Meze Audio Revives a Legend: The New 99 Classics (2nd Gen) Blend Timeless Design with Modern Precision

A decade later, Meze reinvents its most beloved wired headphones for the next generation of audiophiles.

A Decade in the Making

Ten years after their debut, Meze Audio is bringing back its most recognizable creation — the 99 Classics — in a refined second-generation form.Originally launched in 2015, the first 99 Classics became an instant favorite among audiophiles, admired for their beautiful craftsmanship and warm, organic sound. Now, in 2025, Meze aims to elevate that legacy with the 99 Classics (2nd Gen) — a thoughtful evolution in sound quality, comfort, and sustainability.

Designed to Honor the Original, Built for Today

The second-generation 99 Classics stay true to the signature silhouette that made them iconic, but nearly every component has been re-engineered. According to Meze, the goal was to “honor the original’s timeless design while embracing today’s needs.”

Inside, the 40mm dynamic drivers have been retuned for greater balance and clarity. Expect a more neutral tonal signature, tighter bass, and enhanced midrange detail, all while maintaining the lush musicality that made the originals so beloved.

Engineering Evolution: Precision Meets Refinement

Under the surface, the 99 Classics (2nd Gen) are a showcase of acoustic refinement.The baffle structure has been completely redesigned — with a more open grille and streamlined internal beams that minimize diffraction and resonance.Improved acoustic sealing further enhances sound precision, giving listeners a cleaner, more accurate presentation without losing that signature Meze warmth.

Crafted Beauty: Walnut, Metal, and Modern Sustainability

Aesthetically, Meze has kept what fans loved most — the gorgeous machined walnut earcups. Each pair is CNC-carved, hand-finished, and polished to perfection. The gold-finished frame adds durability and timeless appeal.Importantly, Meze also took a more sustainable approach this time, ensuring the materials and construction meet today’s eco-conscious standards while maintaining luxury craftsmanship.

Comfort Reimagined for Endless Listening

Comfort was a major focus in the redesign. The new model features a self-adjusting headband made of vegan leather, supported by a spring-steel frame that distributes weight evenly across the head.The result is a lightweight, ergonomic fit that lets you listen for hours — whether at home, in the studio, or on the go.

What’s in the Box: Thoughtful Modern Additions

Meze includes a 1.8-meter dual-twisted cable with a 3.5mm jack, a USB-C DAC dongle, and a 6.3mm gold-plated adapter, making it easy to enjoy high-quality wired playback across devices.This subtle inclusion reflects Meze’s understanding that many listeners today split time between traditional hi-fi setups and portable digital sources.

Price and Availability

The Meze 99 Classics (2nd Gen) are available now, priced at:£349 / $349 / €349

That positions them firmly in the mid-to-high-end wired headphone market, competing with modern classics like the Grado SR325x and Sennheiser HD660S2 — but with Meze’s unique blend of artistry and emotional sound.

Final Thoughts

With the 99 Classics (2nd Gen), Meze isn’t just revisiting a milestone — it’s reaffirming its commitment to craftsmanship and emotional audio design.It’s a headphone that respects its past but feels perfectly at home in the future — a timeless piece reborn for modern ears.