Field Test · Studio Gear Review
Meze Audio Liric 2nd Generation
Meze Audio’s magnetostatic closed-back headphones examined closely
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Spec Sheet
- Wired headphones
- Circumaural
- Closed-back design
- Magnetostatic
- Frequency range: 4 – 92.000 Hz
- Impedance: 61 Ohm
- Max. sound pressure level: 100 dB SPL (1 kHz/1 mW)
- Rinaro Isodynamic Hybrid Array MZ4 driver
- Total harmonic distortion: < 0.15 % @ 1 kHz
- Artificial leather ear pads
- Stainless steel headband with padding for optimal air circulation
- Housing made of Macassar ebony
- Detachable flat cable
- Two-sided cable routing
- 3.5 mm to 4.4 mm copper PCUHD jack cable (1.3 m) and 3.5 mm to 3.5 mm jack cable (3 m)
- Weight: 427 g
- Colour: Ebony / Black / Copper
- Includes 2 cables, cable bag, EVA case, faux leather box, 3.5 mm to 6.3 mm adapter and airplane adapter
Studio Log
| Available since | June 2025 |
|---|---|
| Item number | 616690 |
| Sales Unit | 1 piece(s) |
| Design | Over-Ear |
| System | CLosed Back |
| Impedance | 61 Ohms |
| Frequency range | 4 Hz – 92000 Hz |
| Adapter | Yes |
| Replacable Cable | Yes |
| Marrone/Argento | Black, Brown |
| Sensitivity | 100 dB |
| Type Of Connector | Mini Jack |
| Weight | 427 g |
Demo Footage
Field Photography
QC Pass — Field Test
Customer Review Summary
Introduction to the Meze Audio Liric 2nd Generation
Launched in June 2025, the Meze Audio Liric 2nd Generation represents an evolution in over-ear, closed-back headphones. Priced at £1,759, this model targets audiophiles looking for precision and build excellence. The key technical aspects revolve around its magnetostatic Rinaro Isodynamic Hybrid Array MZ4 drivers, wide frequency response, and premium materials.
Design and Build Quality
The Liric 2nd Generation features a circumaural, closed-back layout designed to provide isolation and rich sound detail. The ear pads are made of artificial leather, contributing to wearer comfort while sealing the ear for noise reduction. The headband uses stainless steel with padding, engineered for both durability and increased airflow, reducing heat buildup during extended listening sessions.
A notable design element is the use of Macassar ebony wood for the housing, conferring a distinctive visual style combined with natural acoustic properties. The headphones weigh 427 grams, balancing solid construction with manageable weight.
Technical Specifications and Components
- Driver technology: The Rinaro Isodynamic Hybrid Array MZ4 drivers are magnetostatic, promising precise sound reproduction with a total harmonic distortion below 0.15% at 1 kHz, indicating low coloration and distortion.
- Impedance and sensitivity: Rated at 61 Ohms impedance and 100 dB sensitivity, these headphones can deliver strong sound pressure levels efficiently with most dedicated headphone amplifiers.
- Frequency response: The frequency range spans from 4 Hz to 92,000 Hz, which extends well beyond the audible spectrum. This wide range suggests capability to reproduce ultra-low and ultra-high frequencies, potentially enhancing the perception of spatial detail and clarity.
- Sound pressure level: The maximum SPL is 100 dB at 1 kHz/1 mW, which is sufficient for loud listening while maintaining audio fidelity.
Connectivity and Accessories
The Liric 2nd Generation uses wired connections exclusively, featuring a mini jack connector with two detachable cables, a 1.3 m 3.5 mm to 4.4 mm copper PCUHD balanced cable and a 3 m 3.5 mm to 3.5 mm single-ended cable. Both cables utilise two-sided cable routing for user convenience and reduced wear. The inclusion of multiple cables extends compatibility with different audio sources.
Additional accessories include a 3.5 mm to 6.3 mm adapter, an airplane adapter, a cable bag, a protective EVA case, and a faux leather box, highlighting attention to portability and protection.
Summary of Technical Appeal
The Meze Audio Liric 2nd Generation combines a closed-back design with magnetostatic drivers to offer a detailed and immersive listening experience. The choice of Macassar ebony for the earcup housing and stainless steel parts ensures a premium and durable build. A notably wide frequency response and low distortion values indicate the headphones are geared towards high-fidelity audio reproduction.
Its 61 Ohm impedance requires a well-matched amplifier, and the detachable balanced and unbalanced cables enhance flexibility. The overall design prioritises wearer comfort with plush ear pads and a padded headband optimized for airflow.
Conclusion
From a strictly technical perspective, the Meze Audio Liric 2nd Generation offers an impressive array of features rare in a closed-back, over-ear headphone. Its magnetostatic hybrid drivers, comprehensive accessory package, and high-quality materials recommend it for audiophiles seeking detailed sound isolation combined with a luxurious build. The price point reflects its premium positioning and the advanced engineering under the hood.
