Audeze MM-500

$1,499.00 to $1,699.00 Price Tier: High-end

5.0 (3)

7 Critic Reviews

Find out who is using Audeze MM-500

2 community setups

1 wishlisted

10 saved

Page last updated Jun 22, 2026

Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated June 22, 2026.

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Price

5.0 (2)

$1,699.00

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$1,699.00

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4.6 (27)

$1,699.00 New

$1,397.97 Used (Like New)

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$1,499.00 5 available New

$1,350.00 7 available Used

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$1,699.00

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5.0 (3)

$1,699.00

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4.6 (14)

$1,699.00 $1,690.00 $9.00 · All time low

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£1,543.52

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$1,529.00

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Average Price: $1,618

High-end/Boutique

$100

$301+

Price Tier

In the Headphones & In-Ear Monitors category, Audeze MM-500 is priced in the High-end/Boutique range. This premium gear is built to very high standards and offers premium features.

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 7 merchants for "Audeze MM-500". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

^* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

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Introducing the Audeze MM-500 headphones, crafted for those who demand unparalleled audio fidelity and comfort. Collaboratively designed with the legendary Grammy-winning producer, Manny Marroquin, these headphones are more than just a listening device—they're a portal to professional-grade sound. The MM-500's planar magnetic drivers are at the heart of its exceptional performance, offering a frequency range from a deep 5Hz to a soaring 50kHz. This expansive range ensures that every nuance and detail of your mix is captured with precision, akin to having a top-tier studio monitor on your head.

The open-back design removes room acoustics from the equation, allowing you to mix anywhere with confidence. Its durable yet lightweight construction, featuring a machined aluminum frame and adjustable spring steel headband, ensures all-day comfort without sacrificing robustness. The premium leather earpads add a layer of indulgence, making long listening sessions not just tolerable, but enjoyable. The MM-500's Fazor waveguides further enhance the listening experience by delivering remarkable phase coherence and imaging.

Engineered with an 18-ohm impedance and 100dB sensitivity, these headphones are compatible with virtually any audio device, from studio interfaces to portable music players. Whether you're in the studio or on the move, the MM-500 is your trusted companion for achieving the perfect mix.

Key Features:

Designed in collaboration with Grammy-winning producer Manny Marroquin
90mm planar magnetic drivers for supreme sonic accuracy
Frequency response: 5Hz - 50kHz
Open-back design to eliminate room influence
18-ohm impedance and 100dB sensitivity
Lightweight construction with premium leather earpads
Includes braided cable and travel case

Product specs

Type	Wired
Open/Closed	Open
Fit Style	Circumaural (Around the Ear)
Driver Size	3.54" (90mm)
Frequency Response	10Hz-50kHz
Impedance	18 ohms
Connectivity	1/4" plug, 1/8" adapter
Cable Type	Straight
Detachable Cable	Yes
Case/Bag	Travel Case
Weight	1.09 lbs.

FAQs

What is the primary use of the Audeze MM-500 headphones?: The Audeze MM-500 headphones are designed for professional audio applications, offering precise sound reproduction ideal for mixing and mastering in studio environments.
How does the open-back design of the Audeze MM-500 affect sound quality?: The open-back design provides a more natural and spacious soundstage, allowing for better imaging and depth, which is beneficial for critical listening and audio production tasks.
Are the Audeze MM-500 headphones comfortable for long sessions?: Yes, the Audeze MM-500 features a circumaural fit style with plush ear pads that ensure comfort during extended use, making them suitable for long studio sessions.
Can the Audeze MM-500 be used with portable devices?: With an impedance of 18 ohms and sensitivity of 100dB, the MM-500 can be driven by portable devices, though using a headphone amp for optimal performance is recommended.
What type of drivers does the Audeze MM-500 use?: The Audeze MM-500 utilizes planar magnetic drivers, known for delivering detailed and accurate sound reproduction, which is ideal for professional audio work.

Videos

Add video

The Headphone Show

Audeze MM-500 vs LCD-X - BIG differences

The Headphone Show

Audeze MM-100 VS MM-500! Reference sound for audiophiles?

