What Are Planar Headphones?

You may have seen some models with planar driver in case you are seeking earphones or headphones. What exactly are they and what are the differences from dynamic-driver headphones?

They have a wider sound wavefront than dynamic-driver headsets. This gives greater stereo clarity and image.

What is a planar driver?

Planar drivers are the most commonly used type of speaker driver (or headphones) that are used in today's popular headphones. It's a new technology that aims at overcoming some of the limitations associated with traditional drivers.

A planar driver is a diaphragm laid flat on top of an conductor. The conductor is then surrounded by powerful magnets on either or both sides. The magnets create a magnetic field when they receive an audio signal. This field pushes the diaphragm into a certain direction. The result is an all-directional sound wave that can produce a much more accurate and detailed sound than a dynamic driver.

Planar headphones are generally designed for more critical listeners, and they often require a higher power amplifier to adequately drive them. They're therefore more expensive than other headphones, but offer a better audio reproduction and a bigger soundstage.

For those who are new to the world of headphones with planar drivers it can be a bit difficult to comprehend the technical terms and jargon that are used in the field. We've created a quick guide that explains the basics of a planar headphone driver and how it differs.

The term "planar" could be confusing however it's actually simple. The main distinction between a plane driver and other headphones is that the planar driver makes use of flat diaphragms instead of cone-shaped or dome-shaped diaphragms.

Planar drivers also utilize a special magnet system to create sound waves. They can create a more precise and accurate sound wave than dynamic drivers, resulting in a more accurate audio reproduction.

In addition, planar headphones tend to have a more natural and relaxed sound than dynamic drivers, which can be enjoyed by a lot of listeners. They do have a few disadvantages, such as their weight and size, and the need for greater power output compared to other types of headphones. These headphones are not suitable for use in portable settings because of these reasons, but can be a great choice for audiophiles who want to experience this advanced technology.

What are the benefits of a planar drive?

In the world of premium headphones the planar driver is one of the most sought-after technologies. They are renowned for the clarity and accuracy they provide, allowing listeners to listen to the music exactly as recorded.

Different from other types of headphone drivers that use middle-men's conductors made of metal to move the diaphragm and create sound waves, planar magnetic headphones have the unique characteristic of having the diaphragm move directly. This is achieved by sandwiching a thin sheet composed of mylar or planar driver an electrically charged material between two plates that conduct electricity. When an audio signal is played the conductive plate moves between contact with the diaphragm causing it to vibrate.

This eliminates mechanical distortions, that could otherwise be present with other headphone designs. This results in more organic and natural sound reproduction free of sibilance or resonance frequency. The force applied to the diaphragm's surface makes it more sensitive to audio signals.

Planar magnetic headphones also have the advantage of having a higher bass response. The bass response of headphones that are planar is more precise than dynamic driver headphones. This is due to the fact that planar headphone vibrates the entire diaphragm as it responds to the audio signal.

Planar magnetic planar headphones headphones come with a few disadvantages, for instance, their price being higher and the fact that sometimes they require a special headphone amp or DAC to function. However they are more beneficial than the drawbacks. With a high-quality headphone amp/DAC, such as the Monolith Hi-Res for example the sound created by planar magnetic headphones can be awe-inspiring.

Check out our collection of planar magnetic headphone below or give us a call! We'd like to help you find a pair of headphones that will surpass your expectations.

What are the disadvantages of the planar driver?

Planar drivers are more expensive and complicated to make, but they have many advantages. They also require more power than dynamic drivers and are therefore less mobile. You can find IEMs and headphones with planar drivers within the price brackets that are higher.

A planar driver has the disadvantage of not being as sensitive to changes in audio signals, making it difficult to create an audio frequency response that is well-matched. This can be rectified by tuning and sound engineering, but it can result in an audio signature that is slightly different than you're used to.

The final disadvantage of planar drivers is that they generally don't have the same level of physical slam as dynamic driver headphones. This is due to the conductor trace on the diaphragm doesn't interact with the magnetic field as effectively as the voice coil in dynamic headphones. Despite this, there are exceptions. The HIFIMAN Sundara, for example has some of the same image structure and clarity as top-end planar headphones, but is fairly affordable.

The final decision to choose planar headphones over conventional dynamic headphones comes down to what you value the most. Do you prefer the speed, precision and accuracy of a planar driver, or do you want the power and slam of a dynamic driver? There are plenty of options out there to meet the needs of both and budgets.

If you're in the market for a new pair of headphones or you're looking to expand your music listening horizons, planar drivers are worth considering. With their excellent frequency response, planar driver low distortion and expansive soundstage, they can take your listening experience to a whole new level. With the wide range of options available at TTVJ you're bound to find the ideal pair of headphones to meet your needs.

What are the best planar headphones?

There are many factors to consider when choosing the best headphones. You want them to fit comfortably on your head, be comfortable throughout long listening sessions, and to come with the features you require. Planar headphones, also referred to as orthodynamic headsets, offer an unmatched and precise listening experience. The unique design of these headphones utilizes a flat, thin diaphragm, which is sandwiched between two magnets to produce sound waves. This technology makes them an ideal choice for audiophiles who demand the highest quality of sound.

There are a variety of options for planar headphones, but it's essential to find a pair that meets your needs and preferences. Some of the most sought-after options include open-back and closed-back headphones as well as in-ear and over-ear styles. You should also think about your budget and needs for comfort.

Start by reading reviews on professional websites such as Popular Science, Headphoneia and the r/headphones channel on Reddit. You should also read reviews and user comments to get a feel of the headphones' performance in actual use. After narrowing your options, try a few headphones and listen to music in different environments.

Although you might be tempted to shell out thousands of dollars for a high-end pair of headphones There are many affordable options available. Some of the best planars headphones are available for under $200 and offer top-quality audio. Audeze LCD-2 Classics, for example, are a great option for those looking to try planar headphones.

Another option that is great is the Dan Clark Audio AEON 2 Closed-Back Headphones. These headphones are extremely lightweight and comfortable to wear, making them perfect for long listening sessions. They are among the most affordable planar headphones that we offer.

Keep in mind that planar headphones require a special amplifier to work. They have more impedance than dynamic driver headphones and will require more power to move the diaphragm. If you choose a high-quality amp and DAC they can provide the best listening experience for less than other premium headphones.