I'd take headphones over a wife any day bro. Women get super jealous when Men are doing something they enjoy, because it takes the focus off of them. The right woman would support or at worse tolerate your interests.
Totally spot on describing my exact experience. Been down the audiophile rabbit hole - spending/losing thousands of dollars in the quest for 'better' - then got these and IFI DSD Gryphon and... done! I'm a professional musician and these let me enjoy music in the most natural, engaging way. Bravo Meze!
Your description of the nature-inspired design, coupled with your reaction, "...are all the other headphones ugly", was just perfect. Meze should quote you on that. As someone "normal" when it comes to the world of audio, the price is not cheap, although they do seem worth (*cough AirPods Max). I prefer closed backs as I don't like it when sound leaks, but I am excited to see if they make a 109 closed back version. As of now, my 99 Noir are my happy place where I don't feel like I need to spend more on headphones.
@@julian_handpan Yeah, I have 99 Maple/Silver Limiteds and I use those for work in the office as they're closed back, although my company allows me to basically live/work anywhere in the world as long as I let them know in advance. Since I have a kid on the way (first one) I'll probably be splitting my time between office and home, so having an open-back seems attractive since I don't need to worry about bothering co-workers. The idea of having 109s for home and 99s for office seems ridiculous, rationally, but completely reasonable on an emotional level.
I have the 99 Classics. Despite not being the most neutral, detailed, or spacious sounding phones in my collection, they're my favorites because they never annoy me. Every other headphone I own, even those that cost more and perform better sonically, bothers me sometimes. It's always something. The pads are too firm, the clamp too intense, the weight/pressure distribution too uneven... There's always something annoying that limits enjoyment, especially for long sessions. I'm just not able to fully enjoy music while being nagged by pressure hotspots on my head. The 99s never annoy me. Never. I'm HIGHLY tempted to get the 109s and just downsize to 99s, 109s, and a pair of ANC phones for my commute/work and then just call it quits instead of having the 15 pairs of headphones I currently have, most of which spend the majority of their time on the bench.
What are the ANC phones that you speak of? I'm just kind of getting started on hifi audio. I've owned a pair of 99 Classics for almost 2 years and love them given a previous Zeos review, and a few others I encountered. I just ordered a Schiit Hel 2, and I came across this because I didn't know they made what I thought was an updated 99 but are in fact different since these are open-backs, but not planar. I prefer to be efficient with what I want rather than spend copious amounts just to be annoyed at specific characteristics differing among headphones/set-ups. I want a wide soundstage, good (but not overbearing clarity) and a butter smooth sound profile. I'm talking something I can session for 8 to 10 hours per day regularly. I thought about pursuing some planars for working at home, but maybe not necessary with the 109s? Do you know of a planar that would give similar stage and quality as this at a similar price/build quality, or are these really the end-all-be-all of warm, full sound open-backs that a planar of similar price can't match?
You just said exactly what I was thinking. I just bought my 3rd set of classic 99's off of ebay because I can't find anything else I can wear for 6 hours without any complaints. This is the next level, but I'm hesitant to spend $700
@@rikarson2098I'd definitely recommend testing the 109s before buying if you like the 99s, just because they do have a somewhat different sound signature, but I love them. I got rid of my HiFiMAN Edition XS after trying the 109s because, while the $500 HiFiMAN phones did compete sonically with the Mezes (well done, HiFiMAN), the Mezes are about 10X more comfortable, and their build quality is way better. (Edit: I see the Edition XS is $379 now, but they were $500 when I got them).
You only talk about the comfort of your Mezze 99 Classics. But you don't talk about the sound. I did a few listening tests in store, the 99 Classics put too much emphasis on the bass (it's terrible), it's a huge deterrent for me. My Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro (open headphones) are in terms of high sound definition and even the extent or spatiality of the sound clearly superior (their equivalent in closed headphones is the DT 770 Pro).
This is where I fall. I don't want/need a wall of headphones and speakers. I just want to feel happy when I listen to music, play games, and watch entertainment. I want a nice mix of warm and fuzzy and clarity of sound. Then I want to just live in that spot and call it a day and spend my money elsewhere.
so i bought a pair of super nice headphones even though i own hd650's and i liked them. but sold them. if you have a nice pair thats all you need. hd650 is my endgame. now amps are a rabbit hole for sure.
@@thierryfaquet7405 , the clears are great. I have those and the Lirics currently in rotation. The Clear has a slight metallic timbre and lacks bass extension. If the 109 Pro is an open back Liric, I would definitely try them head to head before any purchase if possible.
Was enjoying some tunes on my own 109s, and had to come back here just to say this review is just bang on. They are so much fun! If you can afford them, just get a pair and enjoy your music. PS: break-in on these is kind of long, sounds a tad harsh out of the box
I think these are...a different point of view....they shouldn't be for audiophilia but... perhaps for music lovers...and this is the most important matter...even better...the matter 😉
I'm sure these are great, and a joy to listen to. I'm not looking for faults in my music, but I often want my music to hurt me (physically, spiritually, metaphysically, metaphorically), sometimes I NEED pain... and that's why I have Dt1990s and a BASx amp.
I managed to come up with the money to afford this awesome and amazing headphones. No other headphones that I have ever listened to been this good. I highly recommend them...💯
Alas, I just bought some HD660S t months ago - otherwise I might have hunted these down for a try. But that has to be one of the most entertaining review videos I have ever watched.
