Best Meze Audio HiFi Headphones 2026
Alright, so you're looking at Meze Audio? Good choice. They're not your typical over-ear headphones - they're designed with a real musicality that a lot of other hi-fi cans miss. If you're tired of sterile, clinical sound and want something with a bit of soul and a warm, inviting character, Meze is worth a serious look, especially if you're tracking, mixing, or just want to really feel the music.
Last updated: April 22, 2026 • Next update: April 29, 2026
#1
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Meze Audio Empyrean II
by
Meze Audio
Audiophile Listening
Critical Music Enjoyment
High-End Sources
Key Feature:
The Empyrean II is a seriously impressive set of headphones – the Rinaro drivers really do something special. The sound is incredibly detailed and natural, almost like listening through very high-end speakers. These are perfect for the discerning listener who prioritizes sound quality above all else and wants an immersive, open-back experience.
PROS
- • Rinaro drivers deliver exceptional clarity and detail across the spectrum.
- • The Alcantara and leather ear pads provide luxurious comfort for extended listening.
- • Carbon fiber frame keeps the weight manageable despite the premium build.
- • Open-back design creates a remarkably spacious and natural soundstage.
CONS
- • The open-back design makes them unsuitable for noisy environments or private listening.
- • High-end price point puts them out of reach for many audiophiles.
- • While 32 ohms is manageable, they truly shine with a dedicated amplifier.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
10/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 616735
$3,299
#2
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Meze Audio 105 Aer
by
Meze Audio
Critical Music Enjoyment
High-End Sources
Home Audio Systems
Key Feature:
These Meze 105 Aers are seriously impressive – the beryllium drivers offer a level of resolution you don’t typically find at this price point. They’re fantastic for anyone who appreciates detail and a natural soundstage, especially fans of acoustic music or classical. Just be aware of the open-back design; these aren't for sharing a quiet space with anyone.
PROS
- • Exceptional clarity and detail thanks to the beryllium drivers.
- • Velour ear pads provide luxurious comfort for extended listening sessions.
- • Robust faux leather headband offers a premium feel and durability.
- • Open-back design delivers a wide, natural soundstage, excellent for classical.
CONS
- • The 336g weight can become fatiguing during longer listening periods.
- • Open-back design leaks sound significantly, unsuitable for quiet environments.
- • While versatile, they shine most with warmer, mid-focused source material.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 616344
$439
#3
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Meze Audio Liric 2nd Generation
by
Meze Audio
Home Audio Systems
Audiophile Listening
High-End Sources
Key Feature:
The Liric 2nd Gen is a real statement piece. Meze's hybrid driver technology delivers a remarkably detailed and engaging sound, especially strong in midrange vocals and acoustic instruments. These are perfect for critical listening and audiophiles who prioritize refined sound quality over ultimate portability.
PROS
- • Exceptional detail retrieval thanks to the MZ4 hybrid driver.
- • Macassar ebony housings offer a truly premium, unique aesthetic.
- • Comfortable for extended listening with excellent air circulation.
- • Detachable cables offer versatility and future-proofing.
CONS
- • Significant weight can cause fatigue during longer listening sessions.
- • Closed-back design limits soundstage compared to open-back alternatives.
- • Premium-priced, making it inaccessible for many casual listeners.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 616690
$2,199
#4
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Meze Audio 109 Pro
by
Meze Audio
Home Audio Systems
High-End Sources
Audiophile Listening
Key Feature:
These 109 Pros are seriously impressive – a real step up in sound quality and build. The warm, natural tonality is fantastic for vocals and acoustic instruments; perfect for the discerning listener who prioritizes comfort and a rich, immersive experience, especially when paired with a quality source.
PROS
- • Walnut housing provides warmth and a premium aesthetic feel.
- • Velour ear pads offer exceptional comfort for extended listening sessions.
- • Dynamic driver delivers a balanced, engaging soundstage with surprising detail.
- • Detachable cables offer convenience and potential for easy upgrades.
CONS
- • The 375g weight can become fatiguing during long listening periods.
- • Open-back design isn't suitable for noisy environments or private listening.
- • Higher impedance requires a decent amplifier for optimal performance.
⭐
4.9/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 616362
$879
#5
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Meze Audio 105 Silva
by
Meze Audio
Critical Music Enjoyment
Audiophile Listening
Home Audio Systems
Key Feature:
The 105 Silva’s a real treat – Meze’s nailed the balance between a warm, inviting sound and impressive clarity. It's a great choice for someone who appreciates a natural, musical presentation, and wants a comfortable, premium-feeling headphone for enjoying their favorite albums at home or on the go. They’re especially good for acoustic music and vocal-focused genres.
