Meze Audio
105 SILVA Open Back Headphones
$499.00 USDFeatures
Mid-Century Modern design with walnut wood and PC-ABS construction
50mm dynamic driver with carbon fiber-reinforced cellulose dome
Titanium-coated torus for enhanced stiffness and tonal balance
Copper-zinc alloy stabilizer reduces vibrations and distortion
Velour ear pads for breathable, all-day comfort
Self-adjusting PU leather headband for even weight distribution
Easy to drive from portable and desktop sources
Serviceable design for long-term durability
Video
What's in the Box?
Warranty
105 SILVA draws you into a soundscape that feels alive and organic. Every detail, from its sophisticated design to its finely tuned acoustics, works harmoniously to create a cohesive experience that resonates deeply. Like a forest teeming with life, music breathes here, it unfolds, and welcomes you with every note.
VIBRANT CONTRAST
105 SILVA offers a smooth blend of clarity and richness. Through a combination of perfected tuning methods and carefully selected materials, it distills the essence of what makes music so divine – virtuosic finesse paired with raw, unrestrained fun.
DUAL FOCUS SOUND SIGNATURE: FUN & DETAILED
Tuned with a keen balance between musicality and refinement, 105 SILVA delivers a sound that is clear, rich, and effortlessly engaging. Transients are fast and articulate, bringing out intricate details with a natural sense of ease. The treble extends gracefully, smooth yet revealing, while the bass remains tight and well-controlled, never overpowering but always present when needed. Besides, it’s easy to drive from most devices, whether we’re talking portable sources or intricate home setups.
SIMPLY TIMELESS
Rooted in the Mid-Century Modern movement, 105 SILVA’s design follows the core principles of clean shapes, functionality, and durability, while seamlessly integrating natural and modern materials in its construction.
A TOUCH OF WOOD
Fusing vintage charm with contemporary aesthetics, the radial PC-ABS grille sublimely intertwines with the walnut wood to form the ear cups, creating a feel that never truly ages. The spring steel headband and the PVD-coated cast zinc alloy hardware link everything into an extremely sturdy, yet highly flexible structure.
UNSURPASSED COMFORT
Enjoy your music for hours on end due to our trademark ergonomic build philosophy – every pressure point is precisely thought through so that the headband and the ear pads gently embrace your head and ears.
DRIVER DESIGN
In order to achieve a headphone voicing fit for audiophiles and music lovers alike, we went through countless 50 mm driver iterations, different materials, and tuning methods. The outcome is bound to satisfy all sides, on a very wide range of musical genres.
W-SHAPED DOME
Made of a carbon fiber-reinforced cellulose composite, the dome can reproduce high frequencies with incredible detail, clarity, and definition. More durable than conventional alternatives used in dynamic drivers, yet lightweight, this composite helps reduce resonances that may lead to harmonic distortion.
TITANIUM-COATED TORUS
The torus surrounding the dome is composed of Titanium-coated semicrystalline polymer, designed to optimize stiffness, speed, and tonal balance. The Titanium coating, applied through Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD), reinforces the membrane’s structure while keeping it lightweight, ensuring a fast transient response and pleasantly textured bass.
This careful engineering allows for high-resolution detail retrieval while maintaining a natural timbre and a rich, immersive presentation. To further enhance performance, the torus features precisely positioned grooves at a 45.5° angle, effectively controlling resonances and enabling the driver to reproduce sound with accuracy and fluidity.
STABILIZED
The copper-zinc alloy stabilizer, positioned around the membrane, improves the absorption of vibrations to further reduce distortion.
SOFT EAR PADS
Velour cushions comfortably surround the ears, providing the optimal seal to create natural sound. Since velour is far softer and more breathable than leather, it also prevents sweat and overheating during lengthy listening sessions.
ACCESSORIZED
The 105 SILVA comes with a new 1.8 m (5.9 ft) OFC cable, featuring a dual-twisted, Kevlar-wrapped main run, soft PVC-coated left and right wires, and anthracite aluminum housings. Built for durability, flexibility, and a tangle-free experience.