It's interesting, Z says that "regular fucking people" at CanJam SoCal kept saying the best thing they heard at the show. Well, I just attended CanJam Chicago. Listened to some AMAZING stuff there! ZMF, DCA, dCA, and all the companies and other acronyms that they have. My favorite was the Hifiman HE-1000, and then I got to hear the HE-1! But, the last thing I listened to at the show was the Meze 109 Pro at the Mimic Audio table. And I was absolutely smitten with them. Just sat there song after song, my chin in my hand, just gushing over the smoothness, the warmness and the beauty of how they sounded and the comfort. No one bothered me, there was even a guy waiting for his turn. He let me be. He knew I was in bliss! I'm not one of these Detail Junky Audiophiles, I just want something that sounds smooooth. And damn it, these are it. These will be my end game. They are just fucking wonderful ❤❤❤❤❤
The Meze 109 Pro is at the other end of the spectrum compared to Sennheiser HD800S. One is a cold uber efficient machine, one is a normal slightly above average human being.
@@thierryfaquet7405 The Clear is between those two. It's not technically strong as the 800S but certainly more analytical and clinical than the 109 Pro, same thing can be said with timbre but perhaps a bit towards the hollow side of the HD800S.
I'm what you describe as a "normal" person. Casual listerning with some slight knowledge of audiophile headphones since I work in video production. Walked into a headphone place trying Focals, Hifimans and Beyers without knowing anything about these. Made the payment within 5 minutes of putting these on.
These are the most amazing headphones at whisper quiet levels. Even when you can barely hear the music, they keep ALL of the detail and separation. I loved these headphones, but they were too detailed for my hears. I had to send them back.
I'm assuming you mean it had too much treble? Because I like detail but I'm treble sensitive. I've noticed some manufactures will crank up the treble so it appears like there is more detail.
Yeah, me too. I really tried fo get used to it for a couple of days, but had to replace them for lcd 2c. My ears rested from the harshnes of the treble, which is not really that detailed. Although the resolution on these is genaraly good. Also the soundstage is very small, imaging is ok... The lower mids mix with uper lows a bit. They are almost forward sounding, really engaging, too much for me.
This reminds me of what Zeos taught us in one of his previous DAC reviews: 95% of the sound quality you get is determined by the source of your music and the headphones you wear and rest is all overrated. I followed this advice and couldn't have been happier ever since: a really nice turntable, a pair of decent and not crazy expensive headphones like Focal Clear or Beyer T1 or perhaps now the Meze 109 Pro , and (optionally) spend a little more money on a decent tube amp and equip it with really nice tubes (Siemense/Amperex/Mullard/Telefunken/Philips), and I don't see any reason you can't be set for life as an audiophile who loves listening to music. So yes spot on Zeos: stop buying headphones and stop buying ridiculously overpriced DACs.
Hey Z, thanks for another great recommendation, these headphones have arrived and seldom been off my head. I like my different flavours of headphones, but it's great to have something that just works with everything 🤘🏻
I heard these at can jam this year and was so impressed! For listening to music they wipe the floor with things like HD800S, which are twice the price.
Just purchased a pair for my 26th Bday. Meze was nice enough to give me a 20% docount for my birthday, now it's just the waiting game until they arrive. These will be my first new pair of cans, my fostex Purplehearts and Sen HD650s were both purchased second hand.
I like the more than my Diana TC Orange Crush custom paint. The bass and the music makes you feel the music round(not talking about stage). It’s more likely stage in hearing and I’m ready for more dynamics.
Just got my 109 pro today, my second headphone (upgrade from my HD660s). Just the treble abit shouty sometimes, probably it will improve with burn-in. Everything else is awesome! 🎉 love it.
I have the Grado Hemp and they are quite the pair. With the G cush pads on, they're extraordinary. However, if the 109's are just slightly improved over them, I'll definitely keep the Hemp cans. 🌱
I’ve heard many reports of people receiving units that have very sibilant highs. Made me stay away from them until I’ve heard otherwise. I actually had the opportunity to buy them but went for the Arya Stealth instead and am absolutely blown away by them. Still planning on purchasing a pair of 109’s at some point in the future since I’ve read recently that some of the sibilance goes away with some burn-in.
OK SO I didn't mention it but I also had it be a bit sharp when I took them out. I heard them at SoCal so I knew that wasn't right. I set them on the burn in rig for a LONG while. 10+ days and they were perfect when I took them back off. "Believe it or not you son of a beach your still gonna burn" - Tank
@@ZReviews okay that’s great to hear. These are gonna be my next headphone purchase after I purchase some iems. Thinking about going for the XXENS Mangird top but I’m not too sure. Wish you had a SA6U a wide release version like you did with the s12 and with different colors. Super bummed I missed out. Would be an insta cop for me and a lot of others if those got released again.
Same for me, a lot of reviewers who tend to like the treble being a bit hot really liked these, which scared me off. I am still traumatized from the DT1990 pros, thank god I finally sold them.
@@radinan , very bass heavy music (a mix of punchy,very low, and mid bass), just make sure it's not too loud (just slightly over your normal listening level)
Great review. Finally, a pair of great headphones that don't need an amp, and are comfortable! When these are used, I'd definitely consider a pair. Definitely not at the price new.
Even if you get these you will probably need/want an amp even if they arent dependent they will perform differently (better) with one. You dont necessarily have to consider it in the price but if you ever want a change in sound go amp instead of headphones.
