Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen: An Audiophile’s Deep Dive
The world of personal audio has seen an explosion of innovation and choice, yet certain products manage to stand out not just for their technical prowess, but for their enduring appeal and timeless design. Among these, the Meze 99 Classics have carved out a special niche. Now, with the arrival of the Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen, enthusiasts and casual listeners alike are eager to discover what improvements and refinements this beloved model brings to the table. This comprehensive Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen Review aims to dissect every aspect of these headphones, from their acclaimed aesthetic to their intricate sound signature, helping you decide if they are indeed your next essential audio investment.
Meze Audio, a company rooted in the belief that design and sound should coexist in perfect harmony, has consistently delivered products that are as visually stunning as they are acoustically engaging. The original 99 Classics quickly became a benchmark for closed-back headphones in their price segment, celebrated for their warm, inviting sound and luxurious build. The 2nd Gen iteration promises to build upon this strong foundation, retaining the core characteristics that made its predecessor a hit while subtly enhancing the overall experience. Our journey through this review will explore whether these headphones live up to the legacy, offering a detailed look at their performance across various genres, their comfort during extended listening sessions, and their overall value in today’s competitive market.
The Legacy Continues: What Defines the Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen Review
A Brief History of Meze Audio
Meze Audio, founded by Antonio Meze in Baia Mare, Romania, emerged from a passion for art, design, and high-fidelity audio. The company’s philosophy revolves around creating products that are not merely technical devices, but objects of desire that connect listeners to their music on a deeper, more emotional level. Their breakthrough came with the original Meze 99 Classics, headphones that captivated the audio community with their exquisite real wood earcups, comfortable fit, and a sound signature that was both engaging and musical. This success established Meze as a serious contender in the audiophile world, proving that beauty and performance could indeed go hand-in-hand.
From the very beginning, Meze Audio has emphasized sustainable practices and a commitment to craftsmanship. Each pair of Meze 99 Classics is assembled with precision, using a unique construction method that avoids glues and plastics wherever possible, allowing for easy disassembly and repair. This dedication to longevity and quality is a hallmark of the brand and something that resonates deeply with discerning consumers. It’s this meticulous attention to detail that has fostered a loyal following and set high expectations for every new release, including the much-anticipated Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen.
Evolution from the Original Classics
When a product achieves cult status like the original 99 Classics, the task of creating a successor becomes particularly challenging. The goal isn’t to reinvent the wheel, but to refine, enhance, and perhaps address minor critiques without losing the essence that made the original so beloved. For the Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen, Meze Audio has taken a thoughtful approach, focusing on subtle yet impactful improvements. While the core design language remains largely unchanged, listeners can expect enhancements in driver tuning, material selections for improved durability, and perhaps even a slight adjustment in the accessories package.
The evolution often lies in the details that aren’t immediately visible, such as internal dampening materials, driver diaphragm composition, or even the quality of the cabling. These incremental changes, though seemingly minor, can collectively lead to a more refined sound, greater clarity, and an even more immersive listening experience. The challenge for any ‘2nd Gen’ product is to justify its existence by offering a tangible upgrade, and our in-depth Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen Review will meticulously examine whether these headphones successfully navigate that tightrope, delivering a superior experience without alienating fans of the original.
Design Philosophy and Aesthetics
The design philosophy of the Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen is a masterclass in understated elegance and functional artistry. The standout feature, of course, remains the real wood earcups, meticulously crafted and finished to reveal the natural grain and warmth of the material. This isn’t just an aesthetic choice; wood is known for its excellent acoustic properties, contributing to the headphones’ unique sound signature. The choice of materials extends beyond the wood, incorporating durable cast zinc alloy hardware, manganese spring steel for the headband, and comfortable memory foam ear pads.
The self-adjusting headband, a signature feature, ensures a perfect fit for a wide range of head sizes without the need for manual adjustment, further enhancing the user experience. This blend of natural materials, robust engineering, and ergonomic design results in headphones that feel as good as they look and sound. In an age where many gadgets prioritize transient trends, the Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen offers a refreshingly timeless aesthetic, designed to be admired and enjoyed for years to come. This commitment to enduring quality and sophisticated design is something we also appreciate in the long-term ownership experience of a luxury vehicle like the Mercedes-Benz Wagon, where craftsmanship and longevity are paramount.
