Field Test · Studio Gear Review
Meze Audio Elite Tungsten
A detailed technical assessment of Meze Audio’s Elite Tungsten headphones
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Spec Sheet
- Wired
- Circumaural
- Open-back design
- Magnetostatic
- Frequency range: 3 Hz – 112,000 Hz
- Impedance: 32 ohm
- Max. sound pressure level: 101 dB SPL (1 kHz/1 mW)
- Rinaro Isodynamic Hybrid Array driver
- Total harmonic distortion: < 0.05 % @ 1 kHz
- Removable isomagnetic ear pads made of leather and Alcantara
- Removable, bilaterally conducted smooth cable
- 2.5 m braided silver-plated PCUHD cable with 6.3 mm jack plug
- Leather headband and carbon fibre frame
- Aluminium housing
- Weight: 372 g
- Colour: Black / Tungsten
- Includes ABS hard case with leather handle, hybrid ear pads (perforated Alcantara filling and leather cover) and angled Alcantara ear pads
Studio Log
| Available since | June 2025 |
|---|---|
| Item number | 616716 |
| Sales Unit | 1 piece(s) |
| Design | Over-Ear |
| System | Open |
| Impedance | 32 Ohms |
| Frequency range | 3 Hz – 112000 Hz |
| Adapter | No |
| Replacable Cable | Yes |
| Marrone/Argento | Black |
| Sensitivity | 101 dB |
| Type Of Connector | Jack |
| Weight | 372 g |
Demo Footage
Field Photography
QC Pass — Field Test
Customer Review Summary
[META]Explore the Meze Audio Elite Tungsten headphones, a premium magnetostatic open-back design with exceptional frequency range and build quality.Introduction to the Meze Audio Elite Tungsten
Launched in June 2025, the Meze Audio Elite Tungsten represents the brand’s flagship open-back headphone offering, positioned at a premium price of £3,499. Engineered for high-fidelity listening, these circumaural headphones feature a magnetostatic driver technology and boast an extensive frequency response from 3 Hz to 112,000 Hz. The Elite Tungsten aims to deliver an audiophile-grade experience with superb technical capabilities and meticulous craftsmanship.
Design and Build Quality
The Elite Tungsten employs a black and tungsten colour scheme, combining luxurious materials such as leather, Alcantara, carbon fibre, and aluminium. The headband is leather-wrapped and supported by a carbon fibre frame, contributing to a solid yet lightweight construction weighing 372 grams. The ear pads are crafted with removable isomagnetic hybrid materials, combining perforated Alcantara filling and leather covers, allowing users to adapt the comfort and acoustics. The headphones are wired, featuring a removable 2.5 m braided silver-plated PCUHD cable terminating in a 6.3 mm jack plug, designed for durability and low distortion.
Technical Specifications
- System: Open-back circumaural design
- Driver Technology: Rinaro Isodynamic Hybrid Array magnetostatic drivers
- Frequency Response: 3 Hz, 112,000 Hz
- Impedance: 32 ohms
- Sensitivity: 101 dB SPL (1 kHz/1 mW)
- Total Harmonic Distortion: Less than 0.05% at 1 kHz
This combination ensures the headphones can accurately reproduce the entire audible spectrum and beyond, with exceptionally low distortion, providing clarity and detail across all genres.
Acoustic Performance
The magnetostatic Rinaro driver array delivers a precise and transparent sound signature. Reviewers note an expansive soundstage unusual for headphones, creating a sense of space and immersion more akin to listening to high-end loudspeakers. The open-back design facilitates natural air flow, reducing resonance and ear fatigue during extended listening sessions. Tonal balance leans towards neutrality with an emphasis on transparency; bass is controlled and articulate rather than boosted, midrange is detailed without congestion, and treble extends crisply up to ultrasonic frequencies.
Comfort and Practical Usage
Despite the high-end materials and sophisticated design, the headphones remain comfortable for extended wear. The hybrid ear pads and adjustable carbon fibre headband accommodate various head sizes, including narrower heads around a 57 cm circumference. At 372 grams, the Elite Tungsten is relatively light for its category, reducing pressure on the skull. The removable cable option adds versatility for users who may prefer alternative connectors or require replacements over time.
Included Accessories and Packaging
The Elite Tungsten ships with an ABS hard case equipped with a leather handle, providing protection and convenience for transportation. Two additional sets of hybrid ear pads are included, the standard perforated Alcantara filling with leather covers, and a pair of angled Alcantara ear pads, allowing users to tailor the fit and acoustic signature to preference.
Summary and Verdict
At £3,499, Meze Audio’s Elite Tungsten is positioned in the very high-end audiophile segment. It excels in build quality, technical specifications, and acoustic performance. The headphones present a large and immersive soundstage paired with detailed and transparent sound reproduction, suitable primarily for music enjoyment rather than mixing or production tasks. The combination of materials such as leather, Alcantara, carbon fibre, and aluminium results in a comfortable and durable design. Removable cable and ear pads improve longevity and customization.
User feedback confirms the Elite Tungsten meets the expectations set by its ambitious price tag, with particular praise for its emotional engagement and immersive quality. The model’s open-back system and low distortion characteristics make it an exceptional choice for those seeking detailed and spacious sound reproduction in a premium headphone.
