Meze Audio Comparison: 109 Pro vs. 105 AER

Meze Audio, a Romanian company renowned for its high-quality audio products, has introduced the budget-friendly 105 AER open-back headphones. With their release, audiophiles and casual listeners alike are curious about how they compare to the acclaimed 109 Pro. While these models differ in price, they share several features worth exploring. Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to highlight their key differences and what each brings to the table.

What Comes In The Box

109 Pro – $899 105 AER – $399
  • 109 Pro Open-Back Headphones
  • Case: Hard EVA pouch
  • Included Cables:
    • 1.5m soft TPE cable, with black aluminum casings, ending with 3.5 mm jack
    • 3m soft TPE cable, with black aluminum casings, ending with 3.5 mm jack
    • Premium cable 4.4 mm Balanced Copper PCUHD Premium Cable
  • Adapters: 6.3mm gold-plated jack
  • 105 AER Open-Back Dynamic Headphones
  • Hard EVA Case
  • 6.3 mm gold-plated jack adapter
  • Mono 3.5 mm to 3.5 mm (1/8 in), 1.8 m (70.9 in) Kevlar OFC cable with mic and black aluminium casings

The accessories included with each model highlight their differing price points. The 105 AER offers a streamlined package, while the 109 Pro goes above and beyond with multiple cables, including a premium 4.4mm balanced copper cable (valued at $250 if purchased separately), significantly enhancing the value of the 109 Pro’s bundle.

Meze Audio 109 Pro
Meze Audio 105 AER

Aesthetics and Functionality

Both models share a similar basic design, including the iconic webbed ear cup pattern and self-adjusting headband. The ear pads on both models are crafted from velour, providing exceptional comfort for long listening sessions.

The 109 Pro features dark walnut wood ear cups, with gold accents that add a touch of luxury. In contrast, the 105 AER’s polymer ear cups and sleek all-black color palette offer a more modern and minimalist aesthetic. The rounded webbed design of the 105 AER is distinct from the more linear pattern on the 109 Pro.

In terms of functionality, the 105 AER includes a single Kevlar OFC cable that terminates in a 3.5mm jack with a 6.3mm adapter. The 109 Pro, on the other hand, includes multiple cables—most notably a premium 4.4mm balanced copper cable. Both models are simple to use and can be paired with entry-level amplifiers like the iFi GO Link Max or FiiO KA11 for enhanced performance.

 Tech Specs

109 Pro – $899 105 AER – $399
  • Transducer: 50mm
  • Frequency Response: 5 Hz – 30kHz
  • Sensitivity: 112 dB at 1 kHz, 1mW
  • Impedance: 40 Ω
  • Weight: 375g without cable
  • Ear Cup Material: Walnut Wood
  • Transducer: 50mm
  • Frequency Response: 5 Hz – 30kHz
  • Sensitivity: 112 dB at 1 kHz, 1mW
  • Impedance: 42 Ω
  • Weight: 336g without cable
  • Ear Cup Material: PC-ABS Polymer

On paper, the specifications of these headphones are nearly identical. However, the materials and construction contribute to subtle but important differences in sound quality and user experience. The 109 Pro is slightly heavier, owing to its premium wood construction, while the 105 AER’s polymer build makes it lighter and more portable.

Listening Review

Soundstage

Both headphones deliver a wide, immersive soundstage. The 105 AER emphasizes a frontal presentation with significant height but less depth, creating an engaging yet slightly compressed listening experience. The 109 Pro, however, excels in depth, offering a richer, more layered soundstage. Its expansive presentation wraps around the listener, revealing greater detail and separation.

Due to their open-back design, neither model provides significant sound isolation. Ambient noise will seep in, and your music may be audible to those nearby. If privacy or portability is a priority, consider closed-back alternatives.

Low Frequencies

Meze is known for smooth, warm bass, and both models deliver in this department. The 109 Pro’s bass response is weighty and powerful, ideal for genres like EDM and rock. Tracks like “Big Brown Eyes” by Lola Young highlight its ability to deliver deep, resonant bass without sacrificing clarity. The 105 AER, while less robust, offers a detailed and natural bass profile that excels with acoustic and jazz tracks such as “Slowly” by Olivia Dean.

Midrange Frequencies

The midrange is a strong point for both headphones. The 109 Pro stands out with superior separation and layering, creating a sense of space that enhances immersion. Vocals on tracks like “Chelsea Morning” by Joni Mitchell are intimate and lifelike, while instruments retain their clarity. The 105 AER, while detailed, presents a more cohesive midrange with closer layering, making it ideal for acoustic performances.

High Frequencies

The treble response is where these models diverge most noticeably. The 109 Pro’s smooth, relaxed treble complements its warm bass, offering a balanced and refined signature. Tracks like “Rêverie” by Claude Debussy are rendered with delicacy and nuance. In contrast, the 105 AER’s sharper, more energetic treble adds clarity and brightness, excelling in genres like classical and pop. Its crisp highs shine on tracks like “Rakata” by Arca, delivering exceptional detail without harshness.

Summary

Both the Meze 109 Pro and 105 AER are exceptional open-back headphones that cater to different preferences and budgets. The 109 Pro offers a luxurious design, premium accessories, and a rich, layered soundstage, making it the top choice for audiophiles seeking the ultimate listening experience. Meanwhile, the 105 AER delivers impressive performance at a more accessible price point, with a dynamic and engaging sound signature that will appeal to casual listeners.

Choose the 109 Pro if you prioritize depth, detail, and premium build quality.

Choose the 105 AER if you prefer a lighter, more affordable option with a direct, energetic sound.

Both Meze  headphones — the 105 AER and the 109 Pro — are available at Audio46.

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