Compare Meze Audio 105 Silva Headphones vs Audio-Technica ATH-ADX7000

The 105 Silva is widely described as rich, engaging, and highly musical, with strong clarity and cohesion. The main dissent is that its colored upper-range tuning can trail cheaper neutral competitors for listeners focused only on acoustic accuracy.

Most reviewers find the overall sound engaging, natural, and technically accomplished, especially for bass-heavy music and immersive listening. A smaller group considers it colored, congested, or insufficiently refined against cheaper competitors.

Leakage is lower than some reviewers expected from an open-back design, likely helped by rear mesh damping. It is still not private enough for shared quiet spaces.

As expected from a fully open-back design, sound leaks into the surrounding room.

Isolation is minimal, as expected from an open-back headphone, though the rear damping provides a small amount of attenuation. It remains best suited to quiet rooms rather than noisy public spaces.

The fully open design offers little isolation and works best in a quiet room.

The stage is commonly spacious, layered, and well organized, with convincing depth and placement. It is not universally wide, however, and some listeners found it surprisingly intimate or narrow for an open-back.

The stage is consistently described as open, spacious, and often holographic, with strong depth and lateral definition. Some listeners find it more intimate than expansive or slightly behind the very widest competitors.

Most reviewers found the overall balance coherent and carefully controlled rather than strictly neutral. Its warm-bright coloration and upper-mid or treble emphasis can sound natural to some listeners and noticeably colored to others.

The dominant impression is a balanced, natural, warm-neutral tuning that avoids the older Audio-Technica harshness. Pad choice, anatomy, and amplifier pairing can still shift the balance considerably.

Bass is usually praised for speed, texture, punch, and control without muddying the mids. Opinions split on quantity: some hear satisfying bloom and warmth, while others find the sub-bass restrained, dry, or lacking slam.

Bass is the headline strength: unusually weighty, punchy, textured, and controlled for an open-back design. Sub-bass extension and pad behavior vary, and one critical review found the Alcantara bass loose and woolly.

The combination of warmth, layering, imaging, and open-back space creates an intimate yet enveloping presentation. Music and environmental game audio can feel especially involving and three-dimensional.

With the right music and amplifier, the presentation can feel enveloping, holographic, and emotionally absorbing. This immersive quality is closely tied to the headphone’s openness and bass weight.

The broad suspended strap spreads pressure comfortably across the crown instead of creating a single hotspot. Its cushioning and geometry contribute heavily to the easy long-session fit.

Headband comfort is the most divisive physical issue. Some find the thin dual-rod structure surprisingly comfortable, while others report fast hotspots and insufficient padding.

The drivers generally stay controlled, punchy, and dynamic at louder levels. Extremely loud, dense material can become crowded, but normal high-volume listening remains clean.

At extremely high test levels, one reviewer measured and heard more harmonic distortion than desired.

The secure fit, detachable cable, USB-C adapter, and excellent case help with transport. Its open-back leakage and poor isolation still make it a home, hotel, or quiet-office headphone rather than a commuter model.

This is a desk-bound open-back headphone that expects a serious amplifier and leaks sound, making it a poor travel companion despite the protective case.

Walnut accents, metal structure, clean assembly, and refined touchpoints make the headphone feel genuinely luxurious. Even critical reviewers agreed the physical experience matches a high-end product.

The case and presentation often feel flagship-grade, but the headphone itself does not always communicate luxury through heft or ornamentation. This understated approach appeals to function-first listeners and disappoints those expecting visual drama.

Dual 3.5 mm connections make the cable removable and serviceable, but the recessed sockets favor slim barrels. Aftermarket choices are workable, though less universal than on the 105 AER.

The detachable A2DC connection is secure and easy to use for some, but proprietary compatibility limits affordable replacement and cable-rolling choices.

The production cable is often praised for sturdy construction, reinforcement, and low tangling. Complaints center on occasional microphonics, springiness, and the lack of a balanced termination.

Cable feedback is sharply mixed. Several reviewers call the stock leads stiff, unwieldy, or highly microphonic, while one praises their quality and others mainly value the included balanced and single-ended options.

The wired 3.5 mm and USB-C paths cover common sources, but the stock package lacks balanced 4.4 mm or XLR connectivity. Reviewers repeatedly wished for a balanced cable option.

Desktop connectivity is well covered by 6.3mm and balanced XLR cables, but the proprietary cup connector narrows aftermarket choices. The headphone is built around wired hi-fi systems rather than broad device compatibility.

