Audeze is a model that wants no introduction; the American audio producer makes a number of the finest planar headsets, and its merchandise are utilized in recording studios around the globe. Whereas the model has diversified its choices in recent times — introducing gaming-focused headsets and funds choices which might be obtainable for below $500 — the LCD sequence kinds the core of its portfolio.
And in that sequence, the LCD-X reigns supreme; launched practically a decade in the past, the LCD-X is Audeze’s best-selling headset, and the model rolled out a brand new model in 2021 with a barely lighter design and higher weight distribution, tweaks to the sound signature, and new ear cushions.
The outcome? The LCD-X is among the many finest — if not the perfect total — headset you will discover on this class, and that is unlikely to vary anytime quickly.
Audeze LCD-X: Pricing and availability
Audeze unveiled the LCD-X again in 2013, however the model I am testing as we speak is a redesigned mannequin that was launched in 2021. The redesign does not change the visible aesthetic of the LCD-X, with Audeze as an alternative specializing in tweaking the sound. Together with these modifications, Audeze now provides the LCD-X in two variants: a Creator Package deal that prices $1,199 and contains the headset and a braided 2-meter cable with a single-ended 6.35mm connector and an ordinary LCD onerous shell case to be used on the highway.
There’s additionally a Premium Package deal that retails for $1,699, and this model has two braided cables — one with a 6.35mm connector and the opposite with a balanced 4-pin XLR — in addition to a 6.35mm to three.5mm plug, and a premium journey case. Each variations can be found in leather-based and leather-free supplies, and are bought straight on Audeze’s web site as well as Amazon (opens in new tab) (the place it is marginally decrease at $1,139) and all main audio retailers.
Audeze LCD-X: Design and luxury
Earlier than I get to the design, the very first thing I want to speak about is the load, as that in the end is a deciding think about your buying choice. Though Audeze shaved off 50g from the unique model, the LCD-X 2021 nonetheless is available in at a hefty 612g, and it’s the heaviest headset in my assortment by a sizeable margin.
The load is noticeable whenever you begin utilizing the headset, and whereas I initially figured it might be a problem, that hasn’t confirmed to be the case. I used the LCD-X for simply over a month now as my every day driver, and in that point, I have not felt any fatigue even after prolonged listening classes of six hours or extra. I am at my desk for 12 hours a day on common, and I hearken to music for not less than half of that period, and having used the LCD-X extensively, the load hasn’t been an issue in my use case.
One of many causes for that’s the weight distribution; Audeze did a superb job distributing the load evenly throughout the headscarf, and the result’s that you do not really feel the heft as soon as you set the headset on. The redesigned ear cushions additionally go a good distance in making the LCD-X snug for prolonged use, and whereas they don’t seem to be as breathable as velour pads on the likes of the HD6XX, they do not get too heat both.
On the entire although, I might recommend making an attempt on the LCD-X at a retailer earlier than choosing it up; whereas I did not have any points with the load, that will not be the case for everybody.
With that out of the best way, let’s get to the design. The LCD-X is all about making a press release, and the outsized grilles together with the huge ear cushions give it a particular look that is instantly recognizable. The headset is made out of steel, and the seen screws give it an industrial look — and make it simpler to change out any components down the road ought to the necessity come up.
I additionally just like the stylized design over the grille that kinds a big A; there is not any mistaking who made this headset. The LCD-X is not meant for outside use, however the bundled onerous shell case means you’ll be able to take it on the highway with none points. The cables connect with the earcups through mini-XLR plugs, and so they securely lock in place.
The ear pads are among the many most snug I’ve used so far, and whereas the headset is heavy, the clamping drive is gentle. This goes a good distance in guaranteeing the LCD-X is snug for prolonged listening classes.
Construct high quality is beautiful — as you’d think about — and I’ve little doubt that the headset will final a really very long time. The headscarf makes use of a suspension-style design and is made out of steel, however simply beneath you will discover a perforated leather-based band that does an excellent job with weight distribution. That mentioned, I’d have preferred extra padding on the headscarf itself, and a barely simpler mechanism for adjusting the sizing.
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Aside from that minor quibble, I’ve no issues with the design or consolation of the LCD-X. Like I mentioned earlier, that is the heaviest headset of the dozen or so in my assortment, so for those who’re eyeing this mannequin, I strongly advocate making an attempt it out earlier than making a purchase order.
Audeze LCD