Master & Dynamic has built a reputation for crafting premium audio products, and over the years, I’ve come to appreciate their approach to both sound and design. Each M&D product I’ve tested has earned a special place on my shelf—stored carefully in its box, only to be taken out when I want to indulge in an exceptional listening experience.
The ME05 is not a brand-new product so much as a refresh of an existing model originally released in 2015. This updated version brings the same signature craftsmanship and sound profile that fans of M&D have come to love, with modern tweaks to keep it relevant in today’s market.
While much of the original DNA remains intact, the biggest upgrade comes in the form of added USB-C connectivity, making it more practical for modern devices. This refresh acknowledges that wired earphones still have a place, especially for those who value audio fidelity over the convenience of wireless.
Master & Dynamic’s ME05 blends timeless craftsmanship with modern practicality, delivering a rich, well-balanced sound signature in a premium brass design. With the addition of USB-C, it’s a compelling choice for those who value wired audio fidelity without sacrificing everyday convenience.
Design and Build Quality
Master & Dynamic continues its tradition of premium craftsmanship with the ME05, bringing a wired earphone that exudes sophistication. The earphone housings are machined from brass, lending them a distinct, polished appearance.
Unlike many competitors using plastic or aluminum, brass provides a solid, weighty feel that enhances durability. While these materials contribute to a high-end look, they also add noticeable weight, which may impact long-term comfort.
The cable, however, is a sticking point. It’s a thin, flat TPE rubber-coated cable that, while functional and tangle-resistant, does not feel quite as premium as the earphone housings.
The included inline remote and MEMS microphone, positioned conveniently along the cable, are well-designed and perform adequately for calls, though the plastic construction contrasts a bit with the high-end feel of the earbuds. I’ve seen some really nice braided cables in my time; I think M&D could still maintain its premium aesthetics with something like that.
Features and Accessories
The ME05 includes a range of accessories to accommodate different users. Inside the box, Master & Dynamic provides five sizes of silicone eartips, two pairs of foam eartips, a USB-C adapter, and a carrying pouch. The eartips provide a secure fit with minimal effort, which enhances the listening experience by ensuring a proper seal.
The included USB-C adapter enables compatibility with modern smartphones and computers that lack a 3.5mm headphone jack. While functional, the adapter lacks the premium feel found in competing brands like Meze Audio, which bundle higher-quality DACs in their adapters. Additionally, the carrying pouch is a soft fabric design, rather than a hard case, making it less protective for on-the-go storage.
Sound Quality
Master & Dynamic’s signature tuning remains intact, delivering a warm and rich sonic profile. The ME05 has a V-shaped sound signature with an emphasis on bass and treble, catering to mainstream consumer preferences while maintaining enough balance to satisfy audio enthusiasts.
Treble
The treble tuning strikes a fine balance—slightly forward but never harsh. It avoids sibilance while retaining clarity, making it a good fit for a variety of genres. While it does not reach the extreme airiness found in some competing models, the treble remains cohesive and well-integrated with the rest of the frequency range.
Midrange
The lower mids provide warmth and weight to the overall sound, giving vocals and instruments a full-bodied presence. This results in a pleasing tonal balance where both modern and older recordings shine. Vocals maintain their depth without becoming overly recessed, and instrumental separation is well-executed, offering a natural and engaging presentation.
Bass
Despite using a relatively small 8mm driver, the ME05 delivers a punchy and controlled bass response. Mid-bass is slightly emphasized, lending warmth and energy to bass-heavy tracks. While it lacks the deep sub-bass extension of larger dynamic drivers, it remains articulate and textured. Electronic and rock tracks benefit from its tight, rhythmic bass, though those seeking exaggerated low-end rumble may find it lacking.
Comfort and Fit
The bullet-style design of the ME05 provides a reasonably comfortable fit. While the brass construction adds weight, the provided eartips help secure the earbuds in place. Users with smaller ears may experience occasional slippage, particularly during movement, making these less ideal for workouts. Passive noise isolation is adequate but not class-leading; background noise is reduced but not entirely blocked out.
Performance in Calls and Connectivity
The ME05’s MEMS microphone performs well for voice and video calls, effectively reducing wind noise and environmental interference. Voices come through clearly, and the inline remote is responsive, though the lack of volume control in auxiliary mode is a minor drawback. The USB-C adapter enables high-resolution audio playback up to 32-bit/384kHz, though its performance may vary depending on the device.
Value Proposition
At $200, the ME05 sits in a competitive space. Its premium materials and refined sound quality justify the price, but the non-detachable and thin cable feel like a missed opportunity. Wired earphones are a niche market in 2025, and while the ME05 excels in delivering a warm and enjoyable listening experience, it faces competition from brands offering detachable cables and more ergonomic designs at similar price points.
Who Should Consider the ME05?
Ideal for:
- Listeners who appreciate a warm, consumer-friendly sound signature.
- Users looking for a premium wired earphone with a high-quality in-line microphone.
- Buyers who prefer a wired connection for high-resolution audio playback.
Final Thoughts
While the ME05 doesn’t quite reach the level of Master & Dynamic’s best offerings, I still find a lot to love about them. The rich, well-tuned sound signature makes them an enjoyable listen, and the build quality, despite some dated elements, holds true to M&D’s high standards.
Awarded to products with an average rating of 3.75 stars or higher, the AndroidGuys Smart Pick recognizes a balance of quality, performance, and value.
Products with this distinction deserve to be on your short list of purchase candidates.
In a world where wired earphones are becoming rarer, the inclusion of a USB-C adapter makes them a much easier recommendation than they would have been as a strictly 3.5mm product. They’re not the first pair I’ll grab from my shelf, but when I want a straightforward, high-quality wired audio experience, they’re a welcome choice. If you’re in the market for something classic yet practical, the ME05 is absolutely worth considering.