Alongside it, a custom 3.5 mm to USB-C adapter with an integrated DAC/AMP expands usability with mobile devices, while maintaining high-resolution playback on the go.
SUSTAINABLE THROUGH LONGEVITY
As our choices of today can greatly impact the world of tomorrow, we design products that last. We believe that a longer product lifespan means a smaller footprint. Following this philosophy, the 105 SILVA can be taken apart and serviced endlessly if needed, making it as perennial as the forests it alludes to.
“With the 105 SILVA, we took what we learned from the 109 PRO and the 105 AER, giving it sound characteristics from both: richness and genre versatility combined with clarity and detail. However, it is not merely a combination of both, as we’ve introduced a more expressive midrange presentation for enhanced vocal presence and a more natural-sounding representation of acoustic stringed instruments.” - Alex Balazsi, Acoustic Engineer
Features
- Dual focus sound signature: fun & detailed. You will perceive the liveliness and impact in your music without sacrificing micro-details.
- Sophisticated design, reminiscent of the Mid-Century Modern movement - fusing vintage charm with contemporary aesthetics, the radial PC-ABS grille sublimely intertwines with the walnut wood to form the ear cups, creating a feel that never truly ages.
- 50 mm dynamic driver with bio-cellulose composite dome and titanium-coated semicrystalline polymer torus.
- All-day comfort through world-class ergonomic design and soft, cushiony contact materials.
- Durability through longevity and premium materials – every component can be disassembled and replaced endlessly.
What's in the Box?
- 105 SILVA over-ear headphones
- 1.8m OFC cable with dual-twisted, Kevlar-wrapped design
- 3.5mm to USB-C adapter with integrated DAC/AMP
- Anthracite aluminum cable housings
- Soft PVC-coated left and right wires
Meze Audio 105 Silva Headphones Review
Read Time: Approx. 10 min.
A Harmonious Marriage of Art and Sound
In case you haven't noticed, the audiophile headphone market is huge, and Meze Audio Headphones account for a decent amount. From the open-back 109 Pro Headphones to the infamous Empyrean II, Meze Audio's over-ear headphones are among some of my personal favorites in the high-end segment.
At $499, the 105 Silva is the hi-fi manufacturer's latest dynamic open-back headphone, designed to breathe life into every note. With a rich, expressive midrange, articulate bass, and natural-sounding treble, the Meze 105 Silva is a versatile headphone that pleases both the analytical, detailed listeners and warm, musical lovers like myself.
The name Silva is Romanian for forest, paying tribute to the ancient woodlands that surround Meze Audio's headquarters in Maramures, Romania, which is embodied in the headphone's warm, inviting timbre and organic open-back design.
PROS
- Comfortable, classic Meze styling
- Midrange Musicality, Bass Articulation
CONS
Design
If the Meze Audio 105 Silva Headphones look familiar to you, it could be because they bear a striking resemblance to the 109 Pro Headphones. Just like the 109 Pro, they feature walnut wood ear cups, a leather headband, and the self-adjusting headband mechanism, but with a new grille design and improved headphone jack terminals. Unlike closed-back alternatives or IEM options, the open-back design provides an expansive soundstage.
Mid-century modern design has been extremely popular in the past two years. Just about every influencer on social media is ditching the beige aesthetic for the warm, inviting wood tones of mid-century modern. But one place I didn't expect to see mid-century design in action: Hi-Fi Audio Gear. That's right, even Meze Audio has been bitten by the bug. The 105 Silva's walnut wood ear cups and radial PC-ABS grilles–Inspired by mid-century modern design.
The overall construction and build quality of the 105 Silva is great, which is no surprise coming from Meze Audio. The self-adjusting headband is one of the 105 Silva's best design features, plus the velour earpads of course. Why? Because there's nothing worse than fussing with a headband to get that perfect fit. I feel like Baby Bear, "It's too big. It's too tight. I want my headphones to fit just right!"