Unboxing and First Impressions: A Tactile Experience
Packaging and Accessories
The unboxing experience of a premium audio product sets the tone for the entire ownership journey. Meze Audio understands this well, and the Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen arrives in packaging that is both protective and aesthetically pleasing. The sturdy, minimalist box hints at the quality within, and upon opening, you’re greeted with a thoughtfully arranged presentation. Typically, Meze includes a hard EVA carrying case, providing excellent protection for the headphones during travel. This robust case is essential for preserving the pristine condition of the wooden earcups and ensuring the longevity of your investment.
Beyond the case, the accessory bundle usually includes two detachable Kevlar-reinforced OFC cables: a longer 3m cable for home use and a shorter 1.2m cable with an in-line microphone and remote for portable devices. A 6.3mm jack adapter is also a standard inclusion, catering to a wider range of audio sources. The cables themselves are of high quality, designed to minimize microphonics and signal degradation. This comprehensive set of accessories underscores Meze’s commitment to providing a complete and versatile listening solution right out of the box, reflecting a holistic approach to user experience that extends to other premium tech offerings, such as great last-minute Christmas savings on premium tech and audio brands that prioritize value and completeness.
Initial Build Quality and Comfort Assessment
Picking up the Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen for the first time immediately conveys a sense of premium craftsmanship. The weight is substantial enough to feel solid and well-built, yet not so heavy as to cause discomfort. The smooth, cool touch of the real wood, combined with the precision-machined metal components, offers a tactile experience that cheap plastic headphones simply cannot replicate. The earcups swivel smoothly, and the self-adjusting headband mechanism glides effortlessly, adapting to your head shape without any fuss.
Initial comfort is outstanding. The ear pads, typically made of soft memory foam covered in a supple protein leather, conform gently around the ears, creating a good seal without excessive clamping force. The headband distributes the weight evenly across the top of the head, preventing any pressure points. Even before any music plays, the physical interaction with the Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen suggests a product designed for long-term enjoyment. This level of attention to ergonomic design is crucial for headphones intended for extended listening sessions, whether at home or on the go, and sets a high bar for the audio performance to match.
Audio Performance: Diving Deep into the Sound Signature
The true test of any audiophile headphone lies in its sound. The Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen enters the arena with a reputation for a warm, engaging, and musical sound signature. However, a “warm” sound can sometimes mask details or lead to muddiness if not expertly tuned. Our deep dive into the audio performance will reveal whether the 2nd Gen manages to maintain its signature warmth while delivering enhanced clarity and technical prowess.
Bass Response: Richness and Punch
The bass response of the Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen is immediately noticeable and undoubtedly one of its defining characteristics. It’s rich, full-bodied, and extends impressively deep, providing a satisfying rumble when called upon. Unlike some bass-heavy headphones that can become boomy or uncontrolled, the 99 Classics 2nd Gen manages to deliver a bass that is both impactful and articulate. There’s a good sense of texture and detail in the lower frequencies, allowing you to distinguish between different bass instruments and their nuances. Kick drums have a solid thwack, and basslines are rendered with a pleasing weight and presence.
This isn’t a neutral bass, but rather one that is tuned for enjoyment, adding a sense of grandeur and excitement to music. It provides a strong foundation for various genres, from electronic and hip-hop to classical and jazz, without overpowering the rest of the frequency spectrum. For those who appreciate a slightly elevated yet well-controlled bass, the Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen delivers in spades, creating an immersive and dynamic listening experience that truly brings music to life.
Mid-Range Clarity: Vocals and Instruments
Often, headphones with a prominent bass can struggle with mid-range clarity, leading to recessed vocals or a veiled presentation of instruments. Fortunately, the Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen largely avoids this pitfall. The mid-range is presented with a natural warmth and a good degree of presence. Vocals, both male and female, sound rich and emotive, positioned slightly forward in the mix without being aggressive. There’s a lovely organic quality to acoustic instruments like guitars, pianos, and strings, allowing their timbre to shine through with convincing realism.
While not analytical in the way some reference headphones might be, the mid-range of the 99 Classics 2nd Gen is undeniably musical and engaging. It draws you into the performance, making it easy to connect with the emotion of the music. The separation between instruments is good, preventing the sound from becoming congested, even in complex tracks. This balance between warmth and clarity in the mid-range is a testament to Meze’s tuning expertise and a key factor in the headphones’ overall appeal. Pairing these headphones with a high-quality audio source, perhaps even one incorporating innovations in unique smartphone tech, can further enhance this rich mid-range delivery.
