What I never see addressed in any of the headphone reviews is "Why does my family suddenly need to talk to me when I put my fancy headphones on?" Seriously, I can sit there in the living room with my wife, both of us reading stuff on our phones for like an hour. The moment I turn my little Schitt stack on and grab the headphones my wife has something very important to tell me about an Air BnB that's available next March out on the coast. Or, "really? I didn't realize we were even thinking about getting a second dog, but sure let's talk about that now that this song I'm listening to is just starting to hit."
At least she waits until you put on your headphones to talk. My wife will sit on her phone for 10 minutes and when I get bored and pick my phone up she is pissed "I'm always on my phone and never talk to her".
I have been waiting for your review! I have been very interested in these, I felt like they were right up my alley. Not TOO open, not TOO warm, not TOO expensive(well…). Thanks for getting to the point here and telling us how you feel! Appreciate it Randy!
Thanks for your review, Randy! I’m actually listening to you right now on my 109 Pros! My son and I love the 109 Pros. We had the privilege of attending the Can Jam So Cal in Irvine, CA a few weeks ago and the 109 Pros were our favorite headphones in the entire show. My son queued up the song, “No Quarter,” by Led Zeppelin and both of us were blown away! Led Zeppelin never sounded so good on headphones! Seriously, I love them more everyday and I own several pairs of headphones that cost in the $3k range (Abyss, Meze, Hifiman) and many more that cost more than the 109 Pros. But I keep coming back to the 109 Pros. As Randy said, they are very ADDICTING to listen to - they just make my music come so alive! 🎼❤️🎼 Oh, and their comfort and ease of fit are industry leading! No adjustments needed … just put them on your head and they adjust & conform perfectly. And so, sooooo comfortable!!! And of course: they are gorgeous to look at when hanging on your headphone stand. ❤ Thanks again, Randy!
As susvara owner . I did a comparing test with susvara , meze elite , 109 pro I like 109 Pro more just super comfort ,light weight easy to drive the sound quality is slight below susvara or elite with good cable. But 109 pro cost usd 800 is very good value
Hart Audio Cables has the Meze 99/109 compliant 3.5mm connectors now (HC-14) - so if you've already converted to the HAC modular ecosystem then it's an easy add-on to get your Meze's into the mix New 109's are out of my budget comfort zone, but will keep my eyes on the used market for when they start trickling on in Thanks for the review Randy!
No, Meze headphones are not garbage. A neutral sound signature is not the only right way for a headphone to sound and Meze's headphones are FUN to listen to. The thing about detail is you'll appreciate it for only about 10 minutes and it is not the only part of sound. The Meze headphones I listened to make all of my music sound great without the fatigue.
Man I sure do love that classic Metallica shirt! I have old Ride the Lightning and Justice shirts but these more obscure shirts are so awesome and memorable.
I own the 109pro’s and I think the sound signature is more neutral in comparison to the 99’s. The focus is more on the mids and on the highs but not anywhere that you would get ear fatigue with the highs. I have the 99 classics and they do not have the bass signature of the 99’s. Since getting the 109’s I must say I have not listened to the classics. I listen to them through the chord mojo 2 and the iFi XDSD gryphon. I think that they are priced about right.
I got to try these at CanJam SoCal and they honestly felt like pillows on my head. It was fabulous! The sound signature wasn't quite to my tastes, but it was still very nice 🙂
@@JMAudioEditions Yeah, that and the bass seemed to boomy to me. Then again, this was on a loud show floor so they may be very different in a quieter environment.
Kool Review Randy! Makes me want to audition these! 50mm dynamic driver with be coating, wood cups(?), meze quality, open back, comfortable, easy to drive - thanks!
I was hyped up to get this one and got them a few days back. Had to return them, mainly because it was too much on the top end. It almost hurt my ears. The sound stage is also very small. The separation is not so good. It has it's good sides, but these were a deal breaker for me. Ended up buying the LCD-2C. My ears rested from trying to adopt to the sound of the 109s. Maybe it just wasn't for me, but everybody should know about the upper end being a bit harsh. Not a lot of reviewers talk abou that.
A great power distributor can really clean sound up. The furutech nano liquid for all my contacts offers a tasty and smooth sound signature. Wish you can compare to the new Sundara Closed Back. I haven’t seen any reviews on this latest model. Keep on Rockin’!
I feel like these would be a hit if they were priced to compete with the $500 headphones. I'd be looking at these to replace my Dt1990's. Even at $600 I'd still consider them. But with my other ~$1000 headphones, can't see having a place for these. Still hoping to try these out someday
You are talking 300 dollars more than if the price was 500 dollars. 300 dollars more is exactly 25 dollars a month more for entertainment and enjoyment and a hobby. I will say while music can be expensive as a hobby you don’t have to buy cds or albums and can just get high resolution music for 10 dollars a month. Think of the convenience and always new music at your fingertips in the blink of an eye. I also suggest selling headphones and equipment you no longer need to finance your new purchases. Music is such a fun hobby and start thinking of the expenses in what are you paying by the month. You could build a 4000 thousand dollar setup for 100 dollars a month over 3 years. You then could sell and add to the collection as you like. Music is actually a great value when all things are considered!!!!!!
