Meze Audio, the Romanian brand known for its premium headphones, has just launched its latest creation: POET. This new open-back planar-magnetic headphone is designed to offer high-resolution sound in a smaller, more compact form factor—without compromising on performance.
If you’ve been looking for a planar-magnetic headphone that blends premium materials, cutting-edge tech, and comfort, POET might be worth keeping an eye on. But what exactly makes it different? Let’s take a closer look.
At the core of POET is Meze’s collaboration with Rinaro Isodynamics, a company with more than 30 years of experience in planar-magnetic driver technology. POET is equipped with MZ6 Isodynamic Hybrid Array drivers, which aim to deliver rich, detailed sound while keeping distortion levels extremely low (<0.05%).
One of the key elements behind this performance is Rinaro’s Parus diaphragm—a lightweight membrane that weighs just 0.06 grams. The lighter the diaphragm, the faster it can move, which translates into more accurate sound reproduction. The result? According to Meze, POET offers a balanced mix of deep, punchy bass, clear mids, and high frequencies with a touch of brightness.
Another major factor in sound quality is the open-back design, which helps create a more spacious, natural soundstage. If you’re someone who enjoys the feeling of being in a wide, immersive environment when listening to music, this design choice makes POET an appealing option.
“From the very beginning of our POET journey, we knew we wanted to create something unique — a more compact planar-magnetic open-back headphone that is every bit as capable as our flagship models,” says Alex Grigoras, Acoustic Engineer at Meze Audio.
“Well then, what better place to look than at the very apex? In collaboration with our friends at RINARO ISODYNAMICS, we synthesized the essence of ELITE’s driver technology and gave it new life. I believe POET turned out to be more than just a headphone; it’s a nod to a huge stepping stone in our development as a team and a testament to how far we’ve come.”
Aside from its audio performance, POET is built with luxury materials and a focus on long-term usability.
One of the key features is serviceability—something Meze emphasizes across its lineup. Instead of replacing the entire headphone down the line, users can swap out parts as needed. Given the $2,000 (€2,000) price tag, that’s an important detail for long-term investment.
Meze describes POET’s sound as a blend of technical precision and natural tonality, aiming for an experience that’s both engaging and easy to listen to for long periods. The planar-magnetic drivers help with instrument separation, making it easier to pick up fine details in complex tracks.
The bass is designed to be controlled but impactful, avoiding the overly exaggerated low-end that some headphones push. Meanwhile, the high frequencies are tuned for clarity without being harsh, which could appeal to those who prefer a more balanced, refined sound signature.
Since open-back designs allow for a more natural, speaker-like experience, these headphones might be best suited for critical listening at home rather than on-the-go use.
General Specifications:
MZ6 Driver Specifications:
With a $2,000 price tag, POET isn’t targeting casual listeners—it’s aimed at audiophiles who appreciate planar-magnetic technology and want a headphone that balances performance, comfort, and longevity.
For those familiar with Meze’s previous releases like Empyrean and Elite, POET appears to be a more compact alternative that still delivers premium audio quality.
Whether it stands out among other high-end planar-magnetic options remains to be seen, but with Meze’s track record in high-fidelity audio, POET is shaping up to be a headphone worth watching.
Would it be the right fit for you? That’ll likely come down to personal preference—and how much you’re willing to spend on a compact planar-magnetic experience.
The headphones will be available for purchase starting February 20, 2025, through Meze Audio’s website and select retailers. You can also check out other Meze products at Crutchfield.
For advertising please contact the editor at indianalang@hometheaterreview.com