The earpads detach cleanly despite their tightly integrated appearance, making routine replacement possible without compromising the refined design.

The included velvet and Alcantara pads function as meaningful tuning tools rather than simple replacements. Preferences differ widely, but the flexibility is considered valuable.

High sensitivity lets the 105 Silva play loudly from laptops, phones, dongles, and modest amplifiers. It does not need a powerful desktop stack to reach satisfying levels.

Volume can be adequate from modest dongles and low-power DAC/amps, though reaching volume is not the same as getting the fullest tonal and dynamic performance.

The soft velour or suede pads are breathable, plush, and comfortable over long sessions. A few larger-eared listeners noted limited internal room, but actual discomfort was uncommon.

Both velvet and Alcantara pads are soft and useful, with meaningful changes to bass, treble, openness, and intimacy. Circular openings and shallow depth can cause ear contact for some listeners.

The package is unusually complete, typically including a fitted case, cable pouch, adapters, and a USB-C DAC dongle. Reviewers saw the thoughtful organization and presentation as part of the premium experience.

The hard case, two cables, two pad sets, and cable pouch create a generous flagship package. Cable quality is the main element that keeps the bundle from feeling universally luxurious.

The self-adjusting suspension headband slides into place automatically and distributes pressure across the top of the head. Most found it effortless, though one reviewer warned that smaller heads may not get an ideal fit.

The bendable, notched headband offers unusually direct control over fit and clamp. Reviewers note that these adjustments can also change the tonal balance.

The 105 Silva is easy to drive from phones, laptops, and dongles, yet better DACs and amplifiers can improve articulation, bass depth, and stage. Source matching matters, but high power is not required.

The 490-ohm design rewards capable amplification, often gaining fullness, dynamics, bass texture, and spatial depth from stronger desktop or OTL chains. It can reach volume from modest sources, but several reviewers say underpowered gear sounds flat or thin.

Fine detail is generally strong, especially in vocals, percussion, and layered arrangements. A few reviewers found it less resolving than planar or higher-tier alternatives, and one felt some apparent detail came from treble emphasis.

Most listeners hear abundant detail and clean nuance without the usual sharp, analytical fatigue. A minority finds the presentation veiled or less resolving than similarly priced alternatives.

Vocals and instruments usually come through with excellent presence, texture, and separation. Depending on the recording and source, upper mids can sound forward or sharp, while some lower mids feel slightly recessed.

Midrange is usually clear, natural, and musically engaging, with vocals often well placed and tangible. A few reviewers hear recession, bloom, or less realistic tone than the strongest competitors.

Enthusiasm is high overall, with many reviewers calling the Silva a standout, a major step forward, or a headphone they would revisit often. The few mixed reactions come from treble coloration and sound-value concerns.

Enthusiasm is high across most sources, with many reviewers describing long, absorbed, emotionally engaging sessions. The few dissenting voices still acknowledge interesting qualities but do not feel the complete experience lands.

The contoured hard or semi-hard case receives universal praise for sturdiness, fit, and useful accessory storage. It provides reassuring protection for travel or home storage.

The rigid metal or hard-shell case is repeatedly praised as protective, purposeful, and worthy of a flagship unboxing.

Treble brings air, definition, and crisp transient detail without constant harshness. Several reviewers still heard a bright or sizzly upper peak that can expose aggressive recordings and reduce naturalness.

Treble opinions range from exceptionally clean, smooth, and non-fatiguing to peaky, sibilant, or incomplete around specific bands. Velvet is usually safer, while Alcantara often adds more energy and articulation.

Most reviewers recommend the 105 Silva for listeners who value comfort, craftsmanship, natural timbre, and an engaging rather than clinical sound. Reservations focus on treble sensitivity, bass preferences, and stronger pure-sound competitors.

Recommendations are strong for listeners seeking warm-neutral open-back sound, exceptional bass, and a spacious presentation. More critical reviewers advise auditioning first because comfort, treble, and value are unusually personal.

Separation is one of the clearest strengths: vocals, instruments, and background textures remain easy to follow even in busy passages. Stereo movement and positioning stay coherent without sounding artificially pulled apart.

Complex arrangements are usually easy to follow, with instruments staying distinct and layered across the stereo field. This separation remains strong even when the bass is elevated.

Soft pads wrap around glasses arms without creating pressure, and the clamp remains comfortable. Reviewers wearing glasses reported no meaningful fit penalty.

One reviewer wearing glasses found the fit comfortable and fatigue-free for hours, unlike earlier ADX models.