I prefer them to the Empyrean but I prefer the physicality of dynamic drivers to the extension and clarity of Planars. When listening to music I'd rather have get my head nodding rather than get lost in details. I do think the 109 benefits from pad swaps, I'm not a fan of donut pads in general but some better oval pads curb some of the spiciness of the treble. Fitting pads is a bit tricky because of those tight they made the seam space for attachment, but still doable. I'm trying to figure out which ZMF pad would fit them best but I do really like them with the ZMF Oval suedes. Killer purchase at the price point, fun, energetic, lovely air, full bass, no stuffiness in the mid-range, compliments a ton of genres. Will not likely have the detail or extension of an equivalent price HiFiMan, but will hit harder and sound fuller, more cohesive imo.
Many people are actualy mad because you don't need to use amp for this headphone.. Yes is better if you do but no need... it will sound amazing without lol.. I guess if you audiophile expert and enthusiast.... you want something shit and to thinker like lunatic and to make it perfect.. than heart is full.. i get it.. but for ... majority of us, mortals.. this headphone issuper,super... premium.. Yes many people say it's steep price $700-800 .. like wtf.. but it's worth it.. you buy this once in 10-20y and you are done.. Thank you for this honest review
I bought these asap, was afraid they would be hard to obtain. I no longer use any of many Sennheiser cans, only a pair of IEM’s. Now I need to upgrade my IEM’s because the 109’s just completely raised that bar.
Spot on about the rabbit hole, I've settled with the little Dot 1+ and Sennheiser HD6 Mix, for the moment😉 Until the little Dot MK2 arrives😀 and Bose QC35 II when mobile
i'm wearing them right now and the treble is way too sharp for me. to the point of discomfort. i have to use extreme warm equipment to make them even functional. (edit: like the RebelAmp)
Yeah, i remember the day i fired up my beloved and idolatred Dream Theater on the Sundara… it was atrocius. That day i realized they sucked bad at mixing and production in general. All my (music) life was a lie. Maybe that would not happen with the 109 pro? Nah, i think i would still realize how bad they are. P.S. Great content Zeos!
In my experience with these over the past 4 months they do sound quite different with different electronics. I have one synergy problem with my schiit midgard and draco r2r dac - the sound is a bit intense, very in your face and far too sharp up top. Perfect with my mojo 2 and other cheaper gear I’ve been using it with
I decided to make these my last headphone purchase. I'm leaving the hobby after this. But, I wanted to make sure that these headphones have Z's blessing before doing so.
I just started being a newb audiophile..and brought a Sennheiser 58x hubille..awesome.and other Sennheiser...but my favorite to listen fro the portability and price is the Sennheiser Px 100 ii. Hand down
Hi, I am looking for a new headphone for music and gaming. Are these Meze 109 Pro better than the Neumann NDH-30 or the Dan Clark Audio Aeon 2 Noire? These are the Headphones that I am considering at the moment.
Looking at specs, they look very easy to drive, for headphones that expensive. 112 dB with just 1 mW (wtf) and 40 ohms impedence... And they´re not Chinese. I´m in a quest for some really good headphones, since i started listening music with a pair of Adam T5V, i never use headphones. I bought some Sennheiser 559 thinking i would like them, but i do not. I need headphones that can make me enjoy listen through headphones again. But 800 dollars is too much for me right now. Maybe some day. I need to listen to them before buying, it´s too risky otherwise.
I stoped headphones..and now do IEM’s almost exclusively for my listening pleasure. However, I did have a chance to try the Meze’ Emp’s …and they basically ruined me for other headphones..I can’t afford them nor any equally decent headphones. Btw, the WU IEM’s showed up this morning 😊
Had the same experience..tried an Empyrean in a store and my ears are ruined. I “settled” for a Focal Clear MG but that really isn’t fair cuz they’re expensive as well. Down the rabbit hole I go!
@@adrianlugo1130 you can get a decent iem that sounds better for less money than the Ghost… But , if you insist on getting them ..all the pier to you . In the end it’s all as to HOW YOU ENJOY THE MUSIC. Take care 🍕🍕👍🍕
meze 99 classic sounds horrible and the sound signature is the worst why on earth didn't you compare the sound signature of this to meze 109 so we have an idea of what the comparison is
As someone who comes from a pair of Philips Fidelio X2's (and really enjoy their broad soundstage and warmer sound), I'm between the Meze 109pre and Audeze LCD-2 Classic, for an upgrade. Both are 800 euros. Any tips or recommendations?
I think I'm good with audio gear after getting the LBBS earbuds. They sound very clear and open, perfect for me. They lack in bass obviously, but I actually don't mind since it's not completely non-existent.
Loved the lirics in instrument seperation, bass detail! If they don´t have to be closed, is the 109 pro a liric for less money? How do they compare in sound signature?
Hated the 99 classics. Bass was too woolly and bled too much into the mids for my liking. Not a quality bass either. Do the 109 Pro share similar sound signature ?
Finally went down to the headphone shop to catch up on all these can reviews. This one is definitely not what I would pick. It does well with music that doesn't have a lot of treble like jazz, folk, modern crap with synthesized drums and vocal driven songs. It will burn a hole in your ear drums with certain rock, metal, punk, or anything that has real drums, real old fashion instruments played hard fast and loud. You will get fatigued or go deaf. Very airy with great sound separation but the treble is too hot and bleeds into the vocals so you need mellow vocals or else! That's my review on these.
