The Meze Audio Strada is a closed-back over-ear headphone designed for audiophiles seeking a refined listening experience. Combining handcrafted materials, meticulous build quality, and a dynamic sound signature, the Strada delivers natural and immersive HiFi audio. With 50mm drivers, it provides detailed and well-balanced sound reproduction across a wide frequency range, offering listeners clarity in highs, precision in mids, and satisfying depth in bass. This review explores the Strada's design, comfort, technical performance, and overall value, drawing solely on the provided specifications and descriptive text.
Design
Premium Wooden Ear Cups
■ The Strada features closed-back ear cups made from Makassar ebony, which is hand-lacquered to achieve a matte finish.
■ Each headphone is unique due to the hand-applied multi-layer lacquer.
■ Small air vents are integrated into the wooden panels to balance pressure and reduce the sensation of compression in the sound.
■ The combination of magnesium frames with natural wood provides both rigidity and aesthetic sophistication.
Overall Aesthetic Appeal
■ The Strada's design reflects a luxury-oriented approach, drawing inspiration from the Meze Audio Liric II while maintaining its unique identity.
■ Handcrafted elements, including polished wooden ear cup enclosures and precise assembly, give it a striking visual presence.
■ The closed-back design ensures a focused listening experience while highlighting the premium materials.
Materials & Build
Magnesium Frames
■ The ear cups are supported by lightweight magnesium frames that provide structural integrity without adding excessive weight.
■ The material selection ensures durability while maintaining comfort during extended listening sessions.
Wooden Finishes
■ Makassar ebony ear cup backs are coated with multiple layers of hand-applied lacquer.
■ Airflow is carefully engineered via small openings in the wood to optimize acoustic performance.
■ The meticulous craftsmanship results in a headphone that is as visually impressive as it is sonically refined.
Ear Pads and Magnetic Mounting
■ Ear cushions are filled with ultra-soft memory foam for adaptive comfort.
■ They are held in place magnetically, allowing for easy replacement or cleaning.
■ The exterior features leather-like material, while the interior uses Alcantara, balancing isolation and breathability.
Drivers & Technology
50mm Dynamic Drivers
■ The Strada employs 50mm dynamic drivers capable of reproducing frequencies from 5 Hz to 30 kHz, exceeding the typical human hearing range.
■ The drivers feature thin polymer diaphragms coated with beryllium to optimize stiffness and minimize unwanted vibrations.
■ This setup delivers precise, distortion-free sound even at high volume levels.
Impedance and Efficiency
■ With an impedance of 40 Ohms, the Strada is compatible with both high-end HiFi equipment and portable devices.
■ The headphones reach 111 dB SPL, providing efficient output and the ability to handle dynamic audio passages without compression.
Comfort
Adjustable Fit
■ Adjusting the headband requires both hands, reflecting the Strada's robust but less flexible size mechanism.
■ Once set, the headphones rest comfortably on the head, with rotating and tilting ear cups ensuring a tailored fit.
Weight and Wearability
■ Weighing 330 grams without cables and 384 grams with cables, the Strada is relatively lightweight for an over-ear model.
■ Rapid head movements can cause slight slippage due to moderate clamping force.
Ear Pad Materials
■ Outer covering: synthetic leather.
■ Inner lining: Alcantara for improved breathability.
■ Magnetic ear pads enable easy swapping and maintenance.
Sound
High-Frequency Performance
■ The Strada delivers detailed highs extending into the super-high frequency range.
■ The tonal clarity is natural and open, avoiding harshness while presenting micro-details.
Midrange Clarity
■ Vocals are rendered with precision and balance, ensuring natural timbre without overemphasis.
■ Instrument separation in the midrange is well-defined, contributing to an immersive listening experience.
Bass and Sub-Bass
■ The headphones provide firm, well-controlled bass without being overwhelming.
■ Sub-bass extends deeply while maintaining clarity and avoiding muddiness.
Stereo Imaging and Dynamics
■ Excellent spatial staging supports accurate localization of instruments and vocals.
■ Dynamic range allows the Strada to reproduce both expansive orchestral passages and transient drum hits with precision.
■ The closed-back design offers isolation, though further improvement could enhance in/outside sound isolation.
Accessories
Included Cables
■ Two high-quality oxygen-free copper cables are included:
1.77 m cable with 3.5 mm plug
1.77 m cable with 4.4 mm Pentaconn plug
■ Both cables are braided, fabric-sheathed, and gold-plated for reliable long-term contact.
Adapter and Carrying Case
■ A 6.35 mm adapter allows connection to various headphone amplifiers.
■ Included ABS hard case lined with velvet ensures safe storage and transport.
■ A PU leather accessory pouch accommodates cables and small items.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the impedance of the Strada?
■ 40 Ohms, making it compatible with both portable devices and high-end HiFi systems.
Are the cables replaceable?
■ Yes, both included oxygen-free copper cables are detachable and interchangeable.
What is special about the wood?
■ Makassar ebony backs with hand-applied lacquer make each unit unique.
■ Small air vents reduce perceived compression in sound.
How secure is the fit?
■ Comfortable, but may slip during fast head movements.
■ Weight is moderate, and size adjustment requires both hands.
How does it differ from Meze Audio Liric II?
■ The Strada uses dynamic drivers, whereas Liric II employs magnetostatic technology.
■ Inspired by Liric II's form factor but more affordable.
Conclusion
The Meze Audio Strada exemplifies a high-quality closed-back over-ear headphone in the upper mid-range segment. Its elegant Makassar ebony construction, combined with precision engineering and dynamic driver technology, delivers a natural, finely resolved sound. Audiophiles seeking Reviews will find the Strada compelling for its balance of visual craftsmanship, sonic performance, and comprehensive accessory package. While the fit may require adjustment and may slip slightly during quick movements, the overall experience justifies its positioning as a premium yet accessible HiFi headphone.