Let's not talk about the fact that I completely mispronounced the word "epitome" right at the beginning. Not sure how this slip of the tongue got through. But.... it's here to stay. I will start the memes off - Joshua "epitome" Valour :)
@@richw3215 Nighthawk is far superior, resolution, imaging, comfort, plus it's an open back so a good, non-compressed feeling. Its sibling the closed-back Nightowl is also superior on these points.
I always hated the dissonance between the spelling and pronunciation of that word, anyway. 😂. #flippingEnglish I think as spelled it should be pronounced as exactly as you did, and if we wanted “uh-pid-uh-me” we might have spelled it perhaps something “appidimy” since it sounds closer to “affinity”... 🤪
I have to put this out there: I own the Meze 109 Pro's because of these. I use TH-cam for most of my music videos and I find that I use these more than anything else I own. I do own quite a few open back 'high end" headphones that image / soundstage better, certainly cleaner treble and extension. The midrange on these is actually quite good and the bass is great on any pop, r&b, rock, etc". I find it hard to go back to open back when listening to almost anything but "high end" music samples. I would consider this a "must have" for any headphone person out there that likes to hit TH-cam and listen to normal music. The best thing about the 99 Classics - NO SIBILANCE on bad recordings! Thanks Joshua!!!
I have had them for a while now and here’s my take as a layman (certainly not a reviewer and don’t have the experience of hundreds of cans). I was looking for an upgrade on my Grado SR80’s and was considering SR325e as I love the 80’s so much. I hope this helps someone. 1. The are better than my Grado SR80’s on several fronts which I will discuss. The SR80’s at the time I bought them were a What Hi-Fi five star product and considered to be an “analytical” open backed headphone. The Meze 99 Classics (terrible name, sounds like a chocolate bar) just sound better to me. I’m not experienced enough to know whether this is “soundstage” or “separation” or any of the other arguably bullshit audiophile words used to qualify the difference between pieces of audio equipment but they just sound better. The music sounds more “realistic” and I hear things in my favourite albums that I haven’t heard before. I find that I lose myself in the music which I suppose is the point. 2. They are easy to drive. So no further investment in fancy headphone amps is necessary. This isn’t always the case with higher end headphones. 3, All the components are individually maintainable. They are screwed rather than glued together which means the getting replacement parts is easy and fitting them yourself is possible. I have a real problem with planned obsolescence and these have been designed to avoid this problem. Classic materials, timeless design (in my opinion) and everything is replaceable. 4. They are really comfortable. All the Grado’s I’ve tried (even the expensive ones) aren’t and end up hurting after not even a full album. I put foam pads on my 80’s which some say negatively affects the sound. None of that to worry about here as they are comfortable. 5. The headband design is genius. It fits to your head without any adjustment, automatically. This isn’t the case with many headphones and can lead to much messing around which detracts from the listening experience. 6. I nearly didn’t buy these because of this review. All I heard from this review (which I enjoyed by the way, thank you Josh!) was “bass” “bass bass” “bass bass bass”. Which in my mind is the signature of something like a dr Dre beats. A characteristic that a teenager thinks means “good sound”. Don’t worry. It’s fine. Josh listens to hundreds of sets of headphones and can more accurately say than me whether these are bassy but chances are you’re more like me. A lay person who really likes music, has tried a few select pairs of decent headphones. Don’t worry, they’re not massively bassy, don’t let that put you off. They are all-round better than the Grado SR80’s which are considered an entry-level analytical headphone. 7. It comes with two sets of cables, a shorter one with a mic (the mic isn’t brilliant, but good enough for phone calls) and a long lead. Many headphones only have the longer leads which are inconvenient in many circumstances. It’s a small consideration which I appreciate and leads to me using them more. 8. They come with a fantastic travel case. Very stylish and practical. Again, another expense saved. 9. They are vegan if that is important to you, it is me. No leather, all PU articifical leather. Finally, two last points, be aware of a concept called hedonic adaptation (after an initial thrill you’ll become accustomed to the upgrade and then chase after the next shinier thing) and lastly, the best thing to read when considered purchasing decisions like this is an unrelated article called “cure yourself of tiny details exaggeration syndrome” by Mr Money Mustache. www.mrmoneymustache.com/2012/12/26/cure-yourself-of-tiny-details-exaggeration-syndrome/
Now that's an honest review. It felt like you're describing your actual experience with the product, without sprinkling over any significant amount of buyer's bias - a thing we all do with our stuff and it's acceptable to some extent. PS: Thanks for the interesting read you linked at the end. This touches a bit on GAS, as we photography enthusiasts call it. :)
I'm really glad to read about your experience. I'm in between the Meze 99 Nior and the AKG K371. The akg for the more balanced sound and the Meze 99 as a much, much better build and looks. I can't seem to get my hands on a Meze to test but If I do decide to get it I will get Brainwavz oval micro suedes pads as well. Any thoughts?
Audiophile for 22years, my dad listens to speakers so Ive been training my ears since i was in my moms tummy… a TubeAmp with Ls3/5a i find the 99 classics neutrally warm and i prefer the “dull and recessed treble” because speakers are probably 5m away form your ears treble are rarely harsh… I’m probably the 1% of audiophile who despises the skull piercing trebles on the hd800 🤣 I also find the vocals on the 99 to be very meaty and emotional 😵💫
These were my first "expensive" headphones and I love them. I've had them for 7 years and they're still going strong, definitely my daily drivers for games and such. Loved the review, very honest and it's good to know I'm not insane for loving these cans
hey I'm in the same boat, just seven years down the line! looking at getting these as my first proper cans - just heard them in a shop today and jesus there are so many instruments I didn't even know exist in my favourite tracks.
