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You are looking for the best audeze noise cancelling headphones, but this guide ranks products by their published specifications. We compared 2 models from the brand. The selection includes open-back and closed-back over-ear designs in black. These units feature 106 mm planar magnetic drivers. The Audeze LCD-X Over-Ear Planar Headphone leads the list. It ranks first because it is best for professional mixing and reference monitoring. All picks are based on the specs provided on the listings.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Audeze LCD-X Over-Ear Planar Headphone Best overall | professional mixing and reference monitoring | |
| 2 | Audeze LCD-XC Planar Magnetic Headphones Best closed-back | isolated listening with planar drivers |
Audeze Headphones: Key Spec Differences
You should choose between open-back and closed-back designs based on your need for isolation. The Audeze LCD-X features an open-back design. It suits professional mixing where accurate reference monitoring is critical. The large 106 mm planar magnetic drivers deliver extended frequency response for studio work. This model prioritizes sound accuracy over portability for engineers. In contrast, the Audeze LCD-XC offers a closed-back sealed chassis. It provides better isolation for users who need to block out external noise. Both models maintain the brand’s signature planar magnetic audio quality. You will find the LCD-XC heavier, weighing 4 pounds. Consider your primary listening environment when selecting between these two specific models.
Audeze LCD-X Over-Ear Planar Headphone
Best for: professional mixing and reference monitoring
- Connectivity
- 4 pin XLR, 6.3 mm, 3.5 mm
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Back Design
- Open-Back
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 16 × 14 × 8 inches
The Audeze LCD-X is an open-back over-ear headphone featuring 106 mm planar magnetic drivers. It offers a frequency response from 12Hz to 20kHz, extended to 50kHz. With 103dB efficiency and 20 ohms impedance, it suits professionals seeking reference quality audio. The revised 2021 design includes luxurious leather ear pads for comfort. Handcrafted in California, this model replaces the previous version for updated performance.
- 106 mm ultra-thin diaphragms with Fazor elements
- Frequency response extends to 50kHz
- 103dB/1mW efficiency and 20 ohms impedance
- Revised 2021 ergonomic leather ear pads
- Open-back design allows sound leakage
- 106 mm driver size is larger than typical dynamic drivers
- You need reference quality audio for mixing
- You prefer open-back acoustics for soundstage
- You want planar magnetic driver technology
- You require closed-back isolation for noisy environments
- You need a lightweight portable headphone
- You prefer dynamic driver characteristics over planar
Verdict: Audeze LCD-X 106mm Planar Magnetic delivers professional reference accuracy for engineers. It fits those who prioritize driver size and extended frequency response over portability.
Audeze LCD-XC Planar Magnetic Headphones
Best for: isolated listening with planar drivers
- Form Factor
- Over Ear
- Back Design
- Closed-Back
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 11 × 11 × 7 inches
- Weight
- 4 pounds
The Audeze LCD-XC is a closed-back, over-ear headphone featuring 106 mm planar magnetic drivers. It uses carbon weave earcups and a suspension headband for isolation. The design aims for neutral, transparent sound with reduced ambient noise. It weighs 4 pounds and measures 11 by 11 by 7 inches. This model suits listeners who want detailed audio in a sealed enclosure.
- 106 mm planar magnetic drivers
- Closed-back design for isolation
- Carbon weave earcups
- Suspension headband fit
- 4 pounds weight is substantial
- 11 by 11 by 7 inch dimensions are bulky
- Closed-back limits soundstage width compared to open designs
- You need closed-back isolation
- You prefer planar magnetic drivers
- You want neutral sound quality
- You need lightweight comfort
- You prefer open-back soundstage
- You want compact portability
Verdict: Audeze LCD-XC Closed-Back Over-Ear delivers detailed planar magnetic audio in a heavy, sealed chassis. It fits users prioritizing isolation and sound accuracy over portability.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Audeze LCD-X Over-Ear Planar Headphone | Audeze LCD-XC Planar Magnetic Headphones |
|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | 4 pin XLR, 6.3 mm, 3.5 mm | – |
| Form Factor | Over-Ear | Over Ear |
| Back Design | Open-Back | Closed-Back |
| Fit | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Dimensions | 16 × 14 × 8 inches | 11 × 11 × 7 inches |
| Weight | – | 4 pounds |
| Size | 106 mm | 106 mm |
| Model | 100-LX-1016-00 | 100-XC-1016-00 |
Where Audeze Fits Your Needs
This range suits listeners who prioritize sound accuracy over portability. Both models use large 106 mm planar magnetic drivers. You will find no compact or on-ear options here. The lineup spans from open-back designs for studio reference to sealed units for isolation. Both are heavy over-ear headphones. You should expect substantial weight and size. These are not travel-friendly devices. The brand focuses on high-fidelity audio reproduction. You will not find lightweight or wireless variants in this specific selection. Choose these if you need professional monitoring tools rather than casual listening gear.
