Compare Apple AirPods Max vs Meze Audio 105 Silva Headphones

Regularly placed in the top tier, especially for commuting and office noise; some comparisons say Sony or Bose may edge it for constant aircraft rumble. Controls mainly toggle ANC and Transparency, with limited granular level control compared with rivals; configuration is easiest on iOS.

They pair to Android, but reviews emphasize missing smart features and less compelling value outside Apple's ecosystem.

No standalone app; controls live in iOS settings, which is seamless for Apple users but limited for others.

Explicitly called out as unsupported in some reviews, limiting hi-res options on many Android devices.

Bluetooth latency is typical for wireless cans, but multiple reviews highlight wired and USB-C paths plus newer updates as improving low-latency editing and sync.

Generally punchy and controlled with good sub-bass presence; some note it is not the bassiest option and can feel less impressive than certain rivals.

Bass is generally controlled and textured, with some listeners hearing a fuller, pillowy low end and others calling it restrained or dry compared with bassier alternatives. Sub-bass is present but not the main emphasis, so slam-heads may want more weight.

Most sources cite roughly 20-hour class battery life, which is acceptable but behind 30–60 hour competitors.

Connectivity is typically solid, but a few reports mention occasional glitches or routing quirks; wired use removes Bluetooth latency concerns.

Metal build and overall fit-and-finish are repeatedly described as luxurious and durable, albeit contributing to weight.

Build quality is consistently described as excellent, with premium materials, tight assembly, and a refined feel. Several reviews highlight serviceability and long-term durability as part of the value proposition.

The Digital Crown and dedicated mode button are repeatedly described as intuitive and among the best control schemes.

Cable impressions are mixed: many find the stock cable sturdy and functional, but some report microphonics or less-than-ideal ergonomics, and several note the lack of a balanced stock option.

The Smart Case is widely criticized for minimal protection and odd design, with many recommending third-party cases.

The included hard/semi-hard case is widely praised as well-made and protective, with room for cables/adapters and a secure zipper. It supports storage and occasional transport effectively.

Charging is straightforward, with quick-charge notes in some reviews; however, the sleep-mode and lack of a true off switch can complicate power management.

Fit is usually secure, but at least one long-term review flags clamp pressure as the main comfort downside.

Clamp force is generally described as moderate and well-distributed, supporting stability without obvious pain. A handful of impressions mention the clamp feeling a bit tight out of the box, with minor adjustment/break-in helping.

Limited to AAC and SBC in the reviews, which is fine on iOS but restrictive for hi-res and many Android use cases.

Many find them comfortable thanks to deep pads and a weight-distributing headband, but extended sessions can be affected by heat, clamp, or headband aging.

Comfort is a consistent strength: the self-adjusting suspension design and soft pads enable long listening sessions for most people. A few note fit quirks (small cups for some ears or clamp that starts slightly tight).

Premium, distinctive Apple styling and materials are consistently praised, though some dislike the bulk and the case.

Design is a standout, with walnut accents and Meze’s mid-century styling repeatedly called premium-looking and distinctive. Even critics of the tuning tend to praise the aesthetics and finish quality.

The detachable dual 3.5mm system is convenient for replacement, yet recessed/narrow connector sizing can limit third-party cable compatibility compared with more universal designs. Connection security itself is generally praised.

The included USB-C DAC dongle/adapter is viewed as a nice convenience for modern devices, generally adequate for casual listening. Enthusiast reviewers still expect better performance from dedicated DAC/amps.

Ear cushions are generally praised as plush and breathable, with some preferring leather-style pads for warmth and feel.

Velour/suede pads are commonly described as plush, breathable, and comfortable, helping distribute pressure and avoid hotspots. Some users wish for a touch more ear room, but pad comfort is still rated highly.

Cup articulation is generally sufficient for a good seal/fit, with tilt helping the pads conform, though some describe movement as limited compared with more freely articulating designs.

Lack of a full user EQ is a recurring complaint; Adaptive EQ and a few iOS presets exist but do not replace a real EQ.

Find My support is noted as useful for locating the headphones, with power-saving behavior affecting tracking over time.

Impressions suggest an overall agreeable tuning, but not strictly reference-flat; fit and Adaptive EQ can shift the response.

Tonality is often described as balanced or smooth rather than strictly neutral, with a coherent frequency integration that avoids obvious bloat. Some characterize it as tastefully colored (warm-bright/W-shaped) rather than reference-flat.

Telescoping arms and the mesh canopy are described as smooth and effective, though long-term elasticity concerns appear in some anecdotes.

The auto/self-adjusting headband system is repeatedly singled out as one of the best parts of the design, requiring little to no fiddling while spreading pressure evenly. It also helps with consistent fit and comfort over time.

Hinges and mechanisms are described as solid and premium, with a durable feel versus many plastic competitors.

Build discussions suggest robust hinges and a durable chassis, with spring-steel structures and solid joints expected to hold up well over years of use.