Glad I got these at SoCal CanJam at 600 with a super nice cable from Meze’s booth. Though, it can be shorty from time to time. Have you try pairing it with the Cayin R6, like you did with the Lyric?
I didn't. just the amps and dacs I mentioned. however, I'm looking forward to putting them back on tonight which is saying something about a product. Most of the time I never listen to it again after I'm done with a review but I can't wait to get this one back on
I would love to actually experience a trial run on these. I have some true cheap headphones (Philips SHP9500) and I have a hard time taking them off to go to bed or do chores. They are open back and I'm super happy with them. The 109 Pro's look killer though!
Thanks Randy, very interested in the Meze phones. Listened to the others at Axpona and just enjoy their “house sound”. Went ahead and bought the 99 classics. I really like them but wish they had just a touch more clarity. A bit muddy with some recordings. These 109 pros might be just the ticket. But, I’m also looking for the right amp to go with the 99 classics. I think something with really good dynamics and clarity would match really well with the classics. Anybody have any suggestions?
You should take a look at the LSA HP-2 ultras, they are fantastic closed backs at the same price as these. I am curious about the mezes as well ( and love the look)
$800!! I’m happy with my Sony MBR-7506 @ $90. I would have to be really convinced to buy headphones over around $200. But I’m an old man so my ears aren’t what they were. 🙂 Good are those that can afford these. I’m sure they sound great! ☮️
Are you planning to review some more IEMs, especially Fiio FH series, Moondrop Blessing, Variations etc? Would be nice to hear you impressions about these.
I’m not Randy but I did JUST try out the xs, and currently have the meze 109 and audeze lcd-x. The audeze beat the xs and the 109s are currently beating out the Audeze. Depends on what you like, I was surprised that I got as much clarity on the 109’s compared to the lcd-x but when I put the lcd-x on after the 109’s it felt incredibly sterile. The 109s come off much warmer and engaging, however I miss some of the soundstaging and space of the planars. I actually really liked the xs but for the looseness on my head was a no go. If I turned too fast they would move and had almost no clamping force. Definitely couldn’t lay down with them. But on sale they’re a good deal!
Such a great review. I'm so lost in choosing these or the Hifiman Edition XS. It's the soundstage that people talk about on the XS that I'd worry about missing out on. The fact the 109 is more portable as it can run on anything makes me lean that way. I want to feel the instruments around me but I also want them to sound amazing. Tell me what to do 🤦♂️
I bought the HiFiMan XS and after two weeks decided to return them and the Topping DAC for the Meze 109 Pro. My main interest was comfort and style (the first time I actually care a bit more about the brand and fanciness of the Meze's than the efficiency of XS's price) So the XS sounded flabbergastingly amazing initially. The bass was strong, but not too much, the detail was wonderful and to my untrained ear, they sounded legendary. I could not for the life of me hear any difference between XS with the DX3 and through by laptop alone, so I thought of returning the DAC, and while I was at that decided to completely switch teams. A while later I have the Meze 109. First listening, I was not blown away as much as the XS. Most certainly because the first swap was from Razer Kraken to XS and the second was from XS to Meze 109 Pro. That aside, the bass is the 109 is much more potent, definitely not annoying, but much punchier. The detail "feels", I emphasize "feels", a bit worse than the XS, but that might be the difference in drivers and the fact I literally just an hour ago listened to them for the first time, so I have yet to acquire the Meze taste. I think I start to understand the V shape ordeal people are talking about. I feel the depth in detail, the bass and treble, while the mid feels a bit lower in volume with Meze. The XS feel much wider because they are completely open backs, while Meze don't have such a large surface area on the outside. Comfort though, Meze wins by a long shot. I don't know why but the XS have that weird headband that left a hotspot on my head after about an hour and I had to move then slightly forward or back on my head. Build, I felt bad that the HiFiMan are simply plastic and wanted something more fancy and Meze was the answer. This is completely subjective and was my choice independent of sound quality. For budgetary reasons and detail, I would recomment the XS. If you're a bit more of a basshead and want the outerwordly build quality and prestige of Meze, with similar sound quality, go with the 109 Pros.
I'm stuck between a rock and a hard place (1st world issues). I want to get these but I'm afraid my LCD-X (revised) or my Kennerton Magni render the experience of the Meze 109 pro either repetitive or useless. Would they stand out? Or are they just a great set among other great?
If you haven't already, seriously check out the Superlux headphones. I'm using the HD681 Evo, and they are great, to be honest I don't think anything else in that low price bracket can touch them.
Now I'm torn between the Meze 109 Pro, the Ollo Audio S5X, the Neumann NDH 30 and the Austrian Audio Hi-X65 and of course can't decide which one to buy... If you had to live on a desert island just before doomsday, which one of these would you take with you?
Another great video. A really beautiful looking headphone. Definitely sounds like they are worth checking out. On another note I’m flying almost 5000 miles next week to Austin from Ireland for the F1. Any recommendations for things to do while there?
