Headphones Closed Meze Audio Liric 2nd Gen

Meze Audio Liric 2nd Gen – closed-back isodynamic headphones with the MZ4 driver and Phase-X™ system

The Liric 2nd Gen are closed-back isodynamic (planar magnetic) headphones built around the Rinaro Isodynamic Hybrid Array MZ4 driver, scaled down and fine-tuned for portable use from the technology known from the Empyrean II and Elite models. The second generation brings revised tuning sitting between a neutral and a warmer presentation, Macassar ebony earcups and detachable magnetic earpads. A sensitivity of 100 dB SPL/mW at 1 kHz and an impedance of 61 Ω allow comfortable driving from virtually any portable source without a separate amplifier.

The MZ4 driver has an ovoid shape measuring 92 × 63 mm with an active area of 3,507 mm², while the isoplanar diaphragm weighs just 0.08 g and is made of an isotropic, thermally stabilised polymer with a conductive layer. Neodymium magnets are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the diaphragm in a hybrid magnetic field of 0.3 Tesla, ensuring uniform excitation across the entire surface. The structure is held by a fibreglass-reinforced polymer housing rated for a load of 10.7 N. The total driver weight is 71 g; the headphones weigh 427 g.

The dual coil system combines a switchback coil in the upper part of the driver for the lower band and a spiral coil placed directly above the ear canal for the mid and upper frequencies. The result is a higher proportion of direct sound above 10 kHz and more precise instrument localisation thanks to the suppression of short time delays from the diffuse field. The Phase-X™ system reduces the phase distortion typical of closed-back designs, achieving a more linear phase response and faster transient decay – audible above all with binaural recordings as more accurate spatial imaging. The QWRM (Quarter Wavelength Resonator Mask) covers selected openings in the driver frame and damps treble peaks above 7 kHz, reducing fatigue during longer listening sessions. Total harmonic distortion stays below 0.15 % across the entire 4 Hz – 92 kHz range.

The refined Pressure Equalisation System optimises the pressure inside the earcup chamber and airflow management; in the second generation it has been adjusted for a smoother transition from the bass band into the lower mids. The combination of leather, wood and metal remains resistant to impact, wear and oxidation. Standard accessories include a hand-braided copper cable with a 4.4 mm connector for portable amplifiers and a 3 m soft TPE cable with a 3.5 mm jack for home systems; connection to the headphones is handled by a pair of 3.5 mm TS connectors.

Key features

• Driver: Rinaro Isodynamic Hybrid Array MZ4, 92 × 63 mm
• Diaphragm: Isoplanar, 0.08 g, active area 3,507 mm²
• Phase-X™: More linear phase and spatial imaging in a closed-back design
• QWRM: Damping of treble peaks above 7 kHz
• Specifications: 61 Ω, 100 dB SPL/mW, THD below 0.15 %