In terms of specs, the 105 Silva is almost identical to the Meze Audio 105 AER. Both Meze headphones feature a 50mm dynamic driver, 5Hz-30kHz frequency range, 42 ohms impedance, and 112dB sensitivity. Where the two differ is in weight, with the 105 Silva weighing 18 grams more than the 105 AER. Those extra 18 grams are attributed to the 105 Silva's walnut wood cups.
Included with the 105 Silva Headphones are several accessories: A 1.8m Kevlar duo OFC twisted cable with anthracite aluminum shells and 3.5mm connectors, a cable pouch, a hard EVA carrying case, and two adapters: a 6.35mm gold-plated jack and USB-C to 3.5mm.
Sound
When it comes to dynamic driver headphones, Meze Audio never misses. Pairing the 105 Silva Headphones with the Astell&Kern SP4000 DAP, (though they work beautifully with any quality amplifier) I didn't waste any time paying tribute to the Prince of Darkness that is Ozzy Osbourne. This was a bittersweet listening session. I'll never forget the first time my dad played 'Crazy Train' over his stereo system in the living room. I was no older than 10, and up to this point, I had been exposed to mostly country and radio pop hits. While this song was big, bold, and in your face over loudspeakers, it was much more intimate and balanced on the 105 Silva. It's as if the 105 Silva's were allowing me to experience the song in a new light, one where articulation and emotion shone the brightest.
To create the 105 Silva's sound quality, Meze Audio drew inspiration from the 109 Pro Headphones and the 105 AER. The 109 Pro Headphones are regarded for their detail and clarity, serving as a great option for the detail-oriented listener. The 105 AER Headphones take a more natural, musical approach, delivering a sound quality that's versatile and extremely easy to love. The 105 Silva Headphones sit between these two cans, possessing the sonic strengths of both–a natural, easy-to-love sound that's detailed and resolute. It's got more musicality and midrange expression than the 105 AER, delivering a fuller sound with more instrumentation and imaging.
Osbourne's works are nothing short of powerful and mystical. He's one of the few artists who can articulate his theatrics over a microphone–You don't have to see him live to know what he's about. 'No More Tears' by Osbourne is a nuanced piece with powerful guitar work that takes center stage. The 105 Silva executed each pluck, kick drum, and cymbal crash perfectly. The high frequencies are smooth and natural-sounding, vocals are rich and emotive, and the bass is punchy and fast–never bloated. Great low-end presentation that isn’t fatiguing. The sub-bass extension isn't crazy, but the mid-bass remains controlled and articulate.
The 105 Silva Headphones strike a beautiful balance between the articulation and nuance of an analytical headphone and the musicality and full body of a warm and musical headphone. It's not overly warm or saturated, and it's not overly detailed and clear. Going back to what I said about comfort and fit, it's just right. It's got great sonic versatility, complementing many genres. One of the best words I can use to describe the sound is organic. They're natural, not neutral. Nuanced yet dynamic. The soundstage is that of a truly open-back headphone, placing you in the center of the action.
Another powerful ballad by Osbourne, 'Mama, I'm Coming Home' was given new life over the 105 Silva. Meze Audio quotes that this pair of headphones "Breathe life into every note and redefine how we experience music," and I have to say, I wholeheartedly agree–In fact, it's practically spot on. That's the sonic superpower of the 105 Silva–the ability to deliver a lifelike presentation that's full of emotion.
Burning Blue
By Mariah the Scientist
(Burning Blue)
No More Tears
By Ozzy Osbourne
(No More Tears)
Daises
By Justin Bieber
(SWAG)
Happier Than Ever
By Billie Eilish
(Happier Than Ever)
Features
- Dynamic, open-back headphone
- Dual focus sound signature: fun & detailed. You will perceive the liveliness and impact in your music, without sacrificing micro-details.
