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Effect Audio Celebrates Its 15th Year With the New PILGRIM:NOIR IEMs in Collaboration With Elysian Acoustic Labs

A close look at the PILGRIM:NOIR IEMs. (From: Effect Audio)
A close look at the PILGRIM:NOIR IEMs. (From: Effect Audio)

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It’s Effect Audio’s birthday, yet we get the goodies.

Effect Audio has once again worked together with Elysian Acoustic Labs to introduce the PILGRIM:NOIR In-Ear Monitors.

This release celebrates Effect Audio’s 15th anniversary as part of their “Roots” campaign. It reflects on the lessons learned from the 2022 GAEA project while pointing a spotlight on the collaborative spirit between the two companies.

“The PILGRIM:NOIR special project was an exhilarating one as we challenge ourselves to push the boundaries of what my PILGRIM could sonically achieve. ” said QM Lee, ELYSIAN Acoustic Labs Founder.

“The process was incredibly stimulating. I must confess, seeing our collective vision come to fruition with PILGRIM:NOIR has been immensely gratifying. I have no reservations in saying that we’ve outdone ourselves, and I’m confident you’ll share in our enthusiasm.”

PILGRIM: NOIR Features

Comparing the frequency response of the PILGRIM and PILGRIM:NOIR. (From: Effect Audio)
Comparing the frequency response of the PILGRIM and PILGRIM:NOIR. (From: Effect Audio)

The NOIR keep the beloved 9.2mm LSR Dynamic Driver from the first PILGRIM, capable of delivering subsonic 10Hz bass. However, this version takes things further with refinements that outshine its predecessor.

“PILGRIM:NOIR emerged as a daring extension of the holy PILGRIM, offering an alternate interpretation that stretches the concept and execution to its limits. Our ambition was to elevate Pilgrim into its ultimate form, infusing it with everything it needed to achieve our highest standards.” said EFFECT AUDIO Founder, Suyang.

A key improvement is the Hypercore Twin Thrust Module (HTTM), which uses two Sonion 2300 Balanced Armature (BA) Drivers to deliver superior midrange frequency response.

This setup reduces distortion and unwanted tubing resonance for nuanced layers and emotional depth. Meaning, you’ll expect to hear vocal resonances with the kind of flavor you may describe as “crisp and juicy”.

The different drivers of the PILGRIM:NOIR. (From: Effect Audio)
The different drivers of the PILGRIM:NOIR. (From: Effect Audio)

Together with the classic PILGRIM LSR Dynamic Driver, this also doubles the depth achievable by conventional PET drivers.

But it’s not all about the bass. The treble is also refined with an undamped tubeless Knowles Balanced Armature. So, you’ll have an accurate sound reproduction and a smooth high-frequency response.

Blending the dynamic and balanced armature drivers is the upgraded 4-way crossover design that makes sure these drivers can focus on their own frequencies. This allows for precise control over both nuanced passages and expansive soundscapes.

Some details on the 4-way crossover design. (From: Effect Audio)
Some details on the 4-way crossover design. (From: Effect Audio)

As this is an Effect Audio product, the internal wiring is also specially upgraded.

Case in point, it features a mix of exotic palladium, copper, and silver to ensure excellent signal fidelity and a highly detailed, nuanced audio experience.

Complementing this are the custom Eros S:NOIR cables, a mini-flagship of Effect Audio’s Signature Series that delivers an impeccably warm yet crystal-clear sound.

Saying the PILGRIM:NOIR is visually appealing is an understatement. (From: Effect Audio)
Saying the PILGRIM:NOIR is visually appealing is an understatement. (From: Effect Audio)

These IEMs also look as good as they claim to sound.

The PILGRIM:NOIR draws inspiration from legendary architect Zada Hidid‘s deconstructivist design philosophy.

The faceplate’s topography is inspired by the serene, rolling hills of the pilgrim’s journey. And, the matte black finish symbolizes an alternate path to audio enlightenment.

This contrasted with gleaming gold logos from Effect Audio and Elysian Acoustic Lab and the gold-plated nozzle for an added luxurious vibe.

Plus, besides looking good, the six meticulously cut-out holes on the faceplate are engineered to enhance airflow.

The inspiration behind the folds in the PILGRIM:NOIR's faceplate. (From: Effect Audio)
The inspiration behind the folds in the PILGRIM:NOIR’s faceplate. (From: Effect Audio)

Technical specifications

  • Form Factor: In-Ear Monitor (IEM)
  • Drivers:
    • 1 × 9.2mm LSR Dynamic Driver for Lows
    • 2 × Sonion Balanced Armatures for Low-Mid and Mid-High
    • 1 × Knowles Balanced Armature for Highs
  • Impedance: 8.3 Ohms @ 1kHz
  • Sensitivity: 103 dB @ 1kHz @ 100mV
  • Frequency Response (Hz): 10 Hz – 20 kHz
  • Source Jack size: 3.5mm or 4.4mm (interchangeable TermX™ system)
  • Additional specs: 4-way crossover, HTTM, bespoke internal wiring, Eros S:NOIR cable

Where to Buy

The different Spinfit W1 eartips for better noise isolation and comfort. (From: Effect Audio)
The different Spinfit W1 eartips for better noise isolation and comfort. (From: Effect Audio)

The PILGRIM:NOIR are now available for purchase at the Effect Audio official website for $799.

These IEMs come with a full suite of premium accessories, such as:

  • The ConX® and TermX™ systems for interchangeable connectors and terminations
  • EFFECT AUDIO Special Edition Eros S:NOIR Cable
  • A premium suede leather case
  • Medical-grade Spinfit W1 eartips
  • Cleaning kit

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