By: Dipin Sehdev
Meze Audio, the Romanian audiophile brand known for its premium headphones, expands its lineup with the 105 AER. Designed for discerning listeners seeking a rich and immersive listening experience, the 105 AER boasts open-back construction, meticulous craftsmanship, and innovative technology.
Tech Specs:
- Driver: 50mm dynamic driver with refined voicing
- Frequency Response: 5Hz – 30kHz
- Impedance: 42 Ω
- Sensitivity: 112 dB SPL @ 1kHz, 1mW
- Weight: 336g
- Ear Cups: PC-ABS
- Headband: Cast zinc alloy, stamped manganese spring steel, PU leather
- Ear Pads: Velour
Spacious Sound and Enhanced Bass:
The core of the 105 AER lies in its 50mm dynamic driver featuring Meze's refined voicing technology. This driver prioritizes bass and sub-bass response, creating a "more resonant foundation" for your music. The open-back design fosters a wide soundstage, resulting in a spacious and immersive listening experience.
Premium Materials and Ergonomic Design:
Meze is renowned for its commitment to quality materials and user comfort. The 105 AER exemplifies this philosophy. The headphones utilize cast zinc alloy and stamped manganese spring steel for a robust yet lightweight construction. The adjustable headband, crafted from PU leather, ensures a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions. Soft velour ear cushions further enhance comfort and provide an optimal seal. Weighing a mere 336 grams, the 105 AER is Meze's lightest open-back model to date.
Inspired by Art Deco and Built to Last:
Drawing inspiration from the Art Deco movement, the 105 AER boasts a sleek and sophisticated aesthetic. Senior Product Designer Paul ?te? describes the design as "Art Deco opulence, almost like a piece of jewellery masked in a mechanical structure." The headphones exude a timeless elegance, sure to appeal to design enthusiasts as well as audiophiles.
Following Meze's dedication to product longevity, the 105 AER boasts a modular design. This allows for easy disassembly, service, and replacement of individual parts, ensuring your headphones remain operational for years to come.
Successor to the Acclaimed 109 Pro:
The 105 AER positions itself as a more affordable alternative to Meze's award-winning 109 Pro headphones. While incorporating some design elements and "trickle-down technology" from the 109 Pro, the 105 AER achieves a significantly lower price point. This makes it an attractive option for audiophiles seeking a high-fidelity listening experience without breaking the bank. Meze emphasizes the 109 Pro received an impressive 88% Critic Score, showcasing the brand's commitment to sonic excellence.
Availability and Pricing:
The Meze Audio 105 AER headphones are scheduled for release in early December 2024. They will be available for purchase directly from Meze Audio's website and authorized retailers for a price of $399 USD / £359 GBP / €399 EUR.
Conclusion:
The Meze Audio 105 AER presents a compelling proposition for audiophiles seeking an immersive listening experience with a focus on rich sound and luxurious design. The combination of open-back architecture, refined drivers, premium materials, and a comfortable fit positions the 105 AER as a strong contender in the open-back headphone market, especially for those seeking value alongside performance.