Audeze MM-100 Review: Premium Sound & Performance
▼ Summary
– The Audeze MM-100 headphones are designed for audio/video professionals, offering production-grade accuracy with planar magnetic drivers tuned for precision.
– Priced at $399/£399, the MM-100 features a premium magnesium and steel chassis and delivers a neutral, flat sound profile ideal for studio work.
– The open-back design provides a wide soundstage but lacks noise isolation, making sound leakage a potential issue in shared spaces.
– While the headphones excel in accuracy, they require EQ adjustments for a more consumer-friendly sound, making them less suitable for plug-and-play users.
– The MM-100 is best suited for editors and engineers prioritizing sound precision, while casual listeners or gamers may prefer alternatives like the Audeze Maxwell.
The Audeze MM-100 headphones deliver studio-grade precision for professionals who demand uncompromising audio accuracy. Designed with planar magnetic drivers tuned by Grammy-winning producer Manny Marroquin, these open-back headphones offer a neutral, detailed sound profile that excels in production environments. While they require some EQ adjustment for casual listening, their exceptional clarity and build quality make them a standout choice for serious audio work.
Priced at $399, the MM-100 isn’t for everyone, its flat frequency response may initially feel stark compared to consumer headphones. But for editors, engineers, and audiophiles, this level of precision is invaluable. The 90mm planar magnetic drivers reproduce sound with remarkable separation, revealing nuances often lost in traditional dynamic drivers. The open-back design enhances soundstage width, though it does mean sound leakage, making them less ideal for shared spaces.
Comfort is a mixed bag. The 475g weight feels substantial, and extended wear can strain the neck, but the cooling-gel earpads and faux-leather headband ensure long sessions remain bearable. Gamers will appreciate the immersive soundscape, though the lack of a built-in mic limits multiplayer practicality.
For those willing to tweak an EQ, the MM-100 transforms into a versatile performer. A slight bass boost and midrange adjustment bring warmth without sacrificing accuracy. However, if plug-and-play convenience is a priority, alternatives like the Beyerdynamic MMX 300 or Audeze Maxwell may be better suited.
Ultimately, the MM-100 shines where precision matters most. Its studio-focused tuning, premium build, and planar magnetic clarity make it a top-tier tool for professionals. While not the easiest headphone to love out of the box, its potential is undeniable, once dialed in, it delivers an experience few rivals can match.
(Source: PC Gamer)