@cheapaudioman Thanks for the review. I was testing the Meze 109 Pro in a store and comparing with the Hifiman Ananda Stealth and the Audeze LCD-2C I am really interesting to know how do you compare the Meze with the other two ones. I liked it but, in some songs it sounds uncontrolled to me, highs too strong, bass contaminated the midrange… but I tested them using my Yamaha AG06 as DAC and headphones amp, and due the higher Meze 109 Pro sensibility compared with the Ananda and the LCD-2C I reduced the volume… but perhaps it is also convenient to act on the gain to adecuate it. What do you think about the Meze compare with the Ananda and the LCD-2C?
I don't even know how to respond to these. You know what I love about doing headphone videos? I get half the views and double the snarky comments... I love them!
Randy, you mentioned that you built a Icepower amp before and weren’t satisfied. But that was with the older boards, the newer AS series uses the Texas Instruments 32xx chips, ie: 200AS1 uses TPA 3255. Dual mono 200AS1 in a Ghent case is great value, good performance. Would be cool for you to build one and do A/B tests…
I really love Your headphone & IEM reviews, that’s why Iam unhappy because you don’t do them enough❗️😊 Your review of Timeless stuck with me, so very often when I listen to them I remind myself Your review. I would love to hear Your opinion on the plannar iem “war” these days🙋♂️🤘
Hart Audio Cables sells HC-14 specifically for Meze. They are the best aftermarket because of the interchangeable connectors. The 109's for $800 though.. oof.
Anybody have suggestions James I'm thinking about getting amazing just needing some headphones for personal listening and editing And I listen to everything from rock country hip hop funk... Sometimes I am listening or editing for hours on end 3 or 4 hours need something comfortability and sound great..Audio-Technica ATH-M50X
I like them too. However, they sound a lot different. So one can't say this is better than that. they're different and will appeal to different types of people. But if you have them both and like the XS a lot better than that's awesome. I personally like them both and would be very happy as they are different enough that I can hear a whole new sound signature with my favorite music whenever I want to.
I was able to test these 4,5 moths ago when they were still sort of in development but actually already finished. Meze said they wanted to develop something that sounds similar to the planar driver headphones but with a dynamic driver. And even though they are pretty good. They still get blown out of the water by the empyrion or elite. Of course they are much cheaper so it's not a big surprise. But this tells me you always get what you pay for and not what you are promised
Get a pair of SAMSON SR850 they are only £40 and are the best sounding headphones ive ever heard. AKG and JBL both suck so bad for sound quality compared to the samsons.
I take it as "softer" not cold/crisp or "tin can" like. Similar to tube amps vs solid state amps. "Warmth - softer - fuller" Like the 50yo version of Sandra Bullock, not the 20yo version.😉
Just ordered the Sivga Robin's and saw the video title and I'm like oh shoot new Meze maybe I made the wrong decision, and then I saw it was $800... Nevermind I'm good lol. But I would totally get these if I had $800 to spend
The Sivga Robin are fantastic, the 99 classic have long been my favourite lower priced closed back, Got some Robins on sale for about half price of the Meze 99 and they are every bit as good. Maybe not as good on bass by just a smidge, but the mids and treble are better. Great value headphone
@@wooddragon576 awesome thanks! I'm excited. It's my first pair that are closest to anything "Hifi". They will be for my nightstand setup. From Android phone to iFi Zen Air DAC to Sivga's. I'm going to try the headphone AMP in the Air DAC first and see if I need to upgrade that or not
I found the meze balanced silver cable made the 99's really come alive, but that cable is half the price of the 99 so it had better. Audiophile Ninja makes a balanced cable that fits the Meze's which are less than half the price of silver cable and sound just as good. They will also make you a custom length if you ask . Ive ordered two custom length cables that shipped in 1 day.
Balanced, and especially silver cables DO NOT make your headphones sound better. Silver cables are nothing but expensive audiophile branded snake oil. Balanced cables are designed to ELIMINATE NOISE caused by running cables over long distances. They do carry more power from the amp to your headphone, that creates the ILLUSION that the cable is affecting the sound quality when in reality it is only making it louder by providing more power. So if you have an amp that is too low powered to drive a high impedance headphone, connecting to a balanced cable may actually be beneficial but still will not effect the overall sound quality. You can also get the same result by turning your gain up a lvl and turning your volume knob up. SAVE YOUR MONEY FOR BETTER EQUIPMENT AND HEADPHONES!!!
It a bit out of reach, I have a pair of Grado SR125's, i bought them 2008, and I choose that model as it was the least expensive in their lineup that offered a flat frequency response, they will go loud, but rarely worn, until earlier this summer, I had bought Koss KPH40i's and some fat pads to go on them. and they did sound great with those pads, but I didn't know when I bought them to get the clear, which is more flexible, so what I'm saying is my head was a bit too big for the headband and it let go...that was when I realized I had a pair of Koss PortaPro's, threw the big pads on those, amazing again...and after that headbands guides began letting go, I decided to uncover the SR125s. and am I ever glad I did, they very suddenly became so warm, and not unlike the kph40is, and that headband is so old school and tough, I think I've found a winner.
I was underwhelmed by the Edition XS with my Mojo 2. Not particularly impressed with that either. From other reviews these are fine for the money but nothing special. I think headphones in particular are very subjective due to ear shape, head size etc, so what might sound great to one person, less so to someone else. Agree on measurements. Definitely audition.