I have been a owner of these headphones for about 4 years. Here's what I can say that nobody else will (I've read and watched all reviews, believe me). 1. These are not portable headphones. Yes, they are easy to drive. Yes, they are closed back. BUT... a) Wood can be easily scratched or stained. You don't want that. b) The 3.5 mm jack is straight, which means you can easily break it in your pocket. c) When you walk, the elastic band will bounce, which will produce some not very musical sounds. Annoying. d) The metal headband can conduct sounds amazingly well. And that is not a compliment. A slight tap on the band with your nail will reverberate to your scull. e) The sound isolation is good, but not outstanding. You will have trouble enjoying the music on a plane or in the subway. f) The travel case is bulky and plugging/unplugging the cable while on the go is a pain. 2. Meze don't pair well with glasses. More than that, if you still use them with glasses, they will rub the pleater in a matter of weeks. 3. The cups are large enough, but not very deep. Your ear might touch the bottom. This might or might not be an issue for you. 4. While the sound is warm, pleasant and visceral, you might get tired by the lower midrange after a while. All the above being said, you might think that i don' t like Meze. Which is absolutely not true. This is a very good pair of office headphones or even home headphones, if you don't want to disturb your family while listening to your favorite music. But, once again, they are not very portable. I tend to use my Bose 700 for this. They are more compact, more comfortable and, most importantly - they have noise cancelling. I hope that will help you decide before pulling the trigger and buying these, especially if you're on a tight budget.
yes I must agree with it, they are portable but to keep them looking nice owner have to keep them safe :), my 99 Noire dark version is very pretty so I must watch out because scratches looks nasty (underneath stained wood is pale one so its very visible)
I’m currently testing these out myself and will review them and I have the same conclusion as well. Whether it’s worth the money is something I’ll have to look into further. Great review BTW!
It is definitely my "fun" headphone. My top two are Grado GH2 and Beyer T5p.2's. These are a "Jack of all trades, master of none". They sound GREAT coming out of my LG V30. $399.00 in Canada and worth every penny. To me. Shane D
Hi. I enjoy your reviews, I think your preference sound signature is very similar to mine. And I own Meze99. And I was on the "quest" to find a good, comfortable, non-fatiguing closed back headphones for around 300. I tried numerous headphones starting from Denon DXXXX, to some top bluetooth ones and I was only satisfied with Meze. My point being - at the end of the review you claim these are not wort 300 USD. Name other closed back headphones for this price that can sound better than these and I'll give them a try :)
"Better" is an extremely subjective term. But for what it's worth, you should give the ATH-MSR7 or ATH-MSR7b (updated one that came out just this year) a try. It's a lot more neutral (although not completely neutral as it leans towards the highs more) as compared to these. Bought them as my go to pair and have not looked back since. Even better than my Senn M2s
I feel like people would look at this review and be like worthless but headphones like this definitely have a place in the market. Especially if they are well made and sounds like they have good balance here.
It's funny how Meze created this headphone for natural-sounding acoustics and timbre and the reviewer is like, "I wouldn't recommend this for acoustic." Safe to say we don't have the same ears.
i just bought these even though so many reviewers say its so much bass. I agree with you, listening to acoustic songs like Patience its amazing how the guitars feel real, i hear them like they are in the room. best way id describe is it sounds natural. real.
I know that pad swapping is super popular with these cans to lower the bass a bit and brighten up the highs. Usually that ends up looking kinda goofy on a headset that really does look phenomenal with the stock pads. I mention this because you're able to buy the smaller pads off the Meze store (and anywhere else they sell, like Amazon), and these smaller pads do exactly what the original original 99 classics pads did, and what everyone tries to replicate 3rd psrty pads - lowers the bass shelf a bit, rolls it off smoother into the mids to reduce muddiness, and brightens up the top end a bit. The 99s have also undergone a stealth update in the past year with some reworked earcup joint mechanics and some milled out bass ports. They keep the punchy characteristic without getting over the top or overbearing.
My meze 99 noir are my favorite headphones. The comfort and sound quality are just fantastic. The only downside is they get warm after wearing them for a few hours
Two things: 1. No need for the tape to easily find L & R because the Left plugs have a ridge molded into them which is very easy to feel. I discovered this after owning them for about 4 months. You're welcome, 99 fans. 2. I think Josh gives these a bit of a short shrift. First, the low end: Yes there is some excessive low end, but it's really not that bad. I only find the need to shave about 2dB off the 62 Hz and 125 Hz bands with EQ, and not even all the time. Some recordings really need help in the lows (old recordings, most classical, etc). They're also great for outdoors, where bass usually disappears (with all my closed backs, at least). But if you are completely anti EQ and are sensitive to low end, these will probably not make you happy. Second: the highs and mids. One could easily take Josh's description to mean these are muffled or dull sounding (like the typical Audeze sound or something). This is completely untrue. The 99's have a very natural, life-like balance in the mids and highs IMO, with very nice detail and clarity (for this price class). No, they're definitely not what I'd call bright, but I don't like bright headphones. They're also not dull or veiled either. The highs really just sbout right, IMO (akin to the Senn 600 maybe? no, not quite. but almost). I do agree about soundstage and imaging though. They're ok, but a bit behind the competition. Pretty decent width (for closed back), but not much depth. And not nearly as good at imaging and separation as something like the 600. Anyway, no one hears things the same way, so take my impressions fwiw. And I really like your channel, Josh. Great stuff!
I love this headphone. You need to EQ it imho and change pads to a smaller diameter ones. But it has the most natural sound I ever tried. If you remove around 5 db of low bass (30 to 60 hz) it keeps the natural reverberations of instruments but get rid of the bassy extension into the mid range. Add a peak to the 2k to 4k for a bit more detail. It works really well. Oddly, one of the things I like about these is the soundstage. I think they do it really well... For closed backs.
Hi. What pads did you use as a replacement? I consider original pads to be too spacious for my ear. I am not sure if this is due to pads or headband but they sit too low on my head. I am used to firm fit and finding meze to be too loose. I really want to keep them as I love the sound and the look though.
