Overview

The Meze Audio Empyrean II is the second-generation flagship from Romanian manufacturer Meze Audio, developed with Ukrainian driver specialist Rinaro Isodynamics. It uses the refined MZ3 Isodynamic Hybrid Array driver with dual-shaped voice coils and an ovoid 102×73 mm diaphragm offering 4,650 mm² active area. The system is modular with two interchangeable earpads (Duo and Angled Alcantara) that alter tuning.

Scientific Validity

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Manufacturer specs state total harmonic distortion (THD) <0.05% across the whole band, frequency response 8–110,000 Hz, nominal impedance 32 Ω, and sensitivity 90 dB SPL / mW (≈ 105 dB SPL @ 1 V, 1 kHz) [1]. Independent B&K 5128 measurements (Headphones.com forum) show pad-dependent frequency-response behavior: hybrid (leather/Alcantara) pads add upper-bass thickness and show a ~6 kHz peak, while suede/Alcantara reduces the bass lift and yields a brighter presentation [3]. These data indicate low distortion and competent planar-magnetic behavior, but the FR is not fully “target-neutral,” hence 0.7.

Technology Level

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The MZ3 Isodynamic Hybrid Array combines switchback and spiral voice coils on the same diaphragm to target ear-canal acoustics more effectively (e.g., placing the spiral coil over the canal to increase direct high-frequency energy) [2]. The 0.16 g diaphragm and 4,650 mm² active area, magnet array, and Isomagnetic pad coupling reflect mature engineering beyond typical planar designs. Strong innovation, but evolutionary rather than revolutionary, so 0.8.

Cost-Performance

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Current street price for Empyrean II: 3000 USD [1,6].
Cheapest equal-or-better alternative identified: HiFiMAN HE1000SE at 1699 USD (direct store and authorized dealers) [5,7,15]. It is an open-back planar with comparable user-facing functions and independent FR datasets on IEC60318-4/GRAS rigs indicating at least as linear a response as Empyrean II; third-party reports also show very low THD typical of HIFIMAN’s egg-shaped planars [8,9].
Calculation: 1699 USD ÷ 3000 USD = 0.57 → 0.6 (rounded to one decimal).

Equivalence note: open-back planar magnetic; FR linearity equal-or-better (independent graphs), low distortion on both; no essential function deficit vs Empyrean II.

Reliability & Support

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Meze provides a 2-year worldwide warranty for Empyrean II [10]. The headphone ships with a high-strength ABS carry case, two pad sets, and a braided cable [11]. The magnetic pad system and dual mini-XLR connectors aid long-term serviceability. Build quality and parts support are strong; therefore 0.8.

Rationality of Design Philosophy

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The dual-coil array and pad system are rational, measurement-driven ideas. However, the 110 kHz extension is non-audible, and pricing prioritizes luxury finishing as much as measurable transparency. Given alternatives with equal-or-better measured fidelity at a much lower price, we assign 0.6.

Advice

Empyrean II suits buyers valuing design, build, and pad-based tuning flexibility with very low distortion. If your priority is maximum measured fidelity per dollar, the HE1000SE delivers equivalent or better technical results for considerably less, and is the reference CP alternative to shortlist. If you prefer Meze’s ergonomics/industrial design and are comfortable with the premium, Empyrean II remains a refined, low-distortion listen.

References

1. Meze Audio – “Empyrean II” (specs & pricing). https://mezeaudio.com/products/empyrean2 (accessed Aug 24, 2025).
2. Rinaro – “MZ3 Isodynamic Hybrid Array driver overview.” https://www.rinaro.com/blog/empyrean (accessed Aug 24, 2025).
3. Headphones.com Forum – “Meze Empyrean 2 – Official Thread” (B&K 5128 measurements & pad comparisons). https://forum.headphones.com/t/meze-empyrean-2-official-thread/22280 (accessed Aug 24, 2025).
4. Headphones.com – Empyrean II product tech sheet (specs mirror manufacturer). https://headphones.com/products/meze-audio-empyrean-ii-headphones (accessed Aug 24, 2025).
5. HiFiMAN Store – HE1000SE price (1699 USD). https://store.hifiman.com/index.php/he1000se.html (accessed Aug 24, 2025).
6. Apos Audio – Empyrean II price confirmation (2999 USD). https://apos.audio/products/meze-audio-empyrean-ii-open-back-headphones (accessed Aug 24, 2025).
7. HeadAmp – HE1000SE authorized dealer price (1699 USD). https://www.headamp.com/products/hifiman-he1000se (accessed Aug 24, 2025).
8. In-Ear Fidelity (Crinacle) – HE1000SE FR graph (IEC60318-4/GRAS). https://crinacle.com/graphs/headphones/hifiman-he1000se/ (accessed Aug 24, 2025).
9. Unheard Lab – “Review of HIFIMAN HE1000SE (2023)” with measurement notes. https://unheardlab.com/2024/12/16/review-of-hifiman-he1000se-2023/ (accessed Aug 24, 2025).
10. Meze Audio – Warranty & Returns (Empyrean II: 2 years worldwide). https://mezeaudio.com/pages/warranty (accessed Aug 24, 2025).
11. Crutchfield – Empyrean II package contents (ABS case, two pads). https://www.crutchfield.com/p/455EMPRYN2/Meze-Audio-Empyrean-II.html (accessed Aug 24, 2025).

(2025.8.24)