The Headphone Show

I FINALLY Tried it! - Audeze MM-500 Review

Joshua Valour

MM 500 Headphones By Audeze | Premium Studio headphones | Comparisons to LCD-X and LCD-5

Ken Jacobsen

MADE FOR MIXING! - Audeze MM-500 Headphone Review

Streaky

Manny Marroquin on the MM-500 Headphone

Audeze

Best Headphones for Mixing? Audeze LCD-X vs MM-500

Matty Harris | Mix and Master My Song

My All Time PRO MIXING Headphones? Audeze MM-500

Chris Selim - Mixdown Online

Audeze MM-500 Review | Reference Open-Back Planar Magnetic Headphones

Bloom Audio

AUDEZE MM-500 Open-Back Headphone Review - Co-designed by Grammy Award-Winning Manny Marroquin

Audio Advice

Trên tay Audeze MM-500: tai nghe planarmagnetic tầm trung thế hệ mới, hợp tác với Manny Marroquin

Audio Tinh tế

รีวิว | Audeze MM-500 หูฟังระดับ Studio Quality ตัวสุดทาง

munkonggadgetREVIEWS

Reviews

Add review

PROS

Exceptional detail retrieval, revealing new nuances in familiar tracks
Highly transparent and precise sound, ideal for mixing and mastering
Comfortable fit with soft ear pads, despite initial tightness
Solid build quality, feels durable and reliable
Excellent imaging and soundstage, though not as wide as some competitors
Non-fatiguing sound, suitable for extended listening sessions
Linear frequency response across all bands, particularly in high frequencies
Neutral bass with good texture, avoiding smearing into mids
High-quality materials used in ear pads and headband
Good transient response, making compression and distortion easy to assess

CONS

Smaller soundstage compared to other Audeze models
Clamping force may feel tight for some users
Heavy design may not be ideal for on-the-go use
Flat sound may lack dynamics for general listeners
Smaller ear pads might be uncomfortable for larger ears

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Audeze MM-500.

Use cases and applications

0 0

The intimate soundstage and vocal-forward tuning are beneficial for mixing applications, particularly to prevent vocals from being mixed too aggressively.
Source
0 0

The MM-500's mid-forward tuning aligns with mixing needs, especially if using monitors similarly tuned to Manny Marroquin's setup at Larrabee Studios.
Source
0 0

They are favored for music production and mixing due to their translation to other systems, although pairing with dynamic drivers is recommended for a comprehensive sound check.
Source

Comparisons

0 0

Compared to the NDH30, the MM-500 offers better treble extension but falls short in neutrality, spaciousness, and comfort.
Source
0 0

The LCD-2C is described as more neutral, engaging, and comfortable, with a more spacious sound compared to the MM-500.
Source
0 0

Compared to the Verum 1, the MM-500 has less isolation and a smaller soundstage but offers more detail.
Source
0 0

Some users find the MM-500's vocals "shouty," which can make female vocals grating but is advantageous for mixing to ensure clarity.
Source
0 0

Owners find the MM-500 sound signature similar to HD 650 but with extended low-end and "planar magic" in the highs.
Source

User experience

0 0

The clamping force is compared to DT900 PRO X or Ollo S5X, indicating a very tight fit that may cause discomfort for some users.
Source
0 0

The cable terminations are not angled enough, causing discomfort by digging into shoulders when the user's head is not completely straight.
Source
0 0

Owners mention the need to bend the headband for better comfort, indicating variability in fit preferences and potential adjustment needs.
Source
0 0

Recent batches show improved comfort with less clamping force compared to earlier versions, enhancing the listening experience over longer sessions.
Source

Build quality

0 0

The headband adjustment clicks are notably satisfying, and the cups can rotate 90 degrees in both directions, enhancing user flexibility.
Source
0 0

Some owners reported channel imbalances and loose drivers, indicating potential quality control issues despite the high price point.
Source
0 0

The inner diameter of the pads might be small for some users, potentially causing discomfort for those with larger ears.
Source
0 0

Leather pads are glued and not user-replaceable, which might be a concern for long-term maintenance.
Source

Features and functionality

0 0

The MM-500 offers a mid-forward sound with laid-back highs, making female vocals prominent and ideal for vocal-centric music.
Source
0 0

The headphones reveal recording imperfections but excel with well-mastered tracks, offering a versatile listening experience across genres.
Source

Setup and maintenance

0 0

Some users experience buzzing linked to electrical grounding issues, highlighting sensitivity to power supply setups.
Source

Critic Reviews

Audeze MM-500 Review - A Critical Take – Headphones.com

headphones.com

The Audeze MM-500 boasts a solid build and attractive design, but it stumbles on sound performance, particularly in bass tightness and treble clarity. While its balanced tonality may appeal to mixing professionals, the overall listening experience lacks excitement and technical finesse. The headphones are heavy and may not be comfortable for all users, especially those with larger heads. At $1700, the MM-500 feels like a mixed bag—promising in construction yet underwhelming in audio delivery, leaving potential buyers to weigh its professional appeal against its shortcomings.

neutral

Full Review

Audeze MM-500: Master of None | Den-Fi.com

den-fi.com

While the Audeze MM-500 boasts impressive build quality and a well-integrated frequency response, it falters in critical areas for pro-audio use. The comfort is marred by a short head strap and some odd timbral qualities, leading to a somewhat rubbery sound. Its smooth treble, while enjoyable for casual listening, can obscure important details during mixing. Overall, the MM-500 succeeds as a jack-of-all-trades but lacks the specialization needed for critical audio work, ultimately making it a "master of none."

