New York based audio company Master & Dynamic are a vision of class, delivering beautiful and well-thought out products in their impressive line-up of headphones and IEMs. Although a newcomer to the world of audio, they have quickly learned the ropes through releasing precision-designed boutique headphones with a sound to match. Their website itself shows off their class and flair in creativity with a clear and ambitious goal; to marry sound with design.
And now in keeping with the recent trend for wireless consumables, Master & Dynamic have released the MW07 wireless earphones—a small but powerful addition to the growing company's collection. At $299, the MW07 come in a variety of colors, and promises to not compromise on sound with its built in Bluetooth capabilities and novel design.
The Packaging
The MW07s arrived in a neatly packaged box which exudes the Master & Dynamic class theme.
Included within the box are the earphones themselves, a USB type C cable, a USB-A port adapter, a carry sleeve, 5 pairs of ear tips, and 2 pairs of fit wings (small and large).
The Design & Build
As with all Master & Dynamic products, the MW07s are very aesthetically pleasing, and come in a myriad of colors including: piano black, tortoise shell, white marble, pink coral, grey terrazzo, steel blue matte, and matte black.
The earphones are also light, coming in at 0.2 ounces each owing to their acetate material, which is not only lightweight, but also hypoallergenic. On the sides of the casing, the MW07 feature a single button on the right earbud for play/pause, and a volume rocker on the left.
The MW07's case is without doubt the best case for an earphone I have ever seen. The futuristic exterior is made from highly reflective stainless steel, and although a fingerprint magnet, provides solid protection and charging ability for the MW07s. Master & Dynamic have provided a canvas pouch to store the charging case, it is suitable for both short and long term commutes.
Having said that, the earbuds provide only 3.5 hours of listening time. This may be considered on the mid to lower end of what wireless earphones are able to provide. However, this is compensated with the convenient charging case that provides three additional full charges.
Comfort & Isolation
The MW07 earphones come pre-installed with rubber wing tips to provide better stability within the conchae of the ears. While they do stick out slightly from the ear, they provide a snug fit without being grating or abrasive.
Isolation levels are beyond average with the earphones able to drown out ambient sound.
Sound Impressions
The MW07s offer an unparalleled sonic experience, especially when compared to other wireless earphones. With a clear and resolute character and strong sound-staging proportions, the end user can enjoy audiophile-grade sound without the compromises of many other competitors.
The Bass
Made from beryllium drivers, the bass of the MW07s certainly pack a punch. The material is known for being light and resilient, allowing for lower frequencies to sound clear and refined and yet able to extend deep down. The DUNU DN-2000s by comparison sound more enveloping, but also less taut. The strength of the MW07 is not sheer quantities of sub- and mid-bass, but rather a signature which is well tuned and resolute while still retaining great levels of extension. The diehard basshead would be best served in seeking over-ear headphones capable of delivering more voluminous amounts of bass.
The Mids & Treble
In keeping with the lower frequency range, the MW07s are adept in delivering a natural midrange, which is both clear and detailed. The general sound character leans towards that of a warmer sounding signature, owing to a slight upper midrange dip and capable lower end performance. This allows for songs to sound emotive and dynamic while retaining natural articulacy.
The treble of the MW07s does not extend as high as the Rock-it Sounds R-50, but is resultantly smooth with no stridencies or peaks. The overall signature is very cohesive to the Master & Dynamic house sound.
Wireless
The MW07s feature 4.2 Bluetooth connectivity which can be paired to any Bluetooth capable device by holding down the right earbud button and waiting for the indicator light to start flashing. Although the MW07 can not be used with a cable, the sound performance is amongst the best of any wireless earphone I have heard.
The Soundstage & Imaging
The soundstage of the MW07s offer decent projections of sonic cues in both width and height to allow for an out of head feeling. Instrument separation is great and the center-staging is excellent.
Final thoughts
The MW07s are a potent offering of Master & Dynamic's, providing a premium build, sound quality, and functionality. They are without doubt the best of their class, and more than capable in delivering audiophile sound quality despite being wireless. At $299, they are on the slightly more expensive side of things, but in my opinion are a justified price tag given the durability and sonic performance. If anything could be improved, however, it would be the 3.5 hours of battery life which may or may not last for long journey commutes, especially as there is no cable insertion backup. However, with the incredibly stylish charging case, the MW07s offer more than 10.5 hours of cumulative performance. With the trend of the consumer market leaning towards wireless solutions, I would highly recommend these for anyone seeking a good fit, sound, and functional performance.
MW07 IEMs
