Punch Audio Martilo VS ZiiGaat Crescent
IEM Comparison: Expert & Community Scores Side-by-Side
Punch Audio Martilo and ZiiGaat Crescent use 2DD+2BA+1Planar and 2DD+2BA driver setups respectively. Punch Audio Martilo costs $329 while ZiiGaat Crescent costs $279. Punch Audio Martilo is $50 more expensive. Punch Audio Martilo holds a slight 0.1-point edge in reviewer scores (8.6 vs 8.5). ZiiGaat Crescent carries a user score of 7.4. Punch Audio Martilo has significantly better dynamics with a 1-point edge and ZiiGaat Crescent has better soundstage with a 0.5-point edge.
Insights
| Metric | Punch Audio Martilo | ZiiGaat Crescent |
|---|---|---|
| Mids | 7 | 7 |
| Treble | 7 | 7 |
| Soundstage | 7.5 | 8 |
| Dynamics | 9 | 8 |
| Tonality | 7.6 | 7.5 |
| Technicalities | 7 | 7 |
Jaytiss Reviews Comparison
Punch Audio Martilo reviewed by
8.6
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
Punch Audio Martilo steps in as a new-brand debut with a confident package: a hybrid array (planar + BAs + DDs), a metal nozzle, proper venting, and a recessed 2-pin socket set into a shell that sits securely thanks to an anti-tragus catch. The faceplate gives off AFUL Performer 7 vibes, the included cable is supple with clear R/L markings, and the textured carry case plus two tip sets round out a thoughtful accessory kit. Priced around $329—with occasional deep discounts during big Linsoul sales—build and accessories feel dialed in for the bracket.
Sonically, this is a bassy set that still behaves like an all-rounder. The bass shelf rises from roughly ~150 Hz, bringing weight and warmth without turning podcasts and vocals into mud; upper-mids are present yet controlled, minimizing shout, while mid-treble energy keeps things crisp. Female vocals avoid huskiness, note weight is satisfying, and the tuning strikes a balanced, fun profile that works across genres. On the graph it hugs a safe line, then sprinkles in extra low-end for flavor—bass-head friendly, but not a blunt instrument.
In A/Bs, it addresses the AFUL Explorer’s softness with more bass and mid presence, and compared to similarly priced Kiwi Ears Astral (the safer neutral pick), Martilo offers the spicier, more engaging option. Against “specialist” bass sets like Deuce or Quantum, Martilo feels cleaner in the mids, less abrupt in its slam, and more universally usable; versus warmer bass champs (e.g., Mega 5 Bass), it trades some warmth for clarity and refinement. This isn’t sterile “audiophile-neutral”—it’s audiophile-fun done with taste. Scoring reads like: bass (10/10), note weight (10/10), mids (9/10), with surprisingly solid highs, stage, and imaging for the money. Not flawless, but distinctive, well-tuned, and easy to recommend—especially for listeners who want real bass without sacrificing everyday versatility.
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ZiiGaat Crescent reviewed by
2025-07-20
8.5
Reviewer Score
Youtube Video Summary
The ZiiGaat Crescent, priced at $279, features a familiar, comfortable ZiiGaat shell build that's durable and slightly larger than models like the Magic One. The package includes a new premium-feeling case with a vibrant color and a great black cable featuring easy-to-change connectors and a functional chin slider. Overall, the build and accessories are solid, representing a step up from previous ZiiGaat offerings.
Sonically, the Crescent delivers a strong V-shaped signature characterized by great, impactful bass that some might find a touch boomy and elevated upper air/treble. While not the most incisive or natural treble, it's clean and engaging. Technical performance is really good, making it a hyper-competitive option in its price bracket. It compares favorably to the ZiiGaat Odyssey (more fun, more bass), the Arcanis (more V-shaped vs vocal specialist), and the Binary Dynaquattro (more refinement, richer mids). While the Luna offers cleaner micro-details and a more "audiophile" tuning for $100 more, the Crescent provides a richer, more organic, bass-forward alternative. It shares similarities with the S-tier Top Pro, differing by only 1-2%.
Ultimately, the Crescent earns a strong A+ rating and a strong recommendation. It's a fantastic value with excellent dynamics, well-done tuning, and great technicalities for the price. This is a highly competitive set ideal for those seeking an engaging, fun signature with elevated bass and air. While its specific tuning won't suit everyone, especially those sensitive to bass or preferring absolute neutrality, it's a special set worth serious consideration and likely a keeper for many.
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Punch Audio Martilo Details
Driver Configuration: 2DD+2BA+1Planar
Tuning Type: Basshead
Price (Msrp): $329
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ZiiGaat Crescent Details
Driver Configuration: 2DD+2BA
Tuning Type: Neutral with Bass Boost
Brand: ZiiGaat Top ZiiGaat IEMs
Price (Msrp): $279
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Punch Audio Martilo Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
A- You get a polished tonal profile that stays natural from bass through treble. Subtle tuning choices keep things engaging.
Average Technical Grade
A-- Technical chops are reliable, pairing tidy separation with a soundstage that stays conservative. Micro-detail is decent, though never spotlighted.
ZiiGaat Crescent Scorings
Average Technical & Tuning Grades
Average Tunign Grade
A- Overall balance feels confident and refined, rewarding long listening sessions. A reliable all-rounder for everyday listening.
Average Technical Grade
A-- You get a controlled, composed performance, marrying decent clarity with a still-modest sense of space. A safe technical performer for the price bracket.
Punch Audio Martilo User Reviews
"This is an example review"
Pros
- Example pro 1
- Example pro 2
Cons
- Example con 1
- Example con 2
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You need to be signed in to write your own reviewZiiGaat Crescent User Reviews
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You need to be signed in to write your own reviewA fun, vibrant IEM that delivers lively treble and vintage character at strong value.
Pros
Sparkly treble and warm, analog-like texture with controlled, focused bass.Cons
Treble can be fatiguing on energetic tracks and doesn’t scale well at high volume.Find your next IEM:
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