It gives up a bit in terms of resolution and dynamic range but in return, you get something much more immediate, fun if you like, and an entirely suitable high-end listening experience for portable audio fans.

This LIRIC features the best of both natural, transparent qualities and enhanced, engaging dynamics paired with an incredibly tight and realistic room feel. With an innovative build and a sound that can be described as nothing other than state-of-the-art, the LIRIC is a game changer that rings in a new sonic future.

It’s well built, attractive to look at, and sounds like the high-end transducer that it is. It shined on acoustic music, and it could render complex layered passages of rock and roll or jazz without distortion or strain.

Closed back headphones are not for everyone and if you don’t specifically need one, I still recommend you to go for the Empyrean or Elite. If however you have the money and you really need a closed back headphone for a good reason, than the Meze Audio Liric certainly is one to put on top of your shortlist to audition.

There’s plenty to like about the Meze Audio Liric, though they prioritise sonic sophistication over the more visceral aspects of music

A unique set of headphones, the Meze Audio Liric offers open-back-like performance with the isolation of a closed back headphone. This is very much a luxury item, but it offers more than just a pretty product—it's an interesting set of headphones technologically speaking.

The Meze Audio Liric's price and configuration means they aren’t for everyone – you'll need as much investment in feeding them as you have in the headphones themselves. If they suit your purposes, though, you’re in for a treat.