Elysian Acoustic Labs Apostle

FreeWheelinAudioLuv2

Headphoneus Supremus
Introducing the Elysian Pilgrim Noir on STEROIDS!
Pros: Punchy and rumbly bass that's refined with note resolution
Crisp but polite treble that has texture and refinement
Dimensional stage with excellent spatial cues and imaging (where's the BCD? Wait there isn't any?!)
Transparent and full midrange with note weight and incisiveness
Shells are BIG but comfortable
Sonics reminiscent of a more refined and grown up Noir
Cons: Not for trebleheads
Not the last word on detail retrieval at this price point
Bass could be too much for neutralheads
Did I mention the shells are big
ELYSIAN APOSTLE

Let's get started. This is one of my most anticipated loaners of the year. Thank you to @EnigmaFotos and @ElysianAcousticLabs for the opportunity at this loaner set. What a great time to be an audiophile in the IEM segment, due to the existence of gear like the Elysian Apostle. I got the privilege of auditioning the Elysian Pilgrim and the Elysian Pigrim Noir (discussed here as the Noir) last year, and though the OG Pilgrim was an excellent set, it just didn't resonate with me as much as the Noir. That particular IEM hit all the right spots, and was a chill, refined, and fun listen. I was truly sad when I had to let them go back home. So now, the Apostle has shown up for a visit, and the first thing that struck me was just how similar these sound to the overall tonality of the Noir, but take it up several notches. This is the Noir on steroids! This is a far more refined approach than the Noir, with far more rumbly and punchy bass presence. So buckle your seatbelts and prepare for a 100% unbiased impression with heartfelt observations and thoughts. Now on to the fun stuff.

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The unboxing experience was quaint but classy. The box has a slip case with the words Apostle embossed in black. Upon removal of the slip, you are greeted with fold out wings, and a classy cover letter by Elysian Acoustics welcoming you to the experience. Under that are the IEMs themselves, the cable carrier, and underneath that is more! The warranty and paperwork case, with Apostle also written on the front, a tip case with various amounts of tips and tip sizes, and the leather carry puck, with a couple sundries. Again, aside from the design, it's a quaint but classy presentation. The cable is a thick, black, 4.4mm Effect Audio ConnX connector cable. It's got moderate pliability, handsome accents, and seemed very secure at the attachment points on the buds themselves. The shells are machined metal, have no irritating points of contact, and fit rather comfortably, despite the shells being on the rather large size. The nozzles suffer from the same issues the Pilgrim's suffered from, which is the nozzles are too short for the contours of the shell, which makes a finicky fit, so tip rolling until you find that excellent seal might take a while, or the need for o-rings. I started with the AZLA Crystals, switched to Spinfit CP100+, and then went back to Crystals, as to squeeze out the last of that treble extension, the Crystals are so good at doing. That's the extent of the unboxing experience, so let's move on to the technical details and sound impressions.

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THE SPECS :

ELYSIAN APOSTLE

TECHNICAL INFORMATION
:

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Frequency Response Graph provided courtesy of @Jaytiss. All rights reserved.

PRICE : $1799.00

Available for purchase at this location.

The Gear :

What did I use for my listening sessions for my review??

This is a major IEM, so I used a wide swath of sources to conduct my listening sessions. From tube daps and amps like the Cayin N3 Ultra, the Xduoo XD05T, iBasso Nunchaku, and Little Bear B4-X, to the Cayin Ru6 r2r dongle, iBasso DCE, FiiO JM21, Dethonray Clarinet, iBasso DX170, Sony NW-ZX100, A25, A55, and Hiby R3 II. So one of the broadest use cases I've ever utilized for a review.

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Music used for the review and all my reviews in general?

Ezra Collective - Dance, No One's Watching
Robert Glasper - Canvas
Aki Rissanen Aleatoric - Aleatoric
Mareike Wiening - Reveal
Paul Booth - 44
Bob Marley & the Wailers - Survival
Rob Van Bavel & Joris Teppe - Dutch Connection
Kaisa's Machine - Moving Parts
Esperanza Spalding - Self Titled
Junior Kelly, Bounty Killer, and Capleton - The Good, The Bad, and the Blazin'
Martin, Glasper, 9th Wonder & Washington - Dinner Party
Juan Ibarra - La Casa
Megadeth - Rust in Peace
Drive By Jehu - Self Titled
Cryptosis - Celestial Death
Crownshift - Crownshift
In Aphelion - Reaperdawn
Cradle of Filth - The Screaming of the Valkyries
Shuffled Classic Rock, Reggae, and Pop Music playlist

SOUND IMPRESSIONS
:

Dynamics : 5
Resolution : 4
Details : 3.9
Instrument separation : 4
Imaging : 4.5
Low End Impact : 4.5
Sibilance : 1 (No discernible sibilance)
Soundstage : 4.5

Overall score : 4.5/5

BASS/MIDRANGE/TREBLE :

The Elysian Apostle, in the marketing claims, was said to be the Elysian Annihilator Jr. I wouldn't know exactly, since even though I am signed up for the Annihilator 2023 tour, it hasn't landed on my porch as of yet, but I can confidently say that I feel the Apostle is the Elysian Pilgrim Noir Sr. They share DNA in their sonic presentations. Where they diverge is in the top and and low end. The low end of the Noir is impactful, but linear, with a restrained sub bass, where the Apostle comes at you with all guns blazing with an energetic, punchy, rumbly, and yet note resolving and incisiveness that you rarely find in other IEMs. You will get rumble and punch, with energy and impact, or you get a linear bass with note resolution, but rarely BOTH. This is why the bass of the Apostle is my favorite trait. Usually I'm picking the treble over the bass or mids, as a true treble connoisseur. Not here. Not now. I'm taking that energy, impact and rumble. It's fun. It's toe tapping. It's strong, but it's never overbearing or overpowering (unless called upon to do so), so it's a very heavy handed mid bass (in a good way), quaky sub bass (when called upon), and very energetic! To sum up the bass of the Apostle, I'd say it walks a balance of bass head impact, but linear bass connoisseur resolve. Again. this is quite rare, where a bass can walk that line between the two traits, but in this case, the Apostle delivers in this way. The bass presentation is truly special.

