Having used the 99 classics for a couple years now, my favorite thing about this headphone is just how much they nailed the design aspect of the 109s. It really does look like an improved and upgraded pair of 99s in nearly every way unlike some manufacturers who make a new headphone in a series and it looks either nearly identical or completely different. Obviously there are a number of differences between the 99s and 109s, but at least from a design standpoint and from someone who has used the 99s daily for a while, the look of these new 109s makes me _really_ really interested in checking them out (even if I can't afford them lmao)
@@dani_i8942 Personally I'm a big fan, although I replaced the stock ear cups with angled cups from brainwavz (don't remember the reason tbh, it was a while ago) and it made the bass a bit less punchy. I think with the stock ear pads they're a very fun headphone, but I prefer how they sound with the replacement cups as it balances it out a bit more. I do listen to loads of electronic/edm music, rock, metal, etc. though so I can confirm that between the sound quality/general sound, the build, and the comfort that these are definitely a good pair of daily drivers for that type of stuff in this price range
@@dani_i8942 i think of you are looking for 99 its the best Time for finding one in 100$ range, instead of 300. Just bought one for 100 last week from a guy who got them for christmass as a present but didn't want them. We will see if losing warranty will pay off but its nice so far.
The founders have a background in design and architecture, combined with the fact that they listen to feedback, you kind of expect them to come out with better designs. What impresses me the most if that they are now making their own drivers, and that is something i apploud, as a romanian.
Being able to design AND manufacture your own drivers in house is a huge advantage for them. Development time is faster and you aren't at the mercy of suppliers in other countries. It wouldn't surprise me if they start manufacturing drivers for other companies to help pay for the huge investment they made. The 99 Classics have a very comfortable headband design, I suspect these will feel almost as light and just as comfortable. Definitely interested in it.
Totally agree. Great review, Josh. The Meze 109 Pro are also my favorite Headphone from 2022 - and one of my TOP headphones period, regardless of price. I keep them in my main listening room on a headphone stand right next to my Feliks Audio Espressivo Mk II - exquisite audio combination! My 19-year old son and I attended the So Cal Can Jam this year in Irvine, CA. Hands down … the 109 Pro were the TOP PICK for both of us. My son queued up “No Quarter” by Led Zeppelin and it never sounded so good! Meze 109 Pro: Incredible comfort, looks, & sound - simply the BEST. 🎼❤️🎼
IMHO Meze is one of the very top player in the audio business. I´ve been meeting them regularly in Munich at high end. There you also got a first hand chance of comparing several headphones. Since the arrival of the Empyrean - which set a clear standard imo - the competition had their run for their money. I heard the prototype of the 109 pro and it simply blew me away. Another part where meze is outstanding is built quality, built materials and design. Can´t wait to see them again in May.
I have the Silver/Maple 99 Classic. It's not the best headphone but it's great for 90's rap & some movies. It is the BEST looking headphones I've EVER seen & is very comfortable. I hope the 109 with their far superior sound will have a Silver/Maple option in the future. I'd toally buy it.
I've never tried a Meze headphone, but now after watching this... you've got me curious Josh. Side note. The button up shirt n' tie paired with the jean jacket (aka the Canadian tuxedo) - didn't escape our notice 👔👖=❤🔥
Bose SoundSport -> Astro A40 -> Flare Audio (2011) -> Audeze planar in-ear (first version) -> Audeze Mobius -> Audio Technica M50x -> Seinheiser HD 6xx -> Apple AirPods Max -> Bang&Olufsen Beoplay HX -> and soon Meze 109 Pro, already ordered :) I still haven't found the right pair for me, really hoping the Meze 109 Pro will be it. For me now (after many failed attempts), it's comfort first, then a good joyful sound with great soundstage. Unfortunately due to often noisy environment I need sound isolation so I know I'll have to revert back to either my Beoplay HX or my M50x when it gets noisy; not the greatest comfort but they provide me with a bit of isolation.
I seriously appreciate the transparency on not really needing an amp. Lots of reviewers seem hesitant to say that maybe because it seems scary to use such an expensive headphone without any backup
Wonderful review, extremely clear and entertaining! Adore Meze Audio, and I didn't realise that the 109 Pro has in-house drivers 🤯 Bought the Solitaire T in white/silver as my current ultimate closed back, both passive balanced and wireless. My Focal Elear's will likely get sold. However, my old yet beautiful Meze 99 Classics will remain with me, for life! The 109 seems to be a great set of cans between the 99 Classics and Solitaire T, and will consider as a future purchase!
Meze have a great build but they really have not impressed me with their planars or the 99 classics . I have not heard the 109 pros or the lirics but I would like to hear the lirics because I'm interested in finding a closed back Planar for mobile use . I do think Meze's stellar build might make othe companies step up their build quality in response and that is a good thing
I have both Elex and 109. But for me sadly.. Elex beats 109 in most categories... Soundstage and comfort are only categories that 109 beats Elex. Treble is so harsh on 109.. Nice review as always. Thank you.
