The Best Planar Magnetic Headphones
Planar magnetic headphones (also called orthodynamic headphones) use a diaphragm with a thin, conductive diaphragm that between multiple magnets to produce sound. They provide a clear and controlled audio experience that captures all the edges that trail vocals and instruments for a stunning musical clarity.
They typically require a headphone amplifier to provide the drivers with the proper power. This is a small cost to pay for a set of headphones that can show new details and nuances you didn't know existed in your music.
1. Dekoni Blue HE400SE
The Blue is a redefinition of the T50RP MK3 and is aimed at an energizing, neutral sound for the home. It's not quite as neutral as the Philips Fidelio X2HR but it's still a great choice for those who don't need too much bass and prefer a warm headphone that sounds natural. Vocals sound feminine and silky (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 encourages precise sound placement, while also providing clarity and a large soundstage. This allows music to breathe, giving you the feeling like you are in the middle of a concert. The treble range is clear and non-fatiguing, giving you a detailed and clear sound.
Bass is also impressive for a price-conscious headphone. It's incredibly clear and powerful, yet it doesn't distort even when listening to a lot of music. Its fidelity is also excellent with a good midrange energy and a nice detail retrieval.
2. Audeze LCD-2
Almost everyone who's familiar with Audeze headphones is aware of their premium open-back design and powerful sound. They are also heavy, bulky, and do not isolate well. They're not suitable for all. However, they're an excellent option for those looking for headphones that can deliver a strong dynamic high-frequency and the power.
The headphones are equipped with a massive planar magnetic driver which is specially designed for the earcups. They produce distortion-free, pristine sound. They can even reach low frequencies that other more conventional dynamic drivers struggle with. This is one of audiophiles' most popular planar magnet headphones.
The LCD-2 was the first headphone to put Audeze on the map. It has the best audio quality of its class. It is full-bodied, rich bass with a transparent transparency and virtually zero distortion above 10Hz. It also has a natural treble, with the right levels for sibilant tones, and it dips appropriately at around 9khz to account for concha interaction.
The LCD 2 Classics are a excellent alternative to the original LCD-2. They have the same design and sound quality, but at a much lower price. These headphones work well with tube amplifiers and offer more resistance than the majority of open-back headphones. You'll require an amp for your headphone to use these headphones. They're not the most breathable, and you may feel your ears becoming hot after wearing for long periods of time.
3. HIFIMAN Ananda Nano
The HIFIMAN Ananda Nano is a modern take on the egg-shaped housing and window shade design with an open back of its predecessor, and makes it modern with a plethora of technological improvements. The Ananda Nano features a new NEO supernano diaphragm which is 75% smaller than the predecessor's as well as stealth magnetics that offer superior clarity.
The midrange is spacious and airy, with plenty of clarity, and a natural tone and will be awe-inspiring to listeners. This is a slightly brighter headphone with a slight edge to its presentation. It makes it stand out and adds some personality. But, it's not abrasive in any way and doesn't suffer from any bloating or overemphasis.
The low-end of the HIFIMAN is very lean in texture but does not compromise power or dynamics at all, and the treble is crisp 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 clarity, space and depth even at high volumes.
The headphone is simple to drive and the acoustic transparency of its drivers will allow you to get the most from your favorite sources. Don't believe the urban legend that these headphones require excessive current or power. I've worn them for two days of work that lasted seven hours and long gaming sessions, and they are still comfortable.
4. Audio Technica ATH-M1070
Many music lovers, especially those who have other priorities in life, might not be able to afford planar headphones. If you're willing to spend a little time looking for the perfect pair, it is possible to find a great 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.
Monolith by Monoprice's 1070C headphone may not include all the features that you'd expect from a more expensive set, but they are still of high quality and perform well. These headphones sound amazing and can be tuned to your preferences with some tweaks from the source of music you use them with.
The Monolith by Monoprice headphones have a high impedance and require a little help from your DAC/portable player to operate the sound correctly. The company provides a range of cords included in the box that include a three-meter Coiled cable as well as two straight cables.
The Monolith by Monoprice headphones 1070C have a 106mm planar drive which provides a full, detailed soundstage with a sense depth. The headphones can give you a sense of being in the back of an orchestra while listening to music such as Phil Collins' In The Air Tonight. The treble is clear and clear, while the mid-range is warm and smooth without being too bassy.
5. Audio Technica ATH-M50X
The Audio Technica ATH-50X headphones are closed-back headphones with a pair of ear cups with an enormous size. They are comfortable over the ear. The Audio Technica's ATH-M50X is a closed-back headphone that comes with Ear cups that are large enough to comfortably rest over your ears.
The earcups are covered with a soft faux leather that is comfortable on your ears and head, and they seal tightly enough to block out outside noise. They have a padded headband that wraps around your head for a comfortable fit however, it can be a bit rigid and place pressure on the top of your head, which some listeners felt uncomfortable. They have a wide soundstage, however certain high-end elements can be lost in the powerful bass response.
These headphones feature an exciting sound profile that is perfect for electronic music or other genres based on a pulsing. The headphones have a powerful bass boost that makes kick-drums punchy, and a bright treble that accentuates every note in a song or guitar riff.
The ATH M50X is a popular headphone among musicians and audiophiles. However it's not suited to all situations. It doesn't have the flat frequency response and even the articulation that is found in higher-end headphones like the Beyerdynamic 990 PRO, and it could also be a bit too warm in the lower range for some.
6. best planar magnetic iem LCD-XC
The LCD-XC, the very first closed-back magnetic planar headphone made by Audeze, is a closed-back planar headphone. It is large and heavy, sporting full wooden earcups and a metal framework around. It is the most hefty model on the list, and one of the largest closed-back models anywhere.
The Audeze LCD XC has quickly earned a reputation as the ultimate tool among recording musicians, engineers, and audiophiles due to its transparency and neutrality. The closed-back design of Audeze LCD-XC offers all the advantages that planar magnetic headphones offer including greater isolation and less ambient noise. This gives you a private listening experience. Your music of choice will explode from the background, and take its own life.
They are equipped with an exclusive planar magnetic technology that uses space-age materials, and an ultra-thin and 4X larger diaphragm than standard headphones. This results in faster response times, reduced distortion, and a higher resolution. Their unique driver design places an ultra-thin, large driver in between two arrays of magnets to create great air movement. This produces their signature strong bass and natural extended highs. The LCD-XC headphone is a reference headphone specifically designed for professional recording, mixing, mastering and high-resolution Hi-Fi listening.
The treble is extremely clear and clear, without any artificial or colored sound. Vocals also sound great with a rich deep midrange, a full and deep bass, and a natural, crisp, and clean treble.