Master & Dynamic ME05: $200 wired earbuds?! Are they worth the hype?
Master & Dynamic revive the ME05 wired earphones, bringing upgraded acoustics, an improved microphone and more, to the same premium finish.
Premium headphones manufacturer, Master & Dynamic initially launched the ME05 wired earphones in 2015. Loved by audiophiles, as with Master & Dynamic’s other products, the ME05 are geared towards professionals, with premium construction inside and out. Master & Dynamic are partnered with other luxury companies on branded headphones, such as Leica, Mercedes-AMG, Lamborghini, Paris Saint-Germain and Bugatti.
Killed off in 2022, this week Master & Dynamic re-introduced the ME05, with upgraded acoustics, an improved microphone, more fit options and a USB-C adapter, all in the same high-quality package. The ME05 are the only pair of wired headphones Master & Dynamic currently offers, among a line-up of high-end over-ear headphones and true wireless earbuds, such as the MW line.
Wired earbuds are having something of a revival among Gen Z at the moment. While lacking the convenience of wireless, wired options are preferred by those who want something smaller, lighter and often cheaper, with higher quality acoustics, superior microphones and of course no need to charge. While the ME05 aren’t cheaper than your typical pair of wireless earbuds, they make up for it in audio quality and build quality.
The revived Master & Dynamic ME05 earphones come in the same high-end finish as the original pair. They feature a solid brass acoustic enclosure and tangle-free, durable rubber cable with oxygen-free copper. The 1.2m cable ends in a 3.5mm audio jack for analog devices, while a USB-C adapter is included in the box. The adapter supports audio formats up to 32-bit/385kHz, which is far higher than any music streaming service. On top of superior audio quality, another benefit of wired headphones is how small and light weight they can be. The ME05 weigh just 23g.
Master & Dynamic have upgraded the drivers in the new ME05 for improved, more expansive acoustics. Each earphone houses an 8mm high-excursion biocellulose driver that claims to deliver powerful bass, as well as clear, detailed highs.
Volume and playback controls live on the cable. Between volume up and volume down buttons is a multi-function button that can play/pause, answer/hang up, skip forward/back and access the voice assistant, with multiple taps/holds. Where the cable splits to the left and right earphone, on the right-hand side there is a microphone with a wind reduction mesh for clear calls. This sits just below the chin.
The new model comes with more fitting options, with a total of seven ear tip options. Silicone tips come in extra small, small, medium, large and extra large. Foam tips are available in small and large. By offering more tip sizes, users can ensure good comfort and the perfect seal for optimal sound quality. A carrying pouch is also included in the box.
The Master & Dynamic ME05 are available for $199, the same price as the original pair. They come in four colors. The Gold/Black option are available to order today on masterdynamic.com. Palladium/Black, Gunmetal/Metal, and Palladium/White are available for pre-order. They will be available on Amazon soon.
At $199, this actually makes the ME05 Master & Dynamic’s cheapest pair of cans. Their wireless earbuds span $350 to $400. Wireless over-ear headphones span $250 to $700. If you care more about the convenience that wireless earbuds offer, $200 will get you a number of flagship options, such as the Apple AirPods Pro 2, Google Pixel Buds Pro 2 and the Sony WF-1000XM5.