negative

Full Review

Audeze MM-500 Open-Back Planar Magnetic Headphones Review - Fit, Comfort & Audio Performance | TechPowerUp

techpowerup.com

While the Audeze MM-500 boasts impressive audio fidelity with its planar magnetic technology and solid build quality, it suffers significantly from comfort issues due to a high clamp force that may deter prolonged use. The headband design, though lighter than previous models, is criticized for causing discomfort, especially during extended sessions. Although the sound signature is tuned for accuracy and detail—ideal for professional use—the narrower soundstage and potential glare in the upper frequencies might disappoint those seeking more dynamic listening experiences. Overall, the MM-500 is a mixed bag: exceptional audio performance but marred by comfort concerns.

negative

Full Review

Audeze MM-500 Review - New school Audeze – Headphones.com

headphones.com

The Audeze MM-500 showcases a refined sound signature that emphasizes midrange richness, appealing to those who prefer a more intimate listening experience. Its build quality is top-notch, boasting an elegant design that stands out in the high-end headphone market. However, the tight clamp may prove uncomfortable for larger heads, and the upper midrange can feel overly pronounced, risking listening fatigue on certain recordings. While it represents a positive shift from Audeze's older models, it may not satisfy fans of their classic sound. Overall, the MM-500 is a compelling offering, but potential buyers should weigh its ergonomic quirks and tonal characteristics against their preferences.

neutral

Full Review

Audeze MM-500 Planar Magnetic Headphones Review

headphone.guru

Impressive sound clarity and comfort define the Audeze MM-500, making it a standout choice for both audiophiles and studio professionals. The headphones shine in bass response and detail retrieval, positioning them as a budget-friendly alternative to pricier models. However, at $1,699, they might not cater to entry-level users. The tuning by renowned engineer Manny Marroquin is a significant highlight, ensuring an engaging listening experience. While they may not completely outperform the flagship LCD-5, the MM-500s deliver exceptional value, proving they can hold their own against much more expensive competition.

positive

Full Review

Audeze MM-500

soundonsound.com

Audeze's MM-500 headphones deliver impressive clarity and a forward sound profile ideal for mixing, thanks to their ergonomic design and reduced weight. While they maintain the characteristic Audeze bass punch, the increased brightness in the upper midrange enhances detail without overwhelming harshness. However, they still retain a hefty price tag of $1699, which may deter budget-conscious buyers. Despite this, for professionals seeking quality mixing tools, the MM-500 stands out as a worthy investment, enabling mixes that translate well across systems.

positive

Full Review

Audeze MM-500 Review - Headfonia Reviews

headfonia.com

The Audeze MM-500 delivers an impressive blend of comfort and studio-quality sound, making it an ideal choice for long listening sessions. Its planar magnetic technology ensures responsiveness and clarity, and its build quality reflects Audeze's commitment to excellence. However, at $1,699, the price might deter casual listeners, and some users might prefer a more balanced sound profile. Overall, while there are minor drawbacks, the MM-500 stands out as a versatile and reliable studio headphone that meets the demands of professional mixing and personal enjoyment alike.

positive

Full Review

Add review

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 3 Ratings

5 star

4 star

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Artist usage

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Manny Marroquin

Audio Engineer

Verified via MusicRadar

Manny Marroquin uses the Audeze MM-500 headphones in his mixing process, as he mentioned, “I always mix on these headphones.” This information is supported by an article on MusicRadar by Daniel Griffiths, where Marroquin discusses his mixing techniques and equipment choices.

VIQ

Composer, Music Producer

Verified via Photo

VIQ confirmed his use of the Audeze MM-500 headphones by posting a photo of them on the 'chillsynth' Discord, where he engages with musicians and fans.

Album Usage

The Audeze MM-500 has been featured on the following albums:

Remnants Melancholia

VIQ (2024)

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Audeze MM-500, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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berry_in_the_box

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Pricing and availability

Price History

Description

Product specs

FAQs

Videos

Reviews

PROS

CONS

Owner Insights

Use cases and applications

Comparisons

User experience

Build quality

Features and functionality

Setup and maintenance

Critic Reviews

Audeze MM-500 Review - A Critical Take – Headphones.com

Audeze MM-500: Master of None | Den-Fi.com

Audeze MM-500 Open-Back Planar Magnetic Headphones Review - Fit, Comfort & Audio Performance | TechPowerUp

Audeze MM-500 Review - New school Audeze – Headphones.com

Audeze MM-500 Planar Magnetic Headphones Review

Audeze MM-500

Audeze MM-500 Review - Headfonia Reviews

Artist usage

Album Usage

Genre Usage

Used With

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