Bought mine a couple of weeks after they came out. My first and hopefully last headphone. Love them... Now looking for iems in this price range. Any suggestions?
So I’m considering buying these but are they really that much better than say the Sennheiser 660s. I really like the sound from those cans. I also own the 800 too.
Lol…another “this is the greatest headphone”. Zeos…next month you will be saying the same thing about another headphone. You also said this about the edition xs and multiple other headphones. No headphone is perfect and this is no exception. It has harsh treble and it’s production isn’t for all types of music.
Which headphones you recommend around 150 I had m50x i tried the dt 770 pro it was good but i didnt like the highs and how bass respond soundstage was great and confort too.
This might as well been a meze advertisement. And sponsored by meze. No doubt their headphones are good sounding but we could see the praise for these coming from a mile away.
@@ZReviews sorta true and sorta not. I appreciate your channel and just watch for the entertainment because it's much easier on the wallet. Plus all these reviews are just one in many data points to consider before purchasing. I'm sure you have made meze many times more $$$ than the stuff they have provided you for free and I have nothing wrong with tha5. I'm sure your going to get the new extremely limited meze edition flagship as well? Thanks for the entertainment !
Z Reviews the best I've ever heard are the all-new Focal Utopia 2022 Headphones that just came out ! Not cheap but they are one of the very best at any price ! Sounds AMAZING on the Western Electric 91E 300B Integrated amp, not cheap but one of the very best amps at any price ! A friend of mine has this system
after owning the 99 Neo and test listening to the Liric, I am very skeptical. The Neo are okay for on the road, but really only dark bass and low mid. The Liric sound like plastic and super flat. I do not understand why this brand is so hyped.
If memory serves he was not impressed with the Focal Clears. It is more detail/analytical oriented than the 109s, on the other end of the spectrum from all accounts, so not really relevant.
My wife left me because I kept buying headphones. So yeah stop buying headphones unless you want a divorce then by all means keep buying...
Is that all it takes?
Headphones provide happiness in many ways...
@@ZReviews word
but damn if kissing ain't bliss
I'd take headphones over a wife any day bro. Women get super jealous when Men are doing something they enjoy, because it takes the focus off of them. The right woman would support or at worse tolerate your interests.
Maybe I’m doing it all wrong. My wife keeps buying me headphones.
Totally spot on describing my exact experience. Been down the audiophile rabbit hole - spending/losing thousands of dollars in the quest for 'better' - then got these and IFI DSD Gryphon and... done! I'm a professional musician and these let me enjoy music in the most natural, engaging way. Bravo Meze!
meze are for joke people
Your description of the nature-inspired design, coupled with your reaction, "...are all the other headphones ugly", was just perfect. Meze should quote you on that. As someone "normal" when it comes to the world of audio, the price is not cheap, although they do seem worth (*cough AirPods Max). I prefer closed backs as I don't like it when sound leaks, but I am excited to see if they make a 109 closed back version. As of now, my 99 Noir are my happy place where I don't feel like I need to spend more on headphones.
Faaaak everyone, the sound leak of these open back are probably the best quality sound that they r gonna listen 🤣
@@julian_handpan Yeah, I have 99 Maple/Silver Limiteds and I use those for work in the office as they're closed back, although my company allows me to basically live/work anywhere in the world as long as I let them know in advance. Since I have a kid on the way (first one) I'll probably be splitting my time between office and home, so having an open-back seems attractive since I don't need to worry about bothering co-workers. The idea of having 109s for home and 99s for office seems ridiculous, rationally, but completely reasonable on an emotional level.
I have the 99 Classics. Despite not being the most neutral, detailed, or spacious sounding phones in my collection, they're my favorites because they never annoy me. Every other headphone I own, even those that cost more and perform better sonically, bothers me sometimes. It's always something. The pads are too firm, the clamp too intense, the weight/pressure distribution too uneven... There's always something annoying that limits enjoyment, especially for long sessions. I'm just not able to fully enjoy music while being nagged by pressure hotspots on my head. The 99s never annoy me. Never. I'm HIGHLY tempted to get the 109s and just downsize to 99s, 109s, and a pair of ANC phones for my commute/work and then just call it quits instead of having the 15 pairs of headphones I currently have, most of which spend the majority of their time on the bench.
What are the ANC phones that you speak of? I'm just kind of getting started on hifi audio. I've owned a pair of 99 Classics for almost 2 years and love them given a previous Zeos review, and a few others I encountered. I just ordered a Schiit Hel 2, and I came across this because I didn't know they made what I thought was an updated 99 but are in fact different since these are open-backs, but not planar. I prefer to be efficient with what I want rather than spend copious amounts just to be annoyed at specific characteristics differing among headphones/set-ups. I want a wide soundstage, good (but not overbearing clarity) and a butter smooth sound profile. I'm talking something I can session for 8 to 10 hours per day regularly. I thought about pursuing some planars for working at home, but maybe not necessary with the 109s? Do you know of a planar that would give similar stage and quality as this at a similar price/build quality, or are these really the end-all-be-all of warm, full sound open-backs that a planar of similar price can't match?
You just said exactly what I was thinking. I just bought my 3rd set of classic 99's off of ebay because I can't find anything else I can wear for 6 hours without any complaints. This is the next level, but I'm hesitant to spend $700
@@rikarson2098I'd definitely recommend testing the 109s before buying if you like the 99s, just because they do have a somewhat different sound signature, but I love them. I got rid of my HiFiMAN Edition XS after trying the 109s because, while the $500 HiFiMAN phones did compete sonically with the Mezes (well done, HiFiMAN), the Mezes are about 10X more comfortable, and their build quality is way better. (Edit: I see the Edition XS is $379 now, but they were $500 when I got them).