I’m late to the party but this is the headphone review of the year for me. Nicely done Josh. I just auditioned these at CanJam Dallas 2024 and was astonished by the sound quality they deliver at this price. I liked them even more than the Empy II and Liric II.
Hi Sir, I used to watch your videos 3-4 years ago and I came to watch this after a long time . And I just wanted to mention the cinematic touches on this are so much improved compared to the last time I watched. This video is not just a dry transfer of information like other reviews, it is an absolute delight to watch and enjoy. Really impressed. I am eager to watch even if I am not in the market. Truly amazing job.
As good as the 109 pros seem to be, would you still elect to spend a couple hundred more for Arya Stealth Edition? I know you've shared that you prefer the original Arya over the SE, but curious where your thoughts are Joshua between the 109 and Arya SE.
Have tried these at the dealer store and the most stand out feature to me is comfort. You wear these, it is super comfortable. You will easily forget you are wearing headphones. Sound wise, they sound good, to my ears, the best sound tuning from meze. However, They are still not the best sounding headphones from this prize range. Ex: Focal Clear easily beats 109 in terms of sound stage and clarity.
didn't the focal clear retail at 1600$ though? Probably any headphones from that price range would beat this headphone, or any headphone in the price range.
The 99 Classics earcups were too shallow and uncomfortable, that was my only issue with them and replacement earpads just looked weird to me and ruined the appeal of them. These look a lot better.
Love my Meze 109's as a full package it finally dethroned my DT1990. Only niggle is the cable looping a bit, waiting on getting a custom balanced cable but it needs extra long connectors which severely limits options as you said.
Hi, do you mind telling me how spicy you feel the treble is? I know these are completely different price brackets, but I currently own the BD Tygr 300 Rs (mainly use for competitive FPS and listening to music). I felt the Tygrs were a little hot, but the padding helped. Do you feel the Mezes to be unenjoyable on the high end?
@@ryanpowell2793 I believe the DT1990 have more treble than the meze but neither really bothered me. I had dekoni velour pads on my dt1990 which levels them out a bit though. The Meze are far more detailed, there's significantly more separation and layering which I didn't expect.
@@whoofman2013 Thanks for this insight. I have Peace EQ but admittedly use others presets posted online (I am not knowledgeable on EQing). Any suggestion of a form I can reference that has an EQ to fix the treble if it’s too much? I ended up buying them and they should be arriving next week.
I couldn't agree more Josh. I thought these were "fire breathing" hot until the long break-in time was over. After that break-in, they are nothing short of freaking great! To sell these for $800, Meze is one Hell of a company.
I've always loved how meze headphones looked but I could never get used to the sound of the classics, but I still wanna try the 109 because I want to own a meze heaphone i just need to find ones that I can afford and like to listen to
can you do a review for the ananda stealth? because it just came out and there's barely anything on it, i'm looking for a headphone in the 600$-1000$ range, thanks for all the reviews
I tried these in a store and found them to be too forward sounding, with accentuated vocal grain and sibilance and treble sibilance. Not sure if they were run in properly and you did not mention break in alterations either.
I finally spent a few hours listening to these and they are quite good. I'm not sure they are to the degree of praise that some have said but the margin of reality vs. hype for a new set of cans is much closer than others. Still feel depending on use case that there are others in this price range that can compete or simply better. AEON 2 Noir for example. If Meze (they are not alone on this of course) could only forego the ornate unboxing and the colorful presentation and put the resources into a far better cable it would be fantastic
I would like to know too. All I can say is that my XS stomps the Elex in every possible way (except dynamics). It makes me never want to listen to my elex again.
@@simoSLJ89 The xs does not have harsh treble to me. That's a minority opinion. The vast majority doesn't think that is the case. My ie600 and timeless has more bite but still aren't considered harsh by me. Maybe because I'm in my 40s and my heariwhas declined as to why.
I'm looking to purchase a single headphone to listen to a wide variety of genres of music streamed from a high-resolution audio service. I am not looking to get into the audiophile hobby. I'm not interested in charts and analyzing frequencies. I just want to buy a system and enjoy the "music" for years to come. My budget is $2,500 in total. The best sound I can get is a given + I value comfort because I will be listening for several hours a day. After watching quite a few reviewers, it seems like a Meze 109 Pro, Hifiman Arya, or Meze Empyrean might match my needs. At my local earphone store, I can purchase a new Meze 109 Pro for $850, a new Hifiman Arya for $1,100, and a used Meze Empyrean for $1,900. Can you please make a recommendation from among these three? Also, any recommendations on an amp/DAC to match? Thank you
I loved everything about the 99 classics....except the sound. And thats like loving everything about a car except how it drives. Vocals and treble felt way too distant and muted and they needed a ton of EQ to sound better. I ended up returning them after a week of trying them out. Glad to hear they're improving, I really want to like Meze but until the sound gets better I don't have a reason to get any of them.
