Planar Magnetic In-Ear Headphones

Planar magnetic headphones, also referred as Isodynamic or orthodynamic, have earned a reputation in the world of audiophiles due to their amazing clarity and deep bass.

They also to leak outwards, so they require a quiet listening area. They could disturb people around you. However, they can provide outstanding sound for affordable prices.

Open or closed back?

Planar magnetic headphones are a favorite by audiophiles and it's easy to understand why. The top models can provide incredible detail and powerful presence without sounding distorted. But these headphones can also be expensive and typically require a headphone amplifier in order to drive them. The open-back designs also let in ambient noise. If you're looking for a pair planar headphones it is important to think about your listening preferences and habits prior to making a purchase.

Begin by deciding if you'll use your headphones for audiophile or for casual listening. You should also take into consideration your personal preference and whether you prefer a closed-back or open-back design.

Traditionally, headphone planar magnetic headphones had an advantage over dynamic drivers in the bass department as they could reproduce frequencies down to 20hz whereas dynamic driver headphones would cut off around 50hz. However, this advantage has diminished over the years as manufacturers have worked to improve the performance of their diaphragms as well as making the rest of the headphones lighter.

Many affordable planar magnetic headsets focus on clarity and highs and mids instead of the bass that is deep. This means you may not have as much rumble or impact from these headphones, which could be a challenge for some listeners.

One exception is the HiFiMAN Venus over-ear headphone, which are closed-back and headphone feature a single-sided diaphragm. They don't get as low but still provide rich sub-bass tones and engaging sound.

The type of headphones you choose will ultimately depend on your preferences for listening as well as your budget. If you're listening to music on your laptop at home, an open-back pair of planar headphones will probably be ideal, while a closed-back option is suitable for use when you're on the move. Also, if you'll be using your headphones to play games, an open-back model like the Audeze LCD-2 Classics might be better than a closed-back option like the HiFiMan Susvara 2020. If you're a fan of music, any of these headphones will offer the full spectrum of audio and the exceptional clarity you're looking for.

Bass response

Planar magnetic headphones produce sound using a distinct technique than traditional dynamic driver in ear monitors (IEM). Instead of a single magnet that moves the diaphragm and creates audio, these headphones comprise two opposing magnetic fields encased around an electrified film. This produces a more natural sound, with less distortion. This also allows for a faster response time and a wider frequency range than traditional dynamic drivers.

The difference is apparent in the bass response. While high-end dynamic driver headphones can go up to 20hz and beyond, the majority of planar headphones can go deeper with less distortion and better clarity. This is an enormous benefit for audiophiles and lets them enjoy the best in-ear monitoring experience.

Imaging is another method that planar headphones can improve the sound quality. Dynamic drivers only vibrate the portion of diaphragm connected to the voice coil. This can result in small distortions that alter the audio reproduction. However, planar magnetic speakers drivers are able to produce more of a soundstage because the entire diaphragm is vibrating in response to the audio signal. This lets headphones accurately reproduce the stereo balance, transparency and the position of instruments as specified by the audio producer.

Open-back planars such as the HIFIMAN Anaanda and Monoprice Monolith M1070 do not isolate sound. Anyone in your vicinity will be able to hear your music. But, this is a small trade-off for the amazing detail and clarity you'll enjoy.

Because they have two opposing magnetic fields the planar headphones leak more than traditional open-back dynamic headphones. This could be a major issue for people who want to listen to music in a quiet environment or who are concerned about disturbing those surrounding them. If you are concerned about leakage, there are a few solutions to address this issue, for instance the ear pads that wrap around the ears to provide isolation.

Sensitivity

In contrast to traditional dynamic drivers that include a dome or speaker cone in which the voice coil vibrates planar headphones have incredibly thin membranes that are imprinted with conductors, and strung across magnetic arrays that move them at lightning speed. They can deliver a high-frequency response, which is a challenge for most moving coil headphones. They also have a clear and deep bass that goes down to the lowest frequency.

They are a great choice for low frequencies, the most affordable over-ear magnetic headphones are usually lacking in acoustic precision that makes them perfect for mixing or hi-fi listening. The diaphragms' flatness makes it impossible to drive them in a symmetrical way as a headphone with a moving coil. To find a pair that has great treble you'll have to spend more than 500 dollars.

Boutique audio brands, however they tend to have many models that are affordable and excellent sounding. One example is the Meze Elite, a pair of closed-back headphones that use an array of magnetics that is single-sided to provide a more immersive listening experience. They have a 90dB sensitiveness and a 35ohm resistance which will be compatible with the majority of consumer audio devices. They are also available in a stunning range of exotic woods and materials, which means they look as high-end as they sound.

Higher-end models like the HiFiMAN's HE-560s are up to 30 percent lighter than the competition due to an exclusive magnet structure as well as a host of other innovative design choices. This includes a patent-pending shape that reduces wave diffraction, which means they can be driven more effectively while producing less distortion than traditional double-sided designs.

Of course, a lot of these same features make the HE-560s even more expensive than the competition. But if you're prepared to pay a little more, you can experience a full range of musical sensations including the low-frequency rumble of thunder storm to the sparkling the cymbals of your most-loved track. The quality of sound produced by a high-quality set of planars is simply amazing and can completely change your music. It's important to select the best model based on your budget and preferences.

Comfort

If you love listening to music, upgrading to a high-end pair of headphones will greatly enhance your audio experience. The top planar magnet headphones provide a level clarity and detail that you can't find in cheaper headphones. Pick an over-ear model like the HiFiMan Sundara or a portable in-ear model like CCA PLA 13 to breathe new life into your favourite songs.

Planar magnetic headphones can be extremely heavy due to their larger ear cups. They often require an additional headphone amplifier. Luckily, many of the boutique headphone manufacturers have created their headphones to provide exceptional sound quality in a lightweight package. The OPPO pm-3, for instance, is a lightweight closed-back planar magnetic headphone that comes with a selvedge jean carrying case.

Many planar magnetic headphones are heavy and uncomfortable to wear for long periods due to their large earcups. The majority of models come with ample padding and a precisely calibrated clamping pressure to ensure a comfortable fit. The OPPO PM-3 is no exception, with ultra-soft ear pads and suspension bands that evenly distribute the weight over the head and ears.

Unlike dynamic drivers Planar magnetic drivers make use of large diaphragms that are flexible to produce bass and mid range sounds. They can move much larger volumes of air than their more stiff counterparts without suffering the huge excursions that can damage and alter the sound of traditional dynamic drivers. This leads to a smooth and wide frequency response, with an impressive bass depth.

Another advantage of planar magnetic headphones is that they have less distortion and better efficiency than most dynamic headphones. They are ideal for listening at high volume without sacrificing comfort and detail. While some headphones planar need an external headphone amp They are designed to be as efficient as they can and can work with almost all audio sources.

The final decision on whether or not planar magnetic in ear headphones are worth it depends on your personal preferences as well as budgetary limitations. The top planar headphones are capable of reproducing incredible bass and detail, without ever slipping into distortion. However, they can be expensive to drive and require more power. They also often have open-back designs, which can let in ambient noise and bleed noise.