The Best Planar Magnetic Headphones

Planar magnetic headphones, also referred to as orthodynamics, create sound using a thin diaphragm sandwiched in between multiple magnets. They provide a clear and controlled audio experience that captures all the trailing edges of instruments and vocals for incredible musical precision.

They usually require a headphone amplifier in order to drive the drivers properly. This is a small cost to pay for a set of headphones that can reveal new nuances and nuances that you didn't know existed in your music.

1. Dekoni Blue HE400SE

The Blue is a version of T50RP MK3 with a more neutral sound. It's not as neutral as the Philips Fidelio X2HR however it's an excellent choice for people who prefer an authentic, warm headphone, but don't need too much bass. The vocals are smooth and feminine. (Listen to Feel Good by Dominique Fils Aime). It has a good balance between low and high frequencies, making it a great choice for long listening sessions.

The planar magnetic structure promotes precise sound positioning, transparency, and a large soundstage. This allows music to breathe and give you the sensation of being in a concert. The treble range is crisp and not abrasive and provides a clear and crisp sound.

Bass is also impressive for a budget-friendly headphone. It's punchy and tight yet it does not distort when listening to loud tracks. Its fidelity is also excellent with a good midrange and detail retrieval.

2. Audeze LCD-2

Most people who have heard of Audeze headphones is aware of their premium open-back design and powerful sound. They're also very bulky and heavy and aren't well-insulated which means they aren't suitable for everyone. They're a great choice when you're looking for a headphone with a dynamic climax.

These headphones have a huge planar magnetic driver which is specially designed for the earcups. They provide distortion-free, pristine sound. They can be used to reach low frequencies that other dynamic drivers have trouble reaching. This is among the most popular audiophile headphones that is a planar magnet.

The LCD-2 was the first headphone to put Audeze on the map. It is the most complete sound quality for its price. It is full-bodied, deep bass, with transparent transparency and almost no distortion above 10Hz. It has a natural-sounding treble, with the appropriate levels for sibilant sounds. It dips at 9khz to take into account concha interactions.

The LCD 2 Classics are a excellent alternative to the original LCD-2. They feature the identical iconic design and sound, but at much lower price. They work well with tube amplifiers and have a higher resistance than most open-back headphones. You'll require an amp for your headphone in order to use them. These headphones aren't particularly air-conditioned and can cause your ears to get hot after wearing them for over a long period of time.

3. HIFIMAN Ananda Nano

The HIFIMAN Ananda Nano takes the classic egg-shaped housing and window shade design with an open back of its predecessor and brings it up to date with a plethora of technological upgrades. The Ananda Nano has a brand-new NEO supernano diaphragm which is 75% thinner than the original version's, as well as stealth magnetics that deliver superior clarity.

The mid-range is airy and spacious, with plenty of resolution and a natural tone to it that will impress listeners with its precision. This is also a bright headphone with a bit of an edge to its presentation that makes it stand out and add personality. It's not harsh in any way and does not suffer from excessive bloating or overemphasis.

HIFIMAN’s low-end has a lean texture but it doesn't compromise any volume or dynamism. The treble is clear and clear, without being too bright or harsh. The Ananda Nano has a treble that is a bit more extended and gives an impression of space, clarity and depth even at high volume.

The headphones are easy to operate, and its drivers' clarity and acoustic quality will allow you to make the most of your favorite sources. Do not believe the urban legend that these headphones require a lot of power or current. I have used them for two seven-hour work days and for long gaming sessions and they're still comfortable.

4. Audio Technica ATH-M1070

The cost of planar headphones could put them out of reach of most music fans, especially those who have other priorities in their life. But if you're willing to spend a bit of time looking for the perfect pair, it is possible to find a great set that doesn't cost you a fortune. This is the case with the Monolith by Monoprice 1070C, a closed-back model that utilizes planar magnetic technology and is priced competitively at $299 USD.

Monolith by Monoprice's 1070C headphone might not come with all the features you'd expect from a higher-priced set, but they're nonetheless of top quality and perform well. They're awe-inspiring and can be adjusted to your liking with a little tweaking of the audio source that you choose to use with them.

As with most headphones for over-ear use like the Monolith by Monoprice 1070C have an impedance rating of high and will require a little help from your DAC or portable music player in order to drive their sound properly. Fortunately, the company offers various cord options inside the box with the headphones, including a 3-meter Coiled cable that has an adapter with threaded 1/4 inches and two straight cables.

The 106mm driver in the Monolith by Monoprice 1070C delivers a rich soundstage that is full of detail and offers a sense of depth. On tracks such as Phil Collins' In The Air Tonight, the headphones provide the sensation of being in the back row of an orchestra. The treble is clear and clear, while the mid-range sound soft and smooth, without becoming too bassy.

5. Audio Technica ATH-M50X

The Audio Technica ATH-50X headphones are closed-back headphones that come with two ear cups with an enormous size. They are comfortable to wear over your ears. The Audio Technica's ATH-M50X is a closed-back headphone that comes with Ear cups that are large enough to comfortably fit over your ears.

The ear cups have a soft faux-leather covering that is comfortable for your head and ears. They also have a strong seal that helps minimize outside noise. The headband is padded and can be worn around your head. However, some users found it uncomfortable due to the stiffness. They offer a large soundstage and a good amount of isolation, although some of the high-end details can get lost in their powerful bass response.

These headphones feature an exciting sound profile, which is great for electronic music or other genres that are based on a beat. They have a boost in the bass, which makes kick drums punchy and strong, and Best Planar Magnetic Headphones a bright and sharp high-frequency treble that emphasizes each note in the guitar riff or vocal melody.

The ATH M50X is among the most popular headphones for musicians and audiophiles, but it's not the best choice for every scenario. It doesn't offer the same flat frequency response or the same articulation as premium headphones such as the Beyerdynamics DT 990 Pro, and can be a bit warm in the lower range for certain.

6. Audeze LCD-XC

The LCD-XC, the first closed-back planar magnetic planar speakers headphone by Audeze, is a closed-back planar headphone. It's large and heavy, sporting full wooden earcups and a the metal frame around. It is the most heavy headphone on the list and one of the heaviest closed back models in the world.

The Audeze LCDXC has become the ideal instrument for musicians, recording engineers and audiophiles worldwide due to its powerful neutrality and clarity. The closed-back design of Audeze LCD-XC provides all the advantages planar magnetic headphones offer like increased isolation and reduced ambient noise. This provides a private listening experience. Your favorite songs will explode out of the background, and take its own life.

They have an exclusive innovative planar magnetic technology which makes use of space-age materials as well as an ultra-thin diaphragms 4X larger than standard headphones for quick response times, significantly reduced distortion, and a higher resolution. Their unique driver design moves an ultra-thin, large driver between magnet arrays for great air movement, creating their distinctive, powerful bass and natural, extended treble. The LCD-XC is a reference headphone that's designed for professional mixing, recording mastering, high-resolution hi-fi listening.

The treble has an open and detailed sound without artificial coloring or coloration. Vocals sound fantastic with a full, deep midrange and a natural, crisp and clean treble.