The midrange is warm, transparent, fluid, immersive, incisive, and spacious. Where's the BCD? There isn't any? What?! With the way the midrange is presented, with those spatial cues, instrument separation, imaging, and stage very full, immersive, and transparent. Now there is a bit of warmth bestowed by the mid bass into the midrange, especially the lower mids, which provides warmth, note weight, and a natural timbre, and fluidity. Now it also can mask some finer details, even with the transparent quality of the midrange as a whole. This is apparent when looking for faint whispers, laughs, voices, or instrument placement in the midrange mix. Toto - Africa, Robert Glasper - Enoch's Meditation, China Drum - Barrier, Cinder - Please God, or in the case of the Rolling Stones - Beast Of Burden, there's a strum of an acoustic guitar buried in the mix, that's faint but audible, and it is in fact audible, but fainter in the play back due to the compromise detail retrieval from the added mid bass presence within the midrange. Now, this isn't to say this is a bad thing, it just limits the sheer amount of details that are presented within the spacious stage of the midrange. One of the positives of this are male and female voices are emotive, warm, immersive, and engaging. Voices are beautifully spaced, placed, and performed, with a weight and tone that are natural and expressive. So there are trade offs, but I think it's worth it for that natural timbre and effortless musicality. With the upper mids, there is no shout, no crispiness, no sibilance, and no peaks. This is a mature, refined, with a elegant fluidity to the upper midrange that compliments the lower mids, the center midrange, and all the way into the treble with a effortless tonality.

Speaking of effortless and natural, that could very easily be the main descriptors of the treble of the Apostle. Driven by dual EST's, it's textured, reserved, natural, crisp, and incisive. Actually, the EST's are much more reserved that I was expecting, due to the marketing as an Annihilator Jr. I was expecting more than just that, marketing lingo, because I can't imagine a treble that has been described as the most textured airy, and extended of any IEM in the world, would be anywhere near the Apostle's treble, because I would not describe the Apostle treble in those terms. It's crisp, but it's not the most airy. It's not the most shimmery. The ISN EBC80 has more airy harmonics, as does the Thieausio Oracle MK III, and both are dual EST, like the Apostle, with the latter delivering a more natural texture with a crisp, refined, and controlled extension that I would say is more safe than strident. More reserved than shimmery. Now I did discover, quite by accident, that the Apostle synergizes in a unique way with the Hiby R3 II. Usually I use the R3 II tethered to a DAC or amp, but this time, while waiting for a DAP to charge, I decided to plug the Apostle thru the R3 II via 4.4mm, and synergy sisters were created quite surprisingly. The Apostle gave off more air and extension when using this DAP, and not only that, but the upper mids were a bit cleaner (less warm), and the bass became a touch more linear in the mid bass, so that I got a slightly brighter tone, though still very full and refined with that immersive stage left intact. Has I discovered this earlier, I would have spent more time with this combination, as it really checks all my personal preference boxes. If you've had the opportunity to hear the Elysian Noir, then you get in the ballpark of what to expect treble extension wise, just with even more resolution, crispness, and refinement, with similar extension, air, and shimmer, but less laid back, and with EST tonality instead of BA's.

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Comparisons :

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Lime Ears Maris ($2,799) : I'm incredibly fortunate to have the Lime Ears Maris in my possession at the same time as the Apostle. Though the Maris retails for $1,000 more than the Apostle, I don't believe the Maris, sonically, supersedes the Apostle, but it does out finesse the Apostle in some attributes, while falling short in other ways. Just like the Noir, the bass of the Maris is a league lower than the Apostle. It lags behind in energy, impact, and sub bass rumble. The only facet of the bass where the two would be considered equals is in the note resolution and incisiveness, where the Maris acquits itself rather nicely against the Apostle. The midrange of the Maris, while being less warm, brings the technicalities, has no warm veil, and so detail retrieval is superior, while delivering a cavernous midrange stage that's more dimensional in width, height, and depth. BCD in the house!! I think the midrange tonality is much more natural and fluid with the Apostle, while being a touch more incisive, and the vocals are more emotive and textured, with the Maris having a thinner note weight and vocal presentation. The treble of the Apostle is more textured and natural. I wouldn't call it more refined, since the Maris never gets strident, and is actually tuned in that safe, almost nu-meta style as the Apostle, but it's a little airier, but with slightly less control, and slightly less musical than the Apostle. Slightly less fun. Advantage : Apostle.