You only talk about the comfort of your Mezze 99 Classics. But you don't talk about the sound. I did a few listening tests in store, the 99 Classics put too much emphasis on the bass (it's terrible), it's a huge deterrent for me. My Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro (open headphones) are in terms of high sound definition and even the extent or spatiality of the sound clearly superior (their equivalent in closed headphones is the DT 770 Pro).
Got these headphones, arrived a few week ago. They are phenomenal!!!
You are the Jack Black of audio reviews and I love it!
This is where I fall. I don't want/need a wall of headphones and speakers. I just want to feel happy when I listen to music, play games, and watch entertainment.
I want a nice mix of warm and fuzzy and clarity of sound. Then I want to just live in that spot and call it a day and spend my money elsewhere.
Buy Hifiman HE6seV2 then.
Problem solved!
so i bought a pair of super nice headphones even though i own hd650's and i liked them. but sold them. if you have a nice pair thats all you need. hd650 is my endgame. now amps are a rabbit hole for sure.
Shure SRH840A :)
So you want the focal clear.
@@thierryfaquet7405 , the clears are great. I have those and the Lirics currently in rotation. The Clear has a slight metallic timbre and lacks bass extension. If the 109 Pro is an open back Liric, I would definitely try them head to head before any purchase if possible.
Great information. In a world without audio stores, a definite, unqualified positive review is really useful. Thanks!
Or move to HK/Singapore/Japan that are within this world. Audition any time you want.
Was enjoying some tunes on my own 109s, and had to come back here just to say this review is just bang on. They are so much fun! If you can afford them, just get a pair and enjoy your music. PS: break-in on these is kind of long, sounds a tad harsh out of the box
I think these are...a different point of view....they shouldn't be for audiophilia but... perhaps for music lovers...and this is the most important matter...even better...the matter 😉
If I know Meze, the headband should be easily replaceable, and thus no need to worry about the elastic wearing out.
I'm sure these are great, and a joy to listen to.
I'm not looking for faults in my music, but I often want my music to hurt me (physically, spiritually, metaphysically, metaphorically), sometimes I NEED pain... and that's why I have Dt1990s and a BASx amp.
I managed to come up with the money to afford this awesome and amazing headphones. No other headphones that I have ever listened to been this good. I highly recommend them...💯
Alas, I just bought some HD660S t months ago - otherwise I might have hunted these down for a try.
But that has to be one of the most entertaining review videos I have ever watched.
Yeah the 109 was really good at CanJam. I approve
Pads when.. PADS WHEN!
@@ZReviews When I feel like it 🤷
Zeos, normal people don't go to CanJam.
Lmao xD
It's interesting, Z says that "regular fucking people" at CanJam SoCal kept saying the best thing they heard at the show. Well, I just attended CanJam Chicago. Listened to some AMAZING stuff there! ZMF, DCA, dCA, and all the companies and other acronyms that they have. My favorite was the Hifiman HE-1000, and then I got to hear the HE-1! But, the last thing I listened to at the show was the Meze 109 Pro at the Mimic Audio table. And I was absolutely smitten with them. Just sat there song after song, my chin in my hand, just gushing over the smoothness, the warmness and the beauty of how they sounded and the comfort. No one bothered me, there was even a guy waiting for his turn. He let me be. He knew I was in bliss! I'm not one of these Detail Junky Audiophiles, I just want something that sounds smooooth. And damn it, these are it. These will be my end game. They are just fucking wonderful ❤❤❤❤❤
The Meze 109 Pro is at the other end of the spectrum compared to Sennheiser HD800S. One is a cold uber efficient machine, one is a normal slightly above average human being.
That clears everything up.
@@lok777 but where are the clear in this ? 😏
@@thierryfaquet7405 The Clear is between those two. It's not technically strong as the 800S but certainly more analytical and clinical than the 109 Pro, same thing can be said with timbre but perhaps a bit towards the hollow side of the HD800S.
@@kellustzall3057 r/woosh
take the joke buddy
I've been listening to them for two days, but the highs make my ears hurt. I keep going back eq'ed Sundaras
I'm what you describe as a "normal" person. Casual listerning with some slight knowledge of audiophile headphones since I work in video production. Walked into a headphone place trying Focals, Hifimans and Beyers without knowing anything about these. Made the payment within 5 minutes of putting these on.
I own the 109 and I can say that it is just good I can’t find a single bad thing about it except for maybe the cable
which amp do you use?
Honestly a brilliant review, both in style and content. Thank you!
These are the most amazing headphones at whisper quiet levels. Even when you can barely hear the music, they keep ALL of the detail and separation. I loved these headphones, but they were too detailed for my hears. I had to send them back.
I'm assuming you mean it had too much treble? Because I like detail but I'm treble sensitive. I've noticed some manufactures will crank up the treble so it appears like there is more detail.
That is what I experiences the first hour before I set them loose on the burn-in rig for 10 days straight.
Someone on Head-Fi put AKG K240 foam in each and said it helped smooth some of the 7-9k peaks. Posted measurements.
So far, no treble issue or speak around that. Only with bad quality music the S show up, every normal to hi quality it’s totally fine.
Yeah, me too. I really tried fo get used to it for a couple of days, but had to replace them for lcd 2c.
