The LCD-X headphones are luxurious, open-back, over-ear Planar Magnetic models that deliver sound of an exceptionally high caliber. As one of Audeze’s largest and most sophisticated offerings, they incorporate nearly all of the brand’s remarkable sound technologies. With these headphones, you can truly appreciate the advantages of the planar magnetic design for an unparalleled auditory experience.
The audio produced by the LCD-X is characterized by a natural warmth and musicality that captivates listeners, whether they prefer electric or acoustic genres. The soundstage is expansive and immersive, featuring deep, dynamic bass, a wealth of intricate details, and precise positioning of each voice and instrument. This creates an auditory experience akin to being in a real acoustic space, rather than the confined sensation often associated with lower-end headphones.
Audeze LCD-X
The LCD-X’s accurate and neutral sound reproduction has established it as a benchmark for many professional audio engineers. Pair the LCD-X with a high-quality headphone amplifier and play your favorite tracks to discover the reasons behind its esteemed reputation.
Uncompromising and solidly built
The LCD-X headphones feature impressive 106 mm Planar Magnetic drivers, ensuring they stand out prominently. As a flagship model, they are equipped with a dual magnet system on either side of the diaphragm, along with the innovative Fazor sound guides. Every detail has been meticulously crafted, with no compromises made in the luxurious, hand-stitched ear cushions, which utilize memory foam and are enveloped in genuine leather.
The headband boasts a robust design, constructed from metal and authentic leather. Its broad shape allows for an even distribution of weight, making the substantial build feel surprisingly light on the head. Additionally, the flexible, braided, and lightweight cable contributes to an overall comfortable experience.
Audeze LCD-X
Similar to numerous other headphones in the head-fi category, the LCD-X features an open design. This construction is favored by many audiophiles as it eliminates reflections from a chamber that could impact the rear of the diaphragm and introduce distortion. While this design is theoretically ideal, it also allows sound to pass through almost unimpeded in both directions. As a result, you can easily hear your environment, and those around you can hear your music if played at a high volume.
Because of the unrestricted sound flow from the ear cups, open headphones are not particularly effective in noisy settings. If you seek a personal sanctuary where you can fully immerse yourself in music without interruptions, a closed-back model might be a more suitable choice.
Fazor – patented driver technology in the service of sound
The LCD-X features a double-sided magnet system that operates on both sides of the membrane. Additionally, it incorporates Audeze’s patented Fazor technology, which eliminates wave interference in the sound traveling through the magnet system. These “sound guides,” as referred to by Audeze, ensure that the system is entirely acoustically transparent, resulting in clearer sound, enhanced resolution, and an improved stereo image.
Audeze has gained international recognition for its Planar Magnetic headphones, offering a compelling alternative to the dynamic designs commonly found among other brands. In a Planar Magnetic driver, the conventional membrane and voice coil setup is substituted with an exceptionally thin foil that carries the music signal through a metal conductor spanning the entire surface area.
Audeze LCD-X
In the most advanced and premium models, this membrane is flanked by a robust magnet system of equal size on both sides. When an electrical signal is applied to the membrane, the magnetic system prompts the foil to move, transforming the signal into audible sound. The ultra-lightweight membrane responds with remarkable speed, delivering an outstanding transient response throughout the full frequency spectrum. Additionally, the expansive membrane area ensures deep and effortless bass reproduction while eliminating issues related to break-up and impedance, as the membrane operates uniformly across its entire surface.
Many benefits and easy to operate
In summary, Planar Magnetic technology offers numerous advantages that enhance your listening experience. Its high efficiency and flat impedance curve facilitate easier amplification, providing you with a wider range of options compared to other types of headphones.
However, the substantial diaphragm and magnet system necessitate a certain amount of space, and Audeze consistently employs robust, resonance-damping materials throughout their designs. As a result, their headphones may not be the lightest or most compact available, but this concern quickly fades once the music begins.
Audeze headphones perform exceptionally well with a standard high-quality amplifier, yet they truly shine when paired with a dedicated headphone amplifier. This combination reveals why they have garnered a loyal following among head-fi enthusiasts worldwide.
Regardless of the music genre or volume level, Audeze Planar Magnetic headphones deliver sound that is impressively swift and accurate, rich in detail, and features deep, controlled bass. Some audiophiles argue that this sound signature closely mirrors our natural auditory experiences, though this remains a topic of debate among enthusiasts.
What is indisputable is that Planar Magnetic headphones represent a compelling alternative to other premium models, and if you have even a slight interest in high-fidelity audio, you owe it to yourself to give them a try.
Audeze LCD-X
Pros
- Completely neutral sound character with excellent bass
- Double-sided magnet system
- Easy to operate compared to some alternatives
- Exclusive finish in metal and genuine leather
- Handmade at Audeze’s own factory in the USA
- Open construction
- Transport case included
Cons
- Relatively high weight
- Very limited sound insulation considering the surroundings
