Can't pronounce Empyrean? – Then Elite [€4'000] will roll off the tongue easier. It's Meze's follow-on effort to their groundbreaking planarmagnetic with a new driver by Rinaro Isodynamics now made from Parus, a polymer film with semi-crystalline microstructure. The dual-coil tech with switchback for LF and spiral for the remaining bandwidth migrates intact to the Elite version and there are still two included ear pads for tuning which attach magnetically. The CNC'd aluminium frame is now clear anodized for a silver finish, the headband is carbon fiber with leather headrest. Claimed bandwidth is 3-112'000Hz, impedance is 32Ω, sensitivity 101dB/1mw/1kHz, weight 420g. Welcome a new flagship to the high-end headfi jungle. With Dan Clark Audio's recently announced Stealth, there are new big cats roaming. If you're out on a hifi safari, keep your eyes peeled and your Jeep at idle in case one decides to pounce on you. Of course if you brought your checkbook, all will be well…
