Kefine Klean VS Moondrop May

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

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Kefine Klean and Moondrop May use 1DD and 1DD+1Planar driver setups respectively. Kefine Klean costs $49 while Moondrop May costs $65. Moondrop May is $16 more expensive. Moondrop May holds a clear 0.7-point edge in reviewer scores (5.9 vs 6.5). Moondrop May has better mids with a 0.5-point edge and Kefine Klean has significantly better dynamics with a 1-point edge.

Insights

Metric Kefine Klean Moondrop May
Bass 5.9 7
Mids 6 6.5
Treble 5 5
Soundstage 6 6
Dynamics 6 5
Tonality 6.6 5.8
Technicalities 5.5 5.5

Kefine Klean Aggregated Review Score

Average Reviewer Scores

Average Reviewer Score:

5.9

Mixed


Moondrop May Aggregated Review Score

Average Reviewer Scores

Average Reviewer Score:

6.5

Cautiously Favorable


Reviews Comparison

Kefine Klean reviewed by Jaytiss

Jaytiss 6.8 Reviewer Score
B- Tuning
C+ Tech
Solid set, very enjoyable.
Youtube Video Summary

$50 single dynamic driver with a surprisingly premium feel: a compact, solid shell, gold nozzle, flat 2-pin connectors, and a neat white cable with a chin slider that actually stays put. The small included case is simple but well-built, and there’s a second nozzle to tweak the sound plus basic tips—nothing flashy, just clean and functional. Overall presentation looks and feels pricier than the tag suggests.

Tonally, this is a flat-neutral leaning set with impactful bass, clean mids, and extension that’s acceptable for the bracket; minor caveats include a desire for a touch more sub-bass and elevated energy around 4–5 kHz and 8 kHz. Detail and air are solid for the money, imaging is confident, and the stage feels pleasantly open, though upper-treble can edge into splashy territory. It’s not the budget slayer hyped elsewhere, but it’s a very good listen that suits a wide audience, especially those who prefer a more laid-back tuning.

Against peers: preferred over the brand’s planar Klar; the livelier Delci brings more bass sparkle and “fun,” while Klean reads calmer and more mid-focused. The Awaken Dawn MS offers bigger bass and air; Klean counters with better build and accessories—great as a gift set. Versus value champs like Waivering Abyss, KZ EDC Pro, or sub-$10 curios, Klean sounds better but the gap narrows when price is king; step-ups like AFUL Explorer, Moondrop Aria, or Moondrop May can out-resolve or reshape the profile if spending more. A light EQ nudge (more sub-bass, slightly tamed mid-treble) dials it in. Final take: full recommendation on merit and build, with rough scores around Bass 8, Mids 7.5, and an overall solid ~7.7/10 for value.

Mids: B Treble: C+ Dynamics: B Soundstage: B

Jaytiss original ranking

Jaytiss Youtube Channel
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Price: $49

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Moondrop May reviewed by Jaytiss

Jaytiss 5.3 Reviewer Score
C- Tuning
D Tech
A very enjoyable listen, hard to fault at this price and design. Could be a winner for you.
Youtube Video Summary

Moondrop May presents as a tiny, elegant shell with a very comfortable fit, ideal for small ears. The package is polished—plush-feel DSP cable (with a stiff chin slider), a neat case, and a decent tip spread. Sonically it’s clear with a pleasing bass shelf, but the upper mids push a bit hot and the treble brings some rough edges. Swapping to an analog cable tightens things up; the DSP presets feel less convincing, though quick to use.

At roughly $65, performance sits in a competitive pocket: cleaner than Starfield 2, far easier to recommend than Stellaris, yet eclipsed by stepping up to something like Aria 2; pure budget hunters may still eye the 7Hz Zero 2 for analog value. May carries warmth and decent bass, but imaging and soundstage are just okay, with occasional tonal oddities up top; a touch of EQ calms the mids and helps balance. Overall, it earns a solid C (one-star): pretty, comfortable, worth the price for those wanting a tiny form factor and DSP convenience—but it sits in that mid-fi purgatory where many peers trade blows rather than getting decisively outclassed.

