Meze 99 CLASSICS 2nd Gen Headphones

The Meze 99 CLASSICS have been around since 2015, and in headphone terms, they’ve become something of an icon. The 2nd Gen keeps that familiar character intact while making a few thoughtful refinements along the way. The result is a headphone that feels inviting from the moment you put it on, with a balanced, natural presentation that manages to be engaging without becoming tiring. Bass has plenty of warmth and presence, while the mids and highs remain clear and composed, making the 99 CLASSICS equally happy with a quiet evening of listening or an extended session with a favourite album.

There’s also a reassuring sense that these headphones were designed to be lived with rather than simply admired. Walnut wood, spring steel and cast zinc give them a distinctive, tactile quality, while the ergonomic design and memory foam pads make them comfortable enough to disappear into the background after a while. The detachable cable now includes a USB-C adapter with its own DAC/AMP, adding a little modern convenience without compromising the analogue spirit. Even better, every component can be replaced, giving the 99 CLASSICS 2nd Gen a welcome sense of longevity. They may have become iconic, but Meze hasn’t treated that as an excuse to stand still.