New to high end audio so please take my question with that context in mind . Which out of the following make a better headphone for listening with vinyl (primary 60's to 80's Hindi movie soundtracks and 80's soft rock) and giving a wider soundstage and good resolution. I do understand I will need a good Headphone amp to go with either one of them. 1. HiFiman Arya Stealth 2. Meze 109 Pro 3. Sennheiser HD660 S2 I dont even know if this is a good place to have this conversation but any how.
Salut! Ca fait 3 jours que je regarde toutes les vidéos que je trouve et que je lis tous les commentaires pour me décider ou non à l'acheter (j'ai jamais eu de casque ouvert) Est-ce que tu regrettes ton achat ou ça valait le coup ? (en espérant avoir une réponse 10 mois après :D)
@@FlapFlap Avant j'avais le 99 classics qui est excellentissime , le meilleur casque fermé dans sa catégorie mais le 109 va encore plus loin , plus aéré , plus équilibré , un régal , les Focal bien plus chers sont loin derrière ! à acheter les yeux fermés .
@@spartitude1207 Je pense que je vais franchir le pas. En plus les coussinet en velours ont on air génial Je compte l’utiliser sur pc pour la musique et le gaming, est-ce que tu utilises un DAC particulier ou un ampli casque ? Ou les 2 ?
@@FlapFlap Le gros avantage de ces casques c'est qu'ils ont une faible impédance donc pas besoin d'ampli ou de DAC , je le branche directement sur mon PC et le son est génial , si tu désires plus de puissance tu peux utiliser un ampli casque mais personnellement je n'en vois pas l'utilité
@@spartitude1207 Oui, le problème c'est que j'ai l'impression que ma carte son interne est naze, donc je dois brancher un DAC en usb ça me semble être ce qu'il faut faire de ce que j'ai compris Mais merci d'avoir répondu, 800€ c'est une somme mais il est trop beau et les avis général pour le son sont super donc pourquoi pas :D
Hi, I'm your fan in Taiwan. I already own a meze 109 pro and use a macbook to drive directly. Do you have a recommended amplifier with a budget of $200~700?
The trouble I have with reviews, is that when the person starts talking about the cons it turns me off to the reviewed unit. It's not that I only want to hear the pluses, but that the negatives seem bad to me, and then I wish it didn't have those negatives. I know there is no such thing as perfect, and many of my beloved headphones have faults/weaknesses too. I will say though, that it doesn't matter how good a headphone sounds, if it's not comfortable. I mean really comfortable. I *love* my HD800S but I wish I could get the comfort of the HD650's from them.
I've watched lots of videos about the Meze 99 Classics and the Sennheiser HD 620S, and I'm not sure which one to buy, if either. I've heard many great things, as well as bad, about the 99 Classics, and that the Senny's are better. Does anyone have any advice? I can't go over $350. By the way, I currently use Bose QC45s, non-ultra, and they're just fine to me. Would getting more "audiophile" headphones be a major difference and blow me away? Is it even worth getting either of these headphones, or any at all?
Meze 99 is my favorite headphone, which says a lot, because I've never loved something enough to daily drive it. I really may need these. Are you shooting all of this b roll yourself?
I got to try these out a week ago against 4 other headphones, on two different amps, and they were easily the most forward/bright headphones I've ever heard. Using a tube amp helped take the edge off, but I still felt they were too bright for my tastes, esp when compared to the rest of the models I tested. If you love the Sennheiser 6XX sound signature, i would definitely pass on these.
@@VitorMach the guy who let me borrow them says they're very gear dependant and they supposedly sound best on lower powered devices like phones, but I haven't had a chance to try that out. Tube amps help to take the edge off but they're still very bright compared to several other headphones imo. Same here tbh, but none of the reviewers I've seen talking about these headphones so far have said they were bright. Maybe a lot of people really enjoy that more "forward" or "exciting" sound, but it's really not for me.
My issue is the last thing you covered. I already have 4 very good headphones in its price range. Don’t need another unless it totally trashes what I have which would be a tall order indeed!
doubt it can beat my DT880 600ohm, they are modded but cost roughly 300$, yes Im using them with more expensive dac/amp but they are so impressive, best that beyer ever made price/performance
Hi Joshua, loved the review as I feel you cover a lot of key points About the headphones. I been using Beyerdynamics DT 880 and are looking for a change. Thanks for your review as It seems like a good option. Best wishes for 2023
Hey thank you for the review! I tried these headphones at canjam, might be my favorite during that day after trying over 15 pairs of headphones probably. It was on the level of hifiman ayra in terms of subjective likeability. What do you think about Meze 109 vs Hifiman Ayra??
