Meze Elite
Best open-back headphones for discerning audiophiles seeking ultimate comfort and fidelity.
Experience unparalleled audio fidelity with the Meze Elite headphones, where exclusive aesthetics meet cutting-edge engineering. Crafted for discerning audiophiles, these open-back headphones boast a CNC aluminum frame with intricate geometric detailing, a process that takes approximately 20 hours to complete. Designed for extended listening sessions, they feature patent-pending suspension wings for optimal weight distribution. The Elite headphones deliver ultra-high resolution sound through revolutionary driver technology and include two distinct earpad sets for personalized comfort and sound tuning.
$3999.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.8
/ 5
Category Rank
5
/ 5518
#5 in Headphones
Price vs Category Average
+580%
Above average
Driver type
Rinaro Isodynamic Hybrid Array Driver
/ Rinaro Isodynamic Hybrid Array Driver
Who it's for
- Collectors valuing premium craftsmanship and sophisticated industrial design
- Audiophiles seeking uncompromising clarity and a natural, expansive soundstage
- Listeners prioritizing long-term comfort during extended high-fidelity sessions
Who should skip it
- Commuters or office workers needing privacy and ambient noise rejection
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for high-end performance at accessible prices
- Minimalists wanting a simple setup without additional dedicated amplification
Performance breakdown
Audio Resolution
The hybrid array driver captures microscopic details with startling, lifelike precision.
Soundstage Depth
Open-back architecture creates an expansive, airy environment for complex musical arrangements.
Build Craftsmanship
CNC-machined aluminum detailing reflects an uncompromising commitment to luxury industrial design.
Ergonomic Comfort
Suspension wings distribute weight perfectly for fatigue-free, marathon listening sessions.
Harmonic Distortion
Ultra-low distortion levels ensure the signal remains pristine at any volume.
Tuning Versatility
Swappable earpads offer a clever way to tailor the sonic signature.
Key Specs
Driver type
Rinaro Isodynamic Hybrid Array Driver
Diaphragm Type
Rinaro Plus [MZ3SE]
Frequency Response
3 – 112,000 Hz
Impedance
32 ohm
Nominal SPL
101 dB (1mW/1kHz)
Maximum SPL
> 130 dB
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)
<0.05%
Weight
~ 420g
Features
- Rinaro Isodynamic Hybrid Array Driver technology
- Open-back design for natural soundstage
- Patent-pending pressure distribution wings
- Revolutionary isomagnetic ear pads
- Ultra-high resolution audio
- Lightweight, comfortable design
- Anthropometric ear cup shape
- Ultra-low distortion
What customers say
The Meze Elite headphones earn high praise for their exceptional comfort and world class sound quality. Owners consistently highlight the luxurious build quality, noting the premium durable materials and ergonomic design ideal for extended listening. Sonically, the experience is reference grade, revealing incredible detail across an expansive soundstage. The bass is deep and impactful while remaining perfectly controlled. This investment provides a holistic package, successfully combining superior audio performance with unparalleled wearability for the discerning listener.
Know before you buy
This driver technology combines two different voice coil shapes within the same diaphragm, allowing for more accurate sound reproduction across the entire frequency range. It results in ultra-low distortion and a highly detailed, high-resolution audio performance.
Yes, the Elite is designed for extended wear. It features patent-pending suspension wings that distribute weight evenly across your head, combined with an ergonomic, anthropometric ear cup shape that reduces pressure points.
The Meze Elite comes with two distinct sets of ear pads that allow you to tune the sound signature to your preference. Changing the pads alters the acoustic seal and distance from the driver, which can subtly shift the balance between warmth and analytical clarity.
While the 32-ohm impedance makes them technically easy to drive, the Elite is a high-end piece of equipment that benefits significantly from a dedicated headphone amplifier. To fully realize their potential for resolution and soundstage, a high-quality DAC and amp setup is recommended.
As an open-back design, the Meze Elite provides virtually no noise isolation. They are intended for quiet environments where you can fully appreciate the natural, expansive soundstage they create.
The headphones utilize a 2x4pin Mini-XLR connection at the ear cups. This allows for easy cable swapping if you prefer to use balanced cables or different lengths for your specific setup.
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