Penon Archangel ($800.00) : Costing less than half the price of the Apostle, and $2,000 less than the Maris, the Archangel is easily my favorite acquisition in 2025. Sonically, it's like a cross between the Apostle and the other Lime Ears IEM that I have in my possession, the Lime Ears Incognita. Archangel has 2 DD + 2 BCD + 2 BA, and it's bass is tuned very similar to the Apostle. I'd say the only difference between the two is that the note resolution is slightly greater with the Apostle, while the mid bass extends and punches a bit further into the lower mids than the Apostle, while the Apostle delivers slightly deeper sub bass rumble. The midrange is warmer and lusher with the Archangel, and has less transparency, fluidity, and refinement. It's also a step behind in detail retrieval and imaging, though the soundstage dimensionality is very similar to the Apostle. I'd say the Apostle is cleaner and fuller, while the Archangel is more immersive and orbital. Note weight is similar. Archangel's upper mids and treble is far more incisive and airy. To the point where you might pick up some sibilance on tracks that have that baked in, whereas the Apostle never gives up the sibilance ghost. Timbre is more natural with the Apostle, but harmonics extend far higher with the Archangel, with top end shimmer and crispness superseding the Apostle, but this comes at the cost of BA sheen and less control and natural texture. So if you're a treble head, you'd lean towards the Archangel, and if you're into more emotiveness and refinement in the midrange as a whole, while valuing safer tuned upper mids and treble, then the Apostle is the pick. Bass is a pick 'em, with the Apostle supplying a more balanced approach to the bass presentation, and the Archangel a more heavy handed mid bass approach. Advantage: Apostle.

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CONCLUSION :

The Elysian Apostle surprised me. Both good and indifferent. Good, in that I was really expecting a refined and immersive listen, and I got just that. Good in that the bass was so hard hitting and rumbly, but defined and incisive, and that was another very good surprise, but also indifferent in that I was hoping for, or expecting well extended, airy, and shimmery treble like the Annihilator (Jr), but instead I got a nu-meta, safe, natural, and controlled treble. I still enjoyed it. Especially thru the Hiby R3 II and the Nunchaku. It's easily the best IEM I've ever heard from a natural, refined, bassy and spacious POV. It's most definitely an able and adept all-arounder, which can deliver reggae, rock, or jazz with equal aplomb as it does extreme metal, prog, or hip hop. If you have $2,000 to spend, and you're looking for a fluid, musical, and natural, yet bassy all-arounder, then the Elysian Apostle should be at the very top of your list, and the tip of your tongue. If you own the Pilgrim Noir, and you're looking for a direct upgrade, then the Apostle is exactly this, and it'll cost you double what you paid for the Noir, but IT'S WORTH IT. The Apostle is sexy, sultry, sinuous, and steady. Refined, with no hair out of place. Simply put, the Belle of the ball.

RECOMMENDATION LEVEL : TOTL BOSS LEVEL ALL-AROUNDER - HIGH 9/10.

Thank you so much for reading and remember to be water with your audio luv! When you do...AUDITORY ZEN UNLOCKED!
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EnigmaFotos
EnigmaFotos
Great review my man!
FreeWheelinAudioLuv2
FreeWheelinAudioLuv2
Thank you! Means a lot!

LimitlessE

New Head-Fier
Excellent, but with a few caveats
Pros: Comfort: the aluminum shell is nicely done, being light and comfortable.
Bass: Very impactful and rumbly.
Midrange: Clean and natural (possibly the most neutral of all Elysian lineup)
Treble: Smooth and relaxing.
Cons: For the price it is asking, I would expect fancier packaging and accessories.
The stock cable is on the stiff side, not the most flexible.
The stock tips for apostle (divinus velvet narrow bore) don't fit the sound as it tend to cut off some midrange.
I highly suggest changing the narrow bore to wide bore for stock tips.
Channel balance can be better.
This is my first time writing a review on headfi, so I'm going to be short and concise.
Disclaimer: I am an Elysian fanboy. I owned Anni 2021, X, and Diva. I can be biased.

Without further ado, here's the measurement on B&K 5128. (Big thanks to the hangout crew for measuring my unit) (yeah, channel balancing can be improved lol)
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Apostle sports a neutral tuning with a noticeable lift in the sub-bass and lower midrange with good air extension. There is a slight dip around 5-6k which I understood from Mr.Lee that was intentional.
This type of tuning gravitates a bit from the Elysian House sound towards a more JM1 tilt signature. However, Apostle still retains that vocal forwardness which is beloved by the community. On the other hand, I do think marketing it as an Annihilator Junior is misleading. To my ears, Apostle sounds more like Pilgrim ultra than Annihilator.

Bass: Apostle used the same LSR tech DD driver used on Pilgrim. It is fast, rumblely, and satisfying. In fact, it is arguably the best bass profile for rap in my opinion. However, if you are an instrument or acoustic enthusiast, the bass on Apostle may be overpowering in certain cases. For pop genre in general, I would say Apostle is well within the range of most people.

Midrange: This may be the most controversial part of the set. Normally with Elysian's style of tuning, you have a bump in the 1-2k region, with good lower treble maintain and finally dropping around 6-7k. Apostle is not that. As a result, it is noticeably darker than say Diva. The 1-2k bump usually helps to bring the vocals forward, and it did in this case. However, Apostle starts to decade at a fast rate past 4k, so it feels like you are getting a lot of 1-3k pinna gain, but not enough lower treble for some.

Treble/Air: The treble as a whole is ultra smooth and balanced relative to the rest. It is not exciting nor boring but sits between the two. The use of dual est is good in this case. However, crin and I do think a BA can achieve a similar response. Of course, we all know Mr.Lee likes using his est and he is a wizard at that, so it makes sense to have it on a premium product.

Comparison: The biggest elephant in the room I want to address is whether Apostle is the successor for Diva (since Diva is now discontinued). The short answer is, no.
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This is the most confusing part I found. Just by inspecting measurements, Diva and Apostle are not that different at all. However, in actually listening, I found Diva to be much brighter. I can argue that Diva maintains more in the upper midrange, however, Apostle does have more extension in the higher frequency.
There are two theories. One, Apostle is more filled in the lower midrange and midbass, so the contrast between fundamental frequency and treble is weaker. Two, it depends on different hrtfs. I demoed my Apostle to quite a few friends, and the response I received was varied. Some think Apostle is around the same brightness as Diva. Some responded that Apostle is much much darker. I guess this is the part you just have to try for yourself if you have the chance to demo it. But to conclude, it is NOT a replacement for Diva.