Accessories are generally seen as generous for the price: a protective case, cables, and adapters (often including USB-C). The main recurring complaint is the absence of a balanced cable in the box.

Commonly rated strong and easy to place elements, but one audiophile review notes separation can blur in busy passages.

Instrument separation and imaging are widely regarded as excellent for the price, helping complex mixes stay organized and making positional cues easy to track. Even reviewers who nitpick tuning tend to credit the Silva’s placement and delineation.

Also noted as unsupported, so Android users cannot take advantage of LDAC sources.

When pushed louder, reviewers who mention it report the presentation staying composed, with bass and treble control holding together without obvious strain.

Wind and background-noise handling is generally strong in major reviews, though results can vary by source device and environment.

Call performance ranges from good to just okay depending on device, with several noting clear voice pickup overall.

Frequently praised for vocal-forward, detailed mids; some listeners hear a slightly recessed or hazy mid presentation compared with more reference-tuned headphones.

Midrange is a highlight for many, with clear, forward vocals/instruments and an overall transparent character. A few note that certain vocal ranges can sound a bit thin, scooped, or pushed depending on recording and pairing.

Works across platforms as basic Bluetooth headphones, but the feature set is strongest on Apple devices and limited elsewhere.

Reviewers frequently describe good compatibility across sources (phones with dongles, laptops, DAPs, and desktop amps), helped by easy drivability. Some note it scales with source quality and can reveal harshness from poor gear.

Not true multipoint in the typical sense, but Apple-device switching is repeatedly praised; non-Apple switching can require manual steps.

As open-backs, passive isolation is low and sound leakage is expected; a couple of reviewers note mild attenuation compared to very open designs, but these are still best for quiet rooms.

They do not fold, and the included case is slim but not protective, making travel packing less convenient than foldable rivals.

Portability is mixed: they’re easy to drive and include a protective case, but the open-back design and size make them better suited to home or quiet environments than true travel/commute use.

Magnetic, user-replaceable ear cushions are praised for cleaning and longevity, though replacements cost extra.

Where discussed, earpads are replaceable and intended for long-term ownership, with guides or documentation supporting pad swaps and maintenance.

Wear-detection and other sensors enable auto-pause and head-tracking behaviors, but several features are iOS-dependent.

Across reviews, the sound is described as crisp, balanced, and spacious, with especially strong performance on Apple devices; a few audiophile-leaning takes call it consumer-tuned and not the last word in detail. Wired listening can improve fidelity and reduce latency, but may require extra cables or adapters depending on model and source.

Across reviews, the 105 Silva is described as an engaging open-back with a premium “Meze” presentation: natural timbre, strong technicalities for the price, and a tuning that favors musical enjoyment over strict neutrality. A minority find the voicing less competitive on pure sound-per-dollar versus cheaper rivals without EQ.

Most reviewers hear a notably wide, open stage for a closed-back ANC headphone, enhanced further by Spatial Audio; a few call it only average by high-end standards.

Soundstage impressions vary: some describe it as expansive, airy, and three-dimensional, while others find it only moderately wide or a touch narrow with limited depth/layering. Imaging is commonly cited as more consistent than sheer stage size.

Spatial Audio with head tracking is regularly called a highlight for movies and supported music, though preferences vary and some leave it off for stereo purity.

Fit stability is usually strong thanks to moderate clamp and the suspension design, with reports of little slippage and secure positioning. One review flags potential fit issues for smaller heads due to the frame geometry.

Sustainability is repeatedly tied to Meze’s serviceable approach: parts can be replaced rather than discarding the headphone, supporting longevity and repairability over time.

Consistently singled out as best-in-class for natural, conversational awareness, with features like Conversation Boost mentioned.

Often described as clear and crisp without harshness, though a minority report uneven treble or extra sizzle depending on firmware and fit.

Treble is typically praised for clarity and refinement, but several reviews note peaks/extra air that can sound a little spicy, sizzly, or less forgiving on bright or compressed tracks. Others hear it as smooth and well-balanced for long sessions.

Later refreshes add USB-C, viewed as more future-proof and enabling certain wired use cases, though some are disappointed it came without a broader hardware update.

USB-C support comes via an included adapter/dongle, enabling plug-and-play use with phones and computers lacking a headphone jack. It’s positioned as convenience rather than a high-end solution.

Multiple reviews call the 105 Silva very easy to drive (high sensitivity, modest impedance) and capable of reaching loud listening levels from phones, dongles, laptops, and DAPs. Higher-quality sources can still improve refinement and control.

No meaningful water or sweat rating is emphasized, and condensation or moisture inside cups is mentioned, so they are not ideal for wet workouts.

Nearly all reviewers mention the heft; comfort is good for the weight, but it is still heavier than key rivals.

At roughly mid-300g, the Silva isn’t ultra-light, but reviewers frequently say it feels lighter on-head due to excellent weight distribution. Most report minimal fatigue from weight during extended sessions.