The Best Planar Magnetic Headphones

Planar magnetic headphones, also referred to as orthodynamics, create sound through an extremely thin diaphragm that is sandwiched between multiple magnets. They offer a clear sound that is controlled and captures all the leading edge of instruments and vocals for amazing musical precision.

They also typically require a headphone amplifier in order to effectively drive the drivers. This is a small cost to pay for headphones that reveal nuances and nuances in your music that you didn't know existed.

1. Dekoni Blue HE400SE

The Blue is a redefinition of the T50RP MK3 and aims for an energizing, neutral sound for the home. It's not as neutral as the Philips FidelioX2HR but it's a good option for those who like natural, warm sounding headphone and don't like excessive bass. Vocals sound feminine and velvety (listen to the track Feel Good by Dominique Fils-Aime). It's got a great balance between low and high frequencies, which makes it a good choice for long listening sessions.

The planar magnetic structure allows for precise sound positioning, clarity, and a vast soundstage. This lets music breathe, giving you the feeling like you are in the middle of a concert. The treble is crisp and precise, with a clear and non-fatiguing sound.

Its bass is also very impressive for a headphone that is priced at a bargain. It's punchy and tight and doesn't sway even when listening to loud music. Its fidelity is also superb with great mid-range energy and excellent detail retrieval.

2. Audeze LCD-2

Audeze headphones are renowned for their booming sound and open-back design. They are also heavy, bulky, and do not effectively isolate. They won't be comfortable for everyone. However, they're an excellent choice if you're looking for headphones that can deliver an intense dynamic the climax and impact.

The headphones are equipped with a massive planar Magnetic headphones explained magnetic driver that has been custom-designed inside the ear cups. They produce undistorted, crystal clear sound. They can even reach low frequencies that conventional dynamic drivers struggle with. This is one of the most sought-after audiophile planar magnet headphones.

The LCD-2 was the first headphone to put Audeze on the map. It has the highest overall audio quality in its class. It has a deep bass, full-bodied sound with real transparency and near-zero distortion beyond 10Hz. It also has a natural-sounding treble with appropriate levels for sibilant tone, and it dips at about 9khz to accommodate concha interactions.

The LCD 2 Classics retain the iconic design and sound quality of the original LCD-2 however, they're cheaper. They're a great combination with tube amplifiers, and they have more impedance than other open-back headphones. Therefore, you'll need a headphone amplifier. They're also not the most breathable, and you may feel your ears becoming hot after wearing them for long periods of time.

3. HIFIMAN Ananda Nano

The HIFIMAN Nano brings the classic egg-shaped design and open back window shade of its predecessor up to date, and comes with an array of stunning technical upgrades. The Ananda Nano comes with the latest NEO ultranano diaphragm, which is 75% smaller than its predecessor's. It also comes with stealth magnets for superior clarity.

The midrange feels spacious and airy and has plenty of clarity and a warm tone to it. It will impress listeners with its clarity. It's a slightly brighter headphone with some edge to its presentation. It helps it standout and adds a sense of character. It's not harsh at all and doesn't suffer from any bloating or planar Magnetic Headphones explained overemphasis.

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

The headphone is simple to operate and its drivers' acoustic clarity will help you get the most from your preferred sources. Don't believe the myths about these headphones needing tons of power or high current - that's just urban myth. I have used them for two days of work that lasted seven hours and for long gaming sessions and they are still comfortable.

4. Audio Technica ATH-M1070

Most music lovers, especially those who have other priorities in their life, might not be financially able to purchase planar headphones. However, if you're willing spend a bit of time looking for the right pair, it's possible to find a top set that won't break the bank. Monolith by Monoprice's 1070C is a closed-back model with magnetic planar technology that retails at $299 USD.

Although the Monolith by Monoprice 1070C may not have the features you'd expect from a more expensive pair of headphones, it doesn't mean it's not lacking in quality or performance. The headphones sound great and can be tuned to your preference with some tweaks from the source of music you use them with.

Like many over-ear headphones, the Monolith by Monoprice 1070C has an extremely high impedance and will require a little help from your DAC or portable music player to drive their sound properly. The company comes with a variety of cords in the box, including a three meter coiled cable and two straight cables.

The Monolith by Monoprice headphones 1070C feature a 106mm planar drive that provides a full, detailed soundstage that has a sense of depth. When listening to tracks like Phil Collins' In The Air Tonight the headphones can provide the sensation of being in the back of an orchestra. The treble is clear and clear while the mid-range is soft and smooth, without becoming too bassy.

5. Audio Technica ATH-M50X

The Audio Technica ATH-M50X are closed-back headphones that feature a surprisingly large pair of ear cups that comfortably fit over your ears. They're designed to be a studio headphone that can be used for tracking mixing, as well as critical listening. They have a full, rich sound that pleases bass lovers and also provides clarity to pick out the fine elements in your music.

The ear cups have an ear-socket that is soft and Planar magnetic headphones explained faux leather that is comfortable for your head and ears. They also have a good seal to reduce outside sound. The headband is padded and fits around your head. However some users felt it uncomfortable due to the stiffness. They have a wide soundstage and plenty of isolation, though some of the high-end details could be lost in their high-end bass response.

These headphones have an exciting sound pattern, which is ideal for electronic music or other genres based on a pulsing. They have a boost in the bass that makes kick drums punchy and strong, and a bright and sharp high-frequency treble that emphasizes each note in a guitar melody or riff.

The ATH M50X is a popular headphone for audiophiles and musicians. However, it's not suitable for all situations. It doesn't have the flat frequency response or the same articulation as premium headphones like the Beyerdynamics 990 Pro, and can be a little too warm in the lower range for some.

6. Audeze LCD-XC

The LCD-XC, the very first planar magnetic planar speakers closed-back headphone from Audeze, is a closed back headphone with a planar design. It is a huge and heavy headphone that has wooden ear cups. It is the largest headphone on this list, and one of the most heavy closed back models available anywhere.

The Audeze LCD XC has quickly gained a reputation as the ultimate recording tool for engineers, musicians and audiophiles due its clarity and neutrality. Its closed-back design gives the benefits of planar magnetic headphones, such as increased isolation and greatly reduced ambient noise to provide an intimate and immersive listening experience. Your favorite tunes will burst from the silent background taking on a life of its own.

They are equipped with a unique planar magnetic design, which utilizes space-age materials and an ultra-thin and 4X larger diaphragm compared to typical headphones. This will result in quicker response times, less distortion, and higher resolution. Their unique driver design puts a large, ultra thin driver between magnet arrays to create a great air flow. This results in their distinctive powerful bass and natural extended highs. The LCD-XC is a true high-quality headphone made to be used for professional tracking, mixing mastering, and high-resolution personal Hi-Fi listening when connected to a portable source device or a premium amplifier.

The treble has an open and detailed sound without artificial coloration or coloring. Vocals are also excellent with a rich and deep midrange and natural, crisp and clear treble that gives an authentic sense of intimacy.