Meze Audio LIRIC Closed-Back Planar Magnetic Headphones - 2nd Generation

Closed-Back Excellence, Redefined for a Second Generation

The Meze Audio LIRIC 2nd Generation refines everything listeners loved about the original into a genuinely reference-class closed-back headphone, built specifically for private, uncompromised listening at home, in a professional studio, or while traveling.

At its core is Rinaro's Isodynamic Hybrid Array driver, scaled and optimized specifically for a closed-back enclosure rather than simply borrowed unchanged from one of Meze's open-back designs elsewhere in the lineup.

The LIRIC 2nd Gen earned a Hi-Fi+ Editor's Choice award in 2023 and Stereophile Recommended Component status in 2024, recognition for a genuinely rare combination of isolation and audiophile-grade performance.

Where the Quarter Wavelength Resonator Mask Earns Its Keep

Taming Resonance Inside a Sealed Enclosure

Meze's new Quarter Wavelength Resonator Mask tamps down high-frequency resonance for smoother, more natural treble, a real innovation aimed squarely at a problem closed-back designs have always genuinely struggled to solve well.

Combined with Rinaro's lightweight diaphragm and hybrid magnet array, this achieves genuinely extraordinary speed and low distortion, even sealed inside an enclosure that would normally hold that kind of speed back.

A More Spacious Soundstage Than a Closed-Back Deserves

Redesigned ear pads and improved chassis damping reduce internal reflections, unlocking a more spacious soundstage than closed-back headphones typically manage, alongside genuinely powerful yet impeccably controlled bass throughout every single listening session you have.

Mids stay natural and lifelike while treble extends smoothly with real detail, making this closed-back headphone feel considerably more open and immersive than its sealed design would otherwise ever suggest.

Who Is the LIRIC 2nd Gen Best For?

• You need closed-back isolation without sacrificing audiophile performance: two industry awards recognize exactly this combination
• You listen late at night or in shared spaces: the closed-back design keeps your music from disturbing anyone else nearby
• You travel or work from different locations regularly: the LIRIC 2nd Gen scales from portable players to full desktop amplifiers
• You want genuinely powerful, controlled bass: reviewers and awards alike recognize this as a standout strength
• You want genuine privacy from a planar — the closed-back LIRIC keeps your listening to yourself

How Does It Connect to Your System?

Premium included cables cover both portable players and full-size amplifiers, so the LIRIC 2nd Gen is genuinely ready to connect however you plan to actually listen to it each day.

Its efficient design means modest gear drives it just fine, though reviewers consistently note it scales up further and shines brightest with genuinely high-quality amplification connected behind it.

Pairs Well With

What finishes the system around a LIRIC 2nd Gen:

• Headphone amplifiers — reviewers note this driver scales up meaningfully with genuinely high-quality amplification
• Digital-to-analog converters — a clean digital source feeding your amp matters as much as the amp itself
• Headphone cables — the included cables cover most setups, with aftermarket options available too
• Headphone accessories — the included carrying case keeps it protected while traveling

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a headphone amplifier for the LIRIC 2nd Gen?

Not strictly. Its efficient design works from modest portable gear, though reviewers consistently find it scales up further and shines brightest with a proper desktop amplifier.

How is this different from the first-generation LIRIC?

The new Quarter Wavelength Resonator Mask, redesigned ear pads, and improved chassis damping all target smoother treble and a more spacious soundstage than the original achieved.

How much isolation does the closed-back design provide?

Meaningful isolation, genuinely suited to studio work, travel, or late-night listening — though like any closed-back headphone, it isn't fully sealed the way active noise cancellation is.

Is the LIRIC 2nd Gen portable?

Reasonably so. It's designed to scale from portable sources to desktop amplifiers, with a carrying case included specifically for travel and studio use.

What comes in the box?

The LIRIC 2nd Gen headphone, premium included cables covering multiple setups, and a high-quality carrying case for travel or studio storage.

See It in Action

The Headphone Show presents Meze LIRIC II review.

Joshua Valour presents Meze LIRIC II review.

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Learn More

Want to learn more about planar magnetic headphones, headphone amplifiers, or getting the most from a closed-back design? Visit our Learning Center for guides, tips, and expert advice.