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Sound Classics
Bass
The Elysian Apostle features a distinctive bass response characterized by a prominent and rumbling sub-bass. This robust bass contributes to a large soundstage, creating an atmospheric space where the mids can excel—a characteristic approach seen in other Elysian monitors. The bass is notable for its impact and powerful kick.
Despite the substantial presence, especially in the sub-range, the dynamic driver remains quick and agile, which is quite surprising. The bass response also provides good separation from the mids, enhancing soundstage and imaging. I’m curious how Lee prevented this much bass from bleeding into the mid-range, but he succeeded.
However, the Apostle’s heavy bass presence can be a double-edged sword. For some listeners, the rumbling sub-bass and impactful mid-bass create an exciting, fun sound particularly favourable for genres like RnB or EDM. On the other hand, those who prefer a lighter and more reference sound may find the Apostle somewhat exaggerated in that respect. It is not a reference or neutral type of bass.
The bass presentation is a bit overwhelming, especially the sub-bass, which doesn’t sound entirely realistic. However, it doesn’t need to be perfectly realistic to be enjoyable. While the Apostle may not be the best fit for those who favour a neutral sound character, its strengths in sub-bass rumble, control, speed, and clarity indeed make it a standout choice.
Mids
The Apostle delivers a detailed, transparent, airy mid-range with a lively, dynamic tonality. It offers an open and engaging sound, making female vocals stand out beautifully. Instruments—primarily classic and electric guitars—are well-rendered with great articulation. However, the emphasis leans toward the upper mid-range, which might not appeal to listeners who prefer a more neutral or balanced sound signature.
It doesn’t take the tuning as far as the DIVA 2023, which has a more substantial upper-mid boost, but the Apostle still favours upper mids over lower mids. The mids excel in detail, resolution, and spaciousness, allowing for excellent positioning and separation within a broad soundstage. This tuning enhances clarity and openness, making the mids sound distinct from the rest of the frequency spectrum.
Compared to the DIVA 2023, the Apostle’s upper mid-range appears darker, eliminating shoutiness. This refinement results in a more natural and balanced presentation. The mid-range timbre is more consistent, offering a smoother, more complete performance. I think this is where the Apostle resembles the Annihilator the most. The exceptional detail in the mid-range and impressive overall presentation make you feel like you’re listening to one of the best mid-range reproductions available. That is impressive.
Treble
The Apostle’s treble performance is as transparent, resolving, and detailed as its mid-range. It delivers a bright, open sound with exceptional articulation and definition, reminiscent of the Annihilator’s high level of transparency. Elysian monitors are hard not to recommend in treble, and with this Apostle model, you get almost the same performance as the Annihilator.
The treble is rich and well-defined, offering a sharp, precise, and controlled presentation. While it can be slightly fatiguing over long sessions, depending on ear tip selection, the overall tuning is ideal for those who appreciate bright, detailed, and energetic treble. The Apostle’s lively and engaging treble enhances its detailed, transparent sound signature, making it an excellent choice for listeners who value clarity and high-frequency refinement.
Technical Performance and Sources
The Elysian Apostle excels in imaging and positioning, offering crisp, precise delivery with exceptional transparency. Every element within the soundstage is placed with pinpoint accuracy, ensuring clarity and separation even in complex tracks. The micro-detail retrieval is outstanding, allowing for an intricate and immersive listening experience.
The Apostle’s cohesion is also impressive. While the sub-bass is slightly intense, it does not overshadow the rest of the presentation. The midrange and treble remain balanced, and the resolution and technical performance make it an all-rounder that performs well across various genres. The soundstage width is remarkable, creating a spacious, airy presentation that gives instruments and vocals ample room to breathe.
What sets the Apostle apart is its clarity, imaging, and expansive soundstage, making it a standout performer in its price range. The sharp imaging ensures precise instrument and vocal placement, allowing for an engaging and highly detailed experience.
When it comes to pairing, the Apostle benefits from a neutral source. A warm or bass-heavy source might overemphasize the sub-bass, affecting overall balance. For the best experience, a neutral and balanced DAP like the HiBy R8 II is recommended, as it complements the Apostle’s strengths without altering its tonal balance.
Page 1: About, Packaging, Design/Build, Fit
Page 3: Technical Performance, Sources, Comparisons, Conclusion
