Article: High-End Headphone Roundup: Meze Empyrean, Focal Utopia, Abyss AB-1266 Phi CC

[struts]

Fascinating stuff @austinpop! 

 

I have yet to audition the Abyss myself, but have to say that the "medieval torture device" aesthetic does give me pause for thought (although I do think the ceramic coating somehow improves the appearance slightly over the anodized).  

 

The Empyrean otoh gets full marks from me on aesthetics (and build quality and comfort and packaging and..) not just on sound quality.  In fact reinforcement of these brand values extends beyond the product itself to the broader "customer journey" and  their website also exhibits a design aesthetic and a level of polish that really tick my boxes.  I find that kind of "Apple-like" thoroughness very impressive, especially from a small company like Meze Audio.  Kudos Antonio Meze!

 

Anyway, an informative (and entertaining) read as always, many thanks for sharing these findings.