Conclusion: Apostle is a well tuned iem.
It is, I believe, the most neutral set Mr.Lee has made so far. It is, however, very different from the other Elysian products and I highly recommend demoing it before purchase.
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G
German Expat in Vietnam
I'm currently listening to the Apostle on my LPAW GT2. I previously had the Pilgrim Noire for about eight months. The Apostle sounds like an ultra version of the Pilgrim Noire to me.
BlueA
BlueA
This channel unbalance seems recurring with Elysian.
Thank you for sharing your experience.

Jaytiss

1000+ Head-Fier
A Legend is born!
Pros: Competitive with any iem out there from a neutrality and technical standpoint.
Vocal enthusiasts: The sound signature particularly excels with vocal reproduction.
Bass connoisseurs: Delivers high-quality, well-controlled bass response.
Diva owners looking to upgrade: Represents a clear step up while maintaining familiar qualities.
Build quality enthusiasts: Features an exceptional all-metal shell construction that provides both premium feel and comfort during wear.
It’d darker sound signature won’t grow tiresome, and contrasts very well with the Annihilator’s sound signature.
Packaging thematic and interesting.
No fatigue, easy to listen to for hours.
Cons: While similar to the JM-1, this is much more colored and won’t be for the scientists.
Current Diva owners should note: Though this model offers improvements over the Diva, its sound signature is notably different. You may prefer your current setup if you're already satisfied with the Diva's sound.
If you prefer pronounced upper midrange frequencies, be aware that this model has a slightly darker sound profile in that region.
Bass response is prominent and engaging, but may not suit listeners who prefer more neutral or bass-light presentations, or prefer more slam. It’s not for bassheads, and not for neutral heads but hits the middle just the way I want it.
Some expect thousands of tips, 2nd cables, or a premium box fit for a king. The packaging while nice is not excessive or extra. It’s about on the same level as their other iems from the Brand.
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Oh look, another audiophile who went to Can Jam and fell in love with yet another high-end IEM. Shocking. But here's the thing - after spending two days at Can Jam SoCal bouncing between talking to people and serious listening sessions, I kept finding myself drawn back to the Elysian Apostle like some sort of hi-fi moth to a flame.​

I know what you're thinking: "Great, another gushing review about expensive ear jewelry." But stick with me here. While I did indeed drink the Kool-Aid (or perhaps the audiophile-grade mineral water), I promise to break down exactly why the Apostle's approach to neutrality and simplicity isn't just marketing speak, but something that genuinely elevates how I experience my music.​


The word "legend" carries weight in my book, audiophile world - a term I reserve for those rare pieces that truly transcend the ordinary. So often the hobby is plagued with iems coming out every few weeks hoping people will buy them. This iem was actually delayed almost two months to make sure it was correct and right. This is a sign of care, of quality control, as you can only release a product once. I always appreciate companies with the backbone to delay products despite the sadness of not being able to experience it right away.

Every once in a while you get an iem, that measures well, is well made, and actually sounds good in ear. This Elysian Apostle is that iem. The Apostle has earned this distinction, presenting itself as more than just another flagship IEM. It's a creation that promises to leave an indelible mark on the industry for years to come.

Technicalities

Audiophiles often talk about the technical performance of an iem. Very rarely does an iem impress me on that standpoint. Technicalies are interesting and a weird way to describe iems in general, but they help us understand them in a wide variety realm of distinctly different tuning. But this tuning is fantastic to my ears. The levels of details really shine in this iem to a level that is very different and unique in the Space.

Reflecting on the parade of IEMs that crossed my path in the past year and it’s a lot with loans, purchases, demos, and tours, many impressed, and some even excelled. But the Apostle, emerging in the early days of 2025, stands apart from the rest. It doesn't merely join the ranks of exceptional audio gear - it redefines them. Among the countless IEMs I've experienced, it has secured its place in my personal top three, an achievement that speaks volumes in this ever-evolving landscape. To which nothing from 2024 has done that, one being from 2022 and the other from 2023.

There's something magnetic about its presentation that keeps drawing me back. It's simple enough to point out flaws in mediocre IEMs, to highlight where they fall short. But when confronted with something truly innovative, something that pushes boundaries and challenges our expectations - that's when the real challenge of audio criticism begins.



Annilator 2023 vs. Apostle Comparison:

Bass response: The bass response is hard to define as the Apostle feels slammer, darker, but the Annihilator measures better for bass. I feel the Anniliator is slightly boomie and bloated, but overall not bad. The Apostle is a little more mid focused with ample sub bass to satisfy most bass heads. They are tuned differently.

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Vocal presentation:

  • Apostle: Brighter, more spacious forward vocals with a special quality that makes them stand out in a sense, but also provides more space and naturalness.
  • Annilator: Sparklie vocals, more engaging, but with excellent vocal clarity and natural tone
The Anni 2023 edition brings some refinements:

  • Vocals have more immediate "pop" and presence
  • Overall sound signature becomes more engaged
  • Achieves a more fun presentation
Neither can be definitively called "better" - they represent different philosophies in sound tuning. Each excels in its own way:

Design aesthetics:

  • Apostle takes the lead with its more refined industrial design
  • Anni 2023 maintains its own distinctive appeal and remains a special piece with more energy in the bass and upper treble.
Both are flagship-level pieces that excel in different ways. The choice between them comes down to personal preference in sound signature and presentation style rather than absolute technical capability. I feel a lot of the neutral lovers will call Apostle the better iem, and there are elements from both that I feel make both acceptable to own and love.