My ears rested from the harshnes of the treble, which is not really that detailed. Although the resolution on these is genaraly good. Also the soundstage is very small, imaging is ok... The lower mids mix with uper lows a bit. They are almost forward sounding, really engaging, too much for me.
This reminds me of what Zeos taught us in one of his previous DAC reviews: 95% of the sound quality you get is determined by the source of your music and the headphones you wear and rest is all overrated. I followed this advice and couldn't have been happier ever since: a really nice turntable, a pair of decent and not crazy expensive headphones like Focal Clear or Beyer T1 or perhaps now the Meze 109 Pro , and (optionally) spend a little more money on a decent tube amp and equip it with really nice tubes (Siemense/Amperex/Mullard/Telefunken/Philips), and I don't see any reason you can't be set for life as an audiophile who loves listening to music. So yes spot on Zeos: stop buying headphones and stop buying ridiculously overpriced DACs.
You are missing out. Z-Review Holo May review for example was one giant troll :-)
Hey Z, thanks for another great recommendation, these headphones have arrived and seldom been off my head. I like my different flavours of headphones, but it's great to have something that just works with everything 🤘🏻
I've been waiting long for this. Visited Audio46 and tried them. Kinda wasn't impressed but I'll need more time with them
But yeah I'll wait till I'm a baller like zeos and grab a pair. Meze makes the best looking headphones
I forgot to mention when I first got them they had some sibilant tendencies and I gave them GOBS of time on the burn in rig before my main assessment.
Meze suggesting burn them about 50-70 hour and then…….the angels !😊
I heard these at can jam this year and was so impressed! For listening to music they wipe the floor with things like HD800S, which are twice the price.
Just purchased a pair for my 26th Bday. Meze was nice enough to give me a 20% docount for my birthday, now it's just the waiting game until they arrive. These will be my first new pair of cans, my fostex Purplehearts and Sen HD650s were both purchased second hand.
I like the more than my Diana TC Orange Crush custom paint. The bass and the music makes you feel the music round(not talking about stage). It’s more likely stage in hearing and I’m ready for more dynamics.
Just got my 109 pro today, my second headphone (upgrade from my HD660s). Just the treble abit shouty sometimes, probably it will improve with burn-in. Everything else is awesome! 🎉 love it.
I have the Grado Hemp and they are quite the pair. With the G cush pads on, they're extraordinary. However, if the 109's are just slightly improved over them, I'll definitely keep the Hemp cans. 🌱
I’ve heard many reports of people receiving units that have very sibilant highs. Made me stay away from them until I’ve heard otherwise. I actually had the opportunity to buy them but went for the Arya Stealth instead and am absolutely blown away by them. Still planning on purchasing a pair of 109’s at some point in the future since I’ve read recently that some of the sibilance goes away with some burn-in.
OK SO I didn't mention it but I also had it be a bit sharp when I took them out. I heard them at SoCal so I knew that wasn't right. I set them on the burn in rig for a LONG while. 10+ days and they were perfect when I took them back off.
"Believe it or not you son of a beach your still gonna burn" - Tank
@@ZReviews okay that’s great to hear. These are gonna be my next headphone purchase after I purchase some iems. Thinking about going for the XXENS Mangird top but I’m not too sure. Wish you had a SA6U a wide release version like you did with the s12 and with different colors. Super bummed I missed out. Would be an insta cop for me and a lot of others if those got released again.
Same for me, a lot of reviewers who tend to like the treble being a bit hot really liked these, which scared me off. I am still traumatized from the DT1990 pros, thank god I finally sold them.
@@ZReviews Hello Z, what kind of music/sounds do you use for the burn in? I just purchased the 109 pro and I'd like to make it right.
Have a nice day.
@@radinan , very bass heavy music (a mix of punchy,very low, and mid bass), just make sure it's not too loud (just slightly over your normal listening level)
Great review and enticing promotion of these headphones. Thanks for your time and effort.
Great review. Finally, a pair of great headphones that don't need an amp, and are comfortable! When these are used, I'd definitely consider a pair. Definitely not at the price new.
Even if you get these you will probably need/want an amp even if they arent dependent they will perform differently (better) with one. You dont necessarily have to consider it in the price but if you ever want a change in sound go amp instead of headphones.
Antonio Meze: Zeos Pantera really loved our last headphone. Let's make one he'll love even more!
The Meze engineers: Aight.
I prefer them to the Empyrean but I prefer the physicality of dynamic drivers to the extension and clarity of Planars. When listening to music I'd rather have get my head nodding rather than get lost in details. I do think the 109 benefits from pad swaps, I'm not a fan of donut pads in general but some better oval pads curb some of the spiciness of the treble. Fitting pads is a bit tricky because of those tight they made the seam space for attachment, but still doable. I'm trying to figure out which ZMF pad would fit them best but I do really like them with the ZMF Oval suedes. Killer purchase at the price point, fun, energetic, lovely air, full bass, no stuffiness in the mid-range, compliments a ton of genres. Will not likely have the detail or extension of an equivalent price HiFiMan, but will hit harder and sound fuller, more cohesive imo.
