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ELITE
THE SOUND OF PURE EMOTION
PASSION BROUGHT US HERE. TECHNOLOGY MADE IT HAPPEN.
At Meze Audio, we aim to transform each listening session into a multi-sensory experience you can get lost in. With a no-compromise mindset, driven by our love for art and sound, we use innovative designs and technologies that perfectly complete each other to create pure emotion.
- Open-back, Circumaural headphones
- Revolutionary isomagnetic earpads
- Aluminium CNC frame
- Carbon fiber headband
- Patent Pending pressure distribution wings
- Anthropometric earcup shape
- CNC milled grills
- Diaphragm type: Rinaro Parus [MZ3SE]
- Frequency range: 3 112.000 Hz
- Impedance: 32 Ohm
- Sensitivity: 101 dB (1mW/1kHz)
- Maximum SPL: > 130 dB
- Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): < 0.05% (in the whole frequency range)
- Headphone connectors: 2x 4 pin mini-XLR
- Weight: ~372 gr or 13.1 oz (without earpads)
"With Elite, we've created something that transcends all barriers of headphone design and engineering and moves to a new, artistic, graceful level. Following in the footsteps of a successful partnership, together with Rinaro Isodynamics we managed to exceed our expectations once again and create something for the ages. It's not mass production; it's the craftsmanship that sparks the magic and wonder in Elite, what makes it exciting, and these are values that we choose over any shortcuts." -Antonio Meze, Lead Designer and Founder of Meze Audio
BEAUTIFUL AESTHETICS. TAILORED FOR LONG LISTENING SESSIONS
A core belief of Meze Audio is to create products that last through years and years of industry changes, bringing long-lasting value to the customer. Elite is no different. From looks to technology, this headphone was designed to surpass all short-living trends and become a true heirloom.
IT'S ALL IN THE DETAILS
Materials were chosen not just for the exciting sensory experience their raw texture provides, but also for comfort and durability.
Aluminium frame
The high precision CNC sculpted chassis is milled from a single piece of solid aluminum, a process that takes approximately 20 hours.
Adjustable headband
The carbon fiber and leather structure of the headband ensure an ultra-lightweight, comfortable fit.
CNC milled grille
A deep black grille with intricate carvings completes the look, turning Elite into a futuristic take on personal audio design.
TUNGSTEN-INSPIRED RESILIENCE
Naturally found on various mineral deposits, tungsten ore becomes one of the toughest metals on earth, when processed. The color we chose for this headphone is similar to what tungsten looks in its final form, and we chose it as a visual metaphor for our commitment to making things that are reliable, things that last well through the years. We achieved this stone-like texture by coating each piece of the frame with Cerakote, one of the best types of finishes out there.
Traditionally used for the automotive, aerospace, defence, and healthcare industries, Cerakote coatings are renowned for their high resistance, unmatched hardness and outstanding UV resistance. The unique structure of Cerakote not only offers a beautiful finish and a significant increase in durability, but does so without adding any unnecessary weight to the headphone chassis.
OVER THIRTY YEARS OF AUDIO INNOVATION
Rinaro Isodynamics was founded in Ukraine during the Cold War to research acoustic technology and has been innovating in planar magnetics for over 30 years. They expanded with new R&D and manufacturing facilities in Ukraine and Poland, which were instrumental in developing Isodynamic Hybrid Array technology used in EMPYREAN, ELITE, LIRIC, and POET headphones.
THE PROGRESSION OF THE FLAGSHIP
With a custom Rinaro-designed driver, Elite delivers a powerful, lifelike and immersive experience that awakens the senses of the listener. Combining the outstanding mechanical design and ergonomics from Meze Audio with the signature technology of Rinaro, Elite sets a new standard in top-of-the-line performance.
ISODYNAMIC is a registered trademark of Rinaro Isodynamics Limited
ULTRA LOW DISTORTION
Total harmonic distortion (THD) measures under 0.05% throughout the audible frequency range.
LIGHTWEIGHT
75 g combined driver weight designed to create a headphone that offers prolonged listening sessions.
ULTRA HIGH RESOLUTION AUDIO
Upper frequency limit of audio reproduction is 112,000 Hz.
RINARO PARUS DIAPHRAGM
An innovative low mass acoustic diaphragm constructed on an ultrathin biaxially oriented semi-crystalline film.