So, I would describe myself as an… audio enjoyer…? I want great representation in my music, I want detail, and I want to experience as much in my music as possible. I’ve had a pair of Hifiman Edition S for going on 6 years annnnd it’s time for a change… They have been all I’ve ever known from a… hifi perspective. I’ve got a pair of Bose headphones and AirPods Pro for my everyday/travel headphones. I’m not chasing the pinnacle of hifi like most people. I want my music to have soul, resonance, and life. I would love some recommendations or maybe even reassurance that these are the cans for me. Also, if I were to go for these what amp/dac combo would be an objectively good fit for the 109 Pro or any other recommendation. I assume if I needed to do some research on my own these don’t need a lot of power but need clean constant power. Any advice would be great, thanks!
I tried them for a couple of days. Had to return them, mainly because of the harshness on top and lack of soundstage. They are almost forward sounding, a bit in your face. They are a little over hyped in my opinion.
I'm from Romania and feeling pretty proud right now :)
Si eu sunt mândru frt :)
Antonio meze from romania is genius man for create great headphones !
Who cares...😂
@@squidwerd1981 your
Mom bro, we had a talk last night and she does care
You definitely should
I don't know what's more impressive... that headphone, or the sound design in the video. Those sound elements...sounded amazing! Good job Joshua!
Damn Josh, your videography is on another level. Bravo.
But the Canadian tux isn’t helping 😂
Having used the 99 classics for a couple years now, my favorite thing about this headphone is just how much they nailed the design aspect of the 109s. It really does look like an improved and upgraded pair of 99s in nearly every way unlike some manufacturers who make a new headphone in a series and it looks either nearly identical or completely different. Obviously there are a number of differences between the 99s and 109s, but at least from a design standpoint and from someone who has used the 99s daily for a while, the look of these new 109s makes me _really_ really interested in checking them out (even if I can't afford them lmao)
How do you like the 99's? Looking at a solid closed back myself, mainly for metal.
The sound is (thankfully) vastly different. I can't stand 99s without EQ.
@@dani_i8942 Personally I'm a big fan, although I replaced the stock ear cups with angled cups from brainwavz (don't remember the reason tbh, it was a while ago) and it made the bass a bit less punchy. I think with the stock ear pads they're a very fun headphone, but I prefer how they sound with the replacement cups as it balances it out a bit more. I do listen to loads of electronic/edm music, rock, metal, etc. though so I can confirm that between the sound quality/general sound, the build, and the comfort that these are definitely a good pair of daily drivers for that type of stuff in this price range
@@dani_i8942 i think of you are looking for 99 its the best Time for finding one in 100$ range, instead of 300. Just bought one for 100 last week from a guy who got them for christmass as a present but didn't want them.
We will see if losing warranty will pay off but its nice so far.
The founders have a background in design and architecture, combined with the fact that they listen to feedback, you kind of expect them to come out with better designs. What impresses me the most if that they are now making their own drivers, and that is something i apploud, as a romanian.
Being able to design AND manufacture your own drivers in house is a huge advantage for them. Development time is faster and you aren't at the mercy of suppliers in other countries. It wouldn't surprise me if they start manufacturing drivers for other companies to help pay for the huge investment they made. The 99 Classics have a very comfortable headband design, I suspect these will feel almost as light and just as comfortable. Definitely interested in it.
Totally agree. Great review, Josh. The Meze 109 Pro are also my favorite Headphone from 2022 - and one of my TOP headphones period, regardless of price. I keep them in my main listening room on a headphone stand right next to my Feliks Audio Espressivo Mk II - exquisite audio combination!
My 19-year old son and I attended the So Cal Can Jam this year in Irvine, CA. Hands down … the 109 Pro were the TOP PICK for both of us. My son queued up “No Quarter” by Led Zeppelin and it never sounded so good!
Meze 109 Pro: Incredible comfort, looks, & sound - simply the BEST. 🎼❤️🎼
How does it compare to 2021's headphone of the year?
Did you upgrade the cable?
Man! B-roll and cinematic style on point!
IMHO Meze is one of the very top player in the audio business. I´ve been meeting them regularly in Munich at high end. There you also got a first hand chance of comparing several headphones. Since the arrival of the Empyrean - which set a clear standard imo - the competition had their run for their money. I heard the prototype of the 109 pro and it simply blew me away. Another part where meze is outstanding is built quality, built materials and design. Can´t wait to see them again in May.
Listening to this review with my 99 classics and noticed the work you put into your sound design in videos 👌✨
Listening your review through my own Meze 109 pro and I agree with what your said .
