Moondrop May VS KZ ZA12
IEM Comparison: Expert & Community Scores Side-by-Side
Moondrop May and KZ ZA12 use 1DD+1Planar and 2DD+4BA driver setups respectively. Moondrop May costs $65 while KZ ZA12 costs $65. KZ ZA12 is $0 more expensive. Moondrop May holds a decisive 1.7-point edge in reviewer scores (6.5 vs 4.8). Moondrop May has significantly better mids with a 1.5-point edge, Moondrop May has significantly better dynamics with a 3-point edge and Moondrop May has significantly better soundstage with a 1-point edge.
Insights
| Metric | Moondrop May | KZ ZA12 |
|---|---|---|
| Bass | 7 | 4.8 |
| Mids | 6.5 | 5 |
| Treble | 5 | 5 |
| Soundstage | 6 | 5 |
| Dynamics | 5 | 2 |
| Tonality | 5.8 | 4.8 |
| Technicalities | 5.5 | 5 |
Moondrop May Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
6.5Cautiously Favorable
KZ ZA12 Aggregated Review Score
Average Reviewer Scores
Average Reviewer Score:
4.8Generally Unfavorable
Reviews Comparison
Moondrop May reviewed by Jaytiss
5.3
Reviewer Score
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
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KZ ZA12 reviewed by Jaytiss
4.8
Reviewer Score
Jaytiss Youtube Channel
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 Head-Fi.org
6.3
* score rescaled + normalized
Moondrop May reviewed by Web Search
2025-07-01
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.
Moondrop May Details
Driver Configuration: 1DD+1Planar
Tuning Type: Neutral
Brand: Moondrop Top Moondrop IEMs
Price (Msrp): $64.99
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KZ ZA12 Details
Driver Configuration: 2DD+4BA
Tuning Type: n/a
Brand: KZ Top KZ IEMs
Price (Msrp): $65
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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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KZ ZA12 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 ZA12 Gaming Score
Gaming Score & Grade
- The gaming score is prioritizing technical capabilities of the IEM (Separation, Layering, Soundstage) and good value.
Gaming Score
4.9Gaming Grade
CMoondrop 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 ZA12 Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
C- The tuning lacks refinement, jumping between dull and shouty without settling. Vocals frequently sound off-kilter.
Average Technical Grade
C+- Overall technicalities are acceptable, delivering enough clarity for casual sessions. Imaging is serviceable though not immersive.
Moondrop May User Reviews
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KZ ZA12 User Reviews
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Pros
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Cons
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