PROS
- • Exquisite velour ear pads offer exceptional comfort for extended listening
- • Walnut wood cups add warmth and a pleasing acoustic resonance
- • Dynamic driver delivers a balanced, engaging sound signature with excellent detail retrieval
- • Detachable cable system enhances portability and allows for easy replacement
CONS
- • Relatively heavy for long listening sessions; 354g can be fatiguing
- • Open-back design isn't suitable for noisy environments or monitoring
- • Price point positions it as a premium investment for serious audiophiles
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
6/10
Art. 621452
$549
#6
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Meze Audio Elite Tungsten
by
Meze Audio
Audiophile Listening
High-End Sources
Home Audio Systems
Key Feature:
These Meze Elite Tungstens are a serious statement in headphone design. The Isodynamic drivers produce an incredibly realistic and wide sound, and the build quality is frankly stunning. They’re perfect for the discerning listener who prioritizes sonic purity and comfort above all else, and has a dedicated listening space.
PROS
- • Rinaro drivers deliver exceptional detail and a remarkably natural soundstage.
- • Luxurious materials like Alcantara and carbon fiber create a premium feel and comfort.
- • 32-ohm impedance makes them surprisingly versatile for various amplifiers and devices.
- • Angled ear pads improve soundstage width and create a more immersive listening experience.
CONS
- • The substantial weight (372g) can induce fatigue during extended listening sessions.
- • Open-back design makes them unsuitable for noisy environments or private listening.
- • The premium price point places them out of reach for many audiophiles.
⭐
4.6/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
7/10
Art. 616716
$4,400
#7
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Meze Audio Poet
by
Meze Audio
Audiophile Listening
Critical Music Enjoyment
Home Audio Systems
Key Feature:
The Meze Poet is a beautifully crafted, high-end headphone offering a remarkably natural and detailed soundstage. They're perfect for the discerning listener who appreciates a premium build and a relaxed, engaging presentation – think classical music, jazz, or even well-produced acoustic tracks. Just be sure you've got a decent amp to really let them shine.
PROS
- • Rinaro drivers deliver a remarkably balanced and natural sonic signature.
- • Titanium alloy frame and magnesium housings create a premium, robust build.
- • The suede headband provides exceptional comfort, even during extended listening.
- • Flat cable design minimizes microphonics and enhances cable management.
CONS
- • Open-back design makes them unsuitable for quiet environments or travel.
- • Weight (350g) might be fatiguing for some users during long sessions.
- • Magnetostatic design demands a powerful amplifier for optimal performance.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
10/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 616746
$2,199
#8
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
8/10
Meze Audio 99 Classics
by
Meze Audio
Home Audio Systems
Critical Music Enjoyment
High-End Sources
Key Feature:
The 99 Classics are a seriously enjoyable listen – warm, engaging, and surprisingly comfortable. They’re perfect for someone who appreciates a balanced, slightly relaxed sound signature and wants a portable, closed-back option without sacrificing quality. Think singer-songwriters, acoustic guitar, and generally mellow vibes.
PROS
- • Warm, intimate soundstage with excellent vocal clarity.
- • Comfortable for extended listening with plush memory foam earpads.
- • Robust ABS plastic housing feels surprisingly premium and durable.
- • Included cables offer versatility - mic/remote and longer, clean option.
CONS
- • Closed-back design limits soundstage compared to open-back alternatives.
- • 260g weight can become noticeable during longer listening sessions.
- • ABS plastic, while durable, lacks the prestige of metal or wood.
⭐
4.8/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
7/10
Build:
7/10
Value:
8/10
Art. 616393
$340
#9
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Meze Audio Alba
by
Meze Audio
High-End Sources
Audiophile Listening
Home Audio Systems
Key Feature:
The Meze Alba is a seriously impressive package for the price. The build quality is fantastic, and the sound is warm, engaging, and surprisingly full – great for enjoying your favorite albums. It’s a fantastic choice for someone who appreciates a premium feel and a comfortable, balanced sound signature, especially when paired with the included adapter.
PROS
- • Exquisite anodized aluminum build feels premium, incredibly durable.
- • Dynamic driver delivers surprisingly full bass response for IEMs.
- • USB-C adapter provides a clean, powerful signal boost on-the-go.
