Meze Audio Empyrean II Over-Ear Headphones

The Meze Audio Empyrean II is an open-back magnetostatic high-end over-ear headphone with a large-format Rinaro Isodynamic Hybrid Array driver.

It's the second generation of Meze's celebrated Empyrean – newly voiced, more natural and even more composed. A reference headphone for anyone who wants to get very close to the original, without compromising on materials and build.

Why the Empyrean II?

At its core sits the Rinaro Isodynamic Hybrid Array (MZ3 driver) with a large, oval Isoplanar diaphragm (102 × 73 mm, active area 4,650 mm²). The combination of switching copper trace and oval geometry places the diaphragm exactly where it fits the ear's geometry best – for a wide soundstage and effortless fine detail. The housing in CNC aluminium and carbon is refined and durable, connected via two 4-pin mini-XLR.

What you hear

A sound that's natural and technical at once: relaxed yet full of information, with deep, clean bass and an open, generous spaciousness. The Empyrean II never pushes anything on you yet leaves nothing out – the kind of reproduction that lets you hear albums whole again.

Who is the Empyrean II for?

For demanding listeners looking for a reference headphone at home. Plain talk: at 32 Ω but only 90 dB sensitivity, the Empyrean II wants to see power – on a strong headphone amplifier you first feel what it's really made of; on a phone it stays well below its worth. Open also means no isolation: a headphone for a quiet listening room, not for the train.

Our verdict

The Empyrean II is a thoroughly coherent reference instrument: musical and technical, refined build, accessories to match. Which amplifier drives it optimally, we'll clarify at HD Zürisee in Wädenswil.

What the trade press says: «The Meze Empyrean II is not only a great headphone, it is also a great product. Fun, yet relaxing, natural, yet technical.» – ear-fidelity, 2024 («Highly Recommended»).

Technical data

• Type: open-back over-ear headphone (Open-Back), magnetostatic
• Driver: Rinaro Isodynamic Hybrid Array MZ3, Isoplanar diaphragm (102 × 73 mm, active area 4,650 mm²)
• Frequency range: 8 Hz – 110 kHz
• Impedance: 32 Ω
• Sensitivity: 90 dB SPL/mW at 1 kHz (max. SPL > 130 dB)
• Distortion (THD): < 0.05%
• Materials: CNC aluminium and carbon, black finish
• Weight: 449 g
• Connector: two 4-pin mini-XLR, detachable cable; 6.3 mm jack
• Cable: premium copper PCUHD (mini-XLR to 6.3 mm)
• Scope of delivery: headphone, premium copper cable, two pairs of earpads (including angled Alcantara pads), ABS hard case with leather handle

Frequently asked questions

What does the large magnetostatic array bring?

The large, oval film diaphragm is driven almost evenly across its entire surface. That results in very low distortion, lightning-fast transients and an open, natural spaciousness – the strength of high-quality magnetostatic headphones over dynamic ones.

Does the Empyrean II need a headphone amplifier?

Yes, definitely recommended. At 90 dB sensitivity, it depends on a powerful headphone amplifier to fully show its dynamics and control. On weak sources it stays clearly below its level. We'll put together fitting combinations for you.

What sets it apart from Poet and Elite?

The Poet is the more accessible entry point, the Empyrean II the large-format reference all-rounder, the Elite the uncompromising flagship with the Parus diaphragm. Best to listen to all three at our place and decide by your taste and your electronics.

Why buy the Meze Audio Empyrean II at HD Zürisee?

Because a reference headphone deserves electronics to match. In Wädenswil we advise you on amplifiers and DACs, compare the Meze magnetostats, and take care of delivery and service. Call us (044 680 22 00), send us a message, or reach us on WhatsApp (076 534 22 00, text only, no calls).

Goes well with

Play the Empyrean II on a source that matches its level: Headphone amplifiers · DACs & D/A converters · more headphones · Meze Audio