Meze Audio, a name synonymous with premium audio experiences among discerning audiophiles, has consistently delivered exceptional—and often expensive—headphones. Known for their uncompromising build quality and rich sound, Meze’s creations have typically commanded prices reaching into the thousands of dollars. However, the landscape has shifted with the arrival of the Meze 105 AER open-back headphones. At $399, these represent Meze’s most accessible open-back offering to date, marking a significant step towards making high-fidelity audio more attainable. Available from mezeaudio.com in early December, the 105 AER promises to bring the celebrated Meze sound to a broader audience.
The 105 AER’s design is a refined evolution of the highly-regarded 109 Pro ($799). Maintaining Meze’s signature self-adjusting headband and luxuriously padded over-ear cushions for unparalleled comfort during extended listening sessions, the 105 AER introduces a fresh approach to materials and construction. Replacing the wood found in the 109 Pro, the 105 AER utilizes a blend of cast zinc alloy, stamped manganese spring steel, and polyurethane (PU) leather for the headband. This material shift contributes to a noticeable reduction in weight; at 11.8 ounces, the 105 AER is noticeably lighter than its 13-ounce predecessor, enhancing portability and wearability.
Powering the remarkable sound is a pair of meticulously engineered 50mm dynamic drivers. Meze describes the sound signature as ‘rich in detail, versatile and perfectly suited for all genres of music,’ further emphasizing a refined voicing with a slight boost in the bass and sub-bass frequencies. Sharing the 109 Pro’s impressive hi-res audio capabilities and wide frequency response (5Hz-30kHz), along with the sensitivity of 112 decibels SPL at 1kHz, 1 milliwatt, the 105 AER maintains audiophile-grade performance. A subtle difference lies in the impedance, which sits at 42 ohms compared to the 109 Pro’s 40 ohms.
Beyond the sonic excellence, Meze’s commitment to longevity and sustainability is evident in the 105 AER’s modular design. Built with repairable and replaceable components, users can extend the lifespan of these headphones, significantly reducing waste and offering a more environmentally conscious choice. The package includes Meze’s premium double-sided 3.5mm Kevlar-coated 1.8-meter (5.9-foot) cable and a protective hard case for reliable transport and storage, ensuring both longevity and sound protection for your investment.
The Meze 105 AER headphones represent a compelling proposition for audio enthusiasts seeking exceptional sound quality without breaking the bank. By combining premium materials and design with a surprisingly affordable price point, Meze has effectively democratized access to a level of audio performance previously reserved for the most exclusive market segments. With a release date in early December, these are headphones that should undoubtedly be on every audiophile’s radar.