Mids: C+ Treble: D Dynamics: C+ Soundstage: B

Jaytiss original ranking

Jaytiss Youtube Channel
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Kefine Klean reviewed by Audio Amigo

Audio Amigo 6 * score rescaled + normalized
Very similar to the Inawaken Dawn, but with less forward vocals and less sub-bass rumble. Good Starter set.
Youtube Video Summary

$50 buys a surprisingly solid package: an all-metal shell with a thin but sturdy hard case, a well-behaved two-wire cable, and two tuning nozzles (silver stock, black bright). The build is on the heavier side with a slightly wider nozzle, yet comfort proves better than expected and drivability is easy (32 Ω / 107 dB). Aesthetics lean understated—clean lines, nothing flashy—so don’t expect compliments, just a practical carry and clear R/L markings. Overall accessories and finish fit the thrifty brief, and the knurled nozzles make swaps quick.

Sonically it’s a v-shaped tuning done right: sub-bass rumble and mid-bass punch add texture without veering into basshead territory; lower mids carry a touch of warmth that flatters male vocals while keeping instruments separated; female vocals stay natural. With the silver nozzle, treble strikes a neat balance—energetic when needed, relaxed when not—rarely fatiguing. Swap to the black nozzle and the top end brightens noticeably, pushing harmonics and female vocals forward for a more thrilling but less natural tilt. Technical chops are confident for the price: good dynamics, clean separation on messy live cuts, and a pleasantly wide stage with stable imaging. Against peers, the Klean feels brighter than Tripowin Vivace, slightly more technical than SIMGOT EW200, trades blows with INAWAKEN Dawn (Dawn = tighter sub-bass & mids; Klean = more sparkle), sits brighter than Kefine Delling, and gives a “diet” taste of EW300/EA500 LM treble flavors via its filters.

The verdict: a recommendation for listeners who want a detailed, lively v-shape with real tuning flexibility. It’s worth the ask and competes well, even if neither filter setting is a show-stopper. Not ideal for neutral seekers, full-on bassheads, or those craving a warm, laid-back top end (try Delling or similar). Excellent as an upgrade from Zero:2 for more resolution/treble detail, and a smart way for newcomers to test treble tolerance—silver for natural sparkle, black for extra bite. Deals around $45 sweeten the proposition in an already crowded budget bracket.


Audio Amigo original ranking

Audio Amigo Youtube Channel

Moondrop May reviewed by Audio Amigo

Audio Amigo 7 * score rescaled + normalized
A DSP IEM that sounds fantastic with both the Default DSP cable, and a standard 3.5mm analog cable. Great build, good case, and the ability to change the tuning using the Moondrop Link App add up to a fantastic All-Rounder with great versatility and good technical performance. Competes with the Aria 2 and the EW300 very well.

Audio Amigo original ranking

Audio Amigo Youtube Channel

Kefine Klean reviewed by Z-Reviews

Z-Reviews 6 * score rescaled + normalized
Youtube Video Summary

Kefine Klean keeps the K-jokes going, but the hardware is serious: a DLC diaphragm single-dynamic in a full metal shell with a bit of girth yet a surprisingly comfy fit. The knurled nozzle is chunky—getting tips on can be a chore—but the payoff is real because the screw-on caps flip the tuning. The stock silver caps read safe and kinda boring; swap to the black caps and the Klean snaps into focus: more engaging, more direct, cleaner pass-through. Call it forward, a touch aggressive, with punchy impact and lively presence.

Tip rolling moves the needle a lot. With Dunu SS it tightens and brightens; foam “render” tips add low-end bite and smooth things; wide-bore silicone acts like a mini waveguide, opening space before the sound hits the ear. Treble can push up—spicy on some tracks—so pairing and tips matter, and funnily enough it responds to tubes with a sweeter top. Build is clean, 2-pin flush, a smooth and perfectly fine cable for the price, and overall execution that feels better than budget-bin.

Discovered at $50 retail, the Klean plays in Tin T2 territory but with more “sit up and watch the fight” energy. There are reports out there about clogged filters after weeks, but judged on sound/price today, this is a no-brainer. With the black caps and the right tips, it performs like a $100–$120 set—basically worth twice as much. For a budget brawler that doesn’t annoy, hits hard, and stays entertaining, buy these and be happy.


Z-Reviews original ranking

Z-Reviews Youtube Channel

Moondrop May reviewed by Z-Reviews

Z-Reviews 7.5 * score rescaled + normalized
Youtube Video Summary

Moondrop May shows up like a fashion accessory: smoked acrylic shells with that repeating clover motif, secure 2-pin sockets, and a surprisingly nice round case in the box. The stock 4-core cable packs an inline mic/remote and a USB-C DAC/amp—basically a “dongle-less dongle.” The Moondrop Link app adds DSP/EQ and tweaks (night mode, profiles), though pairing can be finicky; controls give play/pause, volume, and next track, but no previous. Stock tips work well, and tip rolling can push bass from big to downright thunderous.