Excellent review! These are beautiful headphones. My biggest beef is that they are bulky and they don’t fold up. Not portable enough to be my road headphone, too nice to be a beater headphone, and not audiophile enough to be my home headphone.
@@ShockingPikachu yes I bought my pair used in great shape not very expensive, not rly gonna cry if they catch a scar they just have to make their magic done 🤘
Hey Josh! Thanks for the excellent review! you described these as really punchy/bassy headphones ( just the kind f sound signature i am looking for ), I came across Z reviews thread on Head-fi, he describes them as warm but not bassy!! now i am confused as to which one is it! Which other sets of cans would you recommend for casual, fun listening ( in the same price tier ). Thank you.
Hey Josh, gret video. Finally an honest review of these cans. I've frankly found them to be quite disappointing when I got them (especially at $300USD). However there's a lot of people who think that these have a lot of potential with a pad swap. As you're someone with access to a lot of pads, would be great to see your take on the matter. I've put Momentum 2.0 pads on mine and it's night and day difference. Much more balanced sound across the board, reducing the mid bass rumble while retaining some of the punch.
@@systembooms69I prefer Momentum 2.0's over the mezes with stock pads, although it's a matter of preference. The momentums have a more neutral sound with slighlty recessed highs, while the mezes have boomy bass and more treble. Meze with momentum pads however sound like super Momentum 2.0. Overall similar sound signature but Mezes just do it way better. More detail, better highs, better bass. I'd describe it as a closed back HD650 with more sub bass. Very smooth and enjoyable to listen to. As for comfort, M2 wired > Meze 99 > M2 wireless. M2 wireless have a much harder headband than the wired that digs into your head and are also more bulky.
So I could buy the momentum pads and use it for the mezes? I want to buy some good heaphones that are closed because I usually listen to music while commuting and I don't want to bother people. Would you say the Meze Classics with the momentum pads are the best option for that price?
I was really looking forward to the Sivga Phoenix. I got it and hated it. I do like to wood just like my T60PR; those are great. For gaming these should also be good. I'm willing to give them a try.
End sequence was cool Mr Valour 👏🏼 These look pretty nice, but a portable headphone that doesn’t collapse or fold flat doesn’t make sense to me, these would be staying at home.
I have owned it and tried for gaming as well. I have to disagree with you. Cannot hear the half of the thing because of the bass. I think it is not recommended for gaming at all.
What do you think are some other "fun" headphones worth looking at? Maybe as an upgrade to these? Say with more detailed sound, maybe better vocals, maybe better imaging, or even more punchy? ... for casual / fun gaming experience.
I just watched this after Randy's; what a difference. Yours is right to the point; not spending all kinds of time trying to be cute. I'm going to buy this on Drop now. Sorry not to use your link, it's $110 cheaper than on Amazon and all I give up is the long cable and gold plating. It's just what I need to compliment my Sennheiser HD 58x to get a bit more bass into my classical listening. We audiophiles sometimes lose track of the fact that (most of us) we're not in fact doing "critical listening". We're not "monitoring" anything in the studio. Just listening to music; trying to enjoy it without treble fatigue or sloppy bass. If we can get something that also looks classy without spending too much more, it's a big fat score.
Hi I like "Classical & Vocal & Guitar Solo & Instrumental" Can you help me for buying one of these hedphones? 1) Meze 99 Classic 2) Audio Technica MSR7b or SR9 3) V-moda M100 Master 4) or any other models (closed and over ear and under $400) Tnx a lot and excuse me for my bad english.
How is it possible that, like u explained its bass havy and missing some treble although the freqency response is pretty linear like stated on the side of the box?
You can call fun bassy headphone those from Beats but not these! There's not other competitor at this price and build quality! The only thing i've learn from reviews is try it first and then decide! The 99 classics are best in this price range!
I think this is exactly what I'm looking for. Already got Audeze LCD-X for mixing. For listening at home I have good speakers. I really need good heaphones to go out and listen to heavy music while walking with good quality. Took me a while to get through your channel to find this video.
like me, I was looking for portable headphones but not IEM's, found used 99 Noire in good price and perfect shape already with better cable, I'm very glad to have them 🤗
Are those Micca center channel mtms on the stands back there? If yes, what do you think about them? If no, what are they and same question. Thanks for this video
Hey there, great review. I currently use B&W PX’s wirelessly, I’m looking to get these with a Audioquest Drangonfly red usb dac and be listen form my IPhone streaming amazon music hd. Am I going to notice a big improvement in sound quality or would I be better looking at an open back?
Mine arriving tomorrow. I am going to use a Dragonfly DAC to power them. So hoping for a good outcome. If all goes well considering doing the silver wire upgrade.
Hi, Thanks for your review. Im new in this array. Can you help me to select Meze 99 or sennheiser hd650s ? Currently im using iem kz zs10 pro with ibasso DC03, and old bose oe2 headphones ? I used to lobe sennheiser on the 80th Thanks a lot
Relatively good looking headphones with blurred, dull, anaemic sound. Bloated bass and lack of clarity is characteristic for those. I had and sold them.
i have the neo's and i think they are pretty decent. they are very punchy but the mid range is still nice. sure the imaging and detail aint sennheiser level though... i had the monolith m560's for a few days before selling them to get the neo's and i am happy with that decision. the m560 was a joke compared to the meze's imo
2 years late to the party, but good review! To bad you have the new larger pads and not the originals; IMHO Meze done f'd up! With the original pads, the bass is tamed, the mids get a heck of a lot more texture, and the treble is sparkled up and is very crisp. If I had to directly compare the 99 Classics with original pads to another headphone, they would be a closed back HD600.
The newer pads are terrible and destroy the original sound signature. They made them bigger because people were complaining they were too small. If you can find a pair with the original pads you should pick them up. It's an entirely different experience.
fuffy442 I contacted them directly and begged for them. I dunno if they still have any in stock this was a while ago. If you find the maple version (discontinued) they come standard with the original pads in a white / cream color.