- • Compact and lightweight design ensures comfortable extended listening sessions.
CONS
- • Sound signature leans warm, might lack detail for analytical listeners.
- • Detachable cable, while convenient, is a potential failure point.
- • Limited versatility; best suited for focused listening, not casual use.
⭐
5.0/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
9/10
Build:
9/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 616654
$175
#10
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Meze Audio 99 Neo
by
Meze Audio
High-End Sources
Critical Music Enjoyment
Audiophile Listening
Key Feature:
The Meze 99 Neo’s a solid choice if you want a warm, engaging sound without spending a fortune. They’re surprisingly comfortable, and the build feels much better than the price suggests—perfect for everyday listening or travel, especially if you appreciate a balanced, slightly relaxed sonic presentation.
PROS
- • Velour ear pads offer exceptional comfort for extended listening sessions.
- • ABS housing provides a surprisingly robust and lightweight feel.
- • Dynamic driver delivers a warm, engaging sound signature with satisfying bass.
- • Detachable cable with mic/remote enhances portability and convenience.
CONS
- • ABS plastic construction, while lightweight, lacks the premium feel of metal.
- • Closed-back design can introduce a slight 'boxed-in' sensation.
- • 26-ohm impedance requires a decent source for optimal volume and clarity.
⭐
4.7/5
Expert Rating
Sound:
8/10
Build:
8/10
Value:
9/10
Art. 616377
$219
How to Choose the Best HiFi Headphones
1
Sound Signature
Meze leans toward a warmer, more intimate sound. It's not muddy, mind you - there's still plenty of detail - but the emphasis is on a full midrange, a smooth top end, and a present but controlled low end. It's a sound that sits in the music, rather than observing it from a distance. Think of it as the sonic equivalent of a well-miked acoustic guitar - balanced and engaging.
2
Materials & Build Quality
These aren't plastic toys. Meze uses wood (often beautiful, figured woods) in their earcups, which contributes to the warmth and natural resonance. The headband and earpads are usually covered in premium leather or velour, and the construction feels solid. It's not as rock-solid as some of the heavier, more industrial-looking headphones out there, but it feels high-end.
3
Comfort & Ergonomics
Meze headphones are generally comfortable, but the clamping force can be a bit much initially. They're not the lightest headphones around, but the weight is distributed well. If you're planning on long tracking sessions or extended listening, you might want to break them in a bit or consider aftermarket earpads for a looser fit.
4
Imaging & Soundstage
While Meze headphones excel at intimacy and warmth, the soundstage isn't as wide or airy as some of the more analytical brands. It's still good enough to accurately place instruments in a mix, but don't expect a huge, holographic sound. It's more about accurate representation than a massive sense of space.
5
Driver Technology
Meze designs their own drivers, which is a big deal. They're not just slapping off-the-shelf components into a pretty housing; they're actively tuning the drivers to achieve their signature sound. This focus on driver design is a key differentiator - it's what gives them that unique, musical character.
Buying Guide
Look, Meze headphones aren't cheap. You're paying for the design, the materials, and the unique sound signature. The flagship models, like the 1090, are an investment, and the wood construction means they're more susceptible to humidity than some other headphones. Don't be afraid to buy used - Meze headphones hold their value well, and you can often find a great deal. Just be sure to check for any signs of damage or wear.
Our Methodology
We don't just look at specs here. We've spent countless hours tracking with these, mixing on them, and just generally living with them. We A/B them against everything from Sennheiser HD 600s to Audeze LCD-Xs, and the real test is: do they make you want to listen more, and do they reveal nuances in your music you've been missing? That's the bar.
Frequently Asked Questions
That depends on your priorities. If you value a warm, musical sound and appreciate beautiful design, then yes. If you're chasing the widest soundstage or the absolute flattest frequency response, there are cheaper options.
Most Meze models benefit from a dedicated headphone amp, especially the higher impedance models. They're not unusable without one, but you'll get more headroom and a more dynamic sound with a proper amp.
Keep them out of direct sunlight and extreme humidity. Wipe them down with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners.
They can be a useful tool, but be aware of the warm signature. It's not a completely neutral reference, so don't rely on them solely for making critical EQ decisions. Use them alongside more neutral headphones.
The 1090 is the flagship - it has a more refined sound, better materials (wood earcups), and a slightly more open soundstage. The 99 Classics are a great entry point into the Meze sound, offering excellent value for the money.