They honestly don't look like an 800$ headphones, more like 500$, couldn't you get better headphones for that price? Focal clear, used lcd x (2021 version) possibly even some dan clarks.
I've had focal and I really didn't understand why people like them so much. And I bought them used. I also own the DC. I like the DC's. these were very nice. Easy listening without sacrificing too much detail. I like them a lot.
@@cheapaudioman maybe your experience is different. I'd say we listen to similar music, mostly hardrock, deathcore and thrash. focal headphones are very discomforting and heavy, im not a big fan of that headband, compared to the lcd x the weight disturbution is better and I love the headband, and pads. Have you ever tried on and reviewed a fostex th900? I've never tried them but apparently they sound really good with metal and are beautifuly handmade as seen in their manufacturing video of the th900
The focal clears are an amazing value now that they’re $1500 retail price is about 900 or 915 at most online retailers. But these improve on the focal clear in the ways I was looking for, and I am selling my clears and keeping these. They are infinitely more comfortable, much lighter on the head for extended, listening sessions or example. And they improve on the sound stage and tambre issues that the focal clears had. These are obviously not giant differences, and both products are excellent at their current prices, but owning and trying both, I can tell you that the Meze 109 pro is in fact a bargain because for many people, myself included, it is improving on what is a benchmark headphone in the hobby at a lower price.
Very surprised you didn’t find these sibilant but the hd800s sibilant. I don’t find either one that way but the frequency response would show these as a bit hot even compared to the hd800s. Great headphones though. Love the build and sound. It’s hard to assess value on these because so many headphones are crazy expensive, but relative to other more expensive headphones these look like a great deal imho
this couldn't sound more different from each other compared to the hd800s. I heard zero sibilance on these. that's kind of a deal breaker for me on headphones. I don't look at measurements though before I listen. And yes... headphone prices are all over the map. Headphone world is a cold and scary place
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Meze 109 Pro howl.me/cifNRpoHD04
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$800 is cheap..
What I never see addressed in any of the headphone reviews is "Why does my family suddenly need to talk to me when I put my fancy headphones on?" Seriously, I can sit there in the living room with my wife, both of us reading stuff on our phones for like an hour. The moment I turn my little Schitt stack on and grab the headphones my wife has something very important to tell me about an Air BnB that's available next March out on the coast. Or, "really? I didn't realize we were even thinking about getting a second dog, but sure let's talk about that now that this song I'm listening to is just starting to hit."
You need headphones with AWC: Active Wife Cancellation ^^
At least she waits until you put on your headphones to talk. My wife will sit on her phone for 10 minutes and when I get bored and pick my phone up she is pissed "I'm always on my phone and never talk to her".
lol, I thought it was just me
Having a wife sounds miserable 😂
Funny how relatable that is lol
I have been waiting for your review! I have been very interested in these, I felt like they were right up my alley. Not TOO open, not TOO warm, not TOO expensive(well…). Thanks for getting to the point here and telling us how you feel! Appreciate it Randy!
Thanks for your review, Randy! I’m actually listening to you right now on my 109 Pros! My son and I love the 109 Pros. We had the privilege of attending the Can Jam So Cal in Irvine, CA a few weeks ago and the 109 Pros were our favorite headphones in the entire show. My son queued up the song, “No Quarter,” by Led Zeppelin and both of us were blown away! Led Zeppelin never sounded so good on headphones! Seriously, I love them more everyday and I own several pairs of headphones that cost in the $3k range (Abyss, Meze, Hifiman) and many more that cost more than the 109 Pros. But I keep coming back to the 109 Pros.
As Randy said, they are very ADDICTING to listen to - they just make my music come so alive! 🎼❤️🎼
Oh, and their comfort and ease of fit are industry leading! No adjustments needed … just put them on your head and they adjust & conform perfectly. And so, sooooo comfortable!!!
And of course: they are gorgeous to look at when hanging on your headphone stand. ❤
Thanks again, Randy!
What do you think of the Audio-Technica ATH-M50X
I felt the same. Ioving this 109 pro .. I will travel with this with my ifi Diablo and my susvara home use
As susvara owner . I did a comparing test with susvara , meze elite , 109 pro I like 109 Pro more just super comfort ,light weight easy to drive the sound quality is slight below susvara or elite with good cable. But 109 pro cost usd 800 is very good value
Hart Audio Cables has the Meze 99/109 compliant 3.5mm connectors now (HC-14) - so if you've already converted to the HAC modular ecosystem then it's an easy add-on to get your Meze's into the mix
New 109's are out of my budget comfort zone, but will keep my eyes on the used market for when they start trickling on in
Thanks for the review Randy!
No, Meze headphones are not garbage. A neutral sound signature is not the only right way for a headphone to sound and Meze's headphones are FUN to listen to. The thing about detail is you'll appreciate it for only about 10 minutes and it is not the only part of sound. The Meze headphones I listened to make all of my music sound great without the fatigue.
A CheapAudioMan Sunday morning review. Oh, it's going to be a great day!
Sometimes pricey days 😂
That unboxing….it was perfect.
Man I sure do love that classic Metallica shirt! I have old Ride the Lightning and Justice shirts but these more obscure shirts are so awesome and memorable.
