Headphones Closed Meze Audio STRADA

Meze STRADA – closed-back dynamic headphones with a 50 mm driver in a magnesium chassis

STRADA are closed-back dynamic headphones from Meze Audio built around the 50 mm dynamic driver that debuted in the 109 PRO and was retuned to work inside a sealed acoustic chamber. The mechanical foundation derives from the LIRIC chassis, reworked for a dynamic driver architecture. The result is a tonally balanced presentation with effective isolation from ambient noise, while the driver's natural character has been preserved and only its behaviour in a sealed space was adjusted.

At the heart of the driver is a W-shaped dome made of carbon-fibre reinforced cellulose composite, which reproduces high frequencies with great definition while suppressing resonances that lead to harmonic distortion. The dome is surrounded by a semi-crystalline polymer torus with a beryllium layer applied by PVD, which increases stiffness and durability while keeping mass low, and with it a fast transient response. The grooving of the torus is precisely oriented at 45.5°, and a copper-zinc alloy stabiliser placed around the diaphragm absorbs vibrations and further reduces distortion.

The tuning emphasises control and precision. The bass is tight and well defined with a slight lift that gives the sound body and impact. The midrange remains neutral and transparent, preserving the natural colour of instruments and vocals as well as their separation. The treble carries a gentle upper-band energy, making textures and spatial cues legible without harshness. A sensitivity of 111 dB SPL/mW at an impedance of 40 Ω and distortion below 0.1 % at 1 kHz allow comfortable drive from a wide range of sources, including portable players.

The mechanical construction is based on a magnesium frame hand-painted in four layers and Macassar ebony ear cups. Earpads with memory foam and a soft PU leather contact surface provide a reliable seal, while the inner chamber lined with Alcantara limits the build-up of heat and moisture. Magnetic attachment simplifies earpad replacement, continuous adjustment rods allow size fine-tuning without detents, and the padded headband with a symmetrical cross pattern distributes clamping force evenly. The modular concept with detachable components and a weight of 330 g makes STRADA suited to long listening sessions and long-term ownership.

Key features

• Driver: 50 mm dynamic driver from the 109 PRO
• Diaphragm: W dome of carbon-reinforced cellulose composite
• Torus: Beryllium layer applied by PVD technology
• Construction: Magnesium frame and Macassar ebony ear cups
• Comfort: Magnetic earpads, memory foam and Alcantara