Meze makes some world class headphones. And while their mid-fi headphones use standard 3.5mm connectors for their cables, their higher end models use mini-xlr. They’re not the only manufacturer to use this connector type. Yet, finding an affordable upgrade cable for them can be challenging. Meze’s own upgrade cable clocks in at $399. But when we recently reviewed the new $149 Porto cable from Strauss & Wagner, I was eager to see how it would sound with Meze’s high end offerings. So today, I’m pairing the Porto with the Empyrean II and reporting my findings to you. So let’s jump in!
Build & Design
The Strauss & Wagner Porto cable combines functionality and aesthetics with an 8-core construction of oxygen-free copper (OFC) silver-plated wires. This design ensures premium audio performance while maintaining physical durability. Its sleek white braided finish not only adds a modern look but also provides extra protection against wear and tear, while reducing tangling and microphonic noise. The cable features a 4.4mm balanced termination for seamless connectivity with high-end audio equipment. Available in multiple lengths, the cable is suitable for both desktop and studio setups, making it a reliable and long-lasting option for your Meze headphones, and really any headphone that sports mini-XLR connectors.
From a technical standpoint, the Strauss & Wagner Porto cable looks to enhance audio clarity and balance through its OFC silver-plated wire construction, which minimizes signal loss and interference. The silver plating improves conductivity, aiming for better treble response and a wider soundstage. The 4.4mm balanced termination reduces noise and crosstalk, providing a cleaner listening experience. This balanced design reduces distortion, making it an ideal choice for those seeking high-resolution audio performance.
Sound Impressions
As we found in our review for the Porto, it’s a cable that prioritizes transparency, detail retrieval, and resolving capabilities. With the Empyrean II, I noticed more space in the low end for details to flourish. Kick drums and bass notes had plenty of room to blossom. And though the Empyrean II is a darker sounding headphone with an elevated midbass, I found the Porto to be able to present a clean midbass transition. It doesn’t change the warmer timbre of the headphone, but helps neutralize the sound a bit more, bringing more balance to the system.
This level of clarity stays true through the midrange. The mids on the Emyprean II are my favorite part of the headphone and I was happy to hear the Porto didn’t diminish that. Nor did it add coloration that made things too warm. With the porto, the midrange was just right. Vocals were engaging and forward but there was still plenty of room for instruments to flourish as well. Layering and separation were fantastic with this pairing.
Now in our full review, we said the Porto has a neutral-bright leaning sound. That was very true with the Audeze LCD-XC. In this case however, I found the top end to stay liquid-y and fluid. Yes there’s plenty of top end detail, but I noticed a great resolving capability that caused treble to never sound harsh. I find this difference fascinating because it goes to show that this cable can enhance different headphones in different ways. In other words, it doesn’t change the characteristics of the headphone, but rather adds its own characteristics to the mix, creating a unique synergy with each headset.
As far as soundstage goes, the Porto allows the Empyrean II to span left and right quite naturally. I’m not sure it necessarily widens the space that much. However, by resolving details more clearly, I got a clearer definition of the space, which allowed things to sound more natural.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I’m very happy with what I heard from the Porto with the Empyrean II. Its good looks are matched with good sound, and made for a great pairing with the Meze headphones. If you’re looking to upgrade your cable but don’t want to break the bank, the Porto is a nice option.
The Strauss & Wagner Porto and Meze Empyrean II are available at Audio46.
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