The Best Planar Magnetic Headphones

Planar magnetic headphones (also known as orthodynamic headphones) utilize a thin conductive diaphragm sandwiched between multiple magnets to produce sound. 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 require a headphone amplifier to effectively control the drivers. It's a small price to purchase headphones that can reveal the details and subtleties in your music you didn't even know existed.

1. Dekoni Blue HE400SE

The Blue is a re-definition of T50RP MK3 with a more neutral sound. It's not quite as neutral as the Philips FidelioX2HR but still a good choice for those who don't need too much bass and prefer a warm headphone that sounds natural. The vocals are feminine and velvety. (Listen to Feel Good by Dominique Fils Aime). It is balanced between high and low frequencies, which makes it a good choice for long listening sessions.

The planar magnetic structure encourages precise sound placement, while also providing transparency and a wide soundstage. This allows music to breathe and gives you the experience like you are in an orchestra. The treble sound is clear and precise with a clear and non-fatiguing sound.

Its bass is also very impressive for a headphone that is priced at a bargain. It's incredibly clear and powerful and doesn't sway even when you listen to loud music. Its fidelity is also excellent with good midrange energy and great detail retrieval.

2. Audeze LCD-2

Nearly everyone who's heard of Audeze headphones is aware of their top-of-the-line open-back design and strong sound. They're also bulky and heavy and don't isolate well and will not be suitable for all listeners. However, they're a great option if you're looking to purchase a headphone that can produce powerful dynamic the climax and the power.

Featuring a large custom-designed planar magnet inside the ear cups, these headphones produce perfect sound that is free of distortion. They can even achieve low frequencies that other more traditional dynamic drivers struggle with. This is one of the most popular headphones that are planar magnetic within the audiophile community.

The LCD-2 was the first headphone that put Audeze on the map. It has the highest audio quality in its class. It has a deep bass, full-bodied sound with real transparency and almost zero distortion above 10Hz. It has a natural treble sound, with the appropriate levels for sibilant sounds. It dips to 9khz to account for concha interactions.

The LCD 2 Classics are a excellent alternative to the original LCD-2. They have the same design and sound quality, but at a much lower price. They're a great combination with tube amplifiers, and they have an impedance that is higher than other open-back models, so you'll need to use a headphone amplifier. They're not the most comfortable, and you could find your ears getting warm after wearing for long periods of time.

3. HIFIMAN Ananda Nano

The HIFIMAN Nano brings the egg-shaped design of the past and open back window shade of its predecessor to date, and comes with an array of stunning technological improvements. The Ananda Nano features a new NEO ultranano diaphragm which is 75% thinner than the predecessor's. It also features stealth magnets for superior clarity.

The midrange is spacious and airy, with plenty of resolution and a natural tone to it that will amaze listeners with its clarity. It's also a bright headphone with a bit of an edge to its presentation that makes it stand out and add personality. However, it's not harsh in any way and best planar magnetic headphones doesn't suffer from any excess or bloating.

HIFIMAN’s low-end has a lean texture, but it doesn't sacrifice any power or dynamics. The treble sounds crisp and clear without being too bright or harsh. The Ananda Nano has a treble that is extended and provides the impression of clarity, space and depth even at high volume.

The headphone is easy-to-drive and its drivers' clarity and acoustic quality will help you get the most from your favorite sources. Do not believe the myth that these headphones require too much power or current. I have used them for two work days lasting seven hours and extended gaming sessions and they're still comfortable.

4. Audio Technica ATH-M1070

The price of headphones with a planar design could put them out of reach of a lot of music lovers, especially those who have other things to do in their lives. But if you're willing to spend some time researching the right 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 which makes use of planar headphones magnetic technology. It is priced competitively at $299 USD.

While the Monolith by Monoprice 1070C does not have the features you'd expect from a higher-end pair of headphones, that does not mean it isn't lacking in terms of quality or performance. These headphones sound amazing and can be tuned to your preferences with some tweaks from the audio source you use them with.

Like many over-ear headphones like the Monolith by Monoprice 1070C has an extremely high impedance and will require a little help from your DAC or portable music player in order to properly drive their sound. The company provides a range of cords included in the box, including a three meter Coiled cable as well as two straight cables.

The Monolith by Monoprice headphones 1070C feature a 106mm planar drive that creates a detailed, rich soundstage with a sense depth. The headphones provide the impression of being at the back of an orchestra while listening to music such as Phil Collins' In The Air Tonight. The treble sound is crisp and clear while the mid-range sound soft and smooth, without getting too bassy.

5. Audio Technica ATH-M50X

The Audio Technica ATH-M50X are closed-back headphones that have a huge pair of earcups that comfortably fit over your ears. The Audio Technica ATH-50X is a closed back planar magnetic headphones-back headphone with a pair of ear cups that are large enough to comfortably rest over your ears.

The ear cups have a soft faux-leather cover that is comfortable for your head and ears. They also have a strong seal that helps reduce outside sound. The headband is cushioned and fits around your head. However, some users found it uncomfortable due to its stiffness. They have a wide soundstage, but certain high-end elements can be lost in the powerful bass response.

These headphones have an exciting sound profile that is great for electronic music or other genres that are based on a pulse. They have a boost in the bass, which makes kick drums a lot more powerful and strong, and a sharp brightness in the treble that highlights each note in a guitar or vocal melody.

The ATH M50X is a favored headphones for audiophiles and musicians. However, it's not suitable for all situations. It doesn't have the flat frequency response, or even articulation as higher-end headphones like the Beyerdynamics 990 Pro, and could be a little too warm in the lower frequencies for some.

6. Audeze LCD-XC

The LCD-XC is the first closed-back planar magnetic headphone by Audeze, is a closed-back planar headphone. It is massive and heavy with full wooden ear cups and the metal frame around. It is the most heavy headphone on the list and one of the largest closed back models available anywhere.

The Audeze LCD XC has quickly earned a reputation as the ultimate recording tool for musicians, engineers, and audiophiles due to its clarity and neutrality. The closed-back design of Audeze LCDXC gives you all the advantages magnetic headphones that are planar like increased isolation and reduced ambient noise. This allows for a quiet listening experience. Your music of choice will explode from the silent background and take on a life of its own.

They feature a unique planar magnetic technology, which uses space-age materials, and an ultra-thin, four times larger diaphragm than typical headphones. This will result in more responsive times, lower distortion, and better resolution. Their unique driver design puts an ultra-thin, large driver between magnet arrays to create incredible air movement. This creates their distinctive strong bass and natural extended highs. The LCD-XC is a pure, reference grade headphone designed to be used for professional tracking, mixing, mastering, and high-resolution personal Hi-Fi listening connected to the portable source device or a high-end amplifier.

The treble is extremely clear and clear, without any artificial or colored sound. Vocals are also great, with a deep and rich midrange and natural, crisp and clean treble that delivers a true sense of intimacy.