Meze Audio ARTA

The Meze Audio ARTA is an open-back reference headphone developed with Rinaro Isodynamics and positioned above the Elite in the brand's lineup. Its MZ5 HΩ High Impedance Isodynamic® Hybrid Array driver is a 225Ω planar magnetic transducer designed around a high-voltage, low-current operating principle. The ARTA combines this new driver architecture with angled rear-wave diffusion, interchangeable magnetic ear pads, and a fully serviceable mechanical design for listeners using dedicated desktop DAC and headphone amplifier systems.

A 225Ω high-impedance planar driver

Developed over several years with Rinaro Isodynamics, the MZ5 HΩ is the highest-impedance planar magnetic headphone transducer produced by the company. Its 225Ω architecture operates at higher voltage and lower current than lower-impedance planar designs, reducing current demand on the amplifier while supporting thermal stability across the diaphragm and conductor assembly.

The driver covers a stated frequency range of 3Hz to 115kHz and maintains THD below 0.05%. Sensitivity is rated at 98dB SPL/mW at 1kHz, while maximum output exceeds 130dB SPL when sufficient amplifier power is available. These operating requirements make amplifier voltage capability and output into a 225Ω load more relevant than specifications measured only at low impedances.

Open-back acoustics with angled blade diffusion

The ARTA uses an open-back circumaural structure with angled acoustic blades integrated into the outer grille. These blades diffuse rear-wave energy leaving the driver, limiting concentrated reflections from the grille structure before that energy exits the ear cup.

Two magnetic ear pad tunings

Two sets of magnetic ear pads are included, allowing the acoustic presentation to be adjusted through pad geometry and material. The Duo Angled pads combine lambskin and Alcantara® and are tuned for a richer balance. The Slim Alcantara pads provide a smoother, more neutral presentation.

The ARTA uses a dedicated magnetic attachment system developed for this model. Its pads are not compatible with Meze Audio Elite or Empyrean series headphones, and pads from those models cannot be installed on ARTA.

Amplification and cable configuration

The 225Ω transducer is intended for dedicated desktop headphone amplifiers with sufficient output voltage into a high-impedance load. Meze Audio specifies a minimum amplifier output of 200mW at 225Ω, with 500mW or more recommended. Amplifier specifications should therefore be checked at or near 225Ω rather than inferred from power ratings into lower-impedance headphones.

Dual 4-pin mini-XLR connectors provide separate detachable connections at each ear cup. ARTA includes both a 6.3mm single-ended cable and a 4-pin XLR balanced cable, each measuring 2m in length.

Serviceable mechanical construction

Every component in the ARTA can be disassembled, serviced, or replaced. This modular construction allows individual mechanical, acoustic, and cabling components to be maintained without treating the headphone as a sealed assembly.

The ARTA is hand-assembled in Baia Mare, Romania, and weighs 495g. It includes a two-year standard warranty, which extends to four years when the headphone is registered through My Meze.

Availability

Meze Audio ARTA is available now on Apos.