Audeze MM-100 headphones: Studio-grade precision meets everyday usability
Noel Campion Picture: Mm Headphones Audeze 100 Studio
Studio headphones have always been a staple for audio professionals and serious music lovers. I spent a few weeks putting the Audeze MM-100 through its paces, testing its design, comfort, sound quality, and connectivity. Manny Marroquin's influence extends across Audeze’s MM (Manny Marroquin) headphone line, including the MM-100 and the premium MM-500. While both models reflect his demand for studio-grade precision, the MM-100 offers a more accessible entry point with a balanced sound signature ideal for mixing on the go. In contrast, the MM-500 delivers a more expansive soundstage, enhanced clarity, and premium build quality, making it a top choice for professional studio environments.
The Audeze MM-100 feels solid, with exceptional build quality right out of the box. At 475g, they're not the lightest, sitting just 15g shy of the heavier Audeze Maxwells I reviewed a few months ago. By comparison, lighter planar magnetic options like the HiFiMan Sundara weigh around 342g, making them a more portable choice. If you value ultra-light headphones for mobile use, the MM-100 might feel hefty. However, as an LCD-X (612g) user for the last couple of years, the MM-100 feel light by comparison. Although my Sundaras are much lighter, the ear cups are slightly too small for my ears, and I find them uncomfortable to wear for long periods.
The build quality is impressive. The yokes and grills are magnesium, while the spring-steel headband features light padding. The adjustable faux leather suspension strap effectively distributes the weight, helping to alleviate the burden during extended use.
Like the Maxwells, there are three adjustment settings on each side, allowing you to find a comfortable fit — even if you need different settings on each side. The adjustable band is both excellent and cumbersome in equal measure. I love that once you find the perfect size, you can set it and forget it without worrying that the size has changed inadvertently. However, while this is ideal if you’re the only person using the headphones if the headset is being shared with or frequently used by multiple users, it would be a pain to readjust the size before using them unless you have matching head sizes.
The ear cups are noticeably smaller than my Audeze LCD-X pads, making them far more portable. They tilt and swivel, allowing the headphones to lay flat on a desk. The memory foam ear pads, topped with a gel-filled layer, provide excellent comfort while keeping your ears cool.
The MM-100s are excellent for me in terms of comfort. The clamping force is just right — secure enough to stay on when leaning forward but not overly tight. The suspension strap does an incredible job of evenly distributing the weight, but if you’re used to much lighter cans, you may need time to adjust to the extra weight.
The ear pads are comfortable but glued in place, unlike the easily swappable pads on the Maxwells. This limits customisation, especially for those considering breathable aftermarket pads.
The MM-100 truly shines in sound quality. While I record and mix my music on an amateur level, I’m not a professional audio engineer. For this review, I compared the M-100s to my LCD-X and HiFiMan Sundara headphones.
The MM-100 planar magnetic drivers deliver a precise and energetic sound signature, which Audeze states is perfect for studio monitoring and critical listening.
The sub-bass is punchy and extends deep without sounding muddy. They produce a clean, controlled bass response that remains tight even in complex songs.
I found vocals and instruments to take centre stage. The midrange clarity is excellent, making vocals sound vivid and instruments distinctly separated. This forward presentation may appeal to vocal enthusiasts but could feel too direct for those seeking a laid-back experience.
The treble is well-extended and detailed, although certain tracks occasionally felt sharp, especially for treble-sensitive listeners. I suspect a peak in the upper treble range, though nothing severe enough to cause long-term fatigue.
While I found the Audeze Maxwell’s had a wide soundstage, the MM-100 is notably narrow, likely due to the forward mids. This could be a dealbreaker for those preferring a spacious listening experience. However, precise imaging enables accurate instrument placement even within the constrained soundstage.
The MM-100s offer a unique dual-side cable input. You can plug the audio cable into either ear cup, and the headphones adjust the proper channels accordingly. This practical feature enhances usability but requires compatible cables due to proprietary wiring.
The included cable terminates in a 6.35mm plug, suitable for studio setups. However, a 6.35mm to 3.5mm adapter is needed for mobile use, though Audeze does include one.
I connected the headphones to my portable Hiby R4 DAP and found the sound quality exceptional. I also connected my Chord Mojo 2 using the R4 as a transport, and I could hear a slight improvement in dynamics, detail retrieval and bass extension. Still, these headphones are surprisingly easy to drive, thanks to their 18-ohm impedance and 98dB sensitivity. I used the Redmagic 10 Pro, one of my few phones with a 3.5mm headphone jack, to see if it could drive the MM-100s. While the phone is more than capable of driving them, not surprisingly, the difference in sound quality between the DAP and the phone is night and day.
The detachable cable is light and well-made, but its length (2.5m) felt cumbersome when using the headphones with a DAP. I recommend purchasing a shorter, third-party cable for mobile use, though compatibility should be double-checked. I was able to source alternative cable options, but make sure you’re getting the correct cable designed for the MM-100.
The Audeze MM-100 headphones excel where sound quality matters most. Their precise, dynamic audio performance makes them compelling for audio professionals and enthusiasts alike. However, their weight, fixed ear pads, and narrow soundstage may deter some users. If you can live with those trade-offs, the MM-100s are an exceptional pair of planar magnetic headphones that deliver an immersive listening experience. They are highly recommended for serious music lovers and studio professionals.