The Best Planar Magnetic Headphones
Planar magnetic headphones, also referred to as orthodynamics, produce sound using a thin diaphragm encased between multiple magnets. They offer a crisp and controlled audio that can capture all the edges that trail instruments and vocals for incredible musical accuracy.
They typically require a headphone amplifier to drive the drivers properly. This is a relatively small expense to purchase headphones that will reveal details and nuances in your music that you didn't even know existed.
1. Dekoni Blue HE400SE
The Blue is a redefinition of the T50RP MK3 and is designed to provide an energizing, neutral sound for the home. It's not as neutral as the Philips FidelioX2HR however it's an excellent option for people who prefer an authentic, warm headphone and don't like excessive bass. The vocals are feminine and velvety. (Listen to Feel Good by Dominique Fils Aime). It has a good balance between high and low frequencies, which makes it a good choice for long listening sessions.
The planar magnetic structure facilitates precise sound positioning, with clarity and a large soundstage. This lets music breathe, giving you the feeling of being in a concert. The treble sound is clear and clear with a clear and non-fatiguing sound.
our source is impressive for a budget headphone. It's incredibly clear and powerful, yet it doesn't distort even when you listen to a lot of music. Its fidelity is also excellent with a good midrange energy and great detail retrieval.
2. Audeze LCD-2
Audeze headphones are known for their booming sound and open-back design. They're also bulky and heavy, and they aren't well-insulated, so they will not be suitable for all listeners. They're a great option for those who want headphones with a lively climax.
These headphones feature a large planar magnetic driver that has been custom-designed inside the ear cups. They provide distortion-free, pristine sound. They are able to penetrate low frequencies, which other dynamic drivers aren't capable of reaching. This is one of 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 audio quality in its class. It has a rich, full-bodied bass with honest transparency and virtually no distortion beyond 10Hz. It also has a natural treble, with the right levels for sibilant tone, and it dips at about 9khz to account for concha interaction.
The LCD 2 Classics are a excellent alternative to the original LCD-2. They have the same iconic design and sound, but at significantly lower cost. These headphones work well with tube amps and have a higher resistance than other open-back headphones. You'll require an amp for your headphone to use them. They're also not the most breathable, and you may feel your ears becoming hot after wearing them for a long period 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, accompanied by a variety of remarkable technological improvements. The Ananda Nano has a brand-new NEO supernano diaphragm that's 75% thinner than the original model's, as well as stealth magnets that deliver superior clarity.
The midrange feels airy and spacious and has plenty of clarity and a warm tone to it that will impress listeners with its precision. This is a slightly brighter and more luminous headphone, with some edge in its presentation. It makes it stand out and adds a sense of character. It's not harsh at all and does not suffer from excessive bloating or overemphasis.
HIFIMAN's low-end is lean in texture but does not compromise performance or dynamics in any way and the treble is crisp and clear without being overly bright or harsh. Contrary to other headphones that sound sluggish and closed-in, the treble of the Ananda Nano has an impressive extension and is able to 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 help you bring out the best from your favorite music sources. Don't believe the urban myth that these headphones require too much current or power. In reality, I've been able to use them for long gaming sessions and two seven-hour periods at work and they remained comfortable.
4. Audio Technica ATH-M1070
The cost of planar headphones can put them out of the range for a majority of music lovers especially those with other things to do in their lives. If you are willing to do some research it is possible to find headphones that won't break your budget. Monolith by Monoprice's 1070C is a closed-back model that features magnetic technology in planar form that is priced at $299 USD.
Although the Monolith by Monoprice 1070C may not have the features you might expect from a more expensive pair of headphones, it does not mean it isn't lacking in terms of quality or performance. The headphones are stunning and can be adapted to your liking by a few tweaks to the audio source you use with them.
The Monolith by Monoprice headphones have a high impedance and require assistance from your DAC/portable music player to drive the sound properly. Thankfully, the company has various cord options inside the box with the headphones, including a 3-meter cord that is coiled, with an adapter with threaded 1/4 inches and two straight cables.
The 106mm driver in the Monolith by Monoprice 1070C produces a rich soundstage that is full of details and has a sense depth. On tracks such as Phil Collins' In The Air Tonight, the headphones provide the sensation like you're in the back row of an orchestra. The treble sound is crisp and clear while the mid-range sounds warm and smooth, without becoming too bassy.
5. Audio Technica ATH-M50X
The Audio Technica ATH-50X headphones are closed-back headphones that have two ear cups with an enormous size. They are comfortable over your ears. They're made to be an ideal studio headphone for recording mixing, as well as critical listening, so they offer a full and rich bass that pleases the most discerning of listeners and also provides clarity to pick out the fine elements in your music.
The ear cups have an ear-socket that is soft and faux leather that is comfortable for your ears and head. They also seal well enough to minimize outside noise. They come with a headband that is padded that can be worn around your head for comfort, but it could be a bit stiff and can put pressure on the top of your head, which some users found uncomfortable. They offer a large soundstage and a good amount of isolation, though some of the high-end details could be lost in their powerful bass response.
These headphones feature a lively sound profile that's great for electronic music and other genres that are driven by pulse. They offer a boost in the bass that makes kick drums punchy and powerful, as well as a bright and sharp treble, which highlights every note in the guitar melody or riff.
The ATH M50X is a favored headphone for audiophiles and musicians. However it's not suited to all situations. It doesn't provide the flat frequency response and even articulation of higher-end headphones such as the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO, and it can also be a bit too warm in the low range for certain.
6. Audeze LCD-XC
The LCD-XC is an open-back magnetic headphone that is planar and the first ever from Audeze. It is massive and heavy, sporting full wooden ear cups and metal framework around. It is the most heavy headphone on this list and one of the largest closed back models anywhere.
The Audeze LCD XC has quickly earned a reputation as the most effective tool for recording engineers, musicians, and audiophiles due to its neutrality and transparency. The closed-back design of Audeze LCDXC gives you all the advantages that magnetic headphones with a planar design, such as greater isolation and less ambient noise. This gives you an intimate listening experience. Your favorite music will erupt from the silent background taking on a life all of its own.
They have an exclusive, innovative planar magnetic technology which makes use of space-age materials as well as an ultra-thin diaphragm 4X larger than typical headphones for rapid response times, drastically reduced distortion and better resolution. Their unique driver design flies an ultra-thin, large driver between magnet arrays for incredible air movement, resulting in their distinctive, powerful bass and natural extended treble. The LCD-XC is a reference headphone that is made for professional mixing, recording mastering, high-resolution hi-fi listening.
The treble is an open and detailed sound, with no artificial coloring or coloration. Vocals sound great, with a rich deep midrange, a full and deep bass, and a natural, clear and clear treble.