Wired IEMs
CrinEar Reference
86Outstanding
$350
Full review dataCrinEar Reference vs Elysian Acoustic Labs Pilgrim: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the CrinEar Reference comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 86. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Our pick: CrinEar Reference - Outstanding overall at around $350.
Wired IEMs
Elysian Acoustic Labs Pilgrim
74Great
$400
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
CrinEar Reference leads on 4 of 4 measures.
- CrinEar Reference
- Elysian Acoustic Labs Pilgrim
HearWiki score
86
74
Sound
9.1
8.4
Value
8.9
7.5
Price (USD)
$350
$400
Generation & platform
The scores rank quality. This is the other question: is the newer one actually newer technology, or the same platform in a new shell?
Same generation
The CrinEar Reference is 2 years newer, but it is the same generation of hardware: nothing in the radio, the codecs or the noise cancelling separates them. Nothing separates them on convenience features either, so the choice comes down to tuning and price.
- Reference20262 yr newer
- Pilgrim2024
Specifications
ReferencePilgrim
- Type
- Wired IEMs
- Wired IEMs
- Price (USD)
- $350
- $400
- HearWiki score
- 86
- 74
- Released
- 2026
- 2024
- Availability
- Sold new
- Discontinued
- Driver
- 2DD + 3BA hybrid
- 1DD + 3BA hybrid
- Driver type
- hybrid
- hybrid
- Driver configuration
- 2DD + 3BA
- 1DD + 3BA
- Driver size
- 10 mm
- 9.2 mm
- Drivers per side
- 5
- 4
- Impedance
- 16 Ω
- 9 Ω
- Sensitivity
- 104 dB/mW
- -
- Active noise cancelling
- -
- No
- Detachable cable
- Yes
- -
- Connector
- 4.4 mm balanced
- -
What reviewers said
CrinEar Reference
The CrinEar Reference is a wired in-ear monitor that combines two dynamic drivers with three balanced armatures in a hybrid setup, offering a detailed and engaging sound signature. Its secure fit provides good passive noise isolation, making it a reliable choice for critical listening at its price point. The detachable 4.4mm balanced cable adds versatility for audiophiles with compatible sources.
- Pro:Effective passive noise isolation from a snug seal
- Pro:Hybrid driver configuration delivers a rich, layered sound
- Pro:Detachable balanced cable for enhanced audio quality and durability
- Con:Requires a source with a 4.4mm balanced output for full benefit
- Con:No active noise cancellation, so ambient noise may be present in louder environments
Elysian Acoustic Labs Pilgrim
The Elysian Acoustic Labs Pilgrim is a wired hybrid IEM that combines a 9.2mm dynamic driver with three balanced armatures to deliver a lively, detailed sound signature with a neutral-bright tilt. It offers strong technical performance and clarity for its price, though its crisp treble and lean bass may not suit everyone. The stock cable is a highlight, but the accessory package is fairly minimal. Overall, it's a capable and engaging listen for those who favor analytical tuning.
- Pro:Detailed and clear sound with strong treble extension
- Pro:Lively, engaging midrange presentation
- Pro:Good bass punch and texture for a hybrid setup
- Con:Upper treble can come across as aggressive or sharp
- Con:Occasional sibilance in the midrange
- Con:Bass quantity is on the leaner side
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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