Same here!
Not so much “cheap” audio for the those on a budget…Great video Randy….
The joke might not be good but your deadpan delivery always will be
I own the 109pro’s and I think the sound signature is more neutral in comparison to the 99’s. The focus is more on the mids and on the highs but not anywhere that you would get ear fatigue with the highs. I have the 99 classics and they do not have the bass signature of the 99’s. Since getting the 109’s I must say I have not listened to the classics. I listen to them through the chord mojo 2 and the iFi XDSD gryphon. I think that they are priced about right.
I listen today în a romanian oficial shop this 109pro. Expensive but fantastic sound.
Thanks for doing this review Randy.
I was hoping these were good and now I know.
I also listen to similar music as you so that helps.
I got to try these at CanJam SoCal and they honestly felt like pillows on my head. It was fabulous! The sound signature wasn't quite to my tastes, but it was still very nice 🙂
what didnt you like? too much glare in high end?
@@JMAudioEditions Yeah, that and the bass seemed to boomy to me. Then again, this was on a loud show floor so they may be very different in a quieter environment.
Kool Review Randy!
Makes me want to audition these!
50mm dynamic driver with be coating, wood cups(?), meze quality, open back, comfortable, easy to drive - thanks!
My favorit headphone for joy and easy listen👍
Sounds like my type of sound signature thanks for the video
That's it, I am getting these.
I was hyped up to get this one and got them a few days back.
Had to return them, mainly because it was too much on the top end. It almost hurt my ears.
The sound stage is also very small.
The separation is not so good.
It has it's good sides, but these were a deal breaker for me.
Ended up buying the LCD-2C. My ears rested from trying to adopt to the sound of the 109s.
Maybe it just wasn't for me, but everybody should know about the upper end being a bit harsh.
Not a lot of reviewers talk abou that.
i’m afraid you forgot that these headphones need to run at least 50 hours before you use them!
A great power distributor can really clean sound up.
The furutech nano liquid for all my contacts offers a tasty and smooth sound signature.
Wish you can compare to the new Sundara Closed Back. I haven’t seen any reviews on this latest model.
Keep on Rockin’!
Those are stunning
I feel like these would be a hit if they were priced to compete with the $500 headphones. I'd be looking at these to replace my Dt1990's. Even at $600 I'd still consider them. But with my other ~$1000 headphones, can't see having a place for these. Still hoping to try these out someday
their price is a bit odd... kind of in the middle of the rest of the pack
Lots of open boxes out there for about $650….
Honestly, loving the 99 classics and I would love this one. If it was at 600-650 I would buy it !
You are talking 300 dollars more than if the price was 500 dollars. 300 dollars more is exactly 25 dollars a month more for entertainment and enjoyment and a hobby. I will say while music can be expensive as a hobby you don’t have to buy cds or albums and can just get high resolution music for 10 dollars a month. Think of the convenience and always new music at your fingertips in the blink of an eye. I also suggest selling headphones and equipment you no longer need to finance your new purchases. Music is such a fun hobby and start thinking of the expenses in what are you paying by the month. You could build a 4000 thousand dollar setup for 100 dollars a month over 3 years. You then could sell and add to the collection as you like. Music is actually a great value when all things are considered!!!!!!
@@maxrobinson4572 mine are coming in today, which I bought as an open box special for $650. Good to know that's the going rate
Great Review! A little over my budget though. Thanks Randy! 👍👍👍
Glad I got these at SoCal CanJam at 600 with a super nice cable from Meze’s booth. Though, it can be shorty from time to time. Have you try pairing it with the Cayin R6, like you did with the Lyric?
I didn't. just the amps and dacs I mentioned. however, I'm looking forward to putting them back on tonight which is saying something about a product. Most of the time I never listen to it again after I'm done with a review but I can't wait to get this one back on
Elysian, Empyrean. Whatever floats your boat.
How do they compare to the Edition XS?
Grat video, right to the point, these look and seem to sound fantastic ;) Would like to compare these to a DC Aeon 2 open or a Focal OG Clear
They are very pretty.
I saw and tried the prototype at Axpona and I really liked them. With the wood looking ear cups it's like an open back version of the 99 Classics.
no they are not, yeah both have wood, but radically different drivers
Is the 109 more comfortable than the edition XS?
Am i the only one that was staring at that AJFA the whole video? 😂
Big Met fan here, i love that you are one too 🤘
That is one of the greatest band shirts of all time and the best "audiophile" music in the world.
I would love to actually experience a trial run on these. I have some true cheap headphones (Philips SHP9500) and I have a hard time taking them off to go to bed or do chores. They are open back and I'm super happy with them. The 109 Pro's look killer though!
The plug issue is real. I had to cut out part of my phone case to get the 3.5 mm to fit. Then epoxy where I had done my hack repair.
Thanks Randy, very interested in the Meze phones. Listened to the others at Axpona and just enjoy their “house sound”. Went ahead and bought the 99 classics. I really like them but wish they had just a touch more clarity. A bit muddy with some recordings. These 109 pros might be just the ticket. But, I’m also looking for the right amp to go with the 99 classics. I think something with really good dynamics and clarity would match really well with the classics. Anybody have any suggestions?