I'm a fan of forward bass, but these headphones had too much for me even. There was also a peak in the upper mids/low treble that really bothered me. Strange considering the overall warm signature. The comment below about the new pads ruining the sound signature is 100% correct and I've heard both versions. I sold mine and bought a pair of Sony MDR-1A for my portable pair.
@@og2tone9o15 It depends on the type of bass you are after. Also depends on if this is for home use with a powerful amplifier, or if you want portable headphones for on the go. Price range also...
It's a shame really, if only they retuned these to match the newer pads, they are really great phones with their original pads and built superbly my Senns feel like a toy to these, comfort is horrible hence the newer(horrible) pads Had(with their original pads) and sold them after my pads got broken, Brainwavz pads don't do the job.
Finally a honest review on the Meze 99 which does not overhype the shit out of it!!! Great job here! I had to burn in these quite a bit to get the bass dialed down, but still the bass had that woody, boomy nature to it; could be due to the mid bass focus.
The Sennheisers are made to be commuter headphones and they fold. I have the wired ones, and I got my gf the wireless ones. Super sturdy and great sound quality for what they are. Easy to drive by phone. They look good (better than the Meze, imho). I thought about getting the Mezes to replace the Senns because we have 2 pairs of the Senns in my house but it didn't seem worthwhile. From reviews it seems that these dig deeper into the sub bass. These probably have a slightly bigger focus on sound, but the Momentum 2.0/HD-1 are so great all around. And again, they fold.
Movies , explosions? )) This is one of the best headphones for this money with a lot of details in all parts of sound. They are not for movies and explosions :D
![[TH] 2024 PMSL SEA W2D3 | Fall | ถ้าเล่นไม่ดี ไปแก้ตัววันเสาร์](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/CTmci32hvP8/mqdefault.jpg)
![อยู่คนเดียวกับเขา - ส้ม มารี (Zom Marie) [Official MV]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/gq1cWAIQDLg/mqdefault.jpg)
Let's not talk about the fact that I completely mispronounced the word "epitome" right at the beginning. Not sure how this slip of the tongue got through. But.... it's here to stay.
I will start the memes off - Joshua "epitome" Valour :)
Any chance for a comparison to the Nighthawk? They seem to fill the same niche.
@@richw3215 Unfortunately, no.
@@richw3215 Nighthawk is far superior, resolution, imaging, comfort, plus it's an open back so a good, non-compressed feeling. Its sibling the closed-back Nightowl is also superior on these points.
Epitome
I always hated the dissonance between the spelling and pronunciation of that word, anyway. 😂. #flippingEnglish
I think as spelled it should be pronounced as exactly as you did, and if we wanted “uh-pid-uh-me” we might have spelled it perhaps something “appidimy” since it sounds closer to “affinity”... 🤪
I have to put this out there: I own the Meze 109 Pro's because of these. I use TH-cam for most of my music videos and I find that I use these more than anything else I own. I do own quite a few open back 'high end" headphones that image / soundstage better, certainly cleaner treble and extension. The midrange on these is actually quite good and the bass is great on any pop, r&b, rock, etc". I find it hard to go back to open back when listening to almost anything but "high end" music samples. I would consider this a "must have" for any headphone person out there that likes to hit TH-cam and listen to normal music. The best thing about the 99 Classics - NO SIBILANCE on bad recordings! Thanks Joshua!!!
I have had them for a while now and here’s my take as a layman (certainly not a reviewer and don’t have the experience of hundreds of cans). I was looking for an upgrade on my Grado SR80’s and was considering SR325e as I love the 80’s so much. I hope this helps someone.
1. The are better than my Grado SR80’s on several fronts which I will discuss. The SR80’s at the time I bought them were a What Hi-Fi five star product and considered to be an “analytical” open backed headphone. The Meze 99 Classics (terrible name, sounds like a chocolate bar) just sound better to me.
I’m not experienced enough to know whether this is “soundstage” or “separation” or any of the other arguably bullshit audiophile words used to qualify the difference between pieces of audio equipment but they just sound better. The music sounds more “realistic” and I hear things in my favourite albums that I haven’t heard before. I find that I lose myself in the music which I suppose is the point.
2. They are easy to drive. So no further investment in fancy headphone amps is necessary. This isn’t always the case with higher end headphones.
3, All the components are individually maintainable. They are screwed rather than glued together which means the getting replacement parts is easy and fitting them yourself is possible. I have a real problem with planned obsolescence and these have been designed to avoid this problem. Classic materials, timeless design (in my opinion) and everything is replaceable.
4. They are really comfortable. All the Grado’s I’ve tried (even the expensive ones) aren’t and end up hurting after not even a full album. I put foam pads on my 80’s which some say negatively affects the sound. None of that to worry about here as they are comfortable.
5. The headband design is genius. It fits to your head without any adjustment, automatically. This isn’t the case with many headphones and can lead to much messing around which detracts from the listening experience.
6. I nearly didn’t buy these because of this review. All I heard from this review (which I enjoyed by the way, thank you Josh!) was “bass” “bass bass” “bass bass bass”. Which in my mind is the signature of something like a dr Dre beats. A characteristic that a teenager thinks means “good sound”. Don’t worry. It’s fine.
Josh listens to hundreds of sets of headphones and can more accurately say than me whether these are bassy but chances are you’re more like me. A lay person who really likes music, has tried a few select pairs of decent headphones. Don’t worry, they’re not massively bassy, don’t let that put you off. They are all-round better than the Grado SR80’s which are considered an entry-level analytical headphone.
7. It comes with two sets of cables, a shorter one with a mic (the mic isn’t brilliant, but good enough for phone calls) and a long lead. Many headphones only have the longer leads which are inconvenient in many circumstances. It’s a small consideration which I appreciate and leads to me using them more.