How to choose the right Audeze headphones
Check the back design
You must decide between open-back and closed-back construction. The Audeze LCD-X features an open-back design. This allows for a natural soundstage but offers no isolation. Sound leaks out to others. The LCD-XC is closed-back. It seals the ear cups completely. This blocks outside noise and prevents sound leakage. Choose open-back for quiet studio use. Choose closed-back for noisy environments or when you need privacy during listening sessions.
Verify driver size
Both models use 106 mm planar magnetic drivers. This is a large driver size compared to standard dynamic units. Larger drivers often provide better bass extension and detail. You get extended frequency response with these 106 mm units. This size impacts the physical footprint of the headphones. It also influences the sound signature. You prioritize accuracy and detail over compactness. The large diaphragm is central to the reference quality these headphones offer for professional monitoring tasks.
Assess the fit type
These headphones use an over-ear fit. They enclose your entire ear cup. This provides comfort for long sessions. It also helps with passive noise isolation in closed models. The over-ear design distributes weight across the head. This reduces pressure on the ears. You should check the headband adjustment. Ensure it fits your head shape securely. The over-ear style is essential for the planar magnetic technology to perform correctly without leakage or discomfort.
Review physical dimensions
You need to check the physical size if you travel. The LCD-X measures 14 inches wide and 16 inches long. It is quite large. The LCD-XC is smaller at 11 inches wide and 11 inches long. It weighs 4 pounds. This is heavy for portable use. You should consider if you need to carry these daily. The large chassis supports the 106 mm drivers. If you need portability, these specs indicate these are stationary or studio-focused devices rather than travel companions.
Match color to preference
Both models are available in black. This is a neutral color choice. It matches most studio environments. You do not have other color options listed. The black finish is durable and professional looking. It does not distract from the technical aspects. You simply need to confirm this is the color you want. Since both top picks share this color, your choice depends on the back design and fit rather than aesthetics.
Frequently asked questions
Which Audeze headphones are best for professional mixing?
The Audeze LCD-X is the top choice for professional mixing and reference monitoring. Its open-back design allows for a natural soundstage, which engineers prefer for accurate critical listening. The 106 mm planar magnetic drivers provide extended frequency response. This model prioritizes driver size and sound accuracy over portability.
Are there closed-back Audeze options for isolation?
Yes, the Audeze LCD-XC is the best closed-back option in this lineup. It features a sealed chassis that provides isolation from external noise. This design suits users who need detailed planar magnetic audio in a quiet environment. It is heavier than the open-back version, weighing four pounds.
Do these headphones use dynamic drivers?
No, these models use planar magnetic drivers. Both the LCD-X and LCD-XC feature 106 mm planar magnetic units. This driver type is known for delivering detailed audio and extended frequency response. It is distinct from standard dynamic drivers, offering a different listening experience focused on accuracy.
What is the driver size in these headphones?
Both models feature 106 mm drivers. This large size is a key specification for the Audeze LCD-X and LCD-XC. The larger diaphragm contributes to the extended frequency response and reference accuracy. It is a significant size compared to many portable headphones, affecting the overall fit and weight.
Can I wear these headphones for long sessions?
The LCD-XC weighs four pounds, which may impact comfort during long sessions. The LCD-X is lighter but still substantial due to its 106 mm drivers. Both are over-ear designs. You should consider the weight and build quality when planning extended use, especially for professional monitoring tasks.
Do these headphones leak sound to others?
The open-back Audeze LCD-X leaks sound. Its design allows audio to escape, which is ideal for studio isolation but not for public use. The closed-back LCD-XC seals the sound inside. This provides isolation for you and prevents others from hearing your audio during listening sessions.