Diva 2023 vs Apostle

With the Diva 2023 closely mirroring the original Diva in frequency response, the Apostle effectively steps in as its spiritual successor as third in a series right around this sub 2000 dollar price. Unfortunately both Divas have been discontinued. While there's a certain nostalgia in seeing the beloved Diva name take a back seat - and I share in that sentiment with other enthusiasts - this transition brings significant improvements.

Technical Improvements:

  • Bass response: The Apostle delivers cleaner, more impactful bass having more balanced sub and mid bass performance.
  • Overall driver performance: Notable upgrade in technical capability
  • Treble presentation: More refined and detailed
  • Overall clarity: Markedly improved across the frequency range
Design Philosophy:

  • Diva: Offered versatility with three interchangeable bass dial settings for different sound signatures
  • Apostle: Focuses on perfecting a single, carefully crafted tuning
While some might miss the Diva's adaptability, the Apostle's singular tuning achieves a level of refinement that surpasses what was possible with the multiple tuning approach. It carries forward the Diva's DNA while elevating the technical performance across the board. It carries that vocal specialiness of the Diva with much improved technical performance.

However, Diva enthusiasts who relied on specific base dial configurations might find the transition challenging, as the Apostle presents a different, albeit more refined, listening experience. It's not so much a replacement as it is an evolution - one that prioritizes absolute performance over customization.

While the Apostle represents a clear evolution in refinement across the board, I deeply understand the emotional connection many have with the Diva. That special synergy between listener and IEM isn't always about technical superiority—sometimes it's about a magical moment or a particular signature that just clicks.

For our dedicated Diva enthusiasts, I'd gently suggest giving the Apostle a fair audition, whether through a tour or demo. It builds on the Diva's legacy while pushing boundaries further. However, I completely understand if the Diva holds an irreplaceable spot in your collection. Great IEMs are like old friends—even when newer ones come along, the original connection remains special.

The great thing about IEMs is that unlike romantic partners, you can have a whole collection and they won't complain about your "audio polygamy." They're perfectly content sharing drawer space - no passive-aggressive notes about who's taking up too much room. The only drama you'll get is when you accidentally put the right ear tip on the left side, and even then, they're pretty forgiving.

Perhaps someday we'll see a reimagined Diva that captures that original magic while incorporating what Elysian has learned. Until then, whether you're team Diva or ready to embrace the Apostle, there's room for appreciation of both.


Vs Monarch MK2
Value and Build Quality: While the Monarch MK2 remains an excellent value proposition at roughly half the price of the Apostle, the build quality gap is significant. The Apostle's construction represents a major leap forward from the Monarch MK2's now-aging design.

Technical Performance and Tuning:

  • Upper Mids:
    • Monarch MK2: Presents a cleaner, more straightforward approach. This feels a little more mainstream and attractive to many..
    • Apostle: Features the distinctive "Diva-like" effect that adds dimensionality and detail retrieval, though some might prefer the Monarch's more traditional presentation as it is very close to the JM-1. The Apostle has that special effect and magic that is better to me.
Sound Characteristics:

  • Monarch MK2: Maintains its reputation for excellent technical performance at its price point
  • Apostle: Pushes technical boundaries further, offering flagship-tier performance that justifies its premium positioning
A Note to ThieAudio: The Monarch MK2's tuning remains beloved by many enthusiasts (myself included), and there's a strong case for revisiting this successful formula. Rather than exploring entirely new tuning directions, perhaps considering a premium version of the MK2 - with enhanced build quality and technical performance while maintaining its core sound signature - would be welcome in the market.

The Apostle's Position: It's fascinating to see how the Apostle bridges multiple roles - it carries elements of the Diva's legacy, shares some DNA with the Annilator 2023, yet forges its own distinct identity. This versatility, combined with its technical excellence, suggests we're witnessing the birth of a new classic in the high-end IEM space.

Drivers

I think the drivers are very nice from my perspective. I’m not 100% sold on how much drivers matter and try not to preach them over anything, but I do feel that Elysian has used very nice drivers in this case. I do feel they play a factor and are interesting. But my big thing here is that I don’t personally tune iems, design iems, and understand exactly what is happening in these products. Here is some information on the drivers.
5 Drivers Tribrid Design
  • 1 × Custom 9.2mm LSR DD for Lows
  • 1 × Knowles ED-30000 BA for Low-Mids
  • 1 × Sonion 2300 BA for Mid-Highs
  • 2 × New Generation Sonion ESTs for Highs
Here is some more information from the press release about the drivers.
“LOWS: ANNIHILATOR 2023 Foster Dynamic Driver to APOSTLE LSR Dynamic Driver
We’ve incorporated LSR over Foster technology, creating addictive, fast, and organic lows and
integrated dynamic driver front and back chamber separation to improve airflow and reduce driver flex
issues.
MIDS: ANNIHILATOR 2023 Quadruple Balanced Armature to APOSTLE’s Dual Mixed Sonion
+ Knowles Balanced Armatures
The APOSTLE features two purposefully chosen Balanced Armature drivers—one by Knowles
(ED-30000) and one by Sonion (2300) —expertly balanced to achieve both character and resolution.
HIGHS: ANNIHILATOR 2023 Dual Electrostatic Drivers to APOSTLE’s new Gen 2 High Output
Dual Electrostatic Drivers
APOSTLE captures the essence of the Elysian flagship model - the ANNIHILATOR 2023, preserving its
signature treble while enhancing the mids. Equipped with the latest dual Sonion Electrostatic Drivers,
APOSTLE is now easier to drive and delivers the distinctive Elysian highs with unparalleled efficiency.”