Treble Extension: Sparkle Without Sibilance
The treble response of the Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen continues the theme of a smooth, non-fatiguing presentation. It offers a good amount of sparkle and air, preventing the sound from feeling dull or closed-in, but it does so without introducing harshness or sibilance. Cymbals shimmer naturally, and high-hats have a crispness that adds to the rhythmic drive of a track. The extension is adequate, revealing sufficient detail in the upper frequencies, though it might not have the extreme airiness or razor-sharp precision of some open-back planar magnetic headphones.
Crucially, the treble is forgiving. This means that even with poorly recorded or overly bright tracks, the 99 Classics 2nd Gen manages to present them in a listenable manner, reducing listener fatigue during long sessions. This characteristic makes them excellent daily drivers for a wide variety of music and sources. The balance achieved here—enough detail to be engaging, yet smooth enough to be enjoyable—is a significant strength, contributing to the headphones’ reputation as a musical and non-fatiguing listen.
Soundstage and Imaging: Immersion Factor
For a closed-back headphone, the Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen offers a surprisingly spacious soundstage. While it won’t rival the expansive, out-of-head experience of top-tier open-back designs, it creates a respectable sense of width and depth. Instruments are placed with a good degree of precision within this sonic landscape, allowing you to discern their relative positions. This competent imaging contributes significantly to the immersion factor, making it easier to visualize the arrangement of a band or the spatial cues in a live recording.
The soundstage isn’t artificially wide, but rather presents a natural and coherent space that feels “just right” for a closed-back design. This allows for a more engaging listening experience, pulling you into the music without making it feel cramped or claustrophobic. Whether you’re enjoying a complex orchestral piece or a minimalist electronic track, the 99 Classics 2nd Gen provides a convincing sense of space, enhancing the overall enjoyment and making them suitable for critical listening as well as casual enjoyment.
Technicalities: Resolution and Dynamics
In terms of technical performance, the Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen punches above its weight class for a closed-back dynamic driver headphone. Resolution, while not hyper-detailed, is very good, allowing listeners to pick out subtle nuances in recordings. You can hear the decay of notes, the texture of a vocalist’s breath, and the interplay of different instruments. The micro-details are present, contributing to a rich and layered sound without being overtly analytical or fatiguing.
Dynamic range is also a strong suit. The headphones handle sudden shifts in volume and intensity with ease, delivering both subtle crescendos and powerful explosions of sound with conviction. This dynamic prowess adds to the excitement and realism of the music, making the listening experience truly engaging. While they may not offer the ultimate in raw technicality compared to significantly more expensive audiophile options, the 99 Classics 2nd Gen provides a highly competent and enjoyable technical foundation that complements its musical sound signature perfectly.
Genre Versatility and Critical Listening
One of the most appealing aspects of the Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen is its impressive genre versatility. Its warm, engaging, and dynamic sound signature lends itself well to virtually any musical style. From the intricate layers of classical compositions to the driving rhythms of rock, the nuanced textures of jazz, and the deep bass of electronic music, these headphones handle it all with aplomb. They don’t impose a particular sonic character that limits enjoyment of certain genres; instead, they present music in a way that is consistently pleasing and immersive.
For critical listening, while not a true reference monitor, the 99 Classics 2nd Gen offers enough detail and separation to allow for enjoyable analysis of tracks. You can discern production choices, instrument placement, and vocal techniques without the sound becoming overly clinical. This balance makes them a fantastic choice for both casual listeners who want to enjoy their music and budding audiophiles looking for a headphone that can serve multiple purposes, from daily commutes to dedicated listening sessions. It’s a headphone that invites you to rediscover your music library, making every track a joyous experience.
Comfort and Build Quality: Designed for Extended Sessions
Ergonomics and Fit
Comfort is paramount for any headphone, especially those intended for extended listening. The Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen excels in this regard, thanks to its thoughtful ergonomic design. The self-adjusting headband, utilizing a manganese spring steel frame, adapts effortlessly to various head sizes and shapes, providing consistent pressure distribution without hot spots. This means you don’t have to fiddle with sliders; simply put them on, and they find their perfect fit.
