As someone who loves exploring headphones, I was thrilled to get my hands on the Meze Audio - Liric II. Having enjoyed their previous version, I couldn't wait to see what improvements they've made. Right away, I sensed these headphones were something extraordinary. With promises of better sound and comfort, I dove in to see if they really delivered. Join me as I test out these headphones and find out if they're worth the hype.


What’s in the Box
Carrying case with soft plush interior
termination premium cable, ending with 4.4 mm jack
3 m soft TPE cable with a 3.5 mm jack cable
Headphone 6.3mm gold-plated jack
Airplane jack

Look and feel
In terms of appearance and feel, the Meze Audio - Liric II closely resembles its predecessor, with a familiar shape and texture. However, the standout feature lies in the addition of brown wooden shields adorning the sides of the headphones, imparting a classy and premium aesthetic. Complementing this design is the cable's rustic color, which enhances the overall appeal. Furthermore, the generously sized ear cushions envelop the ears completely, ensuring unparalleled comfort during extended listening sessions. 



Design and Functionality
The LIRIC II headphones are a blend of Meze Audio's design finesse and Rinaro's advanced technology, offering a refined sound profile perfect for audiophiles like me who crave top-notch audio quality on the move. Thanks to the Quarter Wavelength Resonator Mask (QWRM), the sound is smooth and fatigue-free, making long listening sessions a joy. Inspired by traditional craftsmanship, the addition of Macassar ebony wood gives each pair a unique character and story. Plus, with detachable magnetic ear pads and premium hand-braided copper cables, these headphones are built to last and sound great, whether I'm on the move or at home.

Output
The LIRIC II headphones don't need a lot of power to sound great, but adding an amp makes a big difference. You can use them without an amp, but you might need to turn up the volume quite a bit. They're not too picky about power, though, so a medium-powered amp works well. 
For today's review, I'll be using the iFi GO link Portable headphone amp



Soundstage 
The soundstage of the LIRIC II headphones is like stepping into a sonic wonderland, where every note and voice envelops you with richness and depth. For me, the vocals are where these headphones truly shine, allowing me to experience the full emotional impact of every song. Whether it's the haunting timbre of a soulful ballad or the raw power of a rock anthem, the LIRIC II brings out the best in every vocal performance. What truly impresses me is the impeccable layering and positioning in the midrange, which adds an extra dimension to my favorite tracks. With these headphones, I feel like I can close my eyes and pinpoint the exact location of each instrument in the room. 

Low End
When it comes to bass, the LIRIC II headphones deliver a pleasing experience that I truly enjoy. The bass is soft yet rich, providing a subtle but noticeable presence in my music. It doesn't overwhelm the other frequencies, allowing for a balanced listening experience. While I occasionally yearn for a bit more depth in the bass, I appreciate its smooth and controlled delivery. In summary, the low end of the LIRIC II headphones adds a comforting warmth to my music, enhancing its overall richness and depth.



Mids
For me, the mids of the LIRIC II headphones are where they truly shine, elevating the listening experience to another level. I believe they've definitely improved from the previous version, with added brightness and clarity that enhance every note. When I listen to music with these headphones, I feel like I'm surrounded by the instruments, immersed in their intricate melodies and harmonies. The vocals are particularly captivating, with a presence and intimacy that draws me into the heart of the performance.

Highs
The highs of the LIRIC II headphones are impressive, delivering a level of clarity and detail that truly enhances the listening experience. When I tested these headphones with a variety of tracks, including both modern and classical pieces, I was struck by the nuanced presentation of high frequencies. For instance, in John Summit's "Where Are You," the vocals soared with a lifelike presence, drawing me into the emotional depth of the music without overwhelming the other frequencies. Similarly, when I indulged in classical piano compositions, the intricate melodies sparkled with clarity, allowing me to appreciate every subtle nuance of the performance.



Summary
In summary, the LIRIC II headphones by Meze Audio have left me truly impressed, offering an unparalleled listening experience that resonates with craftsmanship and innovation. From the refined sound profile that perfectly balances warmth and clarity to the exquisite design featuring Macassar ebony wood, every detail of these headphones speaks of excellence. Overall, I give the LIRIC II headphones a stellar rating of 9.6 out of 10, as they truly exemplify Meze Audio's dedication to delivering exceptional sound and style.

Meze Liric II is available now at Audio46.