Audeze MM-520

The Audeze MM-520 is a professional open-back planar magnetic headphone for critical recording, mixing and mastering, combining 90mm Ultra-Thin Uniforce planar magnetic drivers, Fluxor magnet arrays, Fazor phase management and Audeze SLAM acoustic technology with a 5Hz to 50kHz frequency response, 18-ohm impedance, 102dB/1mW sensitivity and less than 0.1% THD for precise studio monitoring, extended low-frequency definition and accurate midrange reproduction.

Professional Studio Reference

The Audeze MM-520 builds on the established MM-Series approach to professional monitoring while refining its acoustic performance for engineers who require dependable translation between headphones, studio monitors and playback systems. Its open-back circumaural construction creates a spacious listening environment suited to detailed mix decisions, editing, mastering and critical listening.

Audeze developed the MM-Series alongside Grammy-winning producer and engineer Manny Marroquin, with the MM-520 focusing further on low-frequency control and midrange accuracy. The design gives engineers a consistent reference when working outside a familiar control room or when loudspeaker monitoring proves impractical.

90mm Planar Magnetic Drivers

Audeze equips the MM-520 with large 90mm planar magnetic transducers. Unlike conventional dynamic drivers, the planar diaphragm distributes the driving force across a much larger surface area. This approach supports fast transient response, controlled diaphragm movement and high resolution across complex programme material.

The MM-520 reaches from 5Hz to 50kHz, extending well beyond the conventional audible frequency range. Its low-frequency extension helps engineers assess sub-bass information and tonal balance, while its high-frequency capability supports detailed evaluation of transients, harmonics, ambience and spatial information.

Ultra-Thin Uniforce Diaphragm

Audeze's Ultra-Thin Uniforce diaphragm technology optimises the conductive traces across the planar diaphragm to achieve more consistent driving force. The low-mass diaphragm reacts quickly to signal changes, helping the MM-520 reveal transient detail and low-level information without obscuring the overall mix.

The design contributes to distortion of less than 0.1% at 100dB SPL and 1kHz, allowing engineers to analyse demanding material at professional monitoring levels with minimal unwanted coloration.

Fluxor Magnet Array

Audeze's Fluxor magnet array uses powerful N50 neodymium magnets to create a highly efficient magnetic field around the diaphragm. This magnetic structure gives the driver the control required for accurate transient reproduction, strong dynamics and tightly defined low frequencies.

The MM-520 reaches a maximum SPL above 130dB and handles up to 5W RMS, providing substantial dynamic headroom for professional studio applications.

Fazor Phase Management

Fazor technology manages the acoustic energy leaving the planar magnetic diaphragm. The system guides sound waves through the magnetic structure to reduce interference and improve phase behaviour.

This acoustic management helps preserve clarity, imaging and spatial definition, making it easier to assess placement, depth, reverberation and other subtle elements within a mix.

SLAM Acoustic Technology

The MM-520 integrates Audeze's SLAM acoustic technology to enhance low-frequency definition while maintaining precise midrange reproduction. The system helps the planar driver reproduce bass with greater control and impact without sacrificing the tonal information that engineers rely on when balancing vocals, instruments and effects.

This combination gives the MM-520 particular relevance for mix decisions involving kick drums, bass instruments, low-frequency effects and sub information, while retaining the midrange detail required for critical professional work.

Efficient Professional Performance

With an impedance of 18 ohms and sensitivity of 102dB/1mW at Audeze's Drum Reference Point, the MM-520 works with a broad range of professional headphone amplifiers, audio interfaces and monitoring systems. Audeze specifies a minimum power requirement above 100mW, while the 5W RMS maximum power handling provides considerable operating headroom when paired with suitable amplification.

Open-Back Circumaural Design

The open-back architecture allows air to move naturally around the driver rather than trapping acoustic energy inside a sealed enclosure. This design supports a spacious presentation and reduces the enclosed character that can make extended critical listening more difficult.

Its circumaural earpads surround the ears and provide the physical space required for the large planar magnetic transducers. At 555g, the MM-520 maintains the substantial construction associated with high-performance planar headphones while incorporating comfort improvements for extended studio sessions.

Upgraded Magnetic Memory Foam Earpads

Audeze upgrades the MM-520 with memory foam earpads designed for long recording, editing and mixing sessions. The pads attach magnetically, allowing straightforward removal for cleaning, maintenance or replacement.

This system improves day-to-day practicality in professional environments where headphones may see frequent and intensive use.

Professional Connectivity and Accessories

The MM-520 includes a 2.5m headphone cable for studio use together with a 3.5mm to 6.3mm adaptor for compatibility with common professional and portable connections. A standard travel case protects the headphones during transport, while the included MM-Series soft carry bag provides another convenient storage option.

Why Choose the Audeze MM-520?

• Mix with greater confidence: Its controlled low end, detailed midrange and low distortion help engineers make decisions that translate reliably across different playback systems.
• Hear difficult details clearly: The planar magnetic architecture exposes transients, spatial information and low-level elements that can prove difficult to judge on less resolving headphones.
• Work away from the control room: Its reference-focused tuning provides a dependable monitoring option for remote sessions, mobile production and environments without trusted loudspeakers.
• Judge bass with greater precision: SLAM technology and extended 5Hz low-frequency response help reveal sub-bass balance, definition and dynamics.
• Stay comfortable during long sessions: Memory foam earpads support extended listening, while magnetic attachment simplifies cleaning and replacement.
• Integrate it into a professional setup: The 18-ohm impedance, high sensitivity and supplied connection accessories suit a wide range of studio interfaces and dedicated headphone amplifiers.
• Invest in a serious studio reference: High maximum SPL, 5W RMS power handling and robust planar magnetic construction equip the MM-520 for demanding professional workflows.

• Open-back, over-ear circumaural professional studio headphones
• 90mm planar magnetic transducers
• Ultra-Thin Uniforce diaphragm technology
• Fluxor magnet array
• N50 neodymium magnets
• Fazor phase-management technology
• SLAM acoustic management technology
• 5Hz to 50kHz frequency response
• Less than 0.1% THD at 100dB SPL and 1kHz
• Maximum SPL above 130dB
• 18-ohm impedance
• 102dB/1mW sensitivity at Audeze's Drum Reference Point
• Minimum power requirement above 100mW
• Maximum power handling of 5W RMS
• Refined low-frequency definition and midrange precision
• Open-back construction for spacious, natural monitoring
• Memory foam earpads designed for extended studio sessions
• Magnetic earpad attachment for easier cleaning and replacement
• 555g headphone weight
• 2.5m headphone cable
• 3.5mm to 6.3mm adaptor
• Standard travel case
• MM-Series soft carry bag

This item, like everything we supply, comes with the complete support of our expert team. Our excellent technicians have been specifying, building and supporting studios for over twenty years. If you have any problems with installation, setup or everyday use, they’re never more than a click away, and always happy to help.

You can contact them here.