The moderate clamp and articulating cups keep the headphone secure through normal head movement. Reviewers noted little slippage while still retaining comfort.

The lightweight frame can remain secure even during exaggerated head movement, according to the one review that directly tested stability.

Most reviewers see strong value in the combination of sound, comfort, accessories, repairability, and premium construction. A minority argue that cheaper headphones can outperform it acoustically if design and ownership quality are ignored.

The $3,499 price is the clearest barrier, and several reviewers question whether the physical luxury or technical gains justify it. Supporters argue the rare bass-plus-space combination makes sense for committed flagship buyers.

The walnut-trimmed, mid-century-inspired design is the strongest consensus point. Reviewers repeatedly called it elegant, distinctive, modern-vintage, and among the best-looking headphones in its class.

The restrained industrial look is widely appreciated for function and precision rather than flash. Some buyers may find it too ordinary or too similar to less expensive Audio-Technica models.

Clamp is generally secure and evenly distributed without painful pressure. It can feel a little firm at first, yet the soft pads and bendable spring-steel frame keep it manageable.

Clamp is usually secure and adjustable, with several reviewers finding it well judged. Large- and small-head experiences differ, and clamp changes can affect both comfort and treble balance.

Construction is consistently described as outstanding, with precise assembly, premium materials, and unusually refined detailing. The chassis feels robust and cohesive rather than mass-market or disposable.

Reviewers generally praise the rigid magnesium construction and precise mechanical execution, especially given the unusually low weight. A few feel the plastic joints and shared chassis language do not look expensive enough for a flagship.

Comfort is a standout strength, with plush pads, effective weight distribution, and a self-adjusting suspension strap. Most reviewers could wear it for hours, though very large ears or unusually small heads may encounter fit issues.

Low mass and roomy pads make long sessions easy for many listeners, including glasses wearers. Comfort is not universal because the dual-rod headband can create hotspots and circular pads may touch the ears.

Although the 105 Silva is not exceptionally light on paper, the suspension design spreads its weight effectively. Reviewers repeatedly said it feels lighter on the head than the number suggests.

At roughly 270–275 grams, the headphone is exceptionally light for the flagship class and often seems to disappear on the head. This is one of the most consistently praised aspects of the design.

The standard 3.5 mm analog connection is secure and broadly compatible with conventional wired sources. Opinions about the narrow recessed cup sockets are covered separately under cable convenience.

Its slim matte-black profile is unusually discreet for a flagship. The design favors quiet precision over decorative luxury.

One reviewer ranked the 105 Silva among the highlights of a major high-end audio show, despite competition from far more expensive flagships.

The bundled USB-C DAC/amp is a convenient way to use phones and laptops immediately. It is viewed as a useful starter or backup solution rather than a replacement for a high-quality dedicated source.

One reviewer explicitly praises the driver matching alongside the overall frequency response.

The tiny included USB-C dongle is a welcome way to connect modern phones and laptops. Reviewers see it as a convenient starter or backup rather than an audiophile-grade source.

The cups articulate enough to conform securely around the ears and maintain a good seal. Movement is slightly more resistant than on the 109 Pro but remains effective in use.

Images are usually well defined laterally and through depth, with strong layering and three-dimensional placement. A few listeners find localization slightly floaty or less precise than top competitors.

The easy-to-drive wired design works with computers, phones, dongles, and desktop audio gear. The included adapters reduce the need for platform-specific equipment.

Easy drive requirements make the headphones portable-friendly from an electronics standpoint, but the large open-back design is not truly mobile. They neither isolate well nor suit commuting despite the protective case.

The pads and suspension headband can be removed and replaced rather than forcing a full headphone replacement. Owners can refresh the main wear components as they age.

Nearly every component can be disassembled, serviced, or replaced with ordinary tools. This modular approach is repeatedly praised as rare and commendable at the price.

The included USB-C adapter makes phone and laptop listening straightforward despite the wired design. Reviewers appreciated having modern digital connectivity in the box.

Replaceable parts, sturdy materials, and screw-based assembly give the 105 Silva strong long-term ownership prospects. Reviewers expect it to remain serviceable for many years rather than become a throwaway product.

Punch, transient speed, attack, and decay are widely praised, giving drums and bass unusually physical impact for an open-back dynamic headphone. Even positive reviewers note that it is not the absolute slam champion in every comparison.

Accurate direction, distance rendering, and strong immersion make the Silva excellent for cinematic and general gaming. Competitive FPS players may prefer a more focused stock tuning or use EQ to reduce distracting ambience.