Many people are actualy mad because you don't need to use amp for this headphone.. Yes is better if you do but no need... it will sound amazing without lol.. I guess if you audiophile expert and enthusiast.... you want something shit and to thinker like lunatic and to make it perfect.. than heart is full.. i get it.. but for ... majority of us, mortals.. this headphone issuper,super... premium.. Yes many people say it's steep price $700-800 .. like wtf.. but it's worth it.. you buy this once in 10-20y and you are done.. Thank you for this honest review
I bought these asap, was afraid they would be hard to obtain. I no longer use any of many Sennheiser cans, only a pair of IEM’s. Now I need to upgrade my IEM’s because the 109’s just completely raised that bar.
Which Sennheisers do you own?
Hi thanks for your review. Could please tell me about comparison with Arya stealth. Which one is better? Thank you!
Spot on about the rabbit hole, I've settled with the little Dot 1+ and Sennheiser HD6 Mix, for the moment😉 Until the little Dot MK2 arrives😀 and Bose QC35 II when mobile
Love the large print of the Cyberpunk fan art. 👍
These are stunning.
I'd love to try these. I just heard they get hot after a while. Which is a dealbreaker. Plus the steep price.
Thank you for doing this, I enjoy the info you provide each time you do your reviews...
i'm wearing them right now and the treble is way too sharp for me. to the point of discomfort. i have to use extreme warm equipment to make them even functional. (edit: like the RebelAmp)
Why not just use EQ?
@@trevor245 Evil Quantization?
@@trevor245 that's an option. or just use one of the other sets in the range that don't do that.
@@admiralnorman Obviously but you mention that it only sounds good with warm equipment. Might as well just use EQ.
@@trevor245 why buy 800 dollar headphones if you still need to use EQ?
Yeah, i remember the day i fired up my beloved and idolatred Dream Theater on the Sundara… it was atrocius. That day i realized they sucked bad at mixing and production in general. All my (music) life was a lie.
Maybe that would not happen with the 109 pro?
Nah, i think i would still realize how bad they are.
P.S. Great content Zeos!
i can't wait to buy this
...once massdrop does their version of it for a few hundred dollars less
I believe 109 is the measurement of the ear cup diameter...
In my experience with these over the past 4 months they do sound quite different with different electronics.
I have one synergy problem with my
schiit midgard and draco r2r dac - the sound is a bit intense, very in your face and far too sharp up top. Perfect with my mojo 2 and other cheaper gear
I’ve been using it with
I decided to make these my last headphone purchase. I'm leaving the hobby after this. But, I wanted to make sure that these headphones have Z's blessing before doing so.
Buy them from a place that accepts returns because I found them mediocre at best .
Does not mean you won't love them just means I don't
I own the meze 99 CLASSICS! I have purchased them 3 years ago! If I had enough money I would buy these and never buy another set of headphones again!
I have 99 classics (absolutely love them) but I might replace or supliment them with this
I just started being a newb audiophile..and brought a Sennheiser 58x hubille..awesome.and other Sennheiser...but my favorite to listen fro the portability and price is the Sennheiser Px 100 ii. Hand down
Hi, I am looking for a new headphone for music and gaming. Are these Meze 109 Pro better than the Neumann NDH-30 or the Dan Clark Audio Aeon 2 Noire? These are the Headphones that I am considering at the moment.
Looking at specs, they look very easy to drive, for headphones that expensive. 112 dB with just 1 mW (wtf) and 40 ohms impedence...
And they´re not Chinese. I´m in a quest for some really good headphones, since i started listening music with a pair of Adam T5V, i never use headphones. I bought some Sennheiser 559 thinking i would like them, but i do not. I need headphones that can make me enjoy listen through headphones again. But 800 dollars is too much for me right now. Maybe some day. I need to listen to them before buying, it´s too risky otherwise.
I stoped headphones..and now do IEM’s almost exclusively for my listening pleasure.
However, I did have a chance to try the Meze’ Emp’s …and they basically ruined me for other headphones..I can’t afford them nor any equally decent headphones.
Btw, the WU IEM’s showed up this morning 😊
Had the same experience..tried an Empyrean in a store and my ears are ruined. I “settled” for a Focal Clear MG but that really isn’t fair cuz they’re expensive as well. Down the rabbit hole I go!
@@shonen84 the bottomless pit of want…I know it well 👍
What a about the audio ghost
@@adrianlugo1130 you can get a decent iem that sounds better for less money than the Ghost…
But , if you insist on getting them ..all the pier to you .
In the end it’s all as to HOW YOU ENJOY THE MUSIC.
Take care 🍕🍕👍🍕
@@carminedesanto6746 which are they? I know Iem are awesome but headphones are more healthy for your ears than iem
White Kanto Tuk powered speakers front and center on the third shelf.
meze 99 classic sounds horrible and the sound signature is the worst why on earth didn't you compare the sound signature of this to meze 109 so we have an idea of what the comparison is
Romania . So... These are the Nadia Comaneci of headphones?
After 6 years of using my loved AKG K712, i'm looking for something different and fun. Could this be and option?
@z reviews I think the 109 comes from the diameter of the cup size.
Me: a normal guy with a pair of Kph30i and a 5k for auto EQ
same, dude. people who think $800 is reasonable for a pair of "good" headphones are nuts.
@@aaroncoping7483 at that point I’d rather buy a speaker system! I’m gonna setup a room soon.
Take the plunge!!
Kph40 are king now
As always, an entertaining yet informative review. Does the 109 pair well with the Geshelli amp?
What you say at 10 minutes in is god tier accurate.
I think 109 stands for the measurement of the earcups
They look super nice, but I hate that copper. The 99 Classics come in a silver version for haters of tackiness. Hope that'll happen soon for these.
