"The Audeze LCD-1s represent the new gold standard for entry level planar headphones, if such a thing can be said about a category which "slums" it at $400, but can top out in the $1000's"
The best audiophile headphones are operate on the open-back principle. That makes for a less fatiguing experience and delivers the best sound as it’s not bouncing around inside a closed ear-cup creating strange reverberations. It also means you get broad, expansive soundscapes perfect for open-world gaming.
The Audeze LCD-X is a headphone that's been around for some time now, however I'm told there was a recent revision near the end of last year that makes it worth evaluating in 2020. For a long time, the LCD-X was considered the first step up into true flagship territory, taking notable steps forward in terms of technical performance over the LCD-2. But now, with the HiFiMAN Ananda regularly on sale at $700, the LCD-X has some stiff competition at its $1200 price tag. I had considered the Ananda a bit of a benchmark at its lower price tag, so it's worth asking if the LCD-X in 2020 is worth the price increase over the HiFiMAN Ananda
These headphones sound unreal. Audeze has quite a few different models including in-ear monitoring, so research their line of products before buying. These are pretty much the best sounding headphones I’ve ever heard.
Buying headphones is similar to buying a pair of shoes. You wonder how? It's because both of them come in all shapes and sizes but eventually, you end up buying the ones that fit you comfortably.
Over the years, Audeze headphones have enjoyed the trust of professionals for audio reproduction. The LCD-1 is a fine example of LCD sound quality with the utmost comfort and the convenience of portability. This headphone houses 90mm planar magnetic drivers to deliver detailed sound output ranging from 10Hz to 50kHz frequencies.
If you have an expectation of Audeze circumaural headphones that they are large and heavy and not something you'd want to schlep around, the LCD-1 is a mould-breaker
"Despite the LCD-1's being Audeze's lowest-cost headphones, nothing is lost or compromised; these are well-made, comfortable, non-fatiguing, and importantly, sound very good, and therefore, good value for money."
Whether you're a professional audio engineer or a bedroom producer with some extra time on their hands, you should read this review of Reveal+ and the LCD-1 from Pro Audio Files.
"...if you’re a music lover who likes getting lost in the music, and if you prefer to listen to the most subtle details and dynamics that really draw you into the music, gosh, who wouldn’t choose these?!"
The Audeze Mobius and LCDi3 receive glowing recommendations and awards from Headfonics to close out 2019! You can find links to the full articles and product reviews here.
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