Meze Elite Hybrid Array Isodynamic Headphone

Description

Overview

The Elite is the reference open-back headphone from Meze Audio, developed with driver specialist Rinaro. At its core is the Isodynamic Hybrid Array — a planar magnetic driver whose shape and dual magnetic arrays are engineered to place the most demanding audio content directly over the ear, for a natural, low-distortion presentation.

Design & build

The Elite is an open-back, circumaural (over-ear) design finished to the standard expected at this level. The driver’s ovoid geometry sits within a fibreglass-reinforced polymer casing, and the headphone ships with two interchangeable earpad options — angled Alcantara, and a hybrid leather/Alcantara pad — that allow the listener to fine-tune tonal balance and fit. It is supplied in a fitted case with a premium cable.

Sound & performance

The Elite offers an exceptionally wide bandwidth, with a quoted frequency range of 3Hz–112kHz and total harmonic distortion below 0.05%. At 32 ohms impedance and 101dB SPL/mW sensitivity it is straightforward to drive from quality headphone amplification, and it is capable of over 130dB maximum SPL. The result is a fast, resolving and even-handed sound with the spaciousness characteristic of a fine open-back design.

Key features

The Isodynamic Hybrid Array driver measures 102 × 73mm with a 4,650mm² active area, yet the diaphragm itself weighs just 0.11g. Dual four-pin mini-XLR connectors allow the cable to be swapped, and Meze offers silver-plated or copper PCUHD cables. The two supplied earpad types make the tonal balance genuinely adjustable.

Technology

Rinaro’s Isodynamic Hybrid Array uses two distinct planar magnetic coil arrays on a single diaphragm — one switchback, one spiral — positioned so that the frequencies the ear is most sensitive to are reproduced by the section of the driver sitting directly over the ear canal. This is the engineering behind the Elite’s low distortion, wide bandwidth and natural imaging.

Specifications

Type: open-back circumaural planar magnetic headphone. Driver: Rinaro Isodynamic Hybrid Array (MZ3SE), 102 × 73mm, 4,650mm² active area. Frequency range: 3Hz–112kHz. Impedance: 32 ohms. Sensitivity: 101dB SPL/mW at 1kHz. Maximum SPL: >130dB. THD: <0.05%. Weight: 372g. Connectors: dual 4-pin mini-XLR. Supplied with two earpad sets and a premium cable in a fitted case.

Who it’s for

The Elite is for the dedicated headphone listener who wants a genuine reference open-back — the resolution and speed of a top planar magnetic driver, with the tuning flexibility of interchangeable pads — paired with a capable headphone amplifier or DAC/amp.

Why buy from Hidden Home Technology

Headphones of this class reward the right amplification and source. We can advise on partnering equipment and cable options and arrange delivery across the South. Speak to our team to discuss the Elite and how to get the best from it.