- 50 mm dynamic driver with bio-cellulose composite dome and titanium-coated semicrystalline polymer torus.
- Sophisticated design, reminiscent of the Mid-Century Modern movement - fusing vintage charm with contemporary aesthetics, the radial PC-ABS grille sublimely intertwines with the walnut wood to form the ear cups, creating a feel that never truly ages.
- 1.8 m (5.9 ft) OFC cable, featuring a dual-twisted, Kevlar-wrapped main run, soft PVC-coated left and right wires, and anthracite aluminum housings.
- Custom 3.5 mm to USB-C adapter with an integrated DAC/AMP.
- All-day comfort through world-class ergonomic design and soft, cushiony contact materials.
- Durability through longevity and premium materials – every component can be disassembled and replaced endlessly.
Driver Design
At the heart of the Meze Audio 105 Silva Headphones is a 50mm dynamic driver, featuring a bio-cellulose composite dome and a titanium-coated semicrystalline polymer torus. Dynamic drivers deliver a sound quality that's well-loved by audiophiles and music enthusiasts alike. Meze Audio does a great job tuning its dynamic drivers to be fast, accurate, and musical. Here's a breakdown of the driver's construction:
- W-Shaped Dome: Durable yet lightweight, made of carbon fiber-reinforced cellulose composite. Reproduces high frequencies with incredible detail, clarity, and definition
- Titanium-Coated Torus: Titanium-coated semicrystalline polymer. Designed to optimize stiffness, speed, and tonal balance. The Titanium coating reinforces the membrane's structure while keeping it lightweight, ensuring a fast transient response and textured bass
- Copper-zinc alloy Stabilizer: Positioned around the membrane, improving the absorption of vibrations to further reduce distortion
Dragon Cables
[Bronze Dragon Headphone Cable]
There are a lot of reasons why you need to make sure your audio cables are not afterthoughts.
Our HiFi Audio Dragon Cables bring out more of what you love in your music and audio gear. If you love your headphones but wish they had a bit more top-end sparkle - a Silver Dragon Headphone Cable would be a great option. If your USB cables keep dying - as many stock cables do - then check out our quality USB Audio Cables. We say time and time again that materials matter, and our audio cables and custom geometries actually help to bring out those desired properties in your gear and music. We make tons of custom options for our customers so that you can get the right HiFi Audio cable for your exact needs. If you have any questions feel free to Contact Us and we'll be more than happy to help.
Verdict
The Meze Audio 105 Silva Headphones deliver a listening experience that satisfies both the discerning audiophile and the music lover seeking emotional connection. At $499, the 105 Silva possesses the hallmarks of a Meze Audio Headphone: Exceptional craftsmanship with walnut wood ear cups, a self-adjusting headband for a comfortable fit, and an easy-to-love dynamic driver sound. When paired with our Bronze Dragon Headphone Cable, the 105 Silva's musical sound was enhanced, delivering slightly more bottom-end weight while maintaining detail and resolution.
In many ways, the 105 Silva and 105 AER Headphones are similar, both boasting a sound that's natural, organic, and easy to love. Where the 105 AER is more natural and neutral-sounding, the 105 Silva is dynamic and musical. If you're stuck between the 105 AER and 105 Silva, ask yourself, "Which aesthetic do I value more?" because truly, they're both fantastic headphones–the 105 Silva is just the enhanced and refined younger sibling.
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What's in the Box
- 105 Silva Headphones
- 1.8mm Twisted OFC 3.5mm jack Headphone Cable
- EVA Carry Case
- Cable Pouch
- 6.3mm jack adapter
- 3.5mm to USB Type C Adapter
Specifications
Driver Type: Dynamic, 50mm
Diaphragm: Carbon fiber-reinforced cellulose composite
Impedance: 42 ohms
Frequency Response: 5 Hz - 30 kHz
Sensitivity: 112 dB SPL/mW at 1 kHz
Weight: 354 g
Ear Cups: Walnut Wood, PC-ABS
