Meze Audio Strada

Meze Audio has built its reputation on headphones that combine sophisticated industrial design, high quality sound and very solid construction. Models such as the Empyrean, Elite, 99 Classics and Liric have established the company as a manufacturer that prioritises longevity, serviceability and timeless aesthetics rather than seasonal trends. The Strada follows the same philosophy, carrying many solutions from the upper end of the range into a more mobile, closed back dynamic design. The new model is built at the company's headquarters in Baia Mare, where the headphones are assembled and finished by hand. This production approach, together with careful material selection, is meant to ensure not only high wearing comfort and sound performance at the level expected in this class but also full serviceability. Every key component can be replaced, which in practice means that the Meze Audio Strada is designed as a product for years of use rather than a disposable accessory.

In terms of construction the Strada borrows heavily from the well regarded planar magnetic Liric, yet the use of dynamic drivers has allowed a significant reduction in weight. The new headphone weighs 330 g and in combination with the refined headband and soft pads is intended to support long listening sessions both at home and on the move. The headband, lined with soft material, distributes the load evenly across the head, while the pads fully enclosing the ears help to cushion clamp pressure. The closed back earcups provide strong isolation from external noise and the acoustic chambers are lined with breathable Alcantara, which helps to dissipate moisture and increases comfort during extended sessions.

Sound in the Meze Audio Strada is handled by large 50 mm dynamic drivers adapted from the open back 109 Pro and tuned for closed back operation. Their cellulose composite dome has a distinctive 'W' profile to increase stiffness and control, while the surrounding torus ring is formed from an ultra thin semicrystalline polymer coated with a beryllium layer to further enhance durability and membrane control. According to Meze this combination results in a lively, transparent and low distortion sound with deep, well controlled bass, a natural and clearly articulated midrange and detailed treble that extends smoothly upwards without harshness. Ease of drive is also a central part of the design brief. With a low 40 ohm impedance and sensitivity rated at 111 dB the Strada does not need a powerful amplifier to show what it can do. It is intended to perform at a high level even with mobile sources such as portable audio players, which fits the idea of a headphone created to be equally at home in a domestic setup and accompanying the listener out of the house.

Visually the new model plays to one of Meze Audio's greatest strengths. The large earcups are finished in Macassar ebony with a characteristic golden brown grain that contrasts strikingly with the deep green magnesium frame. The result reflects the brand's recognisable design language while adding a bolder colour combination to the portfolio. The headphones use a modular construction that simplifies servicing and personalisation. Elements such as the magnetically attached earpads can be replaced with ease, so the owner can restore the Strada to factory fresh condition even after years of intensive use. Meze Audio Strada headphones will be available from authorised dealers from February this year. The manufacturer's suggested retail price is €799/$799/£799. Info and photos by Meze Audio.