You got some great shots this video! Well done. This headphone has caught by interest the past few months and I might pull the trigger soon.
Probably the best looking headphone I've seen. Very timeless and classic yet elegant design. Reminds me of an old Porsche for some reason.
Or an old Dacia. 😂
I think 660s/s2 (only logo color is different) with the metal driver plate looks sexy too
I have the Silver/Maple 99 Classic. It's not the best headphone but it's great for 90's rap & some movies. It is the BEST looking headphones I've EVER seen & is very comfortable. I hope the 109 with their far superior sound will have a Silver/Maple option in the future. I'd toally buy it.
I've never tried a Meze headphone, but now after watching this... you've got me curious Josh.
Side note. The button up shirt n' tie paired with the jean jacket (aka the Canadian tuxedo) - didn't escape our notice 👔👖=❤🔥
Excellent production quality as always
I really appreciate all the effort you put into filming the product. This puts your review VIDEOS much higher on my reviewer list.
The information given about the headphone is more important IMO.
Bose SoundSport -> Astro A40 -> Flare Audio (2011) -> Audeze planar in-ear (first version) -> Audeze Mobius -> Audio Technica M50x -> Seinheiser HD 6xx -> Apple AirPods Max -> Bang&Olufsen Beoplay HX -> and soon Meze 109 Pro, already ordered :)
I still haven't found the right pair for me, really hoping the Meze 109 Pro will be it. For me now (after many failed attempts), it's comfort first, then a good joyful sound with great soundstage. Unfortunately due to often noisy environment I need sound isolation so I know I'll have to revert back to either my Beoplay HX or my M50x when it gets noisy; not the greatest comfort but they provide me with a bit of isolation.
And how is it?
I seriously appreciate the transparency on not really needing an amp. Lots of reviewers seem hesitant to say that maybe because it seems scary to use such an expensive headphone without any backup
Wonderful review, extremely clear and entertaining!
Adore Meze Audio, and I didn't realise that the 109 Pro has in-house drivers 🤯
Bought the Solitaire T in white/silver as my current ultimate closed back, both passive balanced and wireless.
My Focal Elear's will likely get sold.
However, my old yet beautiful Meze 99 Classics will remain with me, for life!
The 109 seems to be a great set of cans between the 99 Classics and Solitaire T, and will consider as a future purchase!
Totally agree, excellent performance with great efficiency!
Meze have a great build but they really have not impressed me with their planars or the 99 classics .
I have not heard the 109 pros or the lirics but I would like to hear the lirics because I'm interested in finding a closed back Planar for mobile use .
I do think Meze's stellar build might make othe companies step up their build quality in response and that is a good thing
My favorit right now,easy sound comfort pur and it makes me happy to listen to all kind of music
I have both Elex and 109. But for me sadly.. Elex beats 109 in most categories... Soundstage and comfort are only categories that 109 beats Elex. Treble is so harsh on 109.. Nice review as always. Thank you.
fr，the terble man
Treble harshness stopped for me after 100 hour burn in.
Pleaee upgrade the 109 better cable the issue treble very disappear and use R2R dac ( like Cayin ru6 , ru7 ) will less brightness and more warmer tone
I’m late to the party but this is the headphone review of the year for me. Nicely done Josh. I just auditioned these at CanJam Dallas 2024 and was astonished by the sound quality they deliver at this price. I liked them even more than the Empy II and Liric II.
Hi Sir,
I used to watch your videos 3-4 years ago and I came to watch this after a long time . And I just wanted to mention the cinematic touches on this are so much improved compared to the last time I watched. This video is not just a dry transfer of information like other reviews, it is an absolute delight to watch and enjoy. Really impressed. I am eager to watch even if I am not in the market. Truly amazing job.
I've watched pretty much every headphone review that came out in 2022, and...this one is the best.
you should be making films, J. Probably the best b roll I've ever seen on any video.
Finally had the answer I've been looking for. Thanks, Josh! Now, I know what I want this holiday season... 🥳🥳🥳🥳
Focal Clear OG vs Meze 109?
I am a huge Shure SRH1540 headphones fan. I am procuring the 109 Pro with copper upgrade balanced cables. I cannot wait!
I recently purchased these and I absolutely love them. If you order from Apos, the give you a free $120 cable upgrade.
What benefits are there to upgrading the cable? I'm more new to the whole audiophile arena and I got this headset and find it absolutely amazing.
@@MJordanisGod23 Science says cable upgrades are snakeoil but some people believe a good cable can change their headphones. Depend who you ask i guess
I recently tried these. Lovely-sounding headphone. I'd probably have kept them if I wasn't already spoiled by the resolution of my HE1000.
Listening to the video who got you to buy the 109 pro and an amp, with the 109 pro. God damn that's a good headphone. Thanks!