The ear pads, typically made of medium-density memory foam encased in a soft, breathable protein leather, are plush and conform snugly around the ears. They create an effective seal for passive noise isolation without exerting excessive clamping force, which can lead to fatigue. The circumaural (over-ear) design ensures that the drivers don’t press against your ears, further enhancing comfort. Even after several hours of continuous wear, the 99 Classics 2nd Gen remain remarkably comfortable, making them ideal for long workdays, extended gaming sessions, or immersive music appreciation. This commitment to user comfort is a parallel to the thoughtful design seen in advanced health and sleep tracking devices like the Ring Air, where wearability and unobtrusiveness are key to user acceptance and long-term usage.
Material Selection and Durability
Meze Audio’s commitment to quality is evident in the material selection and robust build of the Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen. The star of the show, the real wooden earcups, are not only beautiful but also acoustically resonant and surprisingly durable. Each earcup is precisely milled and finished, ensuring a consistent look and feel. The use of cast zinc alloy hardware for the gimbals and other structural components provides excellent strength and resistance to wear and tear.
Crucially, Meze employs a unique construction method that uses no glue or plastic, relying instead on nuts, bolts, and interlocking parts. This not only enhances the aesthetic but also makes the headphones highly serviceable. Should a component wear out over time, it can be replaced, extending the lifespan of the headphones significantly. This modular design philosophy stands in stark contrast to many modern electronics, which are often designed for disposability. The 99 Classics 2nd Gen are built to last, representing a sustainable and long-term investment for the discerning audiophile.
Portability and Isolation
While not strictly designed as ultra-portable headphones, the Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen offers a good balance for use both at home and on the go. Their closed-back design provides decent passive noise isolation, making them suitable for use in moderately noisy environments like offices, cafes, or public transport. They won’t block out all external sound like active noise-cancelling headphones, but they do a commendable job of reducing ambient distractions, allowing you to focus on your music.
The inclusion of a durable hard carrying case and two different cable lengths (one shorter with an in-line mic for portable use) further enhances their practicality for travel. While they don’t fold down into a tiny package, the earcups do swivel flat, making them easier to store in the provided case or a backpack. Their robust build quality means they can withstand the rigors of daily commuting without concern, making them a versatile choice for listeners who demand quality sound wherever they go. This versatility aligns with the needs of modern consumers who seek high performance in various contexts, much like the demand for cutting-edge advancements in self-driving EVs that offer both luxury and advanced functionality on the road.
Value Proposition and Market Positioning
Competing in a Crowded Market
The headphone market is incredibly competitive, with options ranging from budget-friendly earbuds to ultra high-end audiophile statements. The Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen occupies a sweet spot, offering premium materials, exceptional comfort, and a highly enjoyable sound signature at a price point that, while not inexpensive, represents significant value. They compete against established brands and newer entrants, often distinguishing themselves through their unique aesthetic and warm, inviting sound.
What sets them apart is their holistic appeal. They aren’t just about raw technical performance; they offer an experience. The tactile pleasure of the wood, the effortless comfort, and the musical presentation all contribute to a product that feels special. In a market often saturated with plastic and generic designs, the 99 Classics 2nd Gen stands out as a product with soul and character. This distinctiveness allows them to carve out their own space, appealing to those who seek more than just sound reproduction but an emotional connection to their music and their gear.
Who are these Headphones For?
The Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen are ideally suited for a broad range of listeners:
- Music Lovers: Anyone who prioritizes an engaging, warm, and musical sound over an analytical or clinically neutral presentation will adore these.
- Audiophiles on the Go: While not strictly portable, their closed-back design and included case make them excellent companions for travel or office use, offering high-fidelity sound outside the home.
- Design Enthusiasts: Those who appreciate fine craftsmanship, natural materials, and timeless aesthetics will find the wooden earcups and elegant design highly appealing.
- Comfort Seekers: With their self-adjusting headband and plush ear pads, these headphones are built for hours of comfortable listening, making them perfect for long sessions.
- New Audiophiles: For individuals stepping into the world of high-fidelity audio, the 99 Classics 2nd Gen offer an accessible entry point that delivers a truly premium experience without being overly demanding on source equipment.
They are less suited for those who demand absolute neutrality for mixing or mastering purposes, or those who prefer an extremely airy, expansive soundstage typically found in high-end open-back headphones. However, for everyday enjoyment and immersion in music, the 99 Classics 2nd Gen are an outstanding choice.
Long-Term Ownership and Maintenance
The long-term ownership experience of the Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen is a significant advantage. As discussed, the glue-less, screw-based construction means that
