By: Dipin Sehdev
When Meze Audio launched the original 99 Classics in 2015, few could have predicted the impact those walnut-and-gold headphones would have on the hi-fi landscape. In an era dominated by sterile studio designs and aggressive “bass boost” marketing, the 99 Classics stood apart—warm, musical, and unapologetically human. Nearly a decade later, they remain a reference point in the world of closed-back headphones, earning an 86% CE Critic score for their combination of timeless design and inviting sound.
Now, to celebrate their 10th anniversary, Meze Audio has unveiled the 99 Classics 2nd Generation, a comprehensive update that refines nearly every aspect of the headphone—without losing the soul that made the original a modern classic.
A Familiar Silhouette, Evolved for the Present
At first glance, the 99 Classics 2nd Generation looks almost identical to the original—walnut wood ear cups, the distinctive self-adjusting headband, and the gold-accented frame are all still here. But beneath the surface, Meze has made 10 key acoustic and ergonomic improvements, all aimed at greater precision, comfort, and longevity.
The design philosophy remains simple: combine organic materials with modern engineering to create an emotional listening experience. Meze hasn’t tried to reinvent the headphone; they’ve refined it.
“We view headphones as vessels that contain our love for artistic expression,” says Meze Audio founder Antonio Meze. “The 2nd Generation continues that story—only now, it’s more balanced, more versatile, and ready for another decade of listening.”
Refined Sound: Neutral, Natural, and Engaging
One of the biggest shifts in the 99 Classics 2nd Generation is its revised tuning direction. While the original was known for its lush, bass-rich signature, the new model leans closer to neutral—still musical and engaging, but with tighter control. Bass has been slightly reined in, allowing the mids and treble to breathe.
The result is a headphone that performs beautifully across genres—whether you’re enjoying the textured layering of a jazz trio, the precision of a string quartet, or the cinematic dynamics of an action soundtrack.
This refinement comes from a combination of driver matching algorithms, increased internal cup volume, and enhanced acoustic sealing. Meze has also introduced a dedicated bass port and a re-engineered baffle structure that minimizes high-frequency diffraction, leading to better imaging and a more open soundstage.
Comfort and Craftsmanship
Every Meze product walks the line between art and engineering, and the 99 Classics 2nd Generation continues that tradition. Each pair begins life as a block of solid walnut, air-dried for 45 days before being CNC-machined, hand-finished, stained, and polished. No two pairs are alike—each bears a unique wood grain pattern that adds to its charm.
The cast zinc hardware provides durability and a warm metallic luster, while the vegan leather headband and medium-density foam ear pads ensure long listening sessions remain fatigue-free. Meze has also introduced a clip-in ear pad system, replacing the older stretch-skirt design for easier replacement and improved acoustic consistency.
At 290 grams, the headphones are light enough for all-day use while maintaining a feeling of substantial quality—something few competitors in this price class achieve.
10 Years, 10 Improvements
Here’s a breakdown of what’s new inside the 99 Classics 2nd Generation:
-
Revised tuning – Closer to neutral, with better bass control.
-
Improved driver matching – Reduces variance for a more stable stereo image.
-
Increased ear cup volume – Improves low-end control and resonance behavior.
-
Enhanced acoustic sealing – Ensures left/right consistency and precision bass tuning.
-
Dedicated bass port – Integrated into the jack shell for repeatable accuracy.
-
Redesigned baffle – More open grille and smoother airflow for cleaner treble.
-
New ear pads – Refined front cavity volume and easy clip-in attachment.
-
Upgraded cable – Dual-twisted, Kevlar-sheathed OFC conductor for durability.
-
Wider input socket – Now 7mm, allowing better compatibility with third-party cables.
-
USB-C DAC/AMP included – Modern plug-and-play support for smartphones and laptops.
Acoustic Customization
In a thoughtful nod to longtime fans, Meze includes acoustic absorbers that can shift the headphone’s sound signature back toward the warmer tone of the original 99 Classics. By simply removing the ear pads and placing the absorbers into the designated slots, users can fine-tune the tonal balance to their liking—a subtle but meaningful feature that adds versatility.
Specs at a Glance
| Specification | Meze Audio 99 Classics 2nd Generation |
|---|---|
| Driver Type | Dynamic |
| Driver Size | 40 mm |
| Frequency Range | 15 Hz – 25 kHz |
| Impedance | 16 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 103 dB SPL/mW at 1 kHz |
| THD | <0.1% at 1 kHz |
| Input Connector | Dual 3.5 mm TS Jack |
| Weight | 290 g (10.23 oz) |
| Ear Cups | Solid walnut wood |
| Cable | Dual-twisted, Kevlar-sheathed OFC (1.8 m) |
| Extras | USB-C DAC/AMP, 6.3 mm adapter, acoustic absorbers |
| Packaging | 100% recyclable cardboard (no plastic or foam) |
Sustainable and Serviceable
In keeping with Meze’s philosophy of sustainability by design, every component of the 99 Classics 2nd Generation is replaceable—from the drivers and cables to the headband and ear pads. This makes them one of the few high-end headphones on the market that can be fully serviced, extending their lifespan far beyond that of typical consumer models.
Even the packaging reflects this eco-conscious mindset. Meze has transitioned to fully recyclable cardboard, removing all foam inserts and plastic bits. It’s a small but meaningful step in reducing waste while still ensuring the headphones arrive safely and elegantly presented.
Availability and Price
The Meze Audio 99 Classics 2nd Generation are available now directly from MezeAudio.com and authorized dealers worldwide.
-
Price: $349 / £349 / €349 (approx. AU$715)
-
Availability: Shipping now worldwide
-
Color Options: Natural Walnut with Gold or Silver accents
At this price point, Meze’s latest offering competes with strong contenders like the Grado SR325x (92% CE Critic Score), Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro (82% CE Critic Score), HiFiMAN Sundara (80% CE Critic Score), and Sennheiser HD 660S2 (80% CE Critic Score). But few of those models combine handcrafted wood aesthetics, built-in DAC/AMP support, and complete serviceability.
If the original’s 86% CE Critic score is anything to go by, expectations are high—and early impressions suggest Meze may have outdone themselves.
Why Room Acoustics Still Matter
No headphone, no matter how refined, can truly shine without proper acoustical consideration—and that’s a truth audiophiles often overlook. Whether in a dedicated 2-channel setup or a home theater environment, room treatment dramatically influences clarity, imaging, and tonal balance.
While the 99 Classics 2nd Generation offers incredible detail and control, pairing them with an acoustically treated environment—especially when used in open-back comparisons or as part of a system reference—helps you hear what the engineers intended.
It’s an area where companies like GIK Acoustics continue to lead, offering modern solutions that complement beautifully tuned products like Meze’s headphones. Great sound begins and ends with acoustics—your gear can only perform as well as the space allows it to.
Final Thoughts
The Meze Audio 99 Classics 2nd Generation is more than just a refresh—it’s a celebration of craftsmanship, sonic evolution, and design maturity. Every improvement feels deliberate, from the refined tuning to the updated baffle structure, from the USB-C DAC inclusion to the sustainable packaging.
Rather than chasing trends, Meze doubled down on what made the original special—organic sound, tactile build, and timeless aesthetics—while modernizing the experience for today’s listeners.
If the first 99 Classics defined Meze Audio’s arrival, the 2nd Generation solidifies its legacy. For $349, few headphones offer this level of artistry, balance, and long-term value.
And if history repeats itself, expect this sequel to earn another high CE Critic score—and a permanent spot among the most beloved headphones of its era.