8. They come with a fantastic travel case. Very stylish and practical. Again, another expense saved.
9. They are vegan if that is important to you, it is me. No leather, all PU articifical leather.
Finally, two last points, be aware of a concept called hedonic adaptation (after an initial thrill you’ll become accustomed to the upgrade and then chase after the next shinier thing) and lastly, the best thing to read when considered purchasing decisions like this is an unrelated article called “cure yourself of tiny details exaggeration syndrome” by Mr Money Mustache. www.mrmoneymustache.com/2012/12/26/cure-yourself-of-tiny-details-exaggeration-syndrome/
Now that's an honest review. It felt like you're describing your actual experience with the product, without sprinkling over any significant amount of buyer's bias - a thing we all do with our stuff and it's acceptable to some extent.
PS: Thanks for the interesting read you linked at the end. This touches a bit on GAS, as we photography enthusiasts call it. :)
I'm really glad to read about your experience. I'm in between the Meze 99 Nior and the AKG K371. The akg for the more balanced sound and the Meze 99 as a much, much better build and looks. I can't seem to get my hands on a Meze to test but If I do decide to get it I will get Brainwavz oval micro suedes pads as well. Any thoughts?
🗿 thank you good sir for the detailed review 👍
Audiophile for 22years, my dad listens to speakers so Ive been training my ears since i was in my moms tummy… a TubeAmp with Ls3/5a
i find the 99 classics neutrally warm and i prefer the “dull and recessed treble” because speakers are probably 5m away form your ears treble are rarely harsh… I’m probably the 1% of audiophile who despises the skull piercing trebles on the hd800 🤣
I also find the vocals on the 99 to be very meaty and emotional 😵💫
headband indeed is nearly perfect, if it was nice real leather that would be it ;)
These were my first "expensive" headphones and I love them. I've had them for 7 years and they're still going strong, definitely my daily drivers for games and such.
Loved the review, very honest and it's good to know I'm not insane for loving these cans
hey I'm in the same boat, just seven years down the line! looking at getting these as my first proper cans - just heard them in a shop today and jesus there are so many instruments I didn't even know exist in my favourite tracks.
Have you guys had to replace the ear pads and are they easy to find?
What mic do you use with these?
@@charlesrocco8664 I've got a Rhode NT1-A that I use
@@charlesrocco8664
A separate one. I use a studio mic with them.
It's not as dense as i thought it WOOD be.
Hahaha
*WOOD
would
@@bfkc111 r/ woosh
@@bfkc111 buddy the joke is that it's made of wood
@@theprinceofeverything1975 Dude didn't get the joke.
im not sure if I can give you a thumbs up for this...
This headphone accepts EQ extremely well. You can completely change the sound signature. Really critical aspect of considering buying this.
I have been a owner of these headphones for about 4 years. Here's what I can say that nobody else will (I've read and watched all reviews, believe me).
1. These are not portable headphones. Yes, they are easy to drive. Yes, they are closed back. BUT...
a) Wood can be easily scratched or stained. You don't want that.
b) The 3.5 mm jack is straight, which means you can easily break it in your pocket.
c) When you walk, the elastic band will bounce, which will produce some not very musical sounds. Annoying.
d) The metal headband can conduct sounds amazingly well. And that is not a compliment. A slight tap on the band with your nail will reverberate to your scull.
e) The sound isolation is good, but not outstanding. You will have trouble enjoying the music on a plane or in the subway.
f) The travel case is bulky and plugging/unplugging the cable while on the go is a pain.
2. Meze don't pair well with glasses. More than that, if you still use them with glasses, they will rub the pleater in a matter of weeks.
3. The cups are large enough, but not very deep. Your ear might touch the bottom. This might or might not be an issue for you.
4. While the sound is warm, pleasant and visceral, you might get tired by the lower midrange after a while.
All the above being said, you might think that i don' t like Meze. Which is absolutely not true. This is a very good pair of office headphones or even home headphones, if you don't want to disturb your family while listening to your favorite music. But, once again, they are not very portable. I tend to use my Bose 700 for this. They are more compact, more comfortable and, most importantly - they have noise cancelling.
I hope that will help you decide before pulling the trigger and buying these, especially if you're on a tight budget.
yes I must agree with it, they are portable but to keep them looking nice owner have to keep them safe :), my 99 Noire dark version is very pretty so I must watch out because scratches looks nasty (underneath stained wood is pale one so its very visible)
Thanks 4 sharing. They now have Neo’s, which are probably less prone to scratches.
The highest quality youtube comment I've ever read.
thank you so much for this. I really needed this info
specs are an issue?
Ask Meze to send you the Empyrean Josh.
Its an experience on the level of the LCD4.
This was an excellent review thanks for posting Josh you helped me finally decide to pull the trigger on these.
How do you like them? I've been thinking of buying one
@@doga5899 They're ok TBH. SONY XM4's are better in audio quality. I use these for sound mixing.
Great video; BTW "Epitome" is pronounced like "ep-it-oh-mee"
Shit. You are right lol. How did I fuck that up... 😂
I've started saying "Epi-tome" now. Sound cooler. It's the epitome of coolness.
Dude don’t tell him and make it a meme duh
Wut i have always pronounced them as e pi tome oof you ruined it for me it sounded cooler before
No
I’m currently testing these out myself and will review them and I have the same conclusion as well. Whether it’s worth the money is something I’ll have to look into further. Great review BTW!
It is definitely my "fun" headphone. My top two are Grado GH2 and Beyer T5p.2's. These are a "Jack of all trades, master of none". They sound GREAT coming out of my LG V30. $399.00 in Canada and worth every penny. To me.