As good as the 109 pros seem to be, would you still elect to spend a couple hundred more for Arya Stealth Edition? I know you've shared that you prefer the original Arya over the SE, but curious where your thoughts are Joshua between the 109 and Arya SE.
Josh all looking, and sounding, like someone's intellectual, audiophile dad LOL!
Keep it up man!
109 Pro is coming to my house this afternoon.😇😇❤❤
This or the hifiman xs? What's better about each?
Have tried these at the dealer store and the most stand out feature to me is comfort. You wear these, it is super comfortable. You will easily forget you are wearing headphones. Sound wise, they sound good, to my ears, the best sound tuning from meze. However, They are still not the best sounding headphones from this prize range. Ex: Focal Clear easily beats 109 in terms of sound stage and clarity.
didn't the focal clear retail at 1600$ though? Probably any headphones from that price range would beat this headphone, or any headphone in the price range.
@@harackmw The new Clear mg have replaced the old Clear and retails for 1500. The price of old Clear now dropped to 990 with sale at 850 occasionaly.
@@harackmw What do you mean by "beat"?
Can the ear pads be removed…
The 99 Classics earcups were too shallow and uncomfortable, that was my only issue with them and replacement earpads just looked weird to me and ruined the appeal of them. These look a lot better.
This is the next full sized headphone I'm going to buy sometime next year.
Love my Meze 109's as a full package it finally dethroned my DT1990. Only niggle is the cable looping a bit, waiting on getting a custom balanced cable but it needs extra long connectors which severely limits options as you said.
Hi, do you mind telling me how spicy you feel the treble is? I know these are completely different price brackets, but I currently own the BD Tygr 300 Rs (mainly use for competitive FPS and listening to music). I felt the Tygrs were a little hot, but the padding helped. Do you feel the Mezes to be unenjoyable on the high end?
@@ryanpowell2793 I believe the DT1990 have more treble than the meze but neither really bothered me. I had dekoni velour pads on my dt1990 which levels them out a bit though. The Meze are far more detailed, there's significantly more separation and layering which I didn't expect.
@@Vantavimeow thanks for the reply!
Treble harshness stopped for me after 100 hours. EQ helps from the get go.
@@whoofman2013 Thanks for this insight. I have Peace EQ but admittedly use others presets posted online (I am not knowledgeable on EQing). Any suggestion of a form I can reference that has an EQ to fix the treble if it’s too much? I ended up buying them and they should be arriving next week.
What happend to the Hifiman Edition XS?
How does this compare to the Neumann NDH 30? I think you should do a comparison video.
I couldn't agree more Josh. I thought these were "fire breathing" hot until the long break-in time was over. After that break-in, they are nothing short of freaking great! To sell these for $800, Meze is one Hell of a company.
Headphones doesn't burn-in, it's your brain that gets used to the sound over time, it's simple science.
I’m kinda surprised you didn’t review the DT 900 Pro X considering you like the DT 1990 Pro. Do you plan on doing that anytime soon?
hot in the treble, I kind of figured many reviewers would be into these~
I've always loved how meze headphones looked but I could never get used to the sound of the classics, but I still wanna try the 109 because I want to own a meze heaphone i just need to find ones that I can afford and like to listen to
Meze's whole shtick is great looks mediocre to poor sound quality for it's price
can you do a review for the ananda stealth? because it just came out and there's barely anything on it, i'm looking for a headphone in the 600$-1000$ range, thanks for all the reviews
I tried these in a store and found them to be too forward sounding, with accentuated vocal grain and sibilance and treble sibilance. Not sure if they were run in properly and you did not mention break in alterations either.
the best looking headphones ive ever seen for sure
I finally spent a few hours listening to these and they are quite good. I'm not sure they are to the degree of praise that some have said but the margin of reality vs. hype for a new set of cans is much closer than others. Still feel depending on use case that there are others in this price range that can compete or simply better. AEON 2 Noir for example. If Meze (they are not alone on this of course) could only forego the ornate unboxing and the colorful presentation and put the resources into a far better cable it would be fantastic
Sounds like the ideal headphone for the Steam Deck.
How do they compare to the Hifiman Edition XS (500eur) ?
I would like to know too. All I can say is that my XS stomps the Elex in every possible way (except dynamics). It makes me never want to listen to my elex again.
@@h1a8 It seems that both the XS and the 109 PRO have kinda harsh treble..what shoud we consider for a more relaxed headphone?
@@simoSLJ89 The xs does not have harsh treble to me. That's a minority opinion. The vast majority doesn't think that is the case. My ie600 and timeless has more bite but still aren't considered harsh by me.
Maybe because I'm in my 40s and my heariwhas declined as to why.
Would like to hear about this comparison. Add in Ananda Stealth too.
@@simoSLJ89 I don't own the XS but have used them and they never sounded harsh... maybe it was the cable you used? DAC?