EASY TO DRIVE
101 dB SPL/mW at 1 kHz; 32 Ohm; can be driven by almost any source without the need for amplification.
PATENTED ISODYNAMIC HYBRID ARRAY TECHNOLOGY
One of the most sophisticated and advanced planar magnetic technologies in the world.
DRIVER ARCHITECTURE
[MZ3SE] CASING
Reinforced polymer housing designed to withstand the demanding 12,7 N load generated by the Hybrid Magnet Array.
[MZ3SE] RINARO PARUS DIAPHRAGM
Weighing only 0.11 g with a large active area of 4650 mm2.
HYBRID MAGNET ARRAY
Symmetrically placed on either side of the diaphragm, neodymium magnets are arranged into a Hybrid Array to create a 0.35 Tesla Isodynamic magnetic field required for a uniform activation across the whole diaphragm surface.
RINARO PARUS AN INNOVATIVE DIAPHRAGM MATERIAL
The driver behind Elite features Rinaro Parus, a low-mass acoustic diaphragm made of an ultra-thin polymer film. This film, when combined with Isodynamic Hybrid Array Driver tech, produces natural sound and a wide soundstage, improving definition and speed across the frequency range. The polymer is made using a process of sequential biaxial lengthening that improves its structural performance, resulting in remarkable strength, stiffness, and stability, with an extremely low acoustic mass.
DUAL DRIVEN SYSTEM
The Isodynamic Hybrid Array enhances sound intensity distribution at high frequencies, resolving issues with traditional arrays where reflected signals negatively affect 3D sound imaging. Dual coil arrays provide better frequency targeting within different ear areas, improving auditory perception of higher frequencies.
SWITCHBACK COIL
The switchback coil is more efficient at reproducing lower frequencies and is positioned in the upper part of the driver.
SPIRAL COIL
The spiral coil is more efficient at reproducing middle-high frequencies and is positioned directly over the ear canal, enabling more direct sound waves to enter the ear without any time delays.
Positioning the most efficient part of a diaphragm in mid-high frequencies directly over the ear canal can increase direct sound waves and improve 3D imaging and spatial localization in the ear canal for frequencies above 10 kHz.
ISOMAGNETIC EAR PAD ATTACHMENT REVOLUTIONARY EAR PAD TECHNOLOGY
An innovative design feature developed by Rinaro is the Isomagnetic ear pad attachment, which utilises the demagnetizing field generated by the driver to hold the earpad in place whilst also redirecting the magnetic field back into the driver and improving efficiency.
95% MAGNETIC FIELD SHIELDING
Reinforced polymer housing designed to withstand the demanding 12,7 N load generated by the Hybrid Magnet Array.
RINARO PARUS DIAPHRAGM
Weighing only 0.11 g with a large active area of 4650 mm2.
HYBRID MAGNET ARRAY
Symmetrically placed on either side of the diaphragm, neodymium magnets are arranged into a Hybrid Array to create a 0.35 Tesla Isodynamic magnetic field required for a uniform activation across the whole diaphragm surface.
CALIBRATE YOUR SOUND
Switch between two ear pad types for the ultimate customization.
ANGLED ALCANTARA
These earpads are designed to enhance the acoustic personality of your Elite, revealing new, exciting sound nuances. The angled shape creates more space inside the ear pad, which translates to an airier sound signature, with cleaner bass and improved presence in the mid-range frequency. Made of soft foam coated with Alcantara, with a fine protective mesh on the grille, the angled ear pads provide increased wearing comfort for most ear shapes.
HYBRID (Perforated Alcantara Interior Real Leather Exterior)
With a soft, yet durable outer finish, the HYBRID ear cushions perfectly balance the qualities of Alcantara and leather into a single design. Besides the high wearing comfort, this unique combo delivers an airy sound signature, in which sound waves appear to trancend the space around you to create an immersive experience.
PRESSURE DISTRIBUTION WINGS
The patent-pending suspension wings support system is elongated and curved at both ends, descending further on the side of the head and distributing the weight of the headphone evenly, for an utmost comfortable listening experience.
DESIGNED FOR LIFE
Taking long-term sustainability to a new level, Elite is also fully serviceable: from the replaceable earpads to the high-performance materials used, every part of the headphone chassis is available to be easily disassembled and serviced.
