Audeze MM-520 Review: Budget Planar Headphones for Musicians

When Audeze launched the MM-520, it promised to bring the legendary planar magnetic sound to a more accessible price point. Designed in collaboration with musician and producer Misha Mansoor, the MM-520 aims to be the go-to headphone for tracking, mixing, and critical listening without breaking the bank. In this review, we'll dive deep into the MM-520's build, comfort, and most importantly, its sound signature—especially for guitar and bass players.

As a budget planar headphone option, the MM-520 competes in a crowded field. But does it hold up to Audeze's high standards? We spent weeks testing the MM-520 in a variety of scenarios: recording sessions, mixing sessions, and casual listening. Here's our honest take.

Design and Build Quality

The MM-520 features a robust, all-metal construction that feels premium despite its mid-range price. The headband is adjustable and well-padded, ensuring comfort during long studio sessions. The ear cups are spacious and angled to mimic a near-field monitor setup, which is a thoughtful touch for mixing engineers.

The included cable is detachable and terminates in a standard 1/4-inch plug, making it easy to connect to audio interfaces and headphone amps. The MM-520 also ships with a set of replacement ear pads, which is a nice bonus for long-term durability. However, some users may find the clamping force a bit tight initially, but it loosens up after a few days of use.

• Open-back design for natural soundstage
• Detachable cable with 1/4-inch termination
• Includes extra ear pads

Sound Quality: A Musician's Perspective

The MM-520 delivers a remarkably flat and neutral frequency response, which is ideal for critical listening. The planar magnetic drivers produce fast, accurate transients, making it easy to hear articulation in guitar riffs and bass lines. The low-end is tight and extended, providing a solid foundation for mixing bass-heavy tracks.

For guitar players, the MM-520 excels at reproducing the nuances of amp tones and pedal effects. The midrange is present without being harsh, allowing you to hear the body of a guitar tone clearly. Bass players will appreciate the punchy low-mids and the ability to discern individual notes even in complex mixes. Overall, the MM-520 is a reliable tool for musicians who need honest sound.

• Neutral frequency response for accurate monitoring
• Excellent transient response for fast-paced music
• Tight bass and clear mids for guitar and bass

Comfort and Longevity

Comfort is crucial for long studio sessions, and the MM-520 delivers. The ear pads are plush and breathable, and the headband distributes weight evenly. At 420 grams, it's not the lightest headphone, but the weight is well-balanced, and most users will find it comfortable for hours of use.

Audeze is known for building headphones that last, and the MM-520 is no exception. The metal frame and replaceable parts, such as ear pads and cables, ensure that you can maintain these headphones for years. For those who want to upgrade the ear pads later, Audeze offers compatible options like the Maxwell 2 Ear Pads, which can be a worthwhile investment for added comfort.

• Plush ear pads and breathable materials
• Replaceable ear pads and cables for longevity
• Balanced weight distribution for extended wear

Comparison with Other Audeze Models

The MM-520 sits in Audeze's lineup as a more affordable alternative to flagships like the LCD-1 Headphones. While the LCD-1 offers a more refined soundstage and slightly better detail retrieval, the MM-520 is no slouch. It offers a similar planar magnetic signature but at a lower price point, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious musicians.

If you're considering other Audeze products, the Mobius Spatial Audio Gaming Headset is a different beast entirely—it's wireless and features built-in head-tracking, but it's not aimed at studio work. For pure audio fidelity at a budget price, the MM-520 is the clear winner. Additionally, Audeze offers accessories like the Maxwell & Maxwell 2 Cable Kit, which can be used with the MM-520 for added versatility.

• MM-520 vs. LCD-1: budget vs. premium
• MM-520 vs. Mobius: studio vs. gaming
• Compatible accessories for customization

The Audeze MM-520 is a fantastic choice for musicians who need accurate, reliable headphones without spending a fortune. Its neutral sound signature, robust build, and comfort make it a top pick for guitar and bass players alike. If you're in the market for budget planar headphones, the MM-520 is definitely worth considering. Check out the Audeze MM-520 on our site to see if it's the right fit for your studio.