How does it compare with the Focal Clear and HifiMan Ananda. They are about the same price here.
You should take a look at the LSA HP-2 ultras, they are fantastic closed backs at the same price as these. I am curious about the mezes as well ( and love the look)
$800!! I’m happy with my Sony MBR-7506 @ $90. I would have to be really convinced to buy headphones over around $200. But I’m an old man so my ears aren’t what they were. 🙂 Good are those that can afford these. I’m sure they sound great! ☮️
Ditto
800 is cheap, most really great headphones cost between 3000 and 8000, and the most expensive cost 60 000
Are you planning to review some more IEMs, especially Fiio FH series, Moondrop Blessing, Variations etc? Would be nice to hear you impressions about these.
How big is the soundstage compare to the editon XS?
I am constantly fighting myself when it comes to my next pair, it's either these or the Edition XS and I simply cannot decide :)
I was in the same situation. I decided to pick the 109's Comfort and build quality was the deciding factor.
Thanks for your review. I'm hoping Santa leaves these headphones under the tree. I've been good, mostly.
are they worth $300 more over the Hifiman edition xs in terms of sound or is the build quality that explains the price difference?
I’m not Randy but I did JUST try out the xs, and currently have the meze 109 and audeze lcd-x. The audeze beat the xs and the 109s are currently beating out the Audeze. Depends on what you like, I was surprised that I got as much clarity on the 109’s compared to the lcd-x but when I put the lcd-x on after the 109’s it felt incredibly sterile. The 109s come off much warmer and engaging, however I miss some of the soundstaging and space of the planars. I actually really liked the xs but for the looseness on my head was a no go. If I turned too fast they would move and had almost no clamping force. Definitely couldn’t lay down with them. But on sale they’re a good deal!
@@maxrobinson4572 If the xs fits your head, would u put xs the same level as lcd x?
Such a great review. I'm so lost in choosing these or the Hifiman Edition XS. It's the soundstage that people talk about on the XS that I'd worry about missing out on. The fact the 109 is more portable as it can run on anything makes me lean that way. I want to feel the instruments around me but I also want them to sound amazing. Tell me what to do 🤦♂️
I bought the HiFiMan XS and after two weeks decided to return them and the Topping DAC for the Meze 109 Pro.
My main interest was comfort and style (the first time I actually care a bit more about the brand and fanciness of the Meze's than the efficiency of XS's price)
So the XS sounded flabbergastingly amazing initially. The bass was strong, but not too much, the detail was wonderful and to my untrained ear, they sounded legendary. I could not for the life of me hear any difference between XS with the DX3 and through by laptop alone, so I thought of returning the DAC, and while I was at that decided to completely switch teams.
A while later I have the Meze 109.
First listening, I was not blown away as much as the XS. Most certainly because the first swap was from Razer Kraken to XS and the second was from XS to Meze 109 Pro. That aside, the bass is the 109 is much more potent, definitely not annoying, but much punchier. The detail "feels", I emphasize "feels", a bit worse than the XS, but that might be the difference in drivers and the fact I literally just an hour ago listened to them for the first time, so I have yet to acquire the Meze taste.
I think I start to understand the V shape ordeal people are talking about. I feel the depth in detail, the bass and treble, while the mid feels a bit lower in volume with Meze. The XS feel much wider because they are completely open backs, while Meze don't have such a large surface area on the outside.
Comfort though, Meze wins by a long shot. I don't know why but the XS have that weird headband that left a hotspot on my head after about an hour and I had to move then slightly forward or back on my head.
Build, I felt bad that the HiFiMan are simply plastic and wanted something more fancy and Meze was the answer. This is completely subjective and was my choice independent of sound quality.
For budgetary reasons and detail, I would recomment the XS.
If you're a bit more of a basshead and want the outerwordly build quality and prestige of Meze, with similar sound quality, go with the 109 Pros.
Have you heard the T60rp Argon before to maybe possibly compare the two?
I'm stuck between a rock and a hard place (1st world issues). I want to get these but I'm afraid my LCD-X (revised) or my Kennerton Magni render the experience of the Meze 109 pro either repetitive or useless. Would they stand out? Or are they just a great set among other great?
I have the Wharfedale Denton 80th, I know you do too, would you ever do a review on them? I'd love to get your take.
Denon d7200 vs these? How they compare?
Can you share your V curve equlaizer I cant remember which video you showed it on
If you haven't already, seriously check out the Superlux headphones. I'm using the HD681 Evo, and they are great, to be honest I don't think anything else in that low price bracket can touch them.
What do you think if the Audio-Technica ATH-M50X
@@codychavarria6088 I have both and the superlux are way better
@@Dcage13 even at the $35 price range for the HD681 compared to the $165 Senhouswr M50x tho???
@@codychavarria6088 Absolutely
Now I'm torn between the Meze 109 Pro, the Ollo Audio S5X, the Neumann NDH 30 and the Austrian Audio Hi-X65 and of course can't decide which one to buy...
If you had to live on a desert island just before doomsday, which one of these would you take with you?
Which did u get? If you don’t mind me asking
I wonder how these differ in sound from the LCD-X?
