This week, I had the privilege of attending the High End Munich audio show, where I found myself captivated by Halle 1, the heart of the ‘head-fi’ culture. This vibrant space showcased an incredible variety of headphones and earbuds, seamlessly paired with some of the most cutting-edge music players and amplifiers available today.
Although I couldn’t sample every offering, I concentrated on several standout releases—both prototypes and nearly completed models. After numerous sessions of critical listening, I emerged with five exceptional headphones that resonated with me long after the final notes subsided. Below is an overview of these remarkable models and the elements that made them unforgettable.
Interestingly, this year’s exhibition demonstrated a clear focus away from in-ear monitors and wireless technology; the spotlight remained firmly on over-ear headphones. Here are the standout picks that truly captured my attention.
Leading the pack is the Meze Audio 105 Silva, which rightfully earned the title of ‘Best of High End Munich 2025.’ Competing against a range of impressive headphones, Meze has consistently wowed audio aficionados, and the 105 Silva continues this proud tradition. With an outstanding dynamic range, these headphones render every nuance in a track, allowing listeners to experience everything from the faintest whisper of a reed to the booming resonance of percussion.
The bass response is exhilarating, providing a solid foundation for acoustic pieces while keeping pop tracks vibrantly engaging. Their immediate response and energetic sound profile make these headphones versatile across genres. Besides their phenomenal audio capabilities, the striking wood finish and comfort enhance their appeal. While they are not exactly budget-friendly, their pricing is competitive, and I look forward to further explorations with them.
Next, we have the Moondrop Horizon, a set of open-back headphones that left a substantial mark on my auditory experience. If awards had been more plentiful, these headphones would have certainly been strong contenders. Featuring a newly designed 50mm driver, the Horizon offers a clear and neutral sound profile, complete with an enchanting rhythmic quality that makes them delightful for extended use. They strike the perfect balance between sharpness and comfort, ensuring a captivating yet relaxed auditory journey.
Lightweight and exceptionally comfortable, these headphones cater well to long listening sessions, resonating particularly well with rhythm-driven genres. Although they present a remarkably open soundstage, potential users should be mindful of external noise interference—a factor to weigh if sound isolation is a high priority. Priced between €200 and €300 with a tentative release slated for 2025, they provide an intriguing value proposition.
Another notable contender is the Yamaha YH-C300, still in prototype form but showing significant potential. Upon initially wearing them, I was impressed by their dynamic bass, which invigorated pop and electronic tracks, resulting in a visceral listening experience. Notably, these headphones also adapted beautifully to more intricate acoustic compositions, balancing a lightness with rich musicality.
Their playful character combined with a comfortable fit made for an enjoyable session. As they are still evolving, I am eager to see the final product, as they hold considerable promise for music enthusiasts.
Moving on, the Spirit Torino Pulsar offers a low-end experience that pushes the boundaries of bass listening. Enhanced for 2025, this model stands apart with its ability to deliver profound, expansive bass without succumbing to the muddiness that often plagues bass-heavy designs. Rather than overwhelming, the sound creates a rich, immersive environment that commands attention.
While these headphones invite an engaged listening posture as opposed to a more relaxed experience, the enthralling low-end presence is undeniably captivating. Prepare to make a significant investment, but the delight they provide could very well justify the expense.
Finally, the Dan Clark Noire XO presents a refined open-back design aimed at blending sound isolation with superb audio clarity. Amidst the lively atmosphere of the show floor, I was genuinely impressed by their capacity to deliver intricate details in the music. The vocals and high frequencies were sharply defined, while the lows exhibited precision, expertly delineating elements within any musical tapestry.
Although they may not evoke the same level of exhilaration as some other models, their impressive organization and clarity solidify their status as strong contenders, priced at $1,299/£1,299.
Reflecting on my time at the High End Munich audio show, it has become increasingly clear that this event remains a thrilling showcase for audiophiles, unveiling innovations that genuinely enhance the listening experience.
