The Benefits of a Planar Magnetic Driver

Planar magnetic driver is a type of audio technology that can be found in some of the highest-quality headphones and IEMs. It has many advantages that set it apart from other balanced or dynamic driver types.

However the planar driver has certain disadvantages that are important to be aware of. They are a higher price and the need for an amplifier to drive them.

Ultra-thin diaphragms

Each sound we hear - from the most raucous cymbal smashing to the slightest creak on a bench for a piano - is represented by an intricate tumultuous wave of pressure. The driver of a high-quality headphone has to reproduce these waves with precision without distortion or omitting any details. This requires an extremely thin and light diaphragm that can react quickly to a variety or frequencies.

Planar magnetic drivers employ a flat diaphragm that is covered with a conductive layer and is able to float between magnets. This creates an even field of magnetism across the entire diaphragm, reducing distortion.

This approach, however creates additional challenges like the possibility of membrane resonance issues and turbulent airflow inside the grid-like magnetic arrays. These issues can result in a diaphragm mechanical resonance frequency that is several times greater than the input frequency, thus reducing the sensitivity of a voice pressure sensors.

Utilizing a patent-pending technology called 'Spherical Acoustic Structure' (SAS), Final was capable of overcoming these limitations with the D8000 making use of a single piece material that doubles as a diaphragm as well as conductor. The idea was derived from ribbon speakers and their spherical conductor but was much more cost-effective and practical for headphones due to its size and power requirements.

A ringing sound is another problem that many designs with planar magnetics face. It occurs when high-frequency and low-frequency bass notes are played. This is caused by a mismatch between the force of the magnetic field applied to the diaphragm and the natural flexing characteristics of the diaphragm.

Final employed a thin polymer film known as Parylene to solve this problem. The material was chosen because of its superior mechanical strength, bendability, uniform thickness, and consistency of thickness. These qualities were essential to ensure that a thin, rigid film would stretch without creating unwanted wrinkles or creases.

Superior transient response

The way planar magnetic drivers produce sound waves is different from traditional dynamic drivers. The main difference is that the conductor in a planar driver is laid out in a flat 2D pattern on the diaphragm rather than a coil wrapped around the diaphragm in a cone. This allows the conductor to respond to magnetic fields on both sides of the diaphragm to produce sound waves with high-quality. This technology also eliminates the need for a voice coil that could change its impedance depending on its frequency, resulting in a clear, distortion-free reproduction of music.

Planar magnetic drivers are also lighter and more durable than conventional drivers because they don't contain moving parts which can wear over time. They are also less susceptible to harmonic distortion, which can cause degradation in the quality of audio. They also have a faster response time and can reproduce sounds that are transient with greater speed.

The large surface area of the planar diaphragm, however, requires more power in order to move it and generate sound waves. These headphones need a headphone amplifier that can drive them at a sufficient level. Some listeners might not be interested in the additional weight and cost.

Planar magnetic drivers also create larger soundstages than dynamic headphones, which can make them appear more spacious. This is due to the fact that a large diaphragm that is flat creates a planar wavefront rather than the focused spherical sound wavefront typical of dynamic drivers. This is a major attribute of planar headphones and offers a more immersive listening experience.

True and natural audio reproduction

Planar magnetic drivers deliver authentic and accurate audio reproduction as contrasted to traditional dynamic driver models. Contrary to conventional dynamic drivers, which have a cone-shaped diaphragm that oscillates back and forward, planar magnetic drivers use dual rows of magnets to generate equal magnetic forces on the diaphragm. This causes the diaphragm to move in a wave-like manner which prevents distortion. They also reproduce music in a wider range of frequencies, from the lowest lows to the highest highs. This makes them a great choice for sound professionals and music enthusiasts.

The thin, flexible diaphragm in a planar magnetic driver moves faster than dynamic drivers. This allows it to react to changes in sound signals and provide precise reproduction. The lack of a coil behind the diaphragm is also a deterrent to the possibility that mechanical parts will come into contact with one with each other, which can cause distortions at higher volumes.

The diaphragm can easily displace large volumes air in order to reproduce bass frequencies. The diaphragm's size and flexibility is crucial to produce the deep bass that you hear in your music. Dynamic drivers on the other hand tend to be small and stiff, making it difficult for them to endure the high-speed movements required to reproduce bass.

Despite their advantages, planar magnetic drivers aren't used as often in headphone or IEM products due to the high cost and the complexity of their design. Partly, this is due to the fact that they require amplifiers to be driven. This limits their portability. Nevertheless, they remain well-liked by music lovers and critical listeners who appreciate their outstanding performance and high sound quality.

Wide frequency response

Planar magnetic headphones use diaphragms with flat and uniform diaphragms to produce sound in a measured and even manner. This creates a wide frequency response, which allows for a precise and precise reproduction of music. They are also known as having a superior transient response. This means they can react quickly and accurately to audio signals.

They do this by using a planar array consisting of conductors arranged across a thin, diaphragm that is sandwiched between two magnets. When an electrical signal is sent to this conductor array it turns into electromagnetic and interacts with the diaphragm's magnetic field, creating the push/pull effect mentioned earlier. This lets the diaphragm respond quickly to audio input, resulting in top-quality music reproduction with incredible clarity and precision.

Another factor that makes these drivers loved by audiophiles is their low distortion rate. Since they don't contain the same moving components as other types of headphone which means they don't produce as many harmonic distortions. They also have lower resistance and provide an unresistance load to amplifiers. This makes them easier to drive.

Due to their superior performance Due to their superior performance, planar magnetic technology magnetic drivers are typically used in higher-end audio equipment. They can be more expensive and require an amplifier to work, so they are not suitable for a grab-and-go driver. Audiophiles will sacrifice the additional expense and effort for Planar Driver the quality these headphones provide. They are considered to be a top option for those looking for an exceptional listening experience.

Low distortion

The diaphragm in a planar magnet driver is very thin and therefore it can move at high speed without losing control. This allows for a very accurate and quick response to sudden changes in audio signal. This lets you hear details in music and make them sound more natural and real.

Another advantage of planar magnetic drivers is that they provide an equal driving force across the entire diaphragm which prevents distortion at higher volume levels. This is one of the main reasons why planar headphones sound so great - dynamic drivers use thicker and heavier diaphragms that aren't capable of moving as quickly or at the same speed. In fact, they could fail if the forces are too powerful or exceed the limits of their structural integrity, causing various points on the diaphragm to begin moving out of the sync.

Planar magnetic drivers, on the other hand produce powerful electromagnetic force which is directly applied to diaphragm. This eliminates the need for a voice coil that is commonly required in headphones that use traditional cone drivers that are dynamic. This allows for more dynamic sound, a bigger soundstage and an exceptional bass response.

Because of these benefits they are widely regarded as the most suitable headphone driver for audiophiles. They have a few limitations regarding the price and power requirements, but their ability to deliver excellent sound quality makes them a perfect choice for those who want the highest quality audio reproduction. These drivers provide superior clarity and clarity in all frequencies, excluding low bass. Dynamic drivers are preferred. If you're looking for a pair that will deliver great sound at any price, then make sure to check our top selections!