Each year, dozens of European journalists gather to select the best electronic products of the year. Awarded by a diverse and impartial jury, the EISA (Expert Imaging and Sound Association) awards recognize exceptional products for their performance, design, or ergonomics.
The Meze Audio 109 PRO is a high-end wired open-back hi-fi headphone that represents a new milestone for the Romanian manufacturer. Combining premium materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and advanced audio technologies, this model aims to deliver an immersive and natural listening experience for discerning audiophiles.
The 109 PRO boasts an elegant design that incorporates Meze Audio’s signature aesthetic while adding a modern touch. The walnut wood ear cups, a visual hallmark of the brand, are paired with an open spider-shaped frame and an acoustically transparent grille. This design not only expands the soundstage but also enhances the separation of sound layers.
The self-adjusting headband, made from a blend of steel, zinc, and manganese alloy, ensures optimal weight distribution across the head, while the velour ear pads provide maximum comfort for extended listening sessions. Every component of the headphone is precisely assembled without the use of glue, making it a true piece of audio craftsmanship.
At the heart of the 109 PRO are 50mm dynamic drivers specifically developed for this model. Their innovative design features a dual-structure composite diaphragm, combining performance with precision.
The W-shaped central dome is crafted from carbon-reinforced cellulose fibers, delivering excellent definition in high frequencies. It is surrounded by an ultra-thin 22-micron membrane made of a semi-crystalline polymer coated with beryllium. This combination enhances transient response and eliminates unwanted resonances, giving the headphones a neutral and transparent character.
A copper-zinc alloy stabilizer encircles the diaphragm, effectively absorbing vibrations to reduce distortion. The entire assembly is mounted on an aluminum chassis, ensuring stability and acoustic precision.
The Meze 109 PRO stands out with its natural and balanced sound reproduction. The bass frequencies are firm and well-defined, offering both impact and subtlety depending on the music genre. The midrange, particularly emphasized, is rich in detail and nuance, faithfully rendering vocals and instruments.
The treble is beautifully extended without ever becoming harsh. The wide and deep soundstage allows for clear instrument separation and precise localization of sound sources. This openness provides an airy and spacious listening experience, inviting users to rediscover their favorite tracks in a new light.
Despite its audiophile-grade performance, the 109 PRO is relatively easy to drive. With a sensitivity of 112 dB and an impedance of 40 ohms, it can be used with a wide range of devices, from smartphones to high-end amplifiers. However, it truly shines when paired with quality electronics.
The headphones come with two detachable cables of different lengths (1.5m and 3m), making them suitable for both portable and stationary use. A 6.35mm jack adapter is also included for optimal compatibility with home hi-fi equipment.
True to its philosophy, Meze Audio designed the 109 PRO with durability in mind. Every component of the headphone can be disassembled and replaced if necessary, significantly extending its lifespan. This responsible approach aligns with a desire to reduce environmental impact while offering a high-quality product built to last.
Luxurious, elegant and comfortable, the Meze 109 Pro is much more than an open-back version of the 99 Classics. This Hi-Fi headphone with a very rich and refined personality is a splendid electrodynamic success, whose only flaw is an excess of zeal in the very high frequencies.
While technically portable, the 109 PRO is primarily designed for home use. Its open-back design offers little sound isolation, making it less suitable for noisy environments.
The 109 PRO stands out with its open-back design, providing a wider and more airy soundstage compared to the closed-back 99 Classics. It also features more advanced drivers and a more neutral and detailed sound signature.
As with many high-end headphones, a break-in period can be beneficial for the 109 PRO. Around 50 hours of use will allow the drivers to stabilize and fully realize their sonic potential.
The headphones come with unbalanced cables, but they are compatible with optional balanced cables terminated with 2.5mm or 4.4mm connectors, enabling balanced connections with compatible devices.
A soft, dry cloth is usually sufficient to clean the wooden ear cups. Avoid using chemicals or water, as they could damage the wood. If needed, a small amount of linseed oil can be applied to nourish and protect the wood.
Clément
Excellent build quality, perfect softness of the foam, light weight, excellent sound for its price!
Comment from June 09, 2026
Ronan
Beautiful listening quality
The bass is well controlled
The voices are crystal clear
The highs are not fatiguing
What’s more, it’s a very beautiful object, very high quality
Fits the head perfectly and the ear pads are incredibly comfortable
I wanted to invest in good-quality hi-fi equipment, and I found listening pleasure again
Comment from May 21, 2026 — Experience from April 30, 2026
Cedric
This headset is excellent. I was able to listen to and compare several headsets when I went to the store. This is the one I preferred.
Comment from May 15, 2026 — Experience from May 04, 2026
