Planar Magnetic In-Ear Headphones

Planar magnetic headphones (also called orthodynamic or isodynamic) have earned themselves a name in the audiophile community for offering incredible detail and strong bass.

They also tend leak a lot outwards so they require a quiet listening area. They could disturb people around you. They do, however, offer exceptional sound quality for a a reasonable price.

Closed or open-back?

Planar magnetic headphones are a popular choice by audiophiles and it's easy to understand why. The best planar magnetic iem models can offer incredible detail and powerful presence without sounding like they've been distorted. However, these headphones can be expensive and typically require a headphone amplifier to drive them. Plus, their open-back designs bleed sound and let in the surrounding noise. So if you're in the looking for a pair of planar headphones, it's best to carefully consider your preferences and habits of listening prior Planar Magnetic Earbuds to making a purchase.

The best place to begin is to determine if you'll be using headphones for casual listening or audiophile quality audio. Then, you'll want to consider your comfort needs and whether you prefer an open-back or closed back design.

Historically, headphones with planar magnetics had an advantage over dynamic drivers in the bass department because they could reproduce frequencies down to 20hz, whereas dynamic driver headphones would roll off at around 50hz. This distinction has diminished in the past few years as manufacturers have improved the diaphragms on their headphones and made the rest lighter.

A lot of budget planar magnetic headphones concentrate on clarity and highs and mids, not the bass that is deep. These headphones might not have the same punch and rumble, which could be a problem to certain listeners.

One exception is the HiFiMAN Venus over-ear headphone which are closed-back and feature one-sided diaphragm. They don't get as low, but still deliver deep sub-bass tones with a lively sound.

The kind of headphones you select will ultimately depend on your preferences in listening as well as your budget. If you're going to be listening to music on your laptop at home, an open-back pair of headphones with a planar design will likely be the best choice, while a closed-back option is suitable for use on the go. If you plan to use your headphones for gaming An open-back model like the Audeze LCD-2 Classics may be superior to a model with a closed-back design like the HiFiMan Susvara 2020. If you're a lover of music then any of these headphones will offer the entire audio spectrum and the exceptional clarity you're seeking.

Response to bass

Planar magnetic headphones employ a different technology to produce audio that is different from traditional dynamic driver in-ear monitors (IEM). Instead of one magnet pushing the diaphragm, these headphones employ two magnetic fields sandwiched between an electric film. This results in a more natural sound, with less distortion. This also allows for a faster response time and wider frequency range than traditional dynamic drivers.

The difference is evident in the bass response. High-end dynamic headphones can go over 20hz, however most planar headphones can be capable of going further and have less distortion. For audiophiles this is a huge difference and offers the best in-ear monitoring experience possible.

Imaging is another method that planar headphones can enhance sound quality. Dynamic drivers vibrate only the portion of diaphragm that is connected to the voice coil. This can result in small distortions which change the intended audio reproduction. In contrast, planar drivers are able to produce an even larger soundstage since the entire diaphragm is vibrating in response to the audio signal. This allows the headphones to accurately reproduce the stereo balance, and the transparency of instruments in the way intended by the audio producer.

Open-back planars such as the HIFIMAN Anaanda and Monoprice Monolith M1070 do not block out sound. Everyone in your area will be able to hear your music. However this is a minor cost in comparison to the amazing detail and clarity you'll enjoy.

Planar headphones are more leaky than open-back ones due to the fact that they have two magnetic fields that are opposite. This is a huge problem for people who want to listen to music in a quiet environment or are worried about causing a disturbance to those surrounding them. If you're worried about leakage, you can mitigate the problem by using ear pads which are wrapped around your ears to provide more isolation.

Sensitivity

Planar headphones are distinct from traditional dynamic drivers which have cones or speaker domes behind which the voice coil is vibrating. They have thin membranes which are printed with conductors. These membranes are strung on magnetic arrays that allow you to manipulate them at lightning speed. They have a high frequency response, which is difficult for most moving coil headphones. They also have a clear and deep bass that goes down to the lowest frequency.

The cheapest headphones with planar magnetic earbuds may be excellent for listening at low frequencies, but they often lack the acoustic clarity that would make them perfect for mixing or hifi. The flatness of the diaphragms makes it impossible to drive them in a symmetrical manner similar to a moving-coil headphone. In order to get a great sounding treble from a pair of planars typically, you need to spend more than $500.

Boutique audio brands typically offer models that are priced at a reasonable price and sound fantastic. One example is the Meze Elite, a pair of closed-back headphones which utilize one-sided magnetic arrays to provide a more immersive listening experience. They feature a 90dB sensitivity and a resistance of 35ohm which will be compatible with the majority of consumer-grade devices. They are available in a variety of exotic woods, composites and other materials to ensure they appear as beautiful as they sound.

Higher-end models like the HiFiMAN HE-560s can be 30 percent lighter than the competition due to a unique magnet structure and a slew of other innovative design options. This includes a unique design that reduces wave-diffraction. This means they can be driven better and produce less distortion than double-sided designs.

Of course, many of these innovations make the HE-560s more expensive than their rivals. However, if you're willing to spend a little extra, you can experience a variety of musical sensations, from the low-frequency rumble of a thunder storm to the shimmering cymbals on your favorite track. A good set of planars can alter your music by delivering a stunning sound. However, it is essential to choose the right model to meet your needs and budget.

Comfort

If you are a fan of listening to music, upgrading to a premium pair of headphones can greatly improve your audio experience. The best planar magnetic headphones offer a level of clarity and detail that you can't get in cheaper headphones. No matter if you go with an over-ear model like the HiFiMan Sundara or a portable in-ear model like the CCA PLA 13, these headphones can breathe new life into your favorite songs.

Planar magnetic headphones are also very heavy due to their larger ear cups. They often require an additional headphone amplifier. Many boutique headphone brands have created headphones to address these issues and provide incredible audio in a small package. The OPPO PM-3, for instance is a compact closed-back magnetic headphone that folds flat and comes with a selvedge denim carrying case, making it a breeze to carry around.

Because of their large earcups, many planar magnetic headphones can be heavy and uncomfortable to wear for extended periods of time. However, the majority of models provide ample padding and carefully calibrated clamping force to ensure an appropriate fit. The OPPO PM-3 is no exception with its ultra-soft ear pads and suspension bands that evenly distribute the weight over the head and ear.

Planar magnetic driver systems unlike dynamic drivers, make use of large diaphragms with flexible diaphragms to produce mid-range and bass sound. They can move much more air than their stiffer counterparts without the huge excursion that can harm or degrade traditional dynamic driver systems. This results in an even, smooth response that is accompanied by incredible bass clarity and depth.

Planar magnetic headphones are more efficient and have less distortion than dynamic headphones. This allows them to be used at high volume without sacrificing comfort or clarity. While some planar headphones do require an external headphone amplifier They are designed to be as efficient as is possible and work with nearly every audio source.

Personal preferences and budgetary limitations will ultimately decide if the planar magnetic in-ear headphones you are considering are worth the money. The best headphones for planar are able to reproduce amazing levels of bass and clarity without ever tipping into distortion, but they are expensive and require more power to drive. Additionally, they typically have open-back designs that let in sound and allow ambient sound.