Much warmer, boomier bass. Less soundstage but similar clarity. Less “clinical”
Another great video. A really beautiful looking headphone. Definitely sounds like they are worth checking out.
On another note I’m flying almost 5000 miles next week to Austin from Ireland for the F1. Any recommendations for things to do while there?
get some barbecue. Go down to some bars on 6th street. Food there is great.
Cheers man, i appreciate the advice. FairPlay for the reply. I do plan on heading to salt lick for some bbq.
Slainté
@@gavwatts fine choice on salt lick. Deadwood, TX I believe. Been there a few times. Its a treat.
@cheapaudioman Thanks for the review.
I was testing the Meze 109 Pro in a store and comparing with the Hifiman Ananda Stealth and the Audeze LCD-2C
I am really interesting to know how do you compare the Meze with the other two ones.
I liked it but, in some songs it sounds uncontrolled to me, highs too strong, bass contaminated the midrange… but I tested them using my Yamaha AG06 as DAC and headphones amp, and due the higher Meze 109 Pro sensibility compared with the Ananda and the LCD-2C I reduced the volume… but perhaps it is also convenient to act on the gain to adecuate it.
What do you think about the Meze compare with the Ananda and the LCD-2C?
I am literally debating between these 3 headphones, which did you like the most???
If the Meze Audio 109 PRO is your favorite headphone Randy, then you're no longer the Cheapaudioman.😁
I don't even know how to respond to these. You know what I love about doing headphone videos? I get half the views and double the snarky comments... I love them!
#5 ?
@@the_dude182 yeah. That wouldn’t have been a better reply
Thanks!
You bet!
Mezzy, Meezy, Mezz? hmm. okay I'll watch the video now.
Ahh Mez-ay
109 pro vs HIFIMAN Arya Stealth?
Randy, you mentioned that you built a Icepower amp before and weren’t satisfied. But that was with the older boards, the newer AS series uses the Texas Instruments 32xx chips, ie: 200AS1 uses TPA 3255. Dual mono 200AS1 in a Ghent case is great value, good performance. Would be cool for you to build one and do A/B tests…
that would be awesome
I really love Your headphone & IEM reviews, that’s why Iam unhappy because you don’t do them enough❗️😊 Your review of Timeless stuck with me, so very often when I listen to them I remind myself Your review. I would love to hear Your opinion on the plannar iem “war” these days🙋♂️🤘
Hart Audio Cables sells HC-14 specifically for Meze. They are the best aftermarket because of the interchangeable connectors. The 109's for $800 though.. oof.
yeah. expensive....
Anybody have suggestions James I'm thinking about getting amazing just needing some headphones for personal listening and editing And I listen to everything from rock country hip hop funk... Sometimes I am listening or editing for hours on end 3 or 4 hours need something comfortability and sound great..Audio-Technica ATH-M50X
I wonder how different they will be compared to the Elite and Empyrean.
would be an interesting comparison
@@cheapaudioman indeed!
I'll take the Edition XS at 500 bucks anyday
I like them too. However, they sound a lot different. So one can't say this is better than that. they're different and will appeal to different types of people. But if you have them both and like the XS a lot better than that's awesome. I personally like them both and would be very happy as they are different enough that I can hear a whole new sound signature with my favorite music whenever I want to.
I was able to test these 4,5 moths ago when they were still sort of in development but actually already finished. Meze said they wanted to develop something that sounds similar to the planar driver headphones but with a dynamic driver. And even though they are pretty good. They still get blown out of the water by the empyrion or elite. Of course they are much cheaper so it's not a big surprise. But this tells me you always get what you pay for and not what you are promised
I think a to do A list of budget to Mid and high in headphones and then a shoot out
Get a pair of SAMSON SR850 they are only £40 and are the best sounding headphones ive ever heard. AKG and JBL both suck so bad for sound quality compared to the samsons.
Why are boom and tizz the new “perfect”?
Why bugger around with it. Just get an Edition XS.
Thank you
What is meant by "warmth?" Can someone help me to understand this?
Emphasized mids rolled off top end.
I take it as "softer" not cold/crisp or "tin can" like. Similar to tube amps vs solid state amps. "Warmth - softer - fuller" Like the 50yo version of Sandra Bullock, not the 20yo version.😉
@@welderfixer this makes sense and explained well!
@@welderfixer Sandra Bullock 20 vs 50 is perfect analogy for warmth
@@welderfixer Stop with the snake oil terms. Be technical and specific or get out.
I don´t want natural sounding hps - I only care about emotions. I want to forget everything and dissolve myself into the music.
Just ordered the Sivga Robin's and saw the video title and I'm like oh shoot new Meze maybe I made the wrong decision, and then I saw it was $800... Nevermind I'm good lol. But I would totally get these if I had $800 to spend
The Sivga Robin are fantastic, the 99 classic have long been my favourite lower priced closed back, Got some Robins on sale for about half price of the Meze 99 and they are every bit as good. Maybe not as good on bass by just a smidge, but the mids and treble are better. Great value headphone
@@wooddragon576 awesome thanks! I'm excited. It's my first pair that are closest to anything "Hifi". They will be for my nightstand setup. From Android phone to iFi Zen Air DAC to Sivga's. I'm going to try the headphone AMP in the Air DAC first and see if I need to upgrade that or not
I found the meze balanced silver cable made the 99's really come alive, but that cable is half the price of the 99 so it had better. Audiophile Ninja makes a balanced cable that fits the Meze's which are less than half the price of silver cable and sound just as good. They will also make you a custom length if you ask . Ive ordered two custom length cables that shipped in 1 day.
