Field Test · Studio Gear Review
Meze Audio Empyrean II
In-depth technical assessment of Meze Audio’s flagship open-back headphones
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Spec Sheet
- Wired headphones
- Circumaural
- Open back
- Magnetostatic
- Frequency range: 8 Hz – 110,000 Hz
- Impdeance: 32 Ohm
- Max. sound pressure level: 90 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
- Leather headband and carbon fibre frame
- Aluminium housing
- Detachable, smooth 1.2 m cable with 6.3 mm jack
- Two-sided cable routing
- Weight: 285 g
- Colour: Black
- Includes cable, plastic case with leather handle, 2 leather Alcantara ear pads and 2 angled Alcantara ear pads
Studio Log
| Available since | June 2025 |
|---|---|
| Item number | 616735 |
| Sales Unit | 1 piece(s) |
| Design | Over-Ear |
| System | Open |
| Impedance | 32 Ohms |
| Frequency range | 8 Hz – 110000 Hz |
| Adapter | No |
| Replacable Cable | Yes |
| Marrone/Argento | Black |
| Sensitivity | 90 dB |
| Type Of Connector | Jack |
| Weight | 385 g |
Demo Footage
Field Photography
QC Pass — Field Test
Customer Review Summary
[META]Examining the Meze Audio Empyrean II’s design, sound performance, and build quality in a precise technical review.Introduction to the Meze Audio Empyrean II
Released in June 2025, the Meze Audio Empyrean II represents the latest evolution in Meze’s flagship over-ear, open-back headphone line. At £2,639, this magnetostatic model targets audiophiles seeking a premium listening experience. With a circumaural design and an impedance of 32 Ohms, the Empyrean II aims to combine comfort with high-fidelity sound reproduction.
Design and Build Quality
The Empyrean II features a robust aluminium housing supported by a carbon fibre frame, which keeps the weight at a manageable 285 grams. This balance of materials results in a headphone that feels both sturdy and surprisingly light on the head. The leather headband and isomagnetic ear pads, made from leather and Alcantara, enhance comfort and provide a secure fit for extended sessions. Furthermore, the ear pads and cable are replaceable, ensuring longevity and easy maintenance.
Included in the package are two sets of leather Alcantara ear pads plus two angled Alcantara options, allowing some customisation for comfort and acoustics. The detachable 1.2-metre cable with a 6.3 mm jack supports two-sided routing, giving users flexibility in managing cables.
Initial quality concerns emerged during early deliveries, with some units exhibiting visible adhesive residues on ear pads and other minor finishing imperfections. However, Meze’s customer service responded promptly by sending replacement pads, which reinforced confidence in the product’s overall quality assurance process.
Technical Specifications
- Driver Type: Rinaro Isodynamic Hybrid Array
- Frequency Response: 8 Hz to 110,000 Hz
- Impedance: 32 Ohms
- Sensitivity: 90 dB SPL at 1 kHz / 1 mW
- Total Harmonic Distortion: below 0.05% at 1 kHz
- System: Magnetostatic, open-back
- Weight: 285 g
The wide frequency range captures nuances from deep sub-bass through to ultrahigh frequencies, offering remarkable detail retrieval. The low distortion and moderate impedance indicate the Empyrean II is efficient enough for a variety of amplifiers but benefits significantly from well-suited high-current sources, as explained below.
Sound Performance and Amplification Needs
Listening tests highlight the Empyrean II’s distinctive warm and smooth signature. Unlike clinical digital sounding alternatives, these headphones provide a rich, fluid audio texture where vocals gain intimacy, and bass exhibits a dense, syrupy quality rather than sharp punchiness. This nuanced performance makes the Empyrean II particularly adept at conveying the emotion and depth of vocal and acoustic music genres.
Despite the comparatively low impedance of 32 Ohms, the Empyrean II is not a straightforward mass-appeal headphone. It requires considerable current and precise amplification to reveal its full potential. Its performance scales dramatically with high-quality tube-based DACs and specialised headphone amplifiers. When paired with such equipment, the headphones unfold their detail, clarity, and dynamic control notably.
Usage Scenarios and Sound Signature
This headphone excels in intimate listening environments where focus on vocal texture and tonal warmth is paramount. Users seeking an immersive analogue-like sound reminiscent of classic hi-fi rigs will find a rewarding experience in the Empyrean II. It is ideally suited to genres like jazz, acoustic, and vocal-centric music.
Conversely, it is less appropriate for vast orchestral works or energetic electronic music requiring a pronounced dynamic punch and speed. For such applications, other models in Meze’s range or competing designs with different tuning philosophies may be better choices.
Conclusion
The Meze Audio Empyrean II affirms Meze’s commitment to offering a refined, emotionally engaging listening device. It merges advanced magnetostatic technology with premium materials and careful design for optimum comfort. Although production inconsistencies caused early quality control questions, Meze’s responsive service mitigated these concerns.
Ultimately, the Empyrean II is a specialised instrument. Its warm sound and exceptional detail demand a compatible high-current amplification setup to fully shine. Audiophiles prepared to invest in such a system will discover a headphone with unique sonic character and long-term durability. For those prioritising analytical precision or maximum versatility, this model may not be the ideal fit, but for lovers of analogue warmth and vocal intimacy, it is a remarkable option.
