The Best Planar Magnetic Headphones
Planar magnetic headphones, also referred to as orthodynamics, produce sound using a thin diaphragm sandwiched in between multiple magnets. They provide a clear and controlled audio that can capture all the edges that trail vocals and instruments for a stunning musical precision.
They also usually require a headphone amplifier in order to properly control the drivers. It's a small price to purchase headphones that will reveal details and subtleties in your music you did not know existed.
1. Dekoni Blue HE400SE
The Blue is a new definition of T50RP MK3 with a more neutral sound. It's not as neutral as the Philips FidelioX2HR but still a good choice for those who don't require too bass and prefer a warm headphones that sound natural. The vocals are soft and feminine. (Listen to Feel Good by Dominique Fils Aime). It has a great balance between the low and high frequencies which makes it fun for long listening sessions.
The planar magnetic structure promotes accurate sound positioning with transparency and a wide soundstage. This lets the music breathe and gives you the sensation of being in an auditorium. The treble sound is clear and detailed, with a clear and non-fatiguing sound.
Its bass is impressive for a headphone that is priced at a bargain. It's punchy and tight but doesn't distort even when listening to loud tracks. Its fidelity is also top-notch with excellent midrange and detail retrieval.
2. Audeze LCD-2
Audeze headphones are known for their loud sound and open-back design. They're also very bulky and heavy and do not have a good isolation and won't be comfortable for everyone. They're a great option if you're looking to purchase a headphone that can produce an intense dynamic climax and punch.
With a massive custom-designed planar magnetic driver inside the ear cups, these headphones deliver an unbeatable sound with no distortion. They can be used to reach low frequencies that other dynamic drivers have difficulty reaching. This is among the most sought-after audiophile planar magnet headphones.
Audeze's LCD-2 was their first headphone. It has the best audio quality of its class. It has a full-bodied, deep bass, with transparent transparency and almost zero distortion above 10Hz. It also has a natural-sounding treble with appropriate levels for sibilant tones, and it troughs out at 9khz to accommodate concha interactions.
The LCD 2 Classics retain the iconic design and sound quality of the original LCD-2 but are more affordable. They're a great pair with tube amps and they have a higher impedance than most other open-back headphones. Therefore, you'll require a headphone amplifier. They're also not the most breathable, and you may feel your ears becoming hot after wearing for long periods of time.
3. HIFIMAN Ananda Nano
The HIFIMAN Nano brings the egg-shaped design with the open back window shade of its predecessor up to date, and comes with a range of impressive technological upgrades. The Ananda Nano comes with a brand new NEO supernano diaphragm, which is 75% thinner than the predecessor's as well as stealth magnets that offer superior clarity.
The mid-range is a bit spacious and airy, with plenty of clarity, and a natural tone and will be awe-inspiring to listeners. This is also a bright headphone with a slight edge to its sound that helps it stand out and add some character. But, it's not abrasive at all and doesn't suffer from any excess or bloating.
The low-end of HIFIMAN's is a little light in texture, but does not compromise the power or dynamics in any way and the treble sounds crisp and clear without being too bright or harsh. The Ananda Nano has a treble that is a bit more extended and gives an impression of space, clarity and depth even at high volumes.
The headphones are easy to operate, and its drivers' acoustic clarity will help you make the most of your preferred sources. Don't believe the myth that these headphones require a lot of current or power. In reality, I've been able to use them for lengthy gaming sessions and two seven-hour periods at work and they remained comfortable.
4. Audio Technica ATH-M1070
Most music lovers, especially those with other priorities in life, might not be financially able to purchase planar headphones. If you're willing to spend a bit of time looking for the perfect pair, it is possible to find a top set that won't break the bank. This is the case with the Monolith by Monoprice 1070C closed-back model that makes use of planar magnetic technology. It is priced competitively at $299 USD.
Monolith by Monoprice's 1070C headphone may not include all the features that you'd expect from a more expensive set, but they are nevertheless of excellent quality and perform well. These headphones sound impressive and can be adjusted to your preference with a little tweaking from the audio source you use them with.
The Monolith by Monoprice headphones have a high impedance and require a little help from your DAC/portable player to operate the sound effectively. Thankfully, the company has multiple cord options in the box that come with the headphones including a three-meter cord that is coiled, with a threaded 1/4 inch adapter and two straight cables.
The 106mm driver in the Monolith by Monoprice 1070C delivers a rich soundstage that is full of detail and offers a sense of depth. When listening to tracks like Phil Collins' In The Air Tonight the headphones are able to provide the impression like you're in the back row of an orchestra. The treble is clear and clear while the mid-range sound warm and smooth, without being too bassy.
5. Audio Technica ATH-M50X
The Audio Technica ATH-M50X are closed-back headphones with an impressively large pair of ear cups that are comfortable over your ears. The Audio Technica ATH-M50X is a closed-back headphone with Ear cups that are big enough to comfortably rest over your ears.
The earcups have an ear-socket that is soft and faux leather that is comfortable for your ears and head. They also have a good seal to minimize outside noise. They have a padded headband that can be worn around your head for comfort however, it can be a bit stiff and can put pressure on the top of your head, which some listeners found uncomfortable. They have a wide soundstage and plenty of isolation, though some of the high-end details can get lost in their high-end bass response.
These headphones feature a lively sound profile that is ideal for electronic music and other genres that are driven by pulse. They have a boost in the bass, which makes kick drums punchy and strong, and a bright and sharp treble, which highlights every note in the guitar riff or vocal melody.
The ATH-M50X is among the most sought-after headphones among musicians and audiophiles, but it's not the best choice for every situation. It doesn't offer the same flat frequency response or articulation as higher-end headphones like the Beyerdynamics 990 Pro, and may be a bit warm in the lower range for certain.
6. Audeze LCD-XC
The LCD-XC is the first planar magnetic closed-back headphone from Audeze, is a fully closed-back headphone with a planar design. It is a large and heavy headphone that has wooden ear cups. It is the heaviest headphone on this list and one of the largest closed back models anywhere.
The Audeze LCD-XC has quickly become the ultimate tool for musicians, recording engineers and audiophiles worldwide because of its impressive neutrality and transparency. The closed-back design of the Audeze LCDXC gives you all the advantages that planar magnetic headphones offer like increased isolation and reduced ambient noise. This gives you a quiet listening experience. Your favorite tunes will burst from the background, and take on a life of its own.
They have a unique planar magnetic technology that makes use of space-age materials, as well as an ultra-thin and 4X larger diaphragm than typical headphones. This results in more responsive times, lower distortion, and higher resolution. Their unique driver design flies an ultra-thin, large driver between arrays of magnets for a amazing air movement, which results in their distinctive bass sound and a natural, extended treble. The LCD-XC is an uncompromising reference-grade headphone that is designed to be used for professional tracking, mixing mastering, and high-resolution personal Hi-Fi listening connected to a portable source device or an amplifier of the highest quality.
planar earphone is extremely detailed and clear, without any artificial or colored sound. Vocals are also superb with a rich and deep midrange, as well as a natural, crisp and clear treble that gives an authentic sense of intimacy.