Today we review headphones from one of the most famous manufacturers of isodynamic models – Audeze, namely full-size open monitors in MM-series design, with slightly reduced dimensions and noticeably reduced price, relative to popular models of the manufacturer, such as Audeze LCD-2 and Audeze LCD-3. Let’s take a closer look at the new product, compare it with competitors and other models of the brand. We’ll tell you whether it’s worthy of attention, and whether the manufacturer has managed to create headphones that will push aside the mastodons of the market.
Content
The new product is delivered in the brand’s typical packaging with an outer cardboard cover and a main inner hardboard cover.
The main audiophile’s fear was the possibility of producing headphones in cheaper plastic cases in order to reduce their cost. But in terms of materials, everything is fine — Audeze MM-100 are assembled perfectly, without gaps and with perfectly fitted parts.
The headband is indeed made of plastic, but the bowls and mounts are «premium magnesium and steel chassis», as stated on the manufacturer’s website.
Visually, the MM-100 is very similar to the older Audeze MM-500. The only thing that gives it away is the wire and the simpler design of the headband.
Ergonomically, these are not the best headphones on the market, but they are one of the best isodynamics, and definitely the best Audeze headphones after the flagship ones Audeze LCD-5. In terms of fit and weight, the model even outperforms the older MM-500. But still, over a long distance, the Audeze MM-500 wins because it has better ear cushions and a better balanced headband. It’s not noticeable at first, but after a few hours you realize that the more expensive models are more comfortable.
Inside the ear cushions is a gel filler that fits nicely to the head, and they are made of high-quality artificial leather, judging by subjective feelings (the manufacturer’s website does not specify the material).
The headphones are relatively small because after switching from wood to more practical materials, Audeze was able to reduce the size of their new products. Because wood requires a greater thickness to maintain its shape and acoustic properties. As a result, the cups are smaller, with the same performance drivers.
The Audeze MM-100 is comfortable to work with during the working day, and it doesn’t put any pressure on your head or feel like older models of previous generations. So the main problem with large isodynes is finally over – now you can use them every day without having to train your neck for several weeks to get it to a tangible load.
| Construction | Full-size, open |
| Type of emitter | Planar magnet |
| Magnetic structure | Fluxor magnet array |
| Phase control | Fazor |
| Magnet type | Neodymium N50 |
| Type of diaphragm | Ultra-thin Uniforce |
| Size of the emitter | 90 mm |
| Maximum SPL | >120 dB |
| Frequency response | 20 Hz — 25 kHz |
| THD | <0.1% at 100 dB SPL, 1 kHz |
| Sensitivity | 98 dB/1 mW (at the drum reference point) |
| Impedance | 18 ohms |
| Maximum power consumption | 5 WATT RMS |
| Minimum recommended power output | >100 mW |
| Recommended power level | >250mW |
| Cable | 2.5 m, one-way 3.5 mm TRS to 1/4″ TRS |
| Weight | 475 grams |
For years, leading audio professionals around the world have relied on Audeze headphones like the LCD-X and MM-500. The MM-100 instantly transforms a space into a studio, no matter the room.
Precision and ultra-low distortion from the newly developed MM-100 planar magnetic drivers. The model is built to the same exacting standards as the flagship LCD-5 model, using patented waveguides, magnetic arrays and diaphragms.
Work with your tool, computer, or console with the MM-100’s one-way cable, which can be conveniently connected to either side of the headphones. In addition, the MM-100 can be folded up for transportation or storage in the included soft-cover carrying case.
MM-100 are designed for comfort even during the longest sessions. The elastic, gel-filled ear cushions mold to your ears, and the adjustable strap feels lightweight for hours.
MM-100s are built to withstand the rigors of life. Each pair is hand-assembled and tested in a workshop in Southern California to ensure it fits and sounds right. The MM-100’s lightweight premium chassis features magnesium forks and grilles, and a spring steel headband.
Due to high expectations, as I was personally looking forward to headphones that would break the industry and, even in this price segment, replace such mastodons as Beyerdynamic and Sennheiser, the impression was a bit blurred.But Audeze MM-100 are still excellent headphones. Considering their price and sound quality, this is a model without any drawbacks. A miracle didn’t happen and Audeze didn’t put the sound of the Audeze LCD-2 in a $500 model, but that doesn’t make the MM-100 bad.
The highs are detailed and soft, which is clearly noticeable on wind and string instruments, as well as on drum parts with a lot of cymbals. The ultra-highs are also well detailed, which is not usually the case in this price segment.
Midrange frequencies are well separated, rich and melodic – instrumental and vocal parts are well separated into tracks, ambient and instrument arrangement are well reproduced. Low frequencies are voluminous and rich, but they tend to be more monitor sound, i.e. without an excessive amount of bass, which may seem unusual to people who are used to more aggressive bass.
The main testing was carried out using a DAC Chord Mojo 2, audio player Astell&Kern A&futura SE300 and audio interface RME Babyface PRO FS using high-quality files, Audirvana Studio Pro, and the Apple Music streaming service.
The cost of headphones Audeze MM-100 is UAH 21,000.
The closest competitors within the brand are Audeze LCD-2 Classic for UAH 42,777 which, adjusted for the exchange rate, is twice as expensive as MM-100, and Audeze LCD-2 for UAH 53,279.
Among open monitor models, the closest competitors are Sennheiser HD 490 PRO Plus for UAH 20,599, Sennheiser HD 600 for UAH 17,199 and Beyerdynamic DT 1990 PRO for UAH 25,974.
The nearest closed monitor model is Beyerdynamic DT 1770 PRO for UAH 25,974.
Among the open audiophile models are FiiO FT5 (an overview of which can be read by the link) for UAH 21,800, Grado RS2x for UAH 22,620 and HiFiman Edition XS 20 400 UAH.