INCLUDED ACCESSORIES
- High-strength ABS plastic suitcase with foam inserts and leather handle
- Two sets of earpads included:
- one Hybrid (perforated Alcantara interior leather exterior)
- one Angled Alcantara
- One cable included: Mini XLR to 6.3 mm, 2.5 m (8.2 ft) silver-plated PCUHD premium cable
SPECIFICATIONS
OVERVIEW | MZ3SE DRIVER | ||
Driver Type | Rinaro Isodynamic Hybrid Array | Geometrical Shape | Ovoid |
Operating Principle | Open | Size | 102 mm X 73 mm |
Ear Coupling | Circumaural | Driver Weight | 75 g |
Frequency Range | 3 Hz - 112 kHz | Casing | Fiberglass reinforced polymer |
Impedance | 32 | Diaphragm Type | Rinaro Parus [MZ3SE] |
Sensitivity | 101 dB SPL/mW at 1 kHz | Active Area | 4,650 mm2 |
Maximum SPL | >130 dB | Diaphragm Weight | 0.11 g |
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) | <0.05% | Acoustic Mass | 7.5 kg/m4 |
Weight | 433 g (15.27 oz) | Lower Frequency Limit | 3 Hz |
Input Connector | dual 4-Pin mini-XLR | Upper Frequency Limit | 112,000 Hz |
FAQ
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What technology powers the Meze Elite headphones?
The Meze Elite headphones are powered by Rinaro's Isodynamic Hybrid Array Driver, which combines switchback and spiral-shaped voice coils to deliver an accurate and immersive listening experience. This patented technology provides superior sound detail and spatial imaging. -
What makes the Elite different from other Meze headphones?
The Elite improves on Mezes previous designs with a new Rinaro Parus diaphragm, which enhances sound clarity, resolution, and speed across the entire frequency range. The headphones also feature premium materials like a carbon fiber headband and CNC aluminum frame for added comfort and durability. -
What are the Elites sound signature and performance capabilities?
The Elite offers a balanced sound signature with exceptional clarity and depth. It reproduces frequencies as low as 3 Hz and as high as 112,000 Hz, delivering a wide, natural soundstage. Total harmonic distortion (THD) is below 0.05%, ensuring distortion-free audio. -
How does the Isomagnetic earpad attachment work?
The Isomagnetic earpad attachment uses the demagnetizing field generated by the driver to hold the earpads in place. This design also helps to redirect the magnetic field back into the driver, improving its efficiency and reducing magnetic interference with the listener. -
What types of earpads come with the Elite headphones?
The Elite comes with two types of earpads:- Alcantara Earpads Known for comfort, these are made of 30mm deep Alcantara and are designed for detailed sound with smooth mid and high frequencies.
- Leather Alcantara Hybrid Earpads A new design that combines leather and Alcantara to reduce bass pressure while delivering an airy sound signature.
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Are the Meze Elite headphones easy to drive?
Yes, with a sensitivity of 101dB and an impedance of 32 Ohms, the Elite headphones can be driven by most sources, including portable devices, without the need for a dedicated amplifier. -
What is the Elite's diaphragm made of?
The Elites diaphragm features Rinaro Parus, an ultra-thin biaxially oriented semi-crystalline polymer film. This innovative material allows for exceptional sound transparency, low distortion, and a wide frequency response. -
How does the Elite handle high frequencies?
The Elite excels at high-frequency reproduction with an upper-frequency limit of 112,000 Hz, making it capable of delivering extremely detailed and lifelike audio across the spectrum. -
Is the Elite comfortable for long listening sessions?
Yes, the Elite features patent-pending pressure distribution wings and a carbon fiber headband that evenly distribute the headphones weight, providing long-term comfort. The lightweight materials and ergonomic design make it ideal for extended use. -
What is included in the Elites packaging?
The Elite comes with a high-strength ABS or aluminum suitcase, two sets of earpads (Hybrid and Alcantara), and one cable (Mini XLR to 6.3 mm, 2.5 m / 8.2 ft silver-plated PCUHD)
About Meze Audio
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. They strive to create products that are beautiful, yet meticulously engineered to deliver exceptional performance.
Each headphone Meze makes evokes a sense of timelessness and longevity, reflecting our commitment to lasting value. To them headphones are a perfect blend of design, high functionality and ergonomics. Meze Audio is a Romanian brand with soul and technical know-how that does it all out of pure love for sound and art.
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