The Benefits of a Planar Magnetic Driver

Planar magnetic drivers are used in the top headphones and IEMs. It offers many advantages that distinguish it from other balanced or dynamic driver types.

However, planar drivers do have certain disadvantages that are important to take note of. They are a higher price and the need for an amplifier to drive them.

Ultra-thin diaphragms

Every sound we hear, from the loudest sound of a cymbal crash to the most subtle creak of a piano bench is portrayed by a complex tumultuous pressure wave. The driver of a great headphone has to reproduce these waves accurately, without omitting any details or distorting the audio. This requires a light diaphragm with a thin, smooth surface that can respond quickly and swiftly to a wide range of frequencies.

While dynamic drivers are powered by a voice coil that is attached to a conical diaphragm planar magnetic drivers have a flat diaphragm skinned with a conductive film that floats between fixed magnets. This allows them to create a uniform magnetic field across the entire surface of the diaphragm and significantly reduce distortion.

However, this method introduces additional challenges, such as the potential for problems with membrane resonance and airflow turbulence inside the grid-like magnet arrays. These problems result in the frequency of mechanical resonance of the diaphragm that may be several times greater than the input frequency and reduces the sensitivities of the voice pressure sensor.

Using a patented technology called "Spherical Acoustic System" (SAS), Final was able to overcome these limitations with the D8000 by making use of a single piece material that is both diaphragm as well as conductor. The idea was derived from ribbon speakers and their spherical conductor, but was much more cost-effective and practical for headphones due to its size and power requirements.

Another challenge common to many plansar magnetic designs is a ringing sound that is present on high-frequency, low-frequency bass notes. This is due to an inconsistency between the force of the magnet applied to the diaphragm compared to the natural flexing of the diaphragm.

To resolve this issue, Final used an ultra-thin polymer film, also known as Parylene. This material was selected because of its superior mechanical stability, bendability, and thickness uniformity. These characteristics were essential to ensure that a thin, solid film would stretch without creating unwanted wrinkles or creases.

Superior transient response

The method by which planar magnetic drivers generate sound waves differs from traditional dynamic drivers. The main difference is that the conductor Headphones shop of the planar driver is laid out in a flat, 2D pattern on the diaphragm, instead of an individual coil that is wrapped around a cone-shaped diaphragm. Conductors can react to magnetic fields on both the diaphragm's sides, and create sound waves with great precision. This technology also eliminates the need for an instrument that could change its impedance depending on its frequency, which results in a distortion-free reproduction of music.

Planar magnetic drivers are also lighter and more durable than conventional drivers since they don't contain moving components that wear out over time. They are also less prone than conventional drivers to harmonic distortion that can reduce the audio quality. They have a quicker reaction time and can reproduce sounds more quickly.

However, the vast surface area of a planar diaphragm requires more power to move and produce sound waves. As a result, these headphones require a headphone amplifier that can provide sufficient power. Some listeners might not be interested in the extra weight and cost.

Another advantage of planar magnetic drivers is that they produce an expansive soundstage that can be more spacious than conventional dynamic headphones. This is because a wide flat diaphragm produces an asymmetrical wavefront instead of the spherical wavefront that is focused typical of dynamic drivers. This characteristic is a key attribute of planar headphones and offers a more immersive listening experience.

Audio reproduction that is authentic and true

Planar magnetic drivers give more natural and accurate sound reproduction than traditional driver models. Planar magnetic drivers generate equal magnetic forces using two rows of magnets unlike conventional dynamic drivers which have a cone-shaped, curved membrane that is vibrating. This causes the diaphragm to move in a wave-like movement which reduces distortion. They also have the ability to reproduce music in a wider frequency range, from the lowest lows up to the highest highs which makes them a great option for music lovers and audio professionals.

The diaphragm, which is thin and flexible, of a planar magnetic driver is able to move much faster than that of the traditional dynamic driver, allowing it to respond to changes in the sound signal and provide an precise reproduction. The absence of a coil behind the diaphragm is also a deterrent to the chance that mechanical components will meet up with each with each other, which can result in distortions at higher volumes.

The diaphragm can easily displace large volumes air to reproduce bass frequencies. The diaphragm's size and its flexibility are essential for producing the rich bass that you hear in your favorite music. Dynamic drivers are typically small and stiff. This means they are not able to handle the high-speed excursions required to reproduce bass.

Despite the advantages associated with planar magnetic drivers but they aren't as widely used in headphone planar and IEM products as dynamic driver models because of their high cost and intricate design. This is partly due to the fact that they need amplifiers to be driven. This restricts their portability. They are popular with music lovers and critics who appreciate their superior quality of sound and outstanding performance.

Wide frequency response

While many IEMs and headphones use traditional dynamic drivers with cone-shaped diaphragms that move back and forth to create audio waves, planar magnetic headphones employ flat and uniform diaphragms that produce sound in a more controlled and even manner. This results in a wide frequency response, delivering accurate and faithful music reproduction. They are also known for their high transient response, meaning they can respond quickly to audio signals and reproduce them as precisely as possible.

They do this by employing an array planar made up of conductors spread across a thin, diaphragm that is sandwiched between two magnets. When an electrical signal is transmitted through this conductor array, it is transformed into electromagnetic and interacts with the diaphragm's magnetic fields to create the push/pull effect. This lets the diaphragm respond quickly to audio input, producing top-quality music reproduction with incredible detail and accuracy.

Another reason that makes these headphones shop so popular with audiophiles is their low distortion rate. Since they don't have the same moving parts as other headphone types and therefore don't cause as many harmonic distortions. They also have a lower impedance than their counterparts and present an entirely resistive load to amplifiers, which makes them more efficient to drive with more power.

Due to their superior performance Due to their superior performance, planar magnetic drivers are typically used in higher-end audio equipment. However, this does mean that they can be more expensive and require an amplifier which makes them less suitable as a 'grab and go' type of driver. Nevertheless audiophiles are willing to trade that additional expense and effort for the quality that these headphones can provide. They are considered to be a top choice for those who want an exceptional listening experience.

Low distortion

The diaphragm of a planar magnetic driver is very thin, meaning it can move at high speeds without losing control or breaking down. This allows for a highly precise and rapid response to sudden changes in the audio signal. This allows you to listen to the details of music and make them sound more natural and real.

Another benefit of planar magnetic drivers is that they produce a uniform driving force across the entire diaphragm. This prevents distortion when you increase the volume. Planar magnetic headphones sound great because dynamic drivers employ diaphragms which are larger and heavier and cannot move as quickly or with the same acceleration. In fact, they could break down when the forces are too strong or exceed the limits of their structural integrity, causing different points on the diaphragm to begin moving out of the sync.

On the other the other hand these drivers create an extremely powerful electromagnetic force that is directly applied to the diaphragm. This eliminates the requirement for a voice coil, which is required in most headphones that use traditional dynamic cone drivers. This helps to achieve more dynamic sound, a bigger soundstage and a more powerful bass response.

Due to these advantages, planar magnet drivers are regarded by many audiophiles as the most effective headphone driver. There are some issues to consider regarding the price and power requirements, but their ability to provide superior sonic reproduction is a great choice for those who want the highest quality audio reproduction. In comparison to other types of headphones, these models offer superior detail and exceptional transparency in all frequencies except for low bass (where dynamic drivers are generally still preferred). If you are looking for a pair that can provide great audio for any price, then make sure to look at our top selections!