Balanced, and especially silver cables DO NOT make your headphones sound better. Silver cables are nothing but expensive audiophile branded snake oil. Balanced cables are designed to ELIMINATE NOISE caused by running cables over long distances. They do carry more power from the amp to your headphone, that creates the ILLUSION that the cable is affecting the sound quality when in reality it is only making it louder by providing more power. So if you have an amp that is too low powered to drive a high impedance headphone, connecting to a balanced cable may actually be beneficial but still will not effect the overall sound quality. You can also get the same result by turning your gain up a lvl and turning your volume knob up. SAVE YOUR MONEY FOR BETTER EQUIPMENT AND HEADPHONES!!!
Cables aren't cats, they don't have a preference
Also no excuse for proprietary cables
I like my Breyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro for $600.
i guess the aligiance are the Empyreans ?
Do they sound like a nice, warm hot apple pie?
think I'll stick to my ksc75's
It a bit out of reach, I have a pair of Grado SR125's, i bought them 2008, and I choose that model as it was the least expensive in their lineup that offered a flat frequency response, they will go loud, but rarely worn, until earlier this summer, I had bought Koss KPH40i's and some fat pads to go on them. and they did sound great with those pads, but I didn't know when I bought them to get the clear, which is more flexible, so what I'm saying is my head was a bit too big for the headband and it let go...that was when I realized I had a pair of Koss PortaPro's, threw the big pads on those, amazing again...and after that headbands guides began letting go, I decided to uncover the SR125s. and am I ever glad I did, they very suddenly became so warm, and not unlike the kph40is, and that headband is so old school and tough, I think I've found a winner.
Gotta stick with my ancient Fostex T-10s.
I was underwhelmed by the Edition XS with my Mojo 2. Not particularly impressed with that either. From other reviews these are fine for the money but nothing special. I think headphones in particular are very subjective due to ear shape, head size etc, so what might sound great to one person, less so to someone else. Agree on measurements. Definitely audition.
They honestly don't look like an 800$ headphones, more like 500$, couldn't you get better headphones for that price? Focal clear, used lcd x (2021 version) possibly even some dan clarks.
I've had focal and I really didn't understand why people like them so much. And I bought them used. I also own the DC. I like the DC's. these were very nice. Easy listening without sacrificing too much detail. I like them a lot.
@@cheapaudioman maybe your experience is different. I'd say we listen to similar music, mostly hardrock, deathcore and thrash. focal headphones are very discomforting and heavy, im not a big fan of that headband, compared to the lcd x the weight disturbution is better and I love the headband, and pads. Have you ever tried on and reviewed a fostex th900? I've never tried them but apparently they sound really good with metal and are beautifuly handmade as seen in their manufacturing video of the th900
@@dontbeedgy I haven’t tried those. Would love to try them though
The focal clears are an amazing value now that they’re $1500 retail price is about 900 or 915 at most online retailers.
But these improve on the focal clear in the ways I was looking for, and I am selling my clears and keeping these.
They are infinitely more comfortable, much lighter on the head for extended, listening sessions or example. And they improve on the sound stage and tambre issues that the focal clears had.
These are obviously not giant differences, and both products are excellent at their current prices, but owning and trying both, I can tell you that the Meze 109 pro is in fact a bargain because for many people, myself included, it is improving on what is a benchmark headphone in the hobby at a lower price.
Oh yeah I can afford 800 headphones , not-so-cheap audioman🙄
#4
Are they made in China or Romania?
Romania by Antonio Meze
Hahahaha, that box drop.
Looked like a bad finish on that wood close to the inner surround.
Meze has 2 lines of custom headphone cables...
hi, nice!
Very surprised you didn’t find these sibilant but the hd800s sibilant. I don’t find either one that way but the frequency response would show these as a bit hot even compared to the hd800s.
Great headphones though. Love the build and sound. It’s hard to assess value on these because so many headphones are crazy expensive, but relative to other more expensive headphones these look like a great deal imho
this couldn't sound more different from each other compared to the hd800s. I heard zero sibilance on these. that's kind of a deal breaker for me on headphones. I don't look at measurements though before I listen. And yes... headphone prices are all over the map. Headphone world is a cold and scary place
Too rich for my blood! But still love the video!
that angled cable hole is a sin just to sell overpriced meze cables
I thought you were the CHEAP audio man tho?
Much cheaper than the 4K Elites
Hey cheapaudioman... nothing cheap about these.
# 6. Maybe 7
do not file the tips.
$ 800? yea that's cheap audio 😄
I just looked at the link. I think you need to take "cheap" out of your name.
#3
@@cheapaudioman what's #3 mean?
@@MichaelSidneyTimpson he's counting the Karens
👍👍
The Zeos unboxing experience is a bit better and that's saying something.
I take that back. From what I've seen does Zeos unboxing experience is worse than being eaten alive by fire ants.