both the bass and the mids in that, it has a very nice and organic timbre. Even past 10k.
Extension
Like I said, extension is great into the upper treble. I can hear it plainly on any track featuring cymbals, hi-hats, or the like. They actually come across very realistic. This means, not splashy (very few sets actually do this), not too tinsley, not tizzy, and not sharp. I beg you to listen to “#41” by the Dave Matthew’s Band with this set in your ears and tell me it doesn’t do cymbals in one of the most refined ways under $1k. The upper treble game on the Noir is wonderful. Listen to “Concertino for Flute and Orchestra in D Major, Op. 28 Movement 3” by Emmanuel Pahud. The body of each note is so silvery, so dulcet and never does it induce shrillness while also keeping a solid timbre. I’m telling you; this set is refined! Every last little subtle shift of volume is detailed in the micro-dynamics of this region as the new Knowles driver shows what it is capable of when tuned well.
Detail Retrieval?
Another aspect of the treble region that somewhat defies auditory norms is its detail retrieval abilities. I only say that because the Noir’s treble range doesn’t have all the usual prerequisites for a detail-oriented sound. If anything, the Noir should have a smooth and less articulate sounding treble. Despite prerequisites, the Noir definitely does have an overall smoother treble, which usually would provoke a less detailed sound. Smoother usually doesn’t equate to fine-lined and intricate. Tell that to my ears. Friends, this is a smoother treble, well bodied, not thin, not dry, not ultra edgy and crisp sounding, and it isn’t overly boosted in treble emphasis. What gives? Those characteristics usually don’t apply to iems which are good at detail retrieval. In fact, usually I’d say that it’s the opposite. Well in the case of the Noir I can hear subtleties very well. Every bit as good as the OG Pilgrim but even more dense in body, better treble punch to notes, a rounder approach and added all up… you simply have better and more realistic timbre. As though the Noir was created to fix all of the OG Pilgrim’s problems. Anyways, depending on the track, I can hear all of the finest details just fine barring that track isn’t a heavily bassy track. That’s it. This set will resolve all of the finer details very well. It’s a fast driver and can take on fast treble passages fairly easily. Now, after I’ve said so many nice things, I don’t feel the Noir is what I’d consider a “detail monster”. That’s not its natural fortay. I’d still call this set musical-over-technical, and so it was pretty cool to hear such a talented region up top.
Pleasant
Beyond all of that, the treble is very well balanced dynamically with the rest of the mix. Ya know, one thing I look for when listening to tracks with a bunch of treble range info is if it coherently and sonically fits the rest of the signature. I would think this would be a given being that the price is $799. But alas, nothing is a given in this hobby. So yes, coherence of drivers, as well as coherence of frequency is no problem. The treble fits, it’s not too edged-out or razor sharp. You don’t have those ear gouging peaks, and you don’t have sibilance. Tonally the treble region is so very easy to listen to for long periods and to me this is fantastic. I’ve done a few reviews lately where my brain had to do some gymnastics to achieve brain burn. I didn’t have to do that with this set. It’s just… pleasant.
Downsides to the Treble Region
What are the issues up top? Hmm. Okay, let’s do some stretching. So, I know at least a handful of folks who are actual treble-heads. That means; gleaming bright and zesty, tons of treble bite, crispness, and controlled edginess. I wouldn’t say the treble on the Noir is up to treble-head standards. Honestly, like bassheads, treble heads are more niche than anything. For the rest of us, we simply want a treble which fits the overall tuning scheme. At the least. The Noir will give you that and much more. However, treble-heads are not going to come away drooling over the treble on this set. I mean, there’s barely an abrasive element within the Noir’s treble. On the flip, those who enjoy a darker and more rolled-off sound, blunted notes, less vibrancy, where the treble is more of an afterthought. Those would be hobbyists who are extremely sensitive to treble and get fatigued very easily. Those folks will also not enjoy this set. I suppose I could say that the Noir could use a hint more bite at $799. Possibly a slight increase in the crispness of its note outlines. However, that is being ridiculously picky. Folks, the treble is great, and I honestly cannot find many true “cons”.
Technicalities
Soundstage
Beginning with the soundstage, I keep going back and forth on average and above average. Although, there’s nothing average at all about this sets sound field. The quality of the stage is top notch in my opinion. It’s use of depth, and it’s layering ability is top shelf. Now, actual width is about average for a set of in-ears, but again, “average” is good. However, I keep saying this, but I think it falls on deaf ears that the quality of a soundstage is only partially dependent on overall size, in my opinion. I think what makes a good stage is its use of depth and how holographic the set comes across. Yes, grander stage sizes are nice, but also, some of the worst stage iems have had vast stage sizes. They didn’t use the sound field in a way which added depth of field, some are flat, some are simply more 2D. It’s not always about the size. However, the Noir is actually pretty good as far as size is concerned. It certainly feels open, airy enough, space between elements in the stage is great, depth and layering are phenomenal too. In my opinion the stage on the Noir is wonderful. More 3D than anything else where instruments hold their front to back placement in a very audible fashion with a width that is just past my ears and the sound field is tall as well. Very nice. K
Separation / Imaging
Instrument separation is also a “pro” on the Noir. I feel I’ve covered this already, but the sound of the Noir is such that instruments are well separated, as well as voices. Let’s put it this way, the soundstage is certainly not congested which would push notes together and begin to blend sounds. The Noir doesn’t even try to do that. Each and every element on a stage is well partitioned off from the next. Clean note outlines, densely compact notes which are transient tight and very transparent for a warmer sound. The only issue the Noir really has, is with really bassy songs, poorly recorded songs, and songs which are stupidly congested or complicated. Of course, any kilo-buck set will suffer the same fate with tracks like that. Well, some of them anyways. The point is that instruments and vocalists have room to breathe which is great to hear. Imaging walks the exact same line as separation, only I do believe that imaging takes it a step further as the front to back layering is fantastic. The stage has really nice depth which makes notes feel rounded, as though each instrument is its own mass of sound apart from the others. You can very easily place each instrument. Right to left and front to back is just very well defined. Very nice job Elysian Acoustics and Effect Audio.
