Meze Audio 99 Classics (2nd generation) walnut - gold
Specifications and features
Overview
The Meze Audio 99 Classics, in its second generation, embodies the evolution of an already iconic model. True to the spirit of the Romanian brand, it combines natural sound and musicality with meticulous craftsmanship. Its solid walnut shells reveal a timeless design, while its redesigned transducers and now-included USB-C converter demonstrate a masterful modernization. This closed-back headphone thus blends refined craftsmanship with contemporary technology, for a listening experience that is both warm and enduring.
Artisanal construction built to last
The 99 Classics stands out with its solid walnut shells, each unique thanks to the natural wood grain. CNC-machined then hand-finished, these earcups require 45 days of manufacturing and actively contribute to the headphone’s acoustic signature. The metal framework combines spring steel, zinc and manganese in an assembly weighing only 260 grams. The self-adjusting headband distributes pressure evenly across the skull without manual adjustment, while the cast zinc alloy inserts, treated by electrolysis, ensure connections between elements.
The entirely screwed construction, without glue, reflects a philosophy of radical durability. Each component can be replaced individually, transforming the 99 Classics into an heirloom object. Meze’s “endless” warranty, which commits to providing spare parts as long as the owner possesses the headphone, makes this promise of longevity concrete.
Refined transducers for greater naturalness
This second generation benefits from completely redesigned 40mm dynamic transducers. These precision-matched neodymium/mylar drivers deliver a more balanced sonic signature than the first iteration. The frequency response extends from 15 Hz to 25 kHz with remarkable regularity, presenting slightly lower sensitivity in the midrange that avoids any harshness.
The earcups have had their internal volume optimized to improve passive isolation while preserving a sense of space. This optimization results in a surprisingly wide soundstage for a closed-back headphone, with spatialization that defies the usual constraints of this type of design. The bass remains ample and controlled without bleeding into other registers.
With 32 ohms impedance and 103 dB sensitivity, the 99 Classics accommodates modest sources - a smartphone suffices. Connected to a dedicated amplifier, it nevertheless reveals a surprising ability to scale up, exploiting every improvement in the audio chain.
Comfort designed for listening marathons
The redesigned earpads employ medium-density memory foam, covered with particularly soft leatherette. This combination ensures effective isolation while maintaining uniform pressure, even for eyeglass wearers. The self-adjusting headband uses an elastic suspension that naturally conforms to the shape of the skull, eliminating localized pressure points.
Passive ventilation limits heat buildup during extended listening sessions. This attention to ergonomic details, combined with the remarkable lightness of the assembly, allows sessions of several hours without discomfort.
Modernized connectivity with included USB-C DAC
The major evolution of this generation lies in the inclusion of a digital-to-analog converter with USB-C amplifier. This accessory addresses the disappearance of headphone jacks on modern smartphones while significantly improving audio quality.
The new OFC copper dual-twist cable ensures optimal transmission. Two lengths are offered: 1.2 meters with remote and microphone for mobile use, 3 meters for stationary listening. The gold-plated 3.5mm mini-jack connectors, positioned under each earcup and protected by metal rings, accept any compatible cable, allowing exploration of balanced solutions for audiophile sources.
What the press says
Upon listening, first impressions of these Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen headphones are unquestionably positive. It would seem that the main flaws of the original model have, for the most part, been reduced or eliminated. The sound reproduction is pleasing, enjoyable even over long hours of use. The frequency response is well balanced, never too much or too little.[...] The only slight drawback concerns the very centered stereo image. Due to their closed earcups, these headphones offer a narrower soundstage than our reference model.[...] The Meze 99 Classics 2nd Gen delivers majestic sound reproduction for its category.[...] They are very seriously designed and optimized semi-portable hi-fi headphones. Their elegance and the care devoted to their finish are on par with their sound reproduction, which is well balanced, precise, transparent, and highly enjoyable.
Automatically translated — Show original (French)
Technical Specifications
Audio Performance
- Frequency response: 15 Hz – 25 kHz
- Total harmonic distortion: < 0.1% at 1 kHz
- Sensitivity: 103 dB SPL / mW at 1 kHz
- Impedance: 16 Ω
- Neutral and balanced sound signature with deep bass, clear midrange and precise treble
Drivers and Acoustics
- 40 mm matched dynamic drivers for superior sound reproduction
- Solid walnut wood earcups optimized for natural passive isolation
- Closed-back over-ear design
Design and Ergonomics
- Closed-back over-ear headphones for extended comfort
- Detachable memory foam ear cushions
- Self-adjusting headband for optimal fit
- Ergonomic design engineered for long-wearing comfort
- CNC-machined solid walnut earcups
- Die-cast zinc alloy inserts for durability and aesthetics
- Premium materials selected for their acoustic and aesthetic qualities
- Modular design for easy component replacement
- Optimized for long service life and simplified maintenance
Connectivity and Digital Audio
- USB-C digital-to-analog converter / amplifier included for compatibility with modern smartphones
- Input connector: USB-C / output: 3.5 mm mini-jack
- Compatible with 24-bit / 384 kHz pulse-code modulation
- Not compatible with Direct Stream Digital
Cables and Connectors
- Oxygen-free copper twisted-pair cable with Kevlar sheath, 1.8 m length
- Gold-plated 3.5 mm mini-jack plugs
- Detachable dual output
- Gold-plated 6.3 mm adapter plug included
Physical Specifications
- Dimensions: 185 × 205 × 95 mm
- Weight without cable: 260 g
Included Accessories
- Ethylene vinyl acetate carrying case
- Cable pouch
- 1.8 m dual output cable
- Gold-plated 6.3 mm adapter plug
- Custom 3.5 mm to USB-C adapter
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the headphone be used directly with a recent iPhone without a headphone jack?
Yes, thanks to the USB-C DAC/amplifier converter included with this second generation. This accessory connects to the Lightning port via an adapter (not included) or directly to the USB-C port of iPhone 15 models and later, offering audio quality superior to standard dongles.
What concrete difference between the walnut/gold and walnut/silver finishes?
Beyond the color of the metal accents (gold or silver), both versions are strictly identical in terms of audio components and sonic signature. The choice is purely a matter of personal aesthetic preferences. Both finishes use the same solid walnut with its unique natural variations.
Are the earpads suitable for people with large ears?
The size L earpads supplied as standard offer generous internal space that suits the majority of morphologies. For particularly large or sensitive ears, some users report slight contact with the internal foam. Meze offers alternative earpads, and many compatible third-party models exist on the market.
Does the headphone require a dedicated amplifier to function properly?
No, with its 32 ohms impedance and high sensitivity of 103 dB, the 99 Classics works perfectly with any source, smartphone included. A quality amplifier will however improve bass control, overall dynamics and soundstage precision, without being essential.
- Eco-contribution included in the sale price.
- Manufacturer reference: M99C-V2
- GTIN / EAN: 698596028876