I will note on this the Apostle is very easy to drive and does sound like the drivers are much improved from Elysian Diva.









Appearance:

The Shell
The shell design is exceptional, echoing the architectural elegance of Dita's Mecha Shell while taking it a step further. The precision-crafted metal housing combines durability with refined engineering, making both a functional and aesthetic statement. The shell has nice contours and curves with a beautiful appearance.
The sophisticated grey finish, complemented by black nozzles, creates a cohesive look with the cable. It's an exercise in intentional minimalism - clean, elegant, and modern. Every element feels purposeful, turning a functional IEM into a piece of technological art. The nozzles being black is a huge bonus for me, but you don’t really get to enjoy them on a daily basis as they are covered mostly by the tips.
The metallic construction balances durability with sophistication, where practical needs meet visual refinement. Despite its premium build, it remains lightweight and comfortable, with an ergonomic fit that works well for most ears.
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The Cable
The cable demonstrates impressive craftsmanship, with a texture that feels refined. The marketing compares it to a warrior's sword, which isn't far from the truth. It's rare to find an IEM where the cable and design complement each other so well. Both are light and purposeful, reminiscent of a well-balanced blade.
As someone who appreciates swords, I can see the engineering nuance here. Like a good sword, the cable balances lightness and durability. It's both delicate and strong—a subtle engineering achievement. The best swords are durable, light as a feather, and have a delicate grippy handle. This strangely describes how the cable is in my use of it.
Pentaconn connector compatibility has been challenging with Elysian IEMs, which makes this cable a welcome find. Its texture is soft, and it lays flat easily. There's a slight microphonic noise when it rubs up against other object, but it's barely noticeable during music playback and seems to diminish after a few days of use. The cable's low profile and ease of management are particularly appealing.
I'd definitely consider purchasing a second cable if the opportunity arises.





Drivability and source gear

The IEM demonstrates notable source dependency, with performance nuances that emerge across different digital audio sources. In my evaluation, the most compelling sound signatures were achieved with the Quolos MUB1 and Cayin N6iii DAP, though individual experiences may vary significantly.
The device exhibits subtle scaling characteristics, with marginal but perceptible sound quality improvements across different DACs. Notably, it maintains an impressively low driving requirement—considerably more efficient compared to many IEMs in its category.
For optimal performance, I recommend a 4.4mm balanced connection. However, there's no necessity to invest heavily; a quality dongle or DAP in the $50 range will provide excellent results.




Tips:
The IEM includes Divinius Velvet tips, which are exceptional. These tips offer a unique combination of comfort and sound isolation that sets them apart from standard options.
While tip preference is highly personal, the Velvets provide a well-designed solution that enhances the listening experience. Their soft yet resilient material conforms well to the ear canal, creating an impressive seal.
For some users, the specific tip might be a point of contention. Note, these are my favorite tips that I personally buy and use. However, for listeners who appreciate their qualities, these tips represent a thoughtful addition to the package. They demonstrate the manufacturer's attention to detail beyond typical accessory inclusions.
Potential buyers should take the time to evaluate these tips, as they could significantly impact overall enjoyment of the IEM.
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The Case

The Apostle comes with a leather puck case featuring the Elysian symbol. The case immediately reminded me of similar designs from Aful Performer 8 and 64 Audio, sporting a premium look and feel.
Typically, I'm a minimalist who prefers small plastic boxes that allow me to see my IEMs directly. However, this leather case is an exception. It feels well-made, durable, and substantial in hand. Compared to cases from the Annihilator or the recent Pilgrim models, I find this one superior in texture, build quality and durability.
The case is well-made, but at the end of the day, it's just a case. While nicely constructed and aesthetically pleasing, it doesn't impact the listening experience. It's a thoughtful addition that hints at the overall product design, but not something to get overly excited about.
The case represents a small but noteworthy element of the IEM's package, adding a touch of sophistication to the product. For those who value presentation and protection, it's a definite plus.
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Overall Sound

The sound signature of this set features a pronounced V-shape profile—decisively so, rather than leaning neutral or L-shaped—resulting in a dynamic and engaging presentation. While some tracks may exhibit heightened energy, this characteristic contributes to their entertainment value.
The bass response is both refined and gratifying, delivering substantial presence without overwhelming the mix. Its progressive elevation is particularly well-executed, avoiding jarring transitions that might otherwise detract from the listening experience. The cohesiveness is remarkable, and the low-end presentation demonstrates both richness and precision that's uncommonly found at this price point.
In terms of treble, the airiness is competent, though not extraordinary. It maintains clarity while remaining pleasant and unobtrusive. The bass impact and slam are particularly noteworthy, delivering a deeply satisfying low-end experience that fulfills all expectations.
The upper midrange exhibits some emphasis and occasional exuberance, yet manages to maintain an overall cohesive presentation that remains thoroughly enjoyable without becoming excessive.

Comparison


Annilator 2023 vs. Apostle Comparison:


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Bass response: The Anniliator delivers more prominent bass with greater impact, while the Apostle takes a more measured approach. Neither is better - they simply offer different presentations.

Vocal presentation:

  • Apostle: More Spacious but forward vocals with a special quality that makes them stand out in a sense, but also provides more space and naturalness. A beautiful darkness to the sound, with great richness.
  • Annilator: Excellent vocal clarity and natural tone, but more energetic and Trebblie rather than rich and dark.
The Anni 2023 edition brings some refinements:

  • Vocals have more immediate "pop" and presence
  • Overall sound signature becomes more Excited
  • Achieves a more fun, more engaging presentation
Neither can be definitively called "better" - they represent different philosophies in sound tuning. Each excels in its own way:

Design aesthetics:

  • Apostle takes the lead with its more refined industrial design
  • Anni 2023 maintains its own distinctive appeal and remains a special piece with more energy in the bass and upper treble.
Both are flagship-level pieces that excel in different ways. The choice between them comes down to personal preference in sound signature and presentation style rather than absolute technical capability. I feel a lot of the neutral lovers will call Apostle the better iem, and there are elements from both that I feel make both acceptable to own and love.

