Elysian Annihilator 2023 VS FATFreq Grand Maestro

IEM Comparison: Expert & Community Scores Side-by-Side

Elysian Annihilator 2023 and FATFreq Grand Maestro use 1DD+4BA+2EST and 1DD+8BA+4EST driver setups respectively. Elysian Annihilator 2023 costs $2,999 while FATFreq Grand Maestro costs $3,334. FATFreq Grand Maestro is $335 more expensive. Elysian Annihilator 2023 holds a slight 0.4-point edge in reviewer scores (9.7 vs 9.3). Elysian Annihilator 2023 has significantly better mids with a 2-point edge, Elysian Annihilator 2023 has significantly better treble with a 1-point edge and FATFreq Grand Maestro has significantly better dynamics with a 2-point edge.

Insights

Jaytiss Score
Elysian Annihilator 2023
9.7 /10
Jaytiss Score
FATFreq Grand Maestro
9.3 /10
Score gap: 0.4
Metric Elysian Annihilator 2023 FATFreq Grand Maestro
Mids 9 7
Treble 9 8
Soundstage 9 9
Dynamics 7 9
Tonality 8.7 8.3
Technicalities 9 8
Take these comparisons with a grain of salt—we don't have enough Elysian Annihilator 2023 and FATFreq Grand Maestro reviews saved yet to provide an unbiased result.

Jaytiss Reviews Comparison

Elysian Annihilator 2023 reviewed by

Jaytiss 9.7 Reviewer Score
S- Tuning
S Tech
Treble extension is insane, I always think I'm over it, but I may never be over it.
Youtube Video Summary

The Elysian Annihilator 2023 arrives with a premium yet pared-back presentation: a compact black felt case, a full set of SpinFit W1 tips, cleaning tool, and cable tie. Build feels meticulous with excellent channel matching, and the faceplate options—titanium, steel, or gold—add flair. Fit sits on the larger side but remains manageable; comfort is mostly solid, though the upper cable segment can create minor pressure. Two practical caveats: the stock cable is fixed to a rare Pentaconn-style IEM connector (not MMCX/2-pin), making swaps tricky, and the termination is 4.4mm only, which limits simple dongle use without an adapter.

Sonically, this is all about extension, clarity, and effortless detail. Treble presents as almost holographic yet controlled, aided by a tasteful dip around 5–6 kHz and invigorating energy near 10 kHz. Bass is more present than its reputation suggests, with a satisfying lift up to roughly 200 Hz that supports a clean, “studio-like” presentation and sweet, well-placed vocals. It can get intense: the combination of high resolution and forward brilliance may read as spicy or mildly fatiguing for some, but for those chasing speed, air, and imaging precision, the payoff is big.

Against peers, the character comes into focus. Compared to sets like the Chopin, Annihilator sounds richer and more authoritative while keeping a similarly ergonomic silhouette. The HiSenior Mega5 EST feels lean in the low end by comparison, and while Monarch iterations bring fun bass (MKIII) or sweeter monitoring vibes (earlier versions), they don’t hit the same engagement. The Fatfreq Grand Maestro complements well but its switchable profiles and extra ~3 kHz energy can be fussier; Annihilator stays consistent and “set-and-forget.” Taken as a whole, this is a confidently tuned, ultra-resolving flagship—pricey and a bit particular on ergonomics and connectivity, but outstanding for listeners who value crystalline treble extension, incisive transients, and no-nonsense reliability.

Mids: S Treble: S Dynamics: A- Soundstage: S

Jaytiss original ranking

Jaytiss Youtube Channel

FATFreq Grand Maestro reviewed by

Jaytiss 9.3 Reviewer Score
A+ Tuning
A+ Tech
Is one of those sets that can do it all. Very impressive.

Jaytiss original ranking

Jaytiss Youtube Channel
Mids: A- Treble: A+ Dynamics: S Soundstage: S

Elysian Annihilator 2023 Details

Driver Configuration: 1DD+4BA+2EST

Tuning Type: U-Shaped

Brand: Elysian Top Elysian IEMs

Price (Msrp): $2,999

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FATFreq Grand Maestro Details

Driver Configuration: 1DD+8BA+4EST

Tuning Type: Neutral, Basshead

Price (Msrp): $3,334

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Elysian Annihilator 2023 Scorings

Average Technical & Tuning Grades

Average Tunign Grade

S-
  • The response feels meticulously dialed in, combining neutrality with inviting warmth. Dynamic swings remain tonally accurate.

Average Technical Grade

S
  • Resolution and control feel outstanding, surfacing micro-details with ease. You'll catch studio quirks you may have missed before.
Mids S
You hear a masterclass in midrange fidelity, from tonal balance to micro-detail. It sets a gold standard for midrange fidelity.
Treble S
Treble reaches reference-class perfection with limitless extension and ease. There's limitless extension and clarity.
Dynamics A-
Dynamic performance is excellent, combining sharp transients with strong contrast. Transients snap with authority.
Soundstage S
Spatial cues extend effortlessly in every direction, wrapping you in a boundless sonic dome. Every direction feels accessible.

FATFreq Grand Maestro Scorings

Average Technical & Tuning Grades

Average Tunign Grade

A+
  • Tuning feels refined, blending frequencies with convincing realism and engagement. Transitions between registers feel effortless.

Average Technical Grade

A+
  • Layering is confident and precise, backed by imaging that locks elements firmly in place. Micro-details peek through without sounding forced.
Mids A-
The mid band shines with organic tone and finely rendered textures. Long sessions remain fatigue-free.
Treble A+
Treble reaches superb heights, offering effortless extension and crystal clarity. Every cymbal crash resolves into fine mist.
Dynamics S
Expect a stunning blend of micro and macro dynamics that mirrors live energy. Soft and loud contrasts are breathtaking.
Soundstage S
Spatial cues extend effortlessly in every direction, wrapping you in a boundless sonic dome. Every direction feels accessible.

Elysian Annihilator 2023 User Reviews

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FATFreq Grand Maestro User Reviews

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