Romanian manufacturer Meze is expanding its range of in-ear monitors with a new model called Meze Astru. Known for its iconic headphones such as the 99 Classics and Empyrean, here the brand applies its expertise to a compact format designed for on-the-go use. Featuring a single-transducer design and titanium shells, this model embraces a modern, elegant, and high-end approach. Priced at €899, the Meze Astru completes the brand’s in-ear lineup.
Key features
- Wired IEMs
- 10 mm dynamic transducer with multilayer diaphragm (PEEK, titanium, gold)
- Frequency response: 5 Hz – 35 kHz
- Impedance: 32 ohms
- Sensitivity: 111 dB SPL/mW (1 kHz)
- Single-piece CNC-machined titanium shells
- Detachable silver-plated LC-OFC copper cable
- Balanced 4.4 mm jack connector (3.5 mm adapter included)
- Liquid silicone ear tips + two pouches
- Price: €899
Meze Audio continues its expansion
Romanian manufacturer Meze Audio is expanding its catalog of earphones with the Astru, a new wired model positioned in the premium segment. Founded in 2011 by industrial designer Antonio Meze in Baia Mare, Romania, the brand built its reputation with reference hi-fi headphones such as the 99 Classics, followed by more ambitious models such as the Liric and Empyrean II.
Following the Strada released earlier this year, whose review is available on the blog, the Astru expands the brand’s 2026 catalog. It complements an in-ear lineup that has included the Alba since 2024.
A single-transducer in-ear design
The Meze Astru features a 10 mm dynamic transducer. This architecture ensures signal continuity across the entire frequency range, specified from 5 Hz to 35 kHz.
The diaphragm features a multilayer structure combining PEEK, titanium, and a gold coating applied via sputtering. The assembly is housed in an optimized acoustic chamber, with a stated distortion rate below 0.1%. This design aims to control the transducer’s behavior across the entire spectrum.
Titanium, balanced cable, impressive design
The Astru also stand out with their single-block CNC-machined pure titanium shells. Meze states that they undergo a multi-step treatment to achieve a satin finish, and that a matched pair of shells requires up to 7 days of processing. The brand also mentions the integration of protective filters designed to preserve the earphones over time.
The earphones come with a detachable cable using silver-plated LC-OFC copper conductors. The termination is a balanced 4.4 mm jack, with a 3.5 mm adapter included. Multiple liquid silicone ear tips as well as two carrying pouches complete the package.
A step up from the Alba
The Meze Alba serves as an entry point into the brand’s universe. This model is praised for its excellent value for money, and our Meze Alba review is also available on the Son-Vidéo.com blog, where it stood out for its accessible approach and excellent sound quality.
The price difference between the two models (€159 vs €899) naturally implies different positioning. The Astru adopts a more ambitious approach, with CNC-machined titanium shells, a multilayer diaphragm (PEEK, titanium, and gold), and a balanced connection included as standard.
Both models feature dynamic transducer architecture, but the Astru pushes further in terms of materials, manufacturing, and claimed performance, reflecting a step up within the brand’s portable range.