I'm looking to purchase a single headphone to listen to a wide variety of genres of music streamed from a high-resolution audio service. I am not looking to get into the audiophile hobby. I'm not interested in charts and analyzing frequencies. I just want to buy a system and enjoy the "music" for years to come. My budget is $2,500 in total. The best sound I can get is a given + I value comfort because I will be listening for several hours a day. After watching quite a few reviewers, it seems like a Meze 109 Pro, Hifiman Arya, or Meze Empyrean might match my needs. At my local earphone store, I can purchase a new Meze 109 Pro for $850, a new Hifiman Arya for $1,100, and a used Meze Empyrean for $1,900. Can you please make a recommendation from among these three? Also, any recommendations on an amp/DAC to match? Thank you
I loved everything about the 99 classics....except the sound. And thats like loving everything about a car except how it drives. Vocals and treble felt way too distant and muted and they needed a ton of EQ to sound better. I ended up returning them after a week of trying them out.
Glad to hear they're improving, I really want to like Meze but until the sound gets better I don't have a reason to get any of them.
I do think og clear is still better than 109 pro, but I don’t know what’s going wrong with the clear mg.
New to high end audio so please take my question with that context in mind . Which out of the following make a better headphone for listening with vinyl (primary 60's to 80's Hindi movie soundtracks and 80's soft rock) and giving a wider soundstage and good resolution. I do understand I will need a good Headphone amp to go with either one of them.
1. HiFiman Arya Stealth
2. Meze 109 Pro
3. Sennheiser HD660 S2
I dont even know if this is a good place to have this conversation but any how.
Bonjour de France et merci pour ce test , je viens de m'acheter le Meze pro 109 et j'en suis très satisfait , un régal !
Salut! Ca fait 3 jours que je regarde toutes les vidéos que je trouve et que je lis tous les commentaires pour me décider ou non à l'acheter (j'ai jamais eu de casque ouvert)
Est-ce que tu regrettes ton achat ou ça valait le coup ? (en espérant avoir une réponse 10 mois après :D)
@@FlapFlap Avant j'avais le 99 classics qui est excellentissime , le meilleur casque fermé dans sa catégorie mais le 109 va encore plus loin , plus aéré , plus équilibré , un régal , les Focal bien plus chers sont loin derrière ! à acheter les yeux fermés .
@@spartitude1207 Je pense que je vais franchir le pas. En plus les coussinet en velours ont on air génial
Je compte l’utiliser sur pc pour la musique et le gaming, est-ce que tu utilises un DAC particulier ou un ampli casque ? Ou les 2 ?
@@FlapFlap Le gros avantage de ces casques c'est qu'ils ont une faible impédance donc pas besoin d'ampli ou de DAC , je le branche directement sur mon PC et le son est génial , si tu désires plus de puissance tu peux utiliser un ampli casque mais personnellement je n'en vois pas l'utilité
@@spartitude1207 Oui, le problème c'est que j'ai l'impression que ma carte son interne est naze, donc je dois brancher un DAC en usb ça me semble être ce qu'il faut faire de ce que j'ai compris
Mais merci d'avoir répondu, 800€ c'est une somme mais il est trop beau et les avis général pour le son sont super donc pourquoi pas :D
what headphones in this price range will be bass-producing, musical and pleasant to listen to?
I like the 99 classic better then the 109.
ZMF bokeh or wait for bokeh open
@Joshua Valour what would you pick between these and anandas ?
How does this pair with the Fiio K7? Or would you recommend another dac-amp?
you state "you can play this off anything". as it is only 40ohms are you including otl tube amps?
I’ve been really enjoying your content and the effort you obviously put into making the videos is much appreciated! I’ve subscribed.
Hi, I'm your fan in Taiwan. I already own a meze 109 pro and use a macbook to drive directly. Do you have a recommended amplifier with a budget of $200~700?
I have seen better more technical headphone reviews but not one so immersive, where do you get your background music brother? 👍🏼
how would you compare these to the hifiman edition xs? purely based on sound
The trouble I have with reviews, is that when the person starts talking about the cons it turns me off to the reviewed unit. It's not that I only want to hear the pluses, but that the negatives seem bad to me, and then I wish it didn't have those negatives. I know there is no such thing as perfect, and many of my beloved headphones have faults/weaknesses too. I will say though, that it doesn't matter how good a headphone sounds, if it's not comfortable. I mean really comfortable. I *love* my HD800S but I wish I could get the comfort of the HD650's from them.
I've watched lots of videos about the Meze 99 Classics and the Sennheiser HD 620S, and I'm not sure which one to buy, if either. I've heard many great things, as well as bad, about the 99 Classics, and that the Senny's are better. Does anyone have any advice? I can't go over $350.
