The Audeze MM-520 promises to fix the main problem with open-backed headphones

I love open-back headphones for their glorious, spacious sound and detail, but they’re not usually the first choice for listeners who crave powerful bass. But Audeze reckons its latest studio headphones can change that.

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The Californian audio specialist has unveiled the MM-520 –a new professional-grade open-back model developed with 18-time Grammy-winning mix engineer Manny Marroquin. It builds on the foundation of the previous MM-500 while introducing Audeze’s new SLAM technology – Symmetric Linear Acoustic Modulator. How’s that for an acronym?

According to Audeze, SLAM optimises airflow and pressure inside the earcups to improve low-frequency impact and spatial imaging, while preserving the neutral midrange response. This could appeal to studio professionals – open-back headphones are typically prized for their natural presentation and expansive soundstage, but they often sacrifice some bass weight compared to closed-back designs. Audeze says that the MM-520 delivers a stronger and more accurate low-end response, without losing the openness and transparency that audio engineers rely on.

Under the hood, the MM-520 uses Audeze’s 90mm planar magnetic drivers, complete with Ultra-Thin Uniforce diaphragms and Fazor phase-management technology. The company says that this combination helps deliver ultra-low distortion and precise imaging, making it easier to spot subtle details in a mix.

The headphones have also been designed to work with a wide range of equipment. Thanks to their high sensitivity and low impedance, Audeze says that they can be driven directly from laptops, audio interfaces and studio consoles without requiring a dedicated headphone amplifier.

Elsewhere, you’ll find upgraded memory foam earpads designed for long studio sessions, with a magnetic attachment system that makes for easy replacements when needed.

We’ve yet to test them out ourselves, but if you’re interested in taking them for a spin, the Audeze MM-520 is available now for $1699. UK pricing has yet to be announced.

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Esat Dedezade Contributor

About

Esat has been a gadget fan ever since his tiny four-year-old brain was captivated by a sound-activated dancing sunflower. From there it was a natural progression to a Sega Mega Drive, a brief obsession with hedgehogs, and a love for all things tech. After 7 years as a writer and deputy editor for Stuff, Esat ventured out into the corporate world, spending three years as Editor of Microsoft's European News Centre. Now a freelance writer, his appetite for shiny gadgets has no bounds. Oh, and like all good human beings, he's very fond of cats.