Moondrop May VS KZ AM16
IEM Comparison: Expert & Community Scores Side-by-Side
Moondrop May and KZ AM16 use 1DD+1Planar and 8BA (per side) driver setups respectively. Moondrop May costs $65 while KZ AM16 costs $57. Moondrop May is $8 more expensive. KZ AM16 holds a slight 0.2-point edge in reviewer scores (6.5 vs 6.8). Moondrop May has slightly better bass with a 0.4-point edge, KZ AM16 has significantly better treble with a 1.5-point edge, KZ AM16 has significantly better dynamics with a 1.3-point edge and KZ AM16 has slightly better soundstage with a 0.4-point edge.
Insights
| Metric | Moondrop May | KZ AM16 |
|---|---|---|
| Bass | 7 | 6.7 |
| Mids | 6.5 | 6.7 |
| Treble | 5 | 6.5 |
| Details | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| Soundstage | 6 | 6.4 |
| Imaging | 6.5 | 6.6 |
| Dynamics | 5 | 6.3 |
| Tonality | 5.8 | 6.8 |
| Technicalities | 5.5 | 6.5 |
Moondrop May Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
6.5Cautiously Favorable
KZ AM16 Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
6.8Cautiously Favorable
Reviews Comparison
Moondrop May reviewed by Web Search
7
Reviewer Score
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.
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KZ AM16 reviewed by Web Search
6.8
Reviewer Score
The KZ AM16 is an all-BA in-ear monitor using 8 BA drivers per side (16 total) and offered in two editions—Balanced and Bass-Enhanced. Independent listings and user reviews confirm the per-side driver count, while KZ’s product page quotes a 5–45 kHz response and a standard 0.75 mm 2-pin cable; street pricing typically sits around $57.
Sonically, multiple reviews characterize the AM16 (Balanced) as a V-shaped tuning with a clear sub-bass lift and lively upper-treble, while keeping vocals reasonably intact. This yields engaging punch and sparkle, alongside detail retrieval and imaging that are competitive for the price.
Trade-offs are typical of all-BA bass: texture and slam are clean but less visceral than dynamic-driver peers, and dynamics can feel restrained on dense tracks. Sensitivity/impedance figures (≈104 dB, 22 Ω) make it easy to drive from portable sources; listeners wanting more low-end can opt for the Bass-Enhanced edition. Given its sub-$60 price and technical poise, it’s a strong budget pick, though its score should reflect its class rather than challenge higher-tier models.
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Moondrop May (more reviews)
Moondrop May reviewed by Z-Reviews
7.5
* score rescaled + normalized
Moondrop May reviewed by Audio Amigo
7
* score rescaled + normalized
Audio Amigo Youtube Channel
Moondrop May reviewed by Super* Review
7*
* score rescaled + normalized
Super* Review original ranking
Super* Review Youtube Channel
Moondrop May reviewed by Tim Tuned
5.5
Reviewer Score
Moondrop May reviewed by Jaytiss
5.3
Reviewer Score
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
Moondrop May reviewed by Head-Fi.org
6.3
* score rescaled + normalized
KZ AM16 (more reviews)
KZ AM16 reviewed by Paul Wasabii
6.7
* Score computed by IEMRanking.com
Youtube Video Summary
AM16 is an all-BA KZ tuned closer to a thicker, lower-centric balance than the graph suggests. While aligned with Moondrop Variations on paper, it shifts emphasis downward with relaxed treble, a thumpier mid-bass, and a generally fuller, more musical presentation.
A 5 kHz dip tames glare while a modest 7 kHz lift restores edge definition, and the top end follows a Harman-like roll-off without an air boost. That restraint, plus fast BA low end, keeps BA timbre in check and yields natural vocals around a later 3 kHz rise; however, it benefits from more volume to open up detail and scale.
Positioned at $57, it reads as a return to the KZ fun, engaging house sound rather than a technical showcase. For listeners wanting a musical all-BA KZ with decent clarity and speed, it delivers; those seeking maximum air, brightness, or big-stage resolution should look elsewhere.
Paul Wasabii Youtube Channel
Moondrop May Details
Driver Configuration: 1DD+1Planar
Tuning Type: Neutral
Brand: Moondrop Top Moondrop IEMs
Price (Msrp): $64.99
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KZ AM16 Details
Driver Configuration: 8BA (per side)
Tuning Type: V-Shaped
Brand: KZ Top KZ IEMs
Price (Msrp): $57
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Moondrop May User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score: n/a
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KZ AM16 User Review Score
Average User Scores
Average User Score: n/a
Based on 0 user reviews
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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
5.6Gaming Grade
B-KZ AM16 Gaming Score
Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
6.6Gaming Grade
B+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.
KZ AM16 Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
B+- It sounds pleasant overall, with some uneven spots that hint at room for refinement. Vocals remain pleasant despite the imperfections.
Average Technical Grade
B+- It offers a competent showing, maintaining cohesion on straightforward arrangements. Complex passages start to challenge it, but never derail the show.
Moondrop May User Reviews
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KZ AM16 User Reviews
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