The Best Planar Magnetic Headphones

Planar magnetic headphones, also referred to as orthodynamics, create sound using a thin diaphragm encased between multiple magnets. They provide a crisp, controlled audio experience which captures all the edges of instruments and vocals to provide incredible musical precision.

They also usually require a headphone amplifier in order to effectively drive the drivers. This is a small cost to pay for a pair of headphones that can reveal new nuances and nuances that you never knew existed in your music.

1. Dekoni Blue HE400SE

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

The planar headphone magnetic structure helps to ensure the precise placement of sound, as well as transparency, and a large soundstage. This lets music breathe, giving you the feeling of being in an orchestra. The treble is crisp and clear with a clear and non-fatiguing sound.

Bass is also impressive for a budget-friendly headphone. It's tight and punchy, yet it doesn't distort even when you listen to a lot of music. Its fidelity is also top-notch with a good midrange and detail retrieval.

2. Audeze LCD-2

Audeze headphones what are planar magnetic drivers well-known for their booming sound and open-back design. They're also extremely bulky and heavy and do not have a good isolation which means they aren't suitable for all listeners. They're a great option if you want headphones with a lively climax.

These headphones feature a large planar magnetic driver that is specifically designed inside the ear cups. They produce undistorted, crystal clear sound. They can reach low frequencies, which other dynamic drivers have trouble reaching. This is among the most popular audiophile headphones with a planar magnet.

The LCD-2 was the first headphone that put Audeze on the map. It has the highest sound quality in its category. It has a rich bass, full-bodied sound with real transparency and near-zero distortion beyond 10Hz. It also has a natural treble, with the right levels for sibilant tones, and it dips at about 9khz to account for concha interaction.

The LCD 2 Classics retain the iconic design and sound quality of the original LCD-2 however, they're more affordable. They work well with tube amps and offer a higher resistance than the majority of open-back headphones. You'll require a headphone amp to use them. They aren't very breathable and may cause your ears to get hot after wearing them for 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, accompanied by a variety of remarkable technical upgrades. The Ananda Nano has a brand-new NEO supernano diaphragm, which is 75% thinner than the predecessor's and also stealth magnets that offer superior clarity.

The midrange is spacious and airy with lots of clarity, and a natural tone and will awe listeners. It's a slightly brighter headphone with some edge in its presentation. It helps it standout and adds a sense of character. It's not abrasive and does not suffer from any swelling.

The low-end of the HIFIMAN has a slender texture, but it doesn't sacrifice any volume or dynamism. The treble sounds crisp and clear without being too bright or harsh. Contrary to other headphones that sound thin and closed-in, the treble of the Ananda Nano has an impressive extension and can give a sense of space and clarity even at higher volumes.

The headphone is easy to use and the acoustic clarity of its drivers will allow you bring out the best from your favourite sources. Don't be fooled by the stories about these headphones needing tons of power or a lot of current - that's just urban myth. I have used them for two days of work that lasted seven hours and extended gaming sessions and they are still comfortable.

4. Audio Technica ATH-M1070

The cost of planar headphones can make them out of the range of a lot of music lovers especially those with other things to do in their lives. But if you're willing to spend a little time looking for the right pair, it's possible to find a top set that doesn't break the bank. This is the case with the Monolith by Monoprice 1070C, a closed-back model that uses planar magnetic technology and is priced competitively at $299 USD.

While the Monolith by Monoprice 1070C may not come with the features you'd expect from a more expensive set of headphones, that doesn't mean it's not lacking in terms of quality or performance. They're awe-inspiring and can be adjusted to your preference with just a little tweaking of the audio source that you use with them.

The Monolith by Monoprice headphones have a high impedance and require assistance from your DAC/portable music player to ensure that the sound is pushed correctly. The company includes a variety of cords inside the box that include a three-meter Coiled cable as well as two straight cables.

The 106mm driver in the Monolith by Monoprice 1070C delivers a rich soundstage that is full of details and has a sense depth. On tracks like Phil Collins' In The Air Tonight, the headphones are able to provide the sensation of being in the back row of an orchestra. 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 ear cups that are comfortable over your ears. The Audio Technica's ATH-M50X is a closed-back headphone with two ear cups that are big enough to fit comfortably over your ears.

The ear cups are encased in a soft faux leather that feels comfortable on your ears and head, and they seal tightly enough to minimize the sound of outside. The headband is cushioned and fits comfortably around your head. However some users felt it uncomfortable due to its stiffness. They have a wide soundstage and a good amount of isolation, what are Planar Magnetic drivers though some of the high-end details can get lost in their strong bass response.

These headphones feature an exciting sound profile, which is ideal for electronic music and other genres that are based on a pulsing. The headphones have a powerful bass boost that makes kick drums powerful, and have bright treble that emphasizes every note in a song or guitar riff.

The ATH M50X is a favored headphones for audiophiles and musicians. However, it's not suitable for all situations. It doesn't provide the flat frequency response or even the articulation of premium headphones like the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO, and can also be a bit warm in the low-end for certain.

6. Audeze LCD-XC

The LCD-XC is a closed back magnetic headphone that is planar and the first Audeze headphone ever. It is a large and heavy headphone, with wooden ear cups. It is the heaviest model on this list, and is among the largest closed-back models you can find.

The Audeze LCD-XC has become the most popular instrument for recording engineers, musicians and audiophiles worldwide because of its impressive neutrality and clarity. The closed-back design of Audeze LCDXC gives you all the benefits that planar magnetic headphones offer, what are Planar magnetic drivers such as enhanced isolation and less noise. This provides an intimate listening experience. Your favorite songs will explode from the background, taking on its own life.

They are equipped with an unique innovative planar magnetic design that makes use of space-age materials and an ultra-thin diaphragm 4X larger than standard headphones for quick response times, significantly reduced distortion, and a higher resolution. Their unique driver design places an ultra-thin, large driver in between two arrays of magnets to create incredible air movement. This produces their signature powerful bass, and natural, extended highs. The LCD-XC is a reference headphone specifically designed for professional recording, mixing, mastering and high-resolution Hi-Fi listening.

The treble is very clear and clear, without any artificial or colored sound. Vocals sound great, with a rich deep midrange, a full and deep bass, and a natural, clear and clear treble.