Not long after Audeze released its professional headphones MM-500, made in collaboration with sound engineer Manny Marroquin (hence the MM in the name), the American manufacturer is ready with a new, more affordable model. Namely MM-100.
The MM-500 did not go unnoticed. I myself fell head over heels when I tested them in January, because in addition to sounding neutral and detailed enough as a tool for sound engineers, they have such a seductive sound quality about them that I sat and listened, and listened. And listen. In the bass range, they seem to surpass the top model LCD-5, and despite their weight of almost 500 grams, they remained comfortable over time.
The MM-500 is still more expensive than the vast majority can or will afford, and now Audeze sees its cut to offer something for sound engineers on a budget. The new MM-100 headphones fill this gap.
The MM-100 is also made in collaboration with Manny Marroquin, so it would be reasonable to believe that the tonal balance is fairly similar.
A dream for both studio and pleasure
The MM-500 has been developed by and for studio engineers, to reveal everything that lies in a recording. Something that also gives pure pleasure to “ordinary people”.
Planar magnetic headphones
Audeze only makes planar magnetic headphones, and the MM-100 is no exception. This requires a much larger membrane surface than dynamic clocks, and in the MM-100 Audeze uses the same drivers as in the MM-500, with a 90 mm membrane.
The weight has been reduced to 375 grams, down from 495 grams in the MM-500. These are therefore among the very lightest headphones from Audeze.
Tested by professionals
Audeze claims the MM-100 has been tested by several top artists, along with Manny Marroquin at Larrabee Studios in Hollywood. With high accuracy throughout the entire frequency range, to provide stable results that artists and technicians can trust.
The magnets in the drivers should provide high clarity with “class-leading low distortion”, and also make the headphones easy to drive.
The frame is made from an alloy of magnesium and aluminum for high rigidity and low weight, while the ear cushions and headband protection are filled with gel for high comfort.
The watches are turned in and flattened, which makes them easier to take with you when travelling.
New standard in performance?
– I am so happy to make studio-quality sound available to a wider audience, said Manny Marroquin according to the press release. – Everyone who works with sound needs a headphone they can trust, in or out of the studio, he added.
The goal of the MM-100 is to set a new standard in headphone performance for a wider audience. We in the editorial office are also very excited about this model. If the MM-100 manages to give a good touch of what the MM-500 delivers, then this may well become the model everyone else is measured against.
Audeze MM-100: Price and availability
The Audeze MM-100 will hit stores in May, and the price in the US is set at $399. We have received indications that the price in Norway may end up at around NOK 5,500. We will come back with more information about this, and of course we have already ordered the headphones in for testing.
More info: audeze.com
Tags: Audeze MM100 headphones professionals
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