Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen.
MEZE AUDIO
Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen.
MEZE AUDIO
Description / Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen.
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A CLASSIC FIT FOR TODAYSince their release in 2015, the 99 Classics have made a significant impact on the headphone cultural landscape. In this sense, they have become iconic—a symbol. Meze Audio initially created them out of a desire to infuse life and passion into what is commonly perceived as technical objects. Meze Audio views headphones as vessels that contain its love for artistic expression and celebrate individuality. Ten years later, that vision continues to drive Meze Audio. As a celebration, the 2nd Generation 99 Classics arrive with a number of meaningful enhancements, all while preserving the spirit of the original. |
SAME ICONIC SILHOUETTEEverything that made the original headphone an instant classic is still present— the magnetic and inviting sound, the seamless comfort, the use of premium materials, the timeless design aesthetic— it’s all here. However, upon closer inspection and audition, the enhancements become more apparent. |
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10 IMPROVEMENTS |
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01 — TUNING DIRECTIONThe 2nd Gen 99 Classics move the signature closer to a balanced, neutral target. Bass remains engaging yet slightly more restrained, allowing midrange and treble details to emerge with greater clarity. The result is a more versatile headphone that retains the musical warmth of the original while offering improved overall balance and detail retrieval. |
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02 — DRIVER MATCHINGA refined matching process, using a mixed cosine function combined with level-adjustment algorithms, reduces inter-driver variance in the mid and high frequencies. The result is improved stereo image stability and a more consistent listening experience across pairs. |
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03 — INCREASED EAR CUP VOLUMEThe internal cup volume has been increased. A larger volume shifts cavity resonances downward and reduces standing-wave interactions, enhancing control in the low-frequency region and aligning with the new tuning goals. |
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04 — ACOUSTIC SEALING AND BASS PORTThe 2nd Gen introduces precision sealing at all key junctions. This improved sealing enables the use of a dedicated bass vent integrated into the jack shell, providing better control over lower frequencies, improved left–right consistency, and higher unit-to-unit reproducibility. |
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05 — BAFFLE ARCHITECTUREThe baffle has been re-engineered with acoustic transparency in mind. A more open grille and streamlined structural beams reduce diffraction and acoustic impedance in front of the driver, minimizing high-frequency artifacts. |
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06 — EAR PAD REDESIGNThe ear pads have been reshaped to adjust and increase the front cavity volume, refining the midrange balance toward the intended target. The attachment system has evolved from a stretch-skirt to a clip-on mechanism, ensuring fixed orientation, reducing variability, and simplifying replacement. |
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07 — SOUND TECHNICALITIESThe rebalanced tuning, enhanced acoustic consistency, and optimized internal geometry work together to improve stereo imaging and instrument separation, providing a more open and spacious soundstage. |
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08 — INPUT SOCKETThe input socket has been enlarged to 7 millimeters in diameter. This ensures compatibility with both slim-profile and larger-bodied 3.5 mm shells, welcoming a wider range of cables, including Meze Audio’s premium hand-braided copper and silver options. |
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09 — HIGH-QUALITY CABLEThe stock cable now uses a dual-twisted, Kevlar-sheathed OFC conductor. This maintains excellent electrical performance while improving tangle resistance, mechanical durability, and flexibility. |
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10 — MODERN PORTABILITYReflecting today’s usage patterns, a compact USB-C DAC/AMP is now included to ensure optimal performance with modern devices that lack dedicated headphone outputs. |
Features
- WALNUT WOOD EAR CUPS: Walnut wood is strong and durable, yet lightweight and malleable. The cups are CNC-machined, then hand-finished, stained, and polished.
- TWO TONALITIES: For those seeking a sound closer to the original 99 Classics, the 2nd Gen comes with a set of acoustic absorbers, allowing you to shift the balance towards a warmer signature.
- SELF-ADJUSTABLE HEADBAND: The vertically self-adjusting vegan leather headband, in combination with a spring steel band with a large active area, delivers a level of comfort that has been praised throughout the headphones industry.
- DETACHABLE EAR PADS: Crafted from medium-density foam and soft vegan leather, the ear pads now feature a secure clip-in system with six clips per pad, making them easier to attach, remove, and replace. Designed for long-term comfort and serviceability.
- SUSTAINABLE BY DESIGN: If we want to slow down replacement cycles and create something to be enjoyed for years, we have to find solutions for anything that could go wrong before it even happens. That’s why we make the 99 Classics fully serviceable. Ear cups, headband, cables, or driver, all pieces are replaceable
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
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| Driver Type | Dynamic |
| Driver Size | 40 mm |
| Total Harmonic Distortion | <0.1% at 1 kHz |
| Frequency Range | 15 Hz – 25 kHz |
| Sensitivity | 103 dB SPL/mW at 1 kHz |
| Impedance | 16 Ω |
| Ear Cups | Walnut Wood |
| Input Connector | Dual 3.5 mm TS Jack |
| Weight | 290 g (10.23 oz) |