Inside, a 10 mm dynamic + 6 mm planar hybrid punches way above its weight: sub-bass digs deep with real slam, mids stay clean, treble is crisp without edge, and the soundstage opens wider than expected. Driveability is easy (30 Ω / 120 dB-ish), and the overall tuning feels like a pocket-sized take on Moondrop’s higher-tier vibe—clear, spacious, and instantly “wow.” Swap in bass-friendly tips and the low end gets oppressive (in the fun way); switch to foam or calmer tips for a more relaxed balance.

Then the kicker: $64.99. The package feels like a $299 IEM with a ~$40 dongle tossed in, and it would still make sense priced around $164. Caveats are minor—app quirkiness and potentially too much bass if the seal is aggressive—but the value is absurd. For a daily beater that sounds “big rig” and a first taste of planar-hybrid sparkle, this thing is spectacular and absolutely “buy-a-spare” material.


Z-Reviews original ranking

Z-Reviews Youtube Channel

Kefine Klean reviewed by Head-Fi.org

Head-Fi.org 6.8 * score rescaled + normalized
37 community members have rated the KEFINE Klean at an average of 4.3/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Excellent.

URL to full Review

Head-Fi.org original ranking

Moondrop May reviewed by Head-Fi.org

Head-Fi.org 6.3 * score rescaled + normalized
7 community members have rated the MOONDROP MAY at an average of 4.0/5 on Head-Fi. Overall sentiment: Very Positive.

URL to full Review

Head-Fi.org original ranking

Kefine Klean reviewed by Web Search

uses AI-Search to turn user, reddit and head-fi reviews into clear, concise summaries.
Web Search 5.8 Reviewer Score
B+ Tuning
B- Tech

The Kefine Klean offers a versatile listening experience through its interchangeable nozzle system, with the silver filter providing a warmer, smoother profile while the black filter delivers enhanced treble clarity and presence . Its 10mm DLC diaphragm dynamic driver produces a balanced sound with natural mids and well-textured bass that avoids excessive boominess, though mid-bass can occasionally lack definition .

Comfort is a highlight, with the CNC-machined metal shells sitting ergonomically in most ears for extended sessions, though nozzle edges may cause minor irritation for some . Technical performance includes a moderately wide soundstage and competent imaging, though complex tracks can reveal limitations in separation and transient speed compared to higher-tier models .


Moondrop May reviewed by Web Search

uses AI-Search to turn user, reddit and head-fi reviews into clear, concise summaries.
Web Search 7 Reviewer Score
A Tuning
B+ Tech

The Moondrop May offers a convenient USB-C DSP cable with multiple EQ presets accessible via the Moondrop Link app, though the app suffers from connectivity issues and requires invasive permissions like location and file access. Its lightweight resin build provides solid comfort for extended wear, but the included ear tips are notoriously difficult to install on the nozzles. The DSP cable itself can exhibit a faint electronic whine during audio pauses, which disrupts calls or quiet passages.

Sonically, the May delivers a balanced signature with smooth, natural midrange, though male vocals occasionally lack resolution and texture. The 6mm planar driver handles treble with refinement, avoiding harshness, but struggles with airiness and micro-detail retrieval compared to competitors like the Truthear Hexa. Bass texture and layering also fall short despite the hybrid 1DD + 1 planar configuration, leading to a somewhat one-dimensional low end in complex tracks.

Technical performance is adequate for the price, with a moderately intimate soundstage and competent imaging, though instrument separation and dynamics can feel congested in busy mixes. The May scales better with analog cables than its own DSP solution, revealing improved clarity and midrange texture when bypassing the stock setup. While the DSP concept is innovative, execution issues limit its appeal, making the May a competent but inconsistent package at $65.


