(June 3, 2026) Audeze is updating one of its most respected studio headphones, and the headline feature comes from technology that first debuted in the company's flagship CRBN2 electrostatic headphones.
The new MM-520 builds upon the foundation established by Audeze's Manny Marroquin Signature MM-500 by adding SLAM technology while retaining the studio-focused design philosophy that made the original model a favorite among engineers, producers, and creators. For those unfamiliar with the acronym, SLAM stands for Symmetric Linear Acoustic Modulator. In simple terms, it's a system designed to better manage air pressure within the earcup. According to Audeze, the result is stronger low-frequency performance, improved spatial presentation, and a greater sense of impact without sacrificing the neutrality and accuracy required for critical listening.
Developed in collaboration with 18-time Grammy-winning mix engineer Manny Marroquin, the goal remains creating a monitoring tool capable of producing mixes that translate reliably across a wide variety of playback systems.
"The MM-520 represents the latest entry in our mission to provide creators and professionals with the ultimate monitoring tool," said Audeze CEO Sankar Thiagasamudram. "By adding SLAM technology to Manny's signature series, we've created a headphone that delivers even more truth in the low-end while maintaining the signature clarity Audeze is known for."
Under the hood, the MM-520 employs Audeze's familiar planar magnetic architecture, built around 90mm drivers using the company's Ultra-Thin Uniforce diaphragms and Fazor waveguide technology. Audeze says the combination delivers exceptionally low distortion while maintaining the speed, detail, and transient precision that have become hallmarks of its planar designs. The company has also paid attention to day-to-day usability. New memory foam earpads feature a magnetic attachment system for easier replacement, while the headphone's high sensitivity and low impedance allow it to be driven from a wide range of sources, including professional interfaces, mixing consoles, portable DACs, and even laptops.
At $1,699, the MM-520 enters a competitive segment of the professional headphone market. But Audeze clearly believes there's room for a product that bridges the gap between clinical accuracy and emotional engagement, particularly for professionals who spend long hours making critical decisions about low-frequency content.
The Audeze MM-520 is available now through Audeze and authorized dealers worldwide.
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