Detail Retrieval
As far as detail retrieval is concerned, I’d say the Noir is above average. To me average is good, average is quality, average is the status quo, it’s good, par for the course. So, anything above that is icing in the cake. Coincidentally, the Noir has plenty of icing. Details are fairly easy to discern so long as the track isn’t ultra complicated or heavily bass dominant. The bass will mask other sounds if it’s too heavy. Yes, I realize that is an obvious thing to say, yet it must be said. Now, the Noir would need an extremely complicated and congested song to get tripped up. Believe me I tested this set out to some of the most rapid-fire songs and it held its own very well. I was able to dissect subtleties really well. The bonus of this set is that it isn’t so clinical and dry, or analytical and precise that it forces you to hear every last bit of minutiae within my music. That’s a good thing. Those details are there if you want them, but the sound altogether is still more musically inclined than technical in my opinion. So, details are good folks, when you want to hear them.
Is it worth the asking price?
Without question the answer to this is a nuanced one. There’re so many ways I can go here. To me, and for me, full disclosure… I would not spend $799 on this set. I only say that because I simply don’t have the money for it. Plain and simple. Now, if money was no problem and I had that amount to throw down would the Noir be worth it? That’s a yes. Of course it is worth it. I do wish I had the funds to buy this set. But I digress, friends, I’ve heard many sets at and above this price and I can tell you that it is without a doubt worth that money. I know some folks are wondering why Elysian would add in such an expensive cable and I get that. The Noir could’ve been much less expensive. Also, how much of an upgrade is it from the OG Pilgrim? Let’s put it this way; I chose to not even review the Pilgrim, while the Noir I feel is one of the best iems under $1k that I’ve heard. So yes, it’s quite an upgrade for me. Also, I feel the Effect Audio Eros S custom cable is such an awesome addition to this package. To me, it’s a selling point.
The Why…
Because my word folks, have you taken a good look at this set?! The Noir drips class from front to back and is built extremely well using stainless steel and other materials. In my opinion, the Noir is one of the best looking iems of any price point. They are also coupled with a gorgeous matte black Effect Audio Eros S custom cable. The cable alone is quite a feature folks and I was very glad to see that this collaboration resulted in its addition. I cannot tell you about the entire packaging as this Tour package didn’t come with the original box and accessories, however, I’m fairly certain that it would be amazing. Yet as always, it’s the sound which pushes this set over the top for me. With a very strong, deep and textured bass which is very well defined, I find the bass to be a focal point of this set. Truly awesome. The midrange is very organic, yet also very clean for a perfect mix of musical/technical. Also, that wonderful stage presence and 3D style sound field really takes my music to another level. The treble is a delight, moderately brilliant, very natural sounding with a smooth demeanor and perfect coherence with the rest of the mix. Just like the other frequencies, the treble simply fits. Friends, Elysian/Effect did a fantastic job tuning what I would consider one of the best sets under $1k. Truly a special product and worth every penny in my opinion.
Final thoughts on the Elysian Acoustics X-Effect Audio Pilgrim Noir:
This set is such an awesome all-rounder type listen. It truly is one of the better iems that under $1k will provide you. Granted, the sound signature still has to align with yours. However, I couldn’t be more impressed with this iem. What a nice job that Elysian Acoustics and Effect Audio did to bring not only one of the dopest looking sets, but also one of the best sounding sets for the price. I feel that the Noir will be for anyone looking for a very fun and balanced sound with crystal clear note definition along with some of the better timbre you’ll hear for a bass emphasized sound. Fellas & Females, the Noir is an easy recommendation from me. I don’t think many folks will be dissatisfied.
Conclusion
To conclude my full written review and feature of the Elysian Acoustics X-Effect Audio Pilgrim Noir, I first have to thank the Audio Geeks US Tour and all of those people instrumental in putting this all together. I cannot thank you enough. Also, thank you to MusicTeck for providing the Noir for review. Without both entities, I wouldn’t be able to test out one of my absolute favorite iems at its price point. It has been nothing but a joy getting to know this set. So, thank you very much. I also want to thank you, the reader, for clicking on the link to view this sound review of the Noir. It really does mean everything to us at Mobileaudiophile.com that you click those links and spend time at our website. So, thank you very much!
Other Perspectives
Finally, please check out other thoughts and opinions on this set. Please don’t just read this review and hit the “buy now” button. There are plenty of other reviews from some amazing reviewers who also want to help you in your journey. It’ll only help folks. Gather other ideas because no two people are exactly the same. I adore this set, but the person next to me may not enjoy this set as much. Everything is subjective in this hobby, and it will always be just that. So definitely check out others’ Noir reviews, and I do hope it helps you. With that all said, I think I’m done. Please take good care of yourself and stay as safe as possible and always… God Bless!