Kefine Klean (more reviews)

Kefine Klean reviewed by Fresh Reviews

Fresh Reviews 6* * The score of this reviewer influences only the Gaming Score
borders b- (not as good as Delci AE)
Youtube Video Summary

Kefine Klean hits the budget-gaming brief with a warm-neutral / Harman-leaning single dynamic that pushes crisp footstep cues, strong depth perception, and convincing vertical imaging. In calmer scenarios and when approaching buildings, positional info locks in—footsteps above/below and crosshair pulls to distant gunfire feel precise. Compared head-to-head, it delivers roughly 90% of the performance of the pricier Kefine Delci AE, with the main gap being separation and layering during chaotic exchanges where the AE keeps effects more dissipated and easier to parse.

Across titles, the Klean grades out around a B to B- on the WallHack-certified list: in Valorant, it trades blows with the AE—slightly more elevated cues for footsteps/gunfire, just not quite as clean; in Call of Duty it remains competitive with good imaging and distance reads but again cedes a bit of layering to the AE; in Apex Legends, it stays very usable yet the AE’s extra clarity under third-party chaos proves advantageous. As a sub-$100 pick, Klean earns a strong recommendation for competitive play—grab it if the budget is tight or if Valorant is home base, and consider the AE if maximum cleanliness in crowded fights is the priority. The 7Hz G1 trails here, especially in Apex, where cue overload turns messy fast.


Fresh Reviews original ranking

Fresh Reviews Youtube Channel

Kefine Klean reviewed by Gizaudio Axel

Gizaudio Axel 6 Reviewer Score
A- Tuning
B- Tech

Kefine Klean reviewed by Jays Audio

Jays Audio 5 Reviewer Score
A- Tuning
B Tech
Same as Delci, graph and sounds the same, but cheaper with extra tuning filter
Youtube Video Summary

Kefine Klean hits the sweet spot for an entry-level daily driver by being both affordable and flexible. Out of the box it delivers a warm, easy listen with decent technical chops, then flips character with the included black nozzle: upper-mids get more bite, the overall profile cleans up, and the vibe shifts closer to a crisp, energetic tuning reminiscent of sets like the EW200. That two-for-one versatility makes it a smart pick for anyone torn between a cozy, relaxed tonality and a brighter, snappier presentation.

Build and accessories are solid for the price, and the performance is consistently competent rather than showy—good resolution for the bracket, no egregious peaks, and a tuning that’s easy to live with. The real hook is how the Klean can cover multiple moods without extra spend: leave the stock setup for smooth, laid-back sessions, or pop in the black nozzle when more presence and clarity are wanted. As a starter set that can grow with different preferences, it’s an easy recommendation.


Jays Audio original ranking

Jays Audio Youtube Channel

Kefine Klean reviewed by Audionotions

Audionotions 4.5 Reviewer Score
Decent tuning that is perhaps slightly thin leaning. Average details but decent imaging. Bass has some punch but upper mids are a bit much and it can be a bit too bright. Interchangeable nozzles that work - the stock silver ones are better - the black ones are even more bright.
Youtube Video Summary

$49 single dynamic done right: Kefine’s Klean keeps it simple with a solid unboxing and surprisingly premium build for the price. The CNC aluminum shells feel upscale yet stay lightweight and comfortable, especially for smaller ears, though seal and stability could be tighter. The stock cable stands out—supple, well-textured, and visually clean—even if it’s not modular or balanced at this budget. Tip-rolling helps due to the slightly stubby nozzle; options like TRI Clarion or M-type S&S open things up. Two nozzles sweeten the deal: the silver mesh stock option captures the set’s “clean” identity, while the gold nozzle adds a bit more upper-mid energy and can mask the upper-treble bite.

Sonically it’s a modern V-shape that leans warm: a tasteful bass shelf with satisfying tactility, linear mids that flatter vocals, and an overall smooth, versatile presentation that just works across genres. The caveat is an 8 kHz emphasis that can bring edginess or a touch of low-res sheen on hotter mixes. Against the field, TRN Kunch brings better accessories and flexibility but sounds thinner and sharper; SimGOT EW200 and QKZ x HBB Q5 Pro (Q5 Pro) deliver higher technicals and brightness at the cost of fatigue; KZ Zenith is tonally similar (including that 8k peak) but crisper; and Kefine’s own Deli remains the overall step-up with cleaner treble and mids—at a higher price. Verdict: a clean-tuned, easy-listening budget pick with broad appeal, scoring 6.29/10 with 7/10 enjoyment and earning the Bam Obi Panda Approved nod.