Shane D
Hi. I enjoy your reviews, I think your preference sound signature is very similar to mine. And I own Meze99. And I was on the "quest" to find a good, comfortable, non-fatiguing closed back headphones for around 300. I tried numerous headphones starting from Denon DXXXX, to some top bluetooth ones and I was only satisfied with Meze. My point being - at the end of the review you claim these are not wort 300 USD. Name other closed back headphones for this price that can sound better than these and I'll give them a try :)
"Better" is an extremely subjective term. But for what it's worth, you should give the ATH-MSR7 or ATH-MSR7b (updated one that came out just this year) a try. It's a lot more neutral (although not completely neutral as it leans towards the highs more) as compared to these. Bought them as my go to pair and have not looked back since. Even better than my Senn M2s
@@ivanpiramide4714 these were too harsh for my liking, i find m50x unlistenable and msr7 were even brighter..
OPPO PM3, easy win. Hard to find one now though.
I feel like people would look at this review and be like worthless but headphones like this definitely have a place in the market. Especially if they are well made and sounds like they have good balance here.
It's funny how Meze created this headphone for natural-sounding acoustics and timbre and the reviewer is like, "I wouldn't recommend this for acoustic."
Safe to say we don't have the same ears.
i just bought these even though so many reviewers say its so much bass. I agree with you, listening to acoustic songs like Patience its amazing how the guitars feel real, i hear them like they are in the room. best way id describe is it sounds natural. real.
I know that pad swapping is super popular with these cans to lower the bass a bit and brighten up the highs. Usually that ends up looking kinda goofy on a headset that really does look phenomenal with the stock pads.
I mention this because you're able to buy the smaller pads off the Meze store (and anywhere else they sell, like Amazon), and these smaller pads do exactly what the original original 99 classics pads did, and what everyone tries to replicate 3rd psrty pads - lowers the bass shelf a bit, rolls it off smoother into the mids to reduce muddiness, and brightens up the top end a bit.
The 99s have also undergone a stealth update in the past year with some reworked earcup joint mechanics and some milled out bass ports. They keep the punchy characteristic without getting over the top or overbearing.
My meze 99 noir are my favorite headphones. The comfort and sound quality are just fantastic. The only downside is they get warm after wearing them for a few hours
yep they are getting wet :) especially when I work, but they are so much better than IEM's I rather to use them on the go
Two things:
1. No need for the tape to easily find L & R because the Left plugs have a ridge molded into them which is very easy to feel. I discovered this after owning them for about 4 months. You're welcome, 99 fans.
2. I think Josh gives these a bit of a short shrift. First, the low end: Yes there is some excessive low end, but it's really not that bad. I only find the need to shave about 2dB off the 62 Hz and 125 Hz bands with EQ, and not even all the time. Some recordings really need help in the lows (old recordings, most classical, etc). They're also great for outdoors, where bass usually disappears (with all my closed backs, at least). But if you are completely anti EQ and are sensitive to low end, these will probably not make you happy.
Second: the highs and mids. One could easily take Josh's description to mean these are muffled or dull sounding (like the typical Audeze sound or something). This is completely untrue. The 99's have a very natural, life-like balance in the mids and highs IMO, with very nice detail and clarity (for this price class). No, they're definitely not what I'd call bright, but I don't like bright headphones. They're also not dull or veiled either. The highs really just sbout right, IMO (akin to the Senn 600 maybe? no, not quite. but almost).
I do agree about soundstage and imaging though. They're ok, but a bit behind the competition. Pretty decent width (for closed back), but not much depth. And not nearly as good at imaging and separation as something like the 600.
Anyway, no one hears things the same way, so take my impressions fwiw.
And I really like your channel, Josh. Great stuff!
The left cable has a tactile marker that you can use to tell with your thumb which side is which as you're putting them.
I love this headphone. You need to EQ it imho and change pads to a smaller diameter ones. But it has the most natural sound I ever tried. If you remove around 5 db of low bass (30 to 60 hz) it keeps the natural reverberations of instruments but get rid of the bassy extension into the mid range. Add a peak to the 2k to 4k for a bit more detail. It works really well. Oddly, one of the things I like about these is the soundstage. I think they do it really well... For closed backs.
Care to share a full 10 band EQ setup to apply?
@@kaemelezzine1827 I can. Do you use APO?
Hi. What pads did you use as a replacement? I consider original pads to be too spacious for my ear. I am not sure if this is due to pads or headband but they sit too low on my head. I am used to firm fit and finding meze to be too loose. I really want to keep them as I love the sound and the look though.
@@BlazejMarczak I got sone from Ali Express. Can't tell you which atm though...
@@BlazejMarczak im thinking about dekoni sheepskin, but they are not so cheap
Excellent review! These are beautiful headphones. My biggest beef is that they are bulky and they don’t fold up. Not portable enough to be my road headphone, too nice to be a beater headphone, and not audiophile enough to be my home headphone.
I’d say abuse them! Take these beautiful headphones for a beating. Meze would be happy seeing you enjoy them
@@ShockingPikachu yes I bought my pair used in great shape not very expensive, not rly gonna cry if they catch a scar they just have to make their magic done 🤘
Awesome visuals, no rambling, good narration etc.
Great video
Hey Josh! Thanks for the excellent review! you described these as really punchy/bassy headphones ( just the kind f sound signature i am looking for ), I came across Z reviews thread on Head-fi, he describes them as warm but not bassy!! now i am confused as to which one is it! Which other sets of cans would you recommend for casual, fun listening ( in the same price tier ). Thank you.
Veeral Dogra they are warm and bassy, take Zeos descriptions with a grain of salt
@@riseuplight Hey! thank you! i did end up buying them, Quite like them so far. They can be quite bassy if paired with the right DAC / AMP
Hey Josh, gret video. Finally an honest review of these cans. I've frankly found them to be quite disappointing when I got them (especially at $300USD). However there's a lot of people who think that these have a lot of potential with a pad swap. As you're someone with access to a lot of pads, would be great to see your take on the matter.
I've put Momentum 2.0 pads on mine and it's night and day difference. Much more balanced sound across the board, reducing the mid bass rumble while retaining some of the punch.
Could you tell me, please ,your opinion for both 99' s and Momentum's 2.0, because I'm between them to choose?
