Audeze is best recognized for its premium planar-magnetic headphones. While the brand has previously ventured into gaming headsets priced below $500, it has not offered any products at the entry-level. This is about to change with the debut of the MM-100. Similar to the MM-500, these headphones are a result of a collaboration with Manny Marroquin and are primarily intended for use as a reference headset.
The MM-100 is not only a top choice among Audeze headphones but also stands out as one of the best options available for under $500.
The biggest difference is that the MM-100 costs just $399, making it the most affordable Audeze headset you can buy at the moment. By contrast, the MM-500 retails for $1,699, more than four times as much. Having used the MM-100 alongside the MM-500 for the better part of two weeks, it is clear that the latter has a more refined sound, but the MM-100 comes close, and that is no small feat.
The Audeze MM-100 headphones feature a stylish gunmetal grey color scheme and a durable construction with a mix of plastic, magnesium alloy, and steel materials. They are lighter than other Audeze products, making them more comfortable for extended use. The headphones have a distinctive design with Audeze branding and a switch from mini-XLR to 3.5mm connectors for added versatility. Although the bundled cable lacks a sheath and ends in a 6.35mm plug, the floating headband design and comfortable ear pads contribute to the overall comfort of the MM-100 headphones, making them suitable for extended wear.
AUDEZE MM-100: SOUND QUALITY
The MM-100 headphones have a sensitivity of 98dB/1mW and an impedance of 18Ω, making them easy to drive with a decent source. They use the same 90mm planar magnetic drivers as the MM-500 and have Audeze's Fluxor magnet array. They can be powered by any source delivering over 250mW of power.
The sound profile includes good bass extension, neutral low-end with a good rumble, boosted mid-range for added warmth and clarity to vocals, clean and detailed treble without harshness, good dynamics, and instrument separation. The design and build quality are similar to the MM-500, with a lighter chassis for all-day wear. Priced at $399, the MM-100 offers outstanding sound quality and is a great value in Audeze's portfolio.
If you appreciate Audeze's sound signature and want affordable headphones, the MM-100 is a great choice for studio use or casual listening.
AUDEZE MM-100 - Key Specs
- Over-ear, open-back
- Transducer type: Planar Magnetic
- Phase management: Fazor™
- Impedance: 18 ohms
- Weight - 475g
Read the complete review on the Android Central website by clicking here.
