Master & Dynamic has announced an updated version of its ME05 wired earphones. First introduced in 2015, the ME05 were eventually discontinued in early 2022 but the company is reintroducing them with familiar design elements including “precision-machined brass acoustic enclosures” while updating other components to improve their performance. Like the originals, the new ME05 are $199 and are available now through Master & Dynamic’s website, and coming to Amazon “this winter.”
Upgrades made to the new version of the ME05 include “custom high-excursion 8mm bio-cellulose drivers” and a better microphone with “with proprietary wind reduction” to improve the quality of your voice during calls, even while outside.
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Image: Master & Dynamic
The new ME05 also offer improved compatibility, says Master & Dynamic, with the inclusion of a 3.5mm to USB-C adapter featuring a built-in digital to analog converter that supports hi-res audio up to 32-bit/384kHz resolutions. For comparison, Tidal’s hi-res streaming audio maxes out at 24-bit / 192 kHz.
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Image: Master & Dynamic
The earphones come with foam ear tips in two sizes and silicone tips in five different sizes, and are available in four color options including gold and black, gunmetal and black, palladium and black, and palladium and white.
Although Master & Dynamic has focused on premium wireless headphone offerings in recent years (amongst other headphone makers), wired headphones, including Apple’s iconic tethered EarPods, still remain popular. But while Apple still sells wired earphones for $19, Master & Dynamic’s revived ME05 are priced more in line with wired offerings from companies like Shure and Sennheiser that are targeted at audiophiles or musicians.