Audionotions original ranking

Website (Audionotions)

Moondrop May (more reviews)

Moondrop May reviewed by Super* Review

Super* Review 7* * score rescaled + normalized
The May is the way to go if you have 80 bucks. Standard EQ sounds great. Nice low contrast neutral sound
Youtube Video Summary

Moondrop May squares up against Aria 2 with a very different proposition: a USB-C DAC + DSP cable (inline mic/controls) for $65 versus Aria 2’s standard 3.5 mm at $90. Thanks to a standard 2-pin socket, the May can take the inexpensive Chu 2 3.5 mm cable, giving both connection options while still under Aria 2’s price. The semi-custom, 3D-printed resin shell is small, winged, and remarkably secure—prioritizing fit stability and comfort over Aria 2’s cooler-looking but less locked-in metal body.

On a 3.5 mm cable (no DSP), May presents a warmish, mild-V tuning with a healthy bass lift and better-than-typical treble extension for the bracket, lending a slightly incisive character. Versus Aria 2, May offers tighter bass with less bloom and a sharper attack, while Aria 2 sounds a touch more open but also softer and bloomier overall. Tonally they’re close; the May’s cleaner bass definition and bite make the difference.

With the USB-C cable, the built-in profiles—especially the Standard EQ—shift the May to a laid-back neutral with mild warmth and sub-bass lift, free of glare or sibilance; the Moondrop Link app adds full PEQ flexibility but is Android-only and carries odd filter limits plus occasional DAC quirks (minor artifacts, PEQ not engaging on some Android DAPs). Even so, the comfort, tuning options, and dual-cable versatility make May the more compelling budget pick. Verdict: a solid 4 out of 5—with Aria 2 also a respectable 4 out of 5.


Super* Review original ranking

Super* Review Youtube Channel

Moondrop May reviewed by Tim Tuned

Tim Tuned 5.5 Reviewer Score
B- Tuning
A- Tech
check links for more info:

Tim Tuned original ranking

Tim Tuned Youtube Channel
Bass: A- Mids: A+ Treble: A-

Kefine Klean User Review Score

Average User Scores

Average User Score: n/a

Based on 0 user reviews

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Moondrop May User Review Score

Average User Scores

Average User Score: n/a

Based on 0 user reviews

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Kefine Klean Gaming Score

Gaming Score & Grade

  • The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.

Gaming Score

6

Gaming Grade

B

Moondrop May Gaming Score

Gaming Score & Grade

  • The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.

Gaming Score

5.6

Gaming Grade

B-

Kefine Klean Scorings

Average Technical & Tuning Grades

Average Tunign Grade

B+
  • Expect a friendly tonal balance that could use polish but remains inviting. Great for casual listening, less so for purists.

Average Technical Grade

B-
  • An honest, middle-of-the-road performance preserves structure without chasing micro-detail. It's respectable for everyday listening sessions.
Mids B
It offers engaging mid frequencies with pleasing clarity and layering. Details emerge without becoming harsh.
Treble C+
Treble is decent, offering acceptable extension without harshness. It balances presence with a touch of restraint.
Dynamics B
The performance feels robust, with satisfying punch and natural transitions. Nuances are easy to follow.
Soundstage B
You can map the ensemble with confidence thanks to solid spacing and coherent depth layering. Ambient effects feel believable.
Gaming B
Decent spatial awareness for fundamental positioning. Creates satisfying atmosphere in story-driven games while handling basic directional cues.

Moondrop May Scorings

Average Technical & Tuning Grades

Average Tunign Grade

B-
  • Expect a friendly tonal balance that could use polish but remains inviting. Great for casual listening, less so for purists.

Average Technical Grade

B-
  • Overall technicalities are acceptable, delivering enough clarity for casual sessions. Imaging is serviceable though not immersive.
Bass A-
The bass hits with conviction, offering both punch and clarity. It reaches low with confidence and control.
Mids B+
The mids are articulate and well-balanced, lending body to instruments. Instrument layering remains stable.
Treble C+
Highs come through with reasonable clarity while staying mostly smooth. Sibilance is mostly controlled.
Dynamics C+
Dynamic performance is decent, delivering respectable macro swings with limited nuance. There's a fair amount of macrodynamic swing.
Soundstage B
You can map the ensemble with confidence thanks to solid spacing and coherent depth layering. Ambient effects feel believable.
Gaming B-
Moderate spatial presentation conveys general directionality. Suitable for casual play where precision isn't critical.

Kefine Klean User Reviews

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Moondrop May User Reviews

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