INTRODUCTION

    Open or closed back headphones is probably the question I get most from people reading my reviews and well, it all depends on what you're looking for. Noise isolation, limited to no sound leakage, increased bass levels and higher durability are where closed back headphones shine whereas open back headphones do better in providing a more natural soundstage, better audio accuracy, awareness of your surroundings and optimal comfort levels (reduced heat buildup, lighter). Personally, I tend to prefer open back headphones since I mostly use them while at home or the office (and since I have pets awareness is important) so when Meze sent their 105 AER model just over a month ago I couldn't wait to try them on.

    Founded by industrial designer Antonio Meze in 2011, Meze Audio is a high-end audio company from Baia Mare, Romania, crafting headphones and earphones renewed for timeless design, pure comfort and engaging, vivid sound, timeless, original, purposeful. This is what best describes the Meze Audio design philosophy. We strive to create products that are beautiful, yet meticulously engineered to deliver exceptional performance. Each headphone we make evokes a sense of timelessness and longevity, reflecting our commitment to lasting value. To us headphones are a perfect blend of design, high functionality and ergonomics. We are a Romanian brand with soul and technical know-how that does it all out of pure love for sound and art.

   The open back 105 AER is based on two 50mm dynamic drivers that feature W-shaped carbon fiber reinforced cellulose composite domes complete with torus made of PEEK (polyether ether ketone) material and stabilizers made of copper-zinc alloy. This configuration allows the 105 AER drivers to produce frequency response of 5Hz-30KHz with 112dB sensitivity and 42Ohm impedance. Once again Meze has used several high quality materials for the new 105 AER including cast zinc alloy with PVC coating, PC-ABS for the earcups, velour dressed earpads and spring steel and PU leather for the self-adjusting headband. Typically, the 105 AER comes with a rich bundle which includes a hard EVA carrying/storage case, 1.8 meter long Kevlar OFC cable with 3.5mm jack, 6.3mm gold-plated jack adapter and a small cable pouch.