If you look at headphones from mainstream manufacturers, they look kind of boring. There’s nothing wrong with the designs, it’s just not particularly “wow.” Obviously the main thing about headphones is the sound, but why can’t they look good AND sound good too? That’s what Meze Audio has attempted to do with its latest pair of headphones, the STRADA .
Meet the Meze Audio STRADA headphones
When it comes to incorporating exotic materials into its headphones, Meze Audio is no stranger to that . The company’s 99 Classics headphones have a very classy look, thanks to the use of wooden earcups. This is why Meze Audio is hoping to repeat that success with its STRADA headphones.
These closed-back headphones feature Macassar ebony ear cups with natural grain patterns. This means that each pair is visually unique. Meze Audio is also borrowing some tech and design from its other headphones. For the STRADA, the chassis is similar to the company’s LIRIC series, but they adapted it for dynamic drivers. The frame is made from magnesium and sports a deep green finish with a metallic shimmer.
The earcups also feature magnets. This allows them to attach and detach easily from the frame for quick swapping. Last but not least, the headband features a cross-pattern cushion layout, which Meze Audio says will help spread pressure evenly. But of course, looks are just one part of it. In terms of audio quality, Meze Audio isn’t skimping out either.
What about audio quality?
At the heart of these headphones is a 50mm dynamic driver that debuted in Meze’s 109 PRO model. The company brought it back specifically for closed-back performance. The dome uses carbon fiber-reinforced cellulose composite for high-frequency detail. At the same time, the surrounding torus gets a beryllium coating through Physical Vapor Deposition.
According to Meze, listeners of the headphones can expect slight bass lift, a neutral midrange, and smooth treble that extends to 30Hz. Because these are closed-back headphones, it helps with noise isolation. Note that this is passive, not active, so its effectiveness may vary depending on your surroundings. Lastly, the headphones have a 40-ohm impedance. This allows users to use it with most audio sources without a dedicated amp.
If these headphones appeal to you, they won’t come cheap. They’re priced at $799, putting it above mainstream competition like Sony and Bose . However, it is cheaper than some of Meze’s other offerings , placing it somewhere in the middle.