@@systembooms69I prefer Momentum 2.0's over the mezes with stock pads, although it's a matter of preference. The momentums have a more neutral sound with slighlty recessed highs, while the mezes have boomy bass and more treble.
Meze with momentum pads however sound like super Momentum 2.0. Overall similar sound signature but Mezes just do it way better. More detail, better highs, better bass. I'd describe it as a closed back HD650 with more sub bass. Very smooth and enjoyable to listen to.
As for comfort, M2 wired > Meze 99 > M2 wireless. M2 wireless have a much harder headband than the wired that digs into your head and are also more bulky.
@@transformister thnx !
So I could buy the momentum pads and use it for the mezes? I want to buy some good heaphones that are closed because I usually listen to music while commuting and I don't want to bother people. Would you say the Meze Classics with the momentum pads are the best option for that price?
I was really looking forward to the Sivga Phoenix. I got it and hated it. I do like to wood just like my T60PR; those are great. For gaming these should also be good. I'm willing to give them a try.
End sequence was cool Mr Valour 👏🏼
These look pretty nice, but a portable headphone that doesn’t collapse or fold flat doesn’t make sense to me, these would be staying at home.
they are great for night shifts at work with easy job :) that quality anywhere I am its a pleasure
I really thought the part in the outro where you clapped your hands together and used that as the transition looked really cool.
I have owned it and tried for gaming as well. I have to disagree with you. Cannot hear the half of the thing because of the bass. I think it is not recommended for gaming at all.
My Master and Dynamic MH40 kicked the bucket, so I just put in an order of these. I'm hoping they'll be a fun closed back like the MH40 was.
You mention that some open back headphones would do a better job. I wish you would have given some examples of which headphones you would suggest.
Would you review the Audeze iSINE 10 if I sent them to you?
I love my isine 10s. Great for metal
Those are fun but they were awkward to put in your ears
I would
What do you think are some other "fun" headphones worth looking at? Maybe as an upgrade to these? Say with more detailed sound, maybe better vocals, maybe better imaging, or even more punchy? ... for casual / fun gaming experience.
Argons. Modhouse argons.
I just watched this after Randy's; what a difference. Yours is right to the point; not spending all kinds of time trying to be cute.
I'm going to buy this on Drop now. Sorry not to use your link, it's $110 cheaper than on Amazon and all I give up is the long cable and gold plating. It's just what I need to compliment my Sennheiser HD 58x to get a bit more bass into my classical listening.
We audiophiles sometimes lose track of the fact that (most of us) we're not in fact doing "critical listening". We're not "monitoring" anything in the studio. Just listening to music; trying to enjoy it without treble fatigue or sloppy bass. If we can get something that also looks classy without spending too much more, it's a big fat score.
Please dont tell me people in America say epi - tome. Its epit - oh - mi in uk
I love Meze :)
Hi
I like "Classical & Vocal & Guitar Solo & Instrumental"
Can you help me for buying one of these hedphones?
1) Meze 99 Classic
2) Audio Technica MSR7b or SR9
3) V-moda M100 Master
4) or any other models (closed and over ear and under $400)
Tnx a lot and excuse me for my bad english.
How is it possible that, like u explained its bass havy and missing some treble although the freqency response is pretty linear like stated on the side of the box?
3:59 The moment to put the headphones without cable and got a do the b-roll "yeah this sounds good move"...
You can call fun bassy headphone those from Beats but not these! There's not other competitor at this price and build quality! The only thing i've learn from reviews is try it first and then decide! The 99 classics are best in this price range!
How good do these sounds compared to something like the Sony 1000m4?
I can confirm it is both fun and beautiful. {Noir}
YES! dark version is so nice, mine got custom cable also black
Review starts at around 4:00
Pretty sure it starts at 0:00
The stuff at the beginning isn't rambly at all and it's helpful.
I think this is exactly what I'm looking for. Already got Audeze LCD-X for mixing. For listening at home I have good speakers. I really need good heaphones to go out and listen to heavy music while walking with good quality. Took me a while to get through your channel to find this video.
like me, I was looking for portable headphones but not IEM's, found used 99 Noire in good price and perfect shape already with better cable, I'm very glad to have them 🤗
Are those Micca center channel mtms on the stands back there? If yes, what do you think about them? If no, what are they and same question. Thanks for this video
I’ve decided to support businesses…
And by small businesses I mean Grado and Meze…
I would buy them even just for the design. If they also sound ok I'm sold
It’s like beats but they actually look and sound good and aren’t built like crap!
Hey there, great review. I currently use B&W PX’s wirelessly, I’m looking to get these with a Audioquest Drangonfly red usb dac and be listen form my IPhone streaming amazon music hd. Am I going to notice a big improvement in sound quality or would I be better looking at an open back?
Hey Josh, do the cans you tested have the original (smaller) pads or the new pads? Heard there are sone issues using new pads ...
No retuning
“I recommend more intense music like rock, r&b, electronic, etc.”
Me: (downloads every single Grandson song)
Would you recommend the 99s for wearing outdoors? What about rain?
I didn't know Vince Vaughn was reviewing tech products on TH-cam.
That is legit Stephen Amell and it's not even a discussion.
please review the ultrasone signature pro headphones....they're mind blowing spectacular..
love them, own 3 copies.
YES THAT GOOOOOD.
Mine arriving tomorrow. I am going to use a Dragonfly DAC to power them. So hoping for a good outcome. If all goes well considering doing the silver wire upgrade.
How'd it go?
@@sirfer206 very well. The Dragonfly DAC is great. I am very impressed with the sound and comfort of the phones.
Recommendations for mic to use with these?
Hey, since you got this sorta expensive bassy headphones, can you review a really cheap one like Oneodio?
is that HD558 on the back? what's your thought about that one?
The older I get the blingier my stuff gets
Hi,
Thanks for your review. Im new in this array.
Can you help me to select Meze 99 or sennheiser hd650s ?
