At Munich High-End 2024, PP Garcia interviewed Antonio Meze, founder of Meze Audio. He presented the new Meze 105 AER, the brand’s most affordable open-back headphones to date, priced at €399. With their meticulous design and promise of great sound quality, the 105 AER look set to entice many a music lover.
Inspired by the Meze 109 PRO
The Meze 105 AER are based on the highly acclaimed Meze 109 PRO, and feature the 50mm double-layer membrane dynamic transducers for which their predecessor is renowned. However, a few specific adjustments differentiate this new model. The torus surrounding the dome is made of PEEK polymer, without the beryllium coating, while the membrane uses a cellulose composite reinforced with carbon fiber, which is both robust and lightweight.
The transducer’s frame, in ABS, replaces the aluminum frame of the 109 PRO. The ear cups are also in ABS, but remain the same size as those of its predecessor. These technical choices enable Meze Audio to offer a more affordable headphone, while maintaining the brand’s trademark quality and elegance.
What’s more, these latest-generation hi-fi headphones feature a double headband and generously padded ear pads to ensure a comfortable fit, even during long listening sessions. This ensures that the weight of the headphones (336g) is evenly distributed, keeping them light and ergonomic, perfect for frequent use.
Meze 105 AER VS 109 PRO
| Meze 105 AER | Meze 109 PRO | |
| Transducers | 50mm dynamic | 50mm dynamic |
| Membrane | PEEK polymer, cellulose + carbon fiber composite and copper-zinc alloy | Beryllium-coated semi-crystalline polymer |
| Impedance | 42 ohms | 40 ohms |
| Sensitivity | 112 dB | 112 dB |
| Materials | ABS-PC, zinc, manganese steel ear cups Soft PU leather headband | Walnut wood shells Steel, zinc and manganese alloy headband |
| Weight | 336g | 375g |
Open-back design and sound quality
With their open-back design, the Meze 105 AER promise a very wide soundstage and optimal spatial imaging, transporting the listener to the heart of the music. This configuration captures every sonic detail with striking precision, while maintaining natural dynamics. To fully appreciate these musical qualities, however, they should be used in a quiet location.
In terms of sound, the Meze 105 AER aim to retain the acoustic DNA of the 109 PRO, with a balanced sound signature, but differ with slightly softer high frequencies and reinforced bass, bringing extra warmth and depth. Their frequency response extends from 10Hz to 25kHz, with an impedance of 42 ohms and a sensitivity of 112 dB SPL, guaranteeing a rich, detailed sound experience, whatever the source (headphone amp, DAP, DAC, etc.).
Key specifications
- Open-back, over-ear headphones
- 50mm dynamic transducers
- Frequency response: 5Hz – 30kHz
- Sensitivity: 112 dB
- Impedance: 42 ohms
- Detachable 3.5mm to 3.5mm mono Y-cable, 1.8m Kevlar OFC with microphone
- Weight: ~ 336g
At €399 on Son-Vidéo.com, the Meze 105 AER hi-fi headphones combine a refined design, meticulous construction and impressive acoustic performance. These headphones are an ideal entry ticket for audiophiles looking for an open-back model at a great price, without compromising on quality.
