Audeze MM-520

The Audeze MM-520 is the next evolution of the Manny Marroquin Signature Series, a purpose-built open-back planar magnetic headphone for recording, mixing, and serious reference listening. Developed over four years with 18-time Grammy-winning engineer Manny Marroquin, it builds on the acclaimed MM-500 with deeper, tighter bass, more accurate midrange, and upgraded comfort for long studio sessions. The headline upgrade is SLAM (Symmetric Linear Acoustic Modulator), Audeze's patent-pending acoustic system that optimizes air pressure inside the earcup for greater low-frequency impact and spatial detail without disturbing the neutral midrange the MM-Series is known for. Above all, the MM-520 is built for translation: mixes that hold up across speakers, headphones, cars, earbuds, and real-world playback.

Type & Technology

Over-ear, open-back, planar magnetic. The MM-520 uses 90 mm planar magnetic drivers with Audeze's Fluxor magnet array (Neodymium N50), an Ultra-Thin Uniforce diaphragm, Fazor phase management, and the new SLAM acoustic system. The result is low distortion, fast transient response, and clean detail across the band, with the technical headroom for demanding professional work: a 5 Hz to 50 kHz response, maximum SPL above 130 dB, and THD below 0.1% at 100 dB SPL. With 18 ohm impedance and 102 dB/mW sensitivity it drives easily from interfaces, consoles, laptops, and portable DAC/amps, though a minimum of 100 mW and better gear will get the most from it.

Sound Character

Honest, fast, and revealing, tuned for decisions rather than flattery. The midrange stays clear and trustworthy so vocals sit correctly, while SLAM gives the low end real definition and impact so kick and bass lock in without bloat. Reverb and delay tails are easy to place, and the open-back design opens up a spacious, natural stage that reduces the closed-in fatigue of long sessions. It is revealing enough for deep listening, fast enough for detailed editing, and composed enough to stay clean when a mix gets dense.

Build & Comfort

Built for daily studio use, the MM-520 pairs a durable chassis with upgraded memory foam earpads that attach magnetically for easy cleaning and replacement. It is a serious reference tool made for full workdays rather than quick checks. Note that at 555 g it is a substantial headphone, and the open-back design means it leaks sound both ways. That makes it best suited to seated mixing, mastering, and production rather than tracking near live microphones or working in noisy rooms.

Best For

Mixing, mastering, and production engineers who need a reference they can trust in the studio or on the move, and listeners who want Audeze planar accuracy with more low-end insight. Best for seated critical work rather than tracking or travel, given the open-back design and 555 g weight.

What's in the Box

• Audeze MM-520 headphone
• 2.5 m (8.2 ft) headphone cable
• 3.5 mm to 6.3 mm adapter
• Standard travel case
• MM-Series soft carry bag

Specifications