Diva 2023 to Apostle

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With the Diva 2023 closely mirroring the original Diva in frequency response, the Apostle effectively steps in as its spiritual successor. While there's a certain sad nostalgia in seeing the beloved Diva name take a back seat - and I share in that sentiment with other enthusiasts - this transition brings significant improvements.

Technical Improvements:

  • Bass response: The Apostle delivers cleaner, more impactful bass
  • Overall driver performance: Notable upgrade in technical capability
  • Treble presentation: More refined and detailed
  • Overall clarity: Markedly improved across the frequency range
Design Philosophy:

  • Diva: Offered versatility with three interchangeable bass dial settings for different sound signatures
  • Apostle: Focuses on perfecting a single, carefully crafted tuning
While some might miss the Diva's adaptability, the Apostle's singular tuning achieves a level of refinement that surpasses what was possible with the multiple tuning approach. It carries forward the Diva's DNA while elevating the technical performance across the board.

However, Diva enthusiasts who relied on specific nozzle configurations might find the transition challenging, as the Apostle presents a different, albeit more refined, listening experience. It's not so much a replacement as it is an evolution - one that prioritizes absolute performance over customization.

While the Apostle represents a clear evolution in refinement across the board, I deeply understand the emotional connection many have with the Diva. That special synergy between listener and IEM isn't always about technical superiority—sometimes it's about a magical moment or a particular signature that just clicks.

For our dedicated Diva enthusiasts, I'd gently suggest giving the Apostle a fair audition, whether through a tour or demo. It builds on the Diva's legacy while pushing boundaries further. However, I completely understand if the Diva holds an irreplaceable spot in your collection. Great IEMs are like old friends—even when newer ones come along, the original connection remains special.

Perhaps someday we'll see a reimagined Diva that captures that original magic while incorporating what Elysian has learned. Until then, whether you're team Diva or ready to embrace the Apostle, there's room for appreciation of both.


Vs Monarch MK2
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Value and Build Quality: While the Monarch MK2 remains an excellent value proposition at roughly half the price of the Apostle, the build quality gap is significant. The Apostle's construction represents a major leap forward from the Monarch MK2's now-aging design.

Technical Performance and Tuning:

  • Upper Mids:
    • Monarch MK2: Presents a cleaner, more straightforward approach. This feels a little more mainstream and attractive to many..
    • Apostle: Features the distinctive "Diva-like" effect that adds dimensionality and detail retrieval, though some might prefer the Monarch's more traditional presentation as it is very close to the JM-1. The Apostle has that special effect and magic that is better to me.
Sound Characteristics:

  • Monarch MK2: Maintains its reputation for excellent technical performance at its price point
  • Apostle: Pushes technical boundaries further, offering flagship-tier performance that justifies its premium positioning
A Note to ThieAudio: The Monarch MK2's tuning remains beloved by many enthusiasts (myself included), and there's a strong case for revisiting this successful formula. Rather than exploring entirely new tuning directions, perhaps considering a premium version of the MK2 - with enhanced build quality and technical performance while maintaining its core sound signature - would be welcome in the market.

The typical 3k peak feels a little flattened out on the Apostle which is unfortunate for many who love it, but it allows the iem to be played at higher volumes and helps it scale exceptionally well. I do find both tunings to be very nice and neutral.

The Apostle's Position: It's fascinating to see how the Apostle bridges multiple roles - it carries elements of the Diva's legacy, shares some DNA with the Annilator 2023, yet forges its own distinct identity. This versatility, combined with its technical excellence, suggests we're witnessing the birth of a new classic in the high-end IEM space.



Gaming

For those brave souls willing to venture into gaming with a premium $1800 IEM, you're in for quite a treat. The balanced tuning and relaxed presentation create an unexpectedly excellent gaming companion. While some might raise an eyebrow at using such a refined piece of audio equipment for gaming (and perhaps rightfully so), the experience proves remarkably compelling.
The dynamic bass response adds genuine weight and impact to explosions and environmental effects, while the airy treble ensures you'll catch subtle audio cues like footsteps and reloads with pristine clarity. The soundstage, is ultrawide, strikes an ideal balance—intimate enough for precise positioning yet spacious enough to prevent congestion during intense moments.
What truly shines here is the detail retrieval during chaotic encounters. Whether you're in the midst of a frantic firefight or navigating a complex battle royale endgame, the imaging capabilities are simply outstanding. The IEM presents both vertical and horizontal positioning with impressive accuracy, creating a three-dimensional sound space that gives you a genuine tactical advantage. Every rustle, footstep, and directional audio cue is rendered with remarkable precision.
The cohesive presentation ensures that even during the most hectic gaming moments, you'll maintain a clear sense of spatial awareness. Despite its primary purpose as a music-focused IEM, it proves surprisingly adept at gaming tasks, handling everything from atmospheric exploration to competitive multiplayer with aplomb. While investing in a $1800 IEM primarily for gaming might raise some eyebrows, those who already own these will find themselves with a surprisingly capable gaming companion that doesn't compromise on performance or enjoyment.
The end result is an IEM that, while perhaps overqualified for gaming duties, delivers an immersive and precise gaming experience that might just spoil you for lesser gaming headsets. It's a reminder that great audio is great audio, regardless of the source material.