As someone who comes from a pair of Philips Fidelio X2's (and really enjoy their broad soundstage and warmer sound), I'm between the Meze 109pre and Audeze LCD-2 Classic, for an upgrade. Both are 800 euros. Any tips or recommendations?
The Neumann NHD30 are IMO the best open pair under a thousand. Z Reviewed them 4 months ago and liked them. Look it up.
Fuck!!! I can't believe I just spent 800 dollars on headphones!
Whered you get that cyberpunk poster or whatever though; thats the hidden gem of the video
I think I'm good with audio gear after getting the LBBS earbuds. They sound very clear and open, perfect for me. They lack in bass obviously, but I actually don't mind since it's not completely non-existent.
Does anyone know how they compare to a DT1990? Would it be worth an upgrade?
Worth getting meze silver cable upgrade? Great work, thanks
My favorit right now and comfort pur 👍💯💥
Watching this review on a pair of 9500’s. Still not buying another openback past these until these die a sad death.
Loved the lirics in instrument seperation, bass detail! If they don´t have to be closed, is the 109 pro a liric for less money? How do they compare in sound signature?
Be aware that "Z" are older and no longer hear the obnoxiously piercing treble these headphones have 😄
Are they really that bad? What about getting both 99 and 109. 99 for the relaxing after the 109 get fatiguing
@@AnDr3w066 It depends on how old you are or if you are sensitive to high frequencies, but you can always use EQ.
Hated the 99 classics. Bass was too woolly and bled too much into the mids for my liking. Not a quality bass either. Do the 109 Pro share similar sound signature ?
Finally went down to the headphone shop to catch up on all these can reviews. This one is definitely not what I would pick. It does well with music that doesn't have a lot of treble like jazz, folk, modern crap with synthesized drums and vocal driven songs. It will burn a hole in your ear drums with certain rock, metal, punk, or anything that has real drums, real old fashion instruments played hard fast and loud. You will get fatigued or go deaf. Very airy with great sound separation but the treble is too hot and bleeds into the vocals so you need mellow vocals or else! That's my review on these.
Bought mine a couple of weeks after they came out. My first and hopefully last headphone. Love them... Now looking for iems in this price range. Any suggestions?
Sennheiser IE600 or Meze Advar.
Meze 109
@@johnmerriman274 above are my suggestions for IEMs in similar price range.
Xenns top
Your Theioaudio video sent me here 😁
I was going to buy them from your link but now you say don't buy any more headphones.
So I’m considering buying these but are they really that much better than say the Sennheiser 660s. I really like the sound from those cans. I also own the 800 too.
if you like the new beatles remasters you have to check out the 2020 version of the all things must pass album
Ive admitted ly always wondered how you do the opacity layer of anime woman over your monitors like that
You really liked these hp’s, do you still feel the same now a year later? Now that you have heard a million more hp’s 😊
Yes absolutely. The Thieaudio Ghost stole their tuning but that is fine. These are still one of the best choices under $1000
Lol…another “this is the greatest headphone”. Zeos…next month you will be saying the same thing about another headphone. You also said this about the edition xs and multiple other headphones. No headphone is perfect and this is no exception. It has harsh treble and it’s production isn’t for all types of music.
While I do like harsh detailed treble. They got a point
I’m pretty sure the 109 is for mm top to bottom of each can.
Try the word... Sublime...
I bet a traditional compass has no bearing in that lab . Magnets all over
I broke my hemp, and i loved them😢. They need new driver and they cost about 260€. I paid the whole headphones 300. Should I try this?
People were also freaking out about the ZMF caldera too.
Yeah I need to stockpile some of my enthusiasm for those monsters. Those cost REAL money.
bro, the waifu picture tho. Sometimes your backdrops make it hard to pay attention to the review.
Which headphones you recommend around 150 I had m50x i tried the dt 770 pro it was good but i didnt like the highs and how bass respond soundstage was great and confort too.
@ZReviews Awesome review! Still feel the same way about these?
This might as well been a meze advertisement. And sponsored by meze. No doubt their headphones are good sounding but we could see the praise for these coming from a mile away.
I mean isn't every review an advertisement for that thing?
@@ZReviews sorta true and sorta not. I appreciate your channel and just watch for the entertainment because it's much easier on the wallet. Plus all these reviews are just one in many data points to consider before purchasing. I'm sure you have made meze many times more $$$ than the stuff they have provided you for free and I have nothing wrong with tha5. I'm sure your going to get the new extremely limited meze edition flagship as well? Thanks for the entertainment !
Z Reviews the best I've ever heard are the all-new Focal Utopia 2022 Headphones that just came out ! Not cheap but they are one of the very best at any price ! Sounds AMAZING on the Western Electric 91E 300B Integrated amp, not cheap but one of the very best amps at any price ! A friend of mine has this system
that is a $13,500 headphone amp
@@aceofspades6667 LoL
It’s a speaker amp nor a headphone amp. How do you use it with Utopias?
after owning the 99 Neo and test listening to the Liric, I am very skeptical.
The Neo are okay for on the road, but really only dark bass and low mid. The Liric sound like plastic and super flat. I do not understand why this brand is so hyped.
neo = trash comparef with these...
Why does he say no dynamics beat it for under a thousand then. Focal clear og is literally 800 now
If memory serves he was not impressed with the Focal Clears. It is more detail/analytical oriented than the 109s, on the other end of the spectrum from all accounts, so not really relevant.
Currently debating between these and the LCD-X. Any opinions?