By the way, I currently use Bose QC45s, non-ultra, and they're just fine to me. Would getting more "audiophile" headphones be a major difference and blow me away? Is it even worth getting either of these headphones, or any at all?
Nice production quality.
in your opinien wich better for gaming the meze 109 pro or HD660S2
Measurements look like HiFi Man Ananda/Aria.
BTW, I wonder if he is ever going to mention the Ananda in his videos.
Meze 99 is my favorite headphone, which says a lot, because I've never loved something enough to daily drive it. I really may need these.
Are you shooting all of this b roll yourself?
The Meze 99 has far too much bass
What AMP did you use for this review?
I got to try these out a week ago against 4 other headphones, on two different amps, and they were easily the most forward/bright headphones I've ever heard. Using a tube amp helped take the edge off, but I still felt they were too bright for my tastes, esp when compared to the rest of the models I tested.
If you love the Sennheiser 6XX sound signature, i would definitely pass on these.
Mark from Super* Reviews also found these to have a quite severe treble spike, I find it kinda weird Josh didn't even mention it...
@@VitorMach the guy who let me borrow them says they're very gear dependant and they supposedly sound best on lower powered devices like phones, but I haven't had a chance to try that out. Tube amps help to take the edge off but they're still very bright compared to several other headphones imo. Same here tbh, but none of the reviewers I've seen talking about these headphones so far have said they were bright. Maybe a lot of people really enjoy that more "forward" or "exciting" sound, but it's really not for me.
@@hoth2112are they brighter than Dt 990's or let's say Grados
@@alexsmith1207 i haven't heard either model/brand to know yet, but for my tastes, they were way too forward or "exciting" to be enjoyable.
My issue is the last thing you covered. I already have 4 very good headphones in its price range. Don’t need another unless it totally trashes what I have which would be a tall order indeed!
Pardon, how do these compare with the DT1990 pro with EQ?
I’m looking to best my 1990.
Much appreciated.
doubt it can beat my DT880 600ohm, they are modded but cost roughly 300$, yes Im using them with more expensive dac/amp but they are so impressive, best that beyer ever made price/performance
If i like the sound of the Edition XS but hate the build and comfort what would be a good fit?
So what is the price point?
Trying to decide between these or jumping up to the Arya Stealth.
With metallics you means brass and cymbals? Cheers
I love my Audeze MM 500’s pretty much end game for me! But these seem interesting. Especially the comfort
How did you get over the clamp force?!
What is the sound leakage on these compared to for instance Hifiman open back headphones
Hi Joshua, loved the review as I feel you cover a lot of key points About the headphones. I been using Beyerdynamics DT 880 and are looking for a change. Thanks for your review as It seems like a good option. Best wishes for 2023
DT 990 pro !
I love this headphone so much.
Wondering if an Aeon Noire review will come out sometime?
can you do a comparison between this and focal clear,Elex,DT1990
Hey thank you for the review! I tried these headphones at canjam, might be my favorite during that day after trying over 15 pairs of headphones probably. It was on the level of hifiman ayra in terms of subjective likeability.
What do you think about Meze 109 vs Hifiman Ayra??
Stealth magnet version Arya btw
WEIRD how u mentioned Arya lol. if u were to get 109 or Arya, which one would u get based off of pure enjoyment? Why?
thank you for the information i will buy these headphones
Very nice review. PLEASE tell us what music we hear during the review. Thank you.
could you specify if this is a sponsored video?
between the elex/ clear and the 109 what do you prefer, btw great vid loved the b roll as always
So, I would describe myself as an… audio enjoyer…? I want great representation in my music, I want detail, and I want to experience as much in my music as possible. I’ve had a pair of Hifiman Edition S for going on 6 years annnnd it’s time for a change… They have been all I’ve ever known from a… hifi perspective. I’ve got a pair of Bose headphones and AirPods Pro for my everyday/travel headphones. I’m not chasing the pinnacle of hifi like most people. I want my music to have soul, resonance, and life. I would love some recommendations or maybe even reassurance that these are the cans for me. Also, if I were to go for these what amp/dac combo would be an objectively good fit for the 109 Pro or any other recommendation. I assume if I needed to do some research on my own these don’t need a lot of power but need clean constant power. Any advice would be great, thanks!
Would you say the Arya SE is a good upgrade can after 109pro?
Saving up for it...
Wow. Despite being subscribed, I thought you stopped doing headphone reviews with the new studio.
i have the dt 900 pro x how does this compare to it? its double the price its it much better in your opinion?
same here.
I tried them for a couple of days. Had to return them, mainly because of the harshness on top and lack of soundstage. They are almost forward sounding, a bit in your face. They are a little over hyped in my opinion.
Sorry if I missed it, but were these cans sent to you for free?
The design philosophy reminds me of the Sony MDR-F1, just floats on your head.