Graph:
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For the graph please note a few things. First this is sensitive to impedance in the best way possible. An impedance adapter adds a lot more fun bass to this iem, and I really enjoy it.

Secondly I was asked to regraph it with a shallow fit, and it does change the amount of a dip at 6k.
Sound - Final Impressions

The IEM delivers a refined, neutral presentation with well-balanced mids, bass, and treble response. Its technical performance demonstrates careful tuning and attention to detail across the frequency spectrum.
However, personal preference plays a crucial role in IEM selection. While I find this signature excellent for its clarity and balance, listeners seeking specific characteristics may have different reactions. Those who prefer enhanced bass impact, elevated upper mids for vocal presence, or more dramatic sound coloration might want to explore other options.
The IEM presents a measured, slightly dark signature that prioritizes refinement over dramatic coloration. While this mature tuning approach might feel safe to some listeners, it delivers a fatigue-free experience that maintains excellent technical performance and coherence throughout extended sessions.
What's particularly interesting is how the signature scales with volume. At higher listening levels, the IEM reveals more of its dynamic capability and engagement while maintaining composure - never becoming harsh or compressed. This behavior suggests careful tuning considerations for listeners who prefer to push their volume for additional engagement, though the presentation remains clean and controlled even at modest levels.
The signature prioritizes accuracy and cleanliness over dramatic emphasis in any particular range. This approach, while technically accomplished, may not align with everyone's listening preferences. For instance, bass enthusiasts might find the low-end too controlled, while others might wish for more sparkle in the treble region.
It's worth emphasizing that these observations reflect sound signature preferences rather than technical performance. The IEM executes its intended tuning with precision, but whether this tuning matches your personal taste is entirely subjective.


Gifting/who is it for: The Apostle presents itself as a refined, high-end audio product with a distinctly sophisticated industrial design. The cohesive design language spans all elements - from the understated grey aesthetics of the case to the premium shell construction, thoughtfully designed cable, and even the included ear tips. It's rare to find an IEM where every component hits the mark, but the Apostle achieves this elusive Four out of four perfect score in its physical presentation. While I don’t always score for these factors, I do always think about them.
In contrast to some recent releases in 2025, like Moondrop's anime-inspired aesthetics, the Apostle takes a more grounded approach. Its design language evokes high-end armor or precision machinery - robust yet elegant. The build quality inspires confidence; this isn't a delicate piece that needs gentle handling, but rather a premium tool built to last.
The rugged yet refined character makes it an exceptional gift choice, particularly for someone who appreciates technical excellence and clean industrial design. It's the kind of product that makes an impression from the moment you open the box, yet backs up its visual appeal with genuine acoustic performance. The Apostle would be particularly well-suited for:

  • Audio enthusiasts who appreciate understated luxury
  • Professionals seeking a premium listening experience without flashy aesthetics
  • Anyone who values durability alongside performance
  • Those who appreciate the intersection of industrial design and audio engineering
The combination of its robust construction, sophisticated appearance, and engaging sound signature makes it an impressive gift - though naturally, at this price point, it's best reserved for those special occasions or recipients who would truly appreciate its qualities.



Pairing: I tested this IEM across several sources: the iBasso Elite for mobile use, iBasso DC07 dongle DAC with my laptop, and JDS Labs Element 4. A brief test with the Apple dongle confirmed its easy-driving nature. Unlike some planar IEMs or over-ear headphones that can be power-hungry, this IEM performed consistently well across all sources without any power requirements concerns.


The Bottom Line​

This set has thoroughly impressed me, and I believe many others will like it as well. It feels like a natural evolution of the Elysian Diva, and while in many ways it surpasses the Annihilator, I still hold a special place in my heart for the Annihilator's unique magic. At this level of the hobby, it becomes tricky to definitively say what makes one IEM "better" than another. Comfort, design, and price all play crucial roles, and the Apostle excels in these areas while delivering a sonic signature that's remarkably close to its predecessors. Some folks will naturally prefer the Diva or Annihilator, but the Apostle brings its own unique sound signature to the table that's worth experiencing.
I've spent countless hours searching for that perfect sound, and while I don't believe it truly exists, this comes remarkably close to that endgame territory for both enthusiasts and casual listeners alike. It sets a new benchmark that's genuinely special. If I could give this set 6 stars today in my review, I would. On my sonic rating scale, I'm giving it a perfect 10 - something I've never done before. This set has been occupying my thoughts for months, and for good reason, it’s impressive.
If you've never ventured into this price tier for IEMs, maybe dip your toes in shallower waters first. But for the seasoned audiophile already swimming in these expensive depths? This is the catch of the day, the real McCoy and the one to beat all together.
I've gone through more high-end IEMs than I care to count - Chronicle, Annihilator 2023, Fat Frequency GM, Cadenza 12, AME Mousa, Fir Audio Radon 6, Symphonium Crimson, AME Raven, Fei Wan, Campfire Astolith... takes breath. Even with more expensive IEMs in my collection, this one stands out like a diamond. Sure, it might not be everyone's cup of tea, but in terms of build quality and sonic performance? chef's kiss It's the real deal. And yes, I'm totally flexing my IEM collection right now, but someone had to say it.

Also here is a Youtube video if you prefere to watch!

Last edited:
BDalton
BDalton
Ordered this a few weeks ago. Hopefully the lead time isn't too bad as i'm very much looking forward to this set. Great job with the review and write up as it covers all the bases! Keep up the stellar work my friend!
vikinguy
vikinguy
Well done review! Thank you!
L
LimitlessE
Seems like apostle is starting to ship now. Can’t wait to get mine!
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