S15

S12's are one of my favorites.. but once you get the S15's its all over.

Look into planar sets since they respond well with EQ. If you want a one and done get the Letshuoer S15.

It looks like you are leaning towards a planar IEM since most of them on your list are planars. If you are looking for a planar I personally would recommend either the Hidizs MP145 or the Letshuoer S15. Also keep in mind if you do get a planar you will need a DAC/amp to get the most out of the IEM. The TRN Black Pearl or Fiio KA11 will work well and are less than $40.

Yeah, so I actually did not recommend the Apple dongle he said he has one already and was going to use it until he could afford the Fiio KA11, which along with the TRN Black Pearl is what I actually suggested. I told him that the Apple dongle should be fine in the meantime. I also explained that planar IEMs do require more power to open up their full potential which is why suggested two of the most powerful dongles available under $50.

Try s15, i absolutely love them.

Nah red ape does better. Recently bought leshuoer s15 and they offered lower than stars.. plus.. secondhand market

If someone likes a cheaper iem more its either coping or hasnt tried a proper iem with a proper dac and sound source that suites the persons taste. I have had the salnotes dioko for about 4 years then finally upgraded to something more expensive and sounds way better letshuoer s15. So many variations just need to try and choose.

Zero 2 sound horrible to me. Proper in my term is something that suits your taste. If that isnt your taste even a $1m wont sound good. Just like your zero 2. Likewise for me nothing was better than my diokos until i tried the s15 which hit every spot and is more expensive. And for me the s15 is better than the 5+2

Mp145pro, S12 ultra, s15 in order of less to best in my opinion but all 3 are great regardless. Have not tried astralis so cant comment on that.

I love my S15 so much, I tried S12-series but I liked S15 more.

I wouldn’t trade the Letshuoer S08 for anything, but among the ones I’ve tried, the Letshuoer S15 and Simgot EA142 are probably the best planars. (Though technically, the EA142 is a planar + PZR.)