Meze Audio 99 Neo

Top-notch headphones with real value

When Antonio Meze handed me a pair of the Meze Audio 99 Neo headphones, I was surprised at how much they looked and felt like his company's premium 99 Classics headphones. We were at the CanJam NYC headphone show so I saw both models side by side. The big difference is the earcups: these headphones feature heavy-duty plastic 'cups, while the 99 Classics sport real wooden ones.

Other than that? Meze Audio was able to preserve much of what makes those well-respected headphones so special. Oh yeah, and at an even more affordable price.

Well-built and durable

Meze has an engineering background, so all of his products are designed and made with a high-level of craftmenship and attention to detail. And these 99 Neo headphones are no different. The smooth earcups, metal headband, and strong frame are held together by heavy-duty hardware. Meze avoids using glue, because he feels all parts should be easily replaceable — even though they are built to last. 

Do they sound different than the 99 Classics?

The differences between the Meze Audio's two over-ear models are not completely cosmetic. Sure, the drivers used here are the same found in the 99 Classics, tuned for clear, exciting sound with deep bass. But these headphones are slightly more efficient, so they can be driven more easily by your phone or laptop. 

I also found that the 99 Classics' walnut earcups  lend them a slightly more natural tonal quality. But vocals definitely nicely with the Neos. And the bass extension is still very strong — it just may not feel quite as organic. Overall, these 'phones have a fun, energetic sound profile that works well across all musical styles.

Lightweight and fuss-free fit

These headphones felt surprisingly lightweight in my hand. The heavy-duty steel headband uses a spring suspension system that seems to "pop" into place, without a lot of moving around or adjusting. For me, it was one and done. And the super-soft, split-leather ear pads surrounded my ear with the right combo of firmness and give.