Currently im using iem kz zs10 pro with ibasso DC03, and old bose oe2 headphones ?
I used to lobe sennheiser on the 80th
Thanks a lot
Ole mate senny
I actually really like these for anything that isn't super bassy
what's that song at the end of the video? wow it sounds amazing
In terms of sound quality alone, which is better, this or Sony WH1000XM3?
the Meze
This. Not even close.
How do they compare to the audioquest headphones?
How do the inner part of ear cups measure? I have large ears and the only headphones that go completely over-the-ear is the Sennheiser HD6xx.
The insides are quite big, same height as 6xx and wider than the 6xx pads. I find the meze pads to be a little more shallow though.
Nice review! Could you tell me, please , if they can play "annoying" loud?
Does it sound better than airpods max?
Im looking for an upgrade of bass-heavy headphones from my V moda M 100. These or ultrasone headphones would be better?
ive sen a lot of gold accented headphones, but this one actually suits it
How hard does the bass hit compared to a Fostex Th900?
Relatively good looking headphones with blurred, dull, anaemic sound. Bloated bass and lack of clarity is characteristic for those. I had and sold them.
You had the new larger pads.
agreed, too much bass, which bled into the midrange. Sold mine also
i have the neo's and i think they are pretty decent. they are very punchy but the mid range is still nice. sure the imaging and detail aint sennheiser level though... i had the monolith m560's for a few days before selling them to get the neo's and i am happy with that decision. the m560 was a joke compared to the meze's imo
@@scottlowell493 these are worse than the stereotypical beats sound. Way worse.
@@scottlowell493 lol sad but true. I'd take Beats Studio 2 sound over these every day.
2 years late to the party, but good review! To bad you have the new larger pads and not the originals; IMHO Meze done f'd up!
With the original pads, the bass is tamed, the mids get a heck of a lot more texture, and the treble is sparkled up and is very crisp. If I had to directly compare the 99 Classics with original pads to another headphone, they would be a closed back HD600.
These are everything the Bits by Dre are supposed to be.
is it good for classical music?
How good this headphones is for studio playing guitar...
The newer pads are terrible and destroy the original sound signature. They made them bigger because people were complaining they were too small. If you can find a pair with the original pads you should pick them up. It's an entirely different experience.
100% spot on. New pads ruined these.
Agreed!
Any idea on where to find proper pads?
fuffy442 I contacted them directly and begged for them. I dunno if they still have any in stock this was a while ago. If you find the maple version (discontinued) they come standard with the original pads in a white / cream color.
@Denis Gaidukov That's just lame.
Aw yes. The epitome. :)
How does these stand up against hifiman xs ?
Intro reminds me of Action Action - drug like
These or 1 more triple drivers? 🤔
Which has more bass these are the sony xb950n1
The silver version looks nicer, indeed.
I would like to see Sundaras review!
Soon. Soon.
Well, a week or so.
I have a pair, they're very good, I would NEVER leave the house with them, they look so tacky to me
I'm a fan of forward bass, but these headphones had too much for me even. There was also a peak in the upper mids/low treble that really bothered me. Strange considering the overall warm signature.
The comment below about the new pads ruining the sound signature is 100% correct and I've heard both versions. I sold mine and bought a pair of Sony MDR-1A for my portable pair.
How warm do these sound?
I like tons of bass. But I don't like the too warm sound as in HD650. So I'm still unsure if I should buy these.
@@cartoongamess1 I would avoid them at all costs. I thought they sounded awful. Muddy and no clarity, bass was loose.
@@hazi5961 i see. thanks for your reply.
@@hazi5961 what would you recommend the best overall bass headphone is I cant tell if i shud just buy beats
@@og2tone9o15 It depends on the type of bass you are after. Also depends on if this is for home use with a powerful amplifier, or if you want portable headphones for on the go. Price range also...
It's a shame really, if only they retuned these to match the newer pads, they are really great phones with their original pads and built superbly my Senns feel like a toy to these, comfort is horrible hence the newer(horrible) pads
Had(with their original pads) and sold them after my pads got broken, Brainwavz pads don't do the job.
How much wood could a Wood Chuck, chuck if a Wood Chuck could chuck wood ?
How soon are we getting Rai Penta and Emperyeam :P (I hope I spelled them right)
Finally a honest review on the Meze 99 which does not overhype the shit out of it!!! Great job here!
I had to burn in these quite a bit to get the bass dialed down, but still the bass had that woody, boomy nature to it; could be due to the mid bass focus.
Better than philips fidelio x2hr??
I have the same question...have you found an answer by any chance??
epitome - eh - pit - toe - me
These or the wired Sennheiser HD-1?
The Sennheisers are made to be commuter headphones and they fold. I have the wired ones, and I got my gf the wireless ones. Super sturdy and great sound quality for what they are. Easy to drive by phone. They look good (better than the Meze, imho). I thought about getting the Mezes to replace the Senns because we have 2 pairs of the Senns in my house but it didn't seem worthwhile. From reviews it seems that these dig deeper into the sub bass.
These probably have a slightly bigger focus on sound, but the Momentum 2.0/HD-1 are so great all around. And again, they fold.
Apparently there are people here who wouldn't even be content with Sennheiser Orpheus...
still for you,metal or z reviews to review ath adx5000.
This is identical to the Neos ?
The Innocent One the plastic cups make them sound a little different.
"ambidextrous" headphones... lol
Movies , explosions? )) This is one of the best headphones for this money with a lot of details in all parts of sound. They are not for movies and explosions :D
So they're not bass-y? I want some good headphones for explosions and movies.
They also come in silver.
Can I play games in this headset? (hear from where steps come from)
yes I tried these for cs go and they were great but if you are buying headphones strictly for gaming I reccomend open back headphones
MY GUY SAID EPITOAM
☠️
@@JoshuaValour dw fam, your vids are still the best
Those cans look cool though.
This wood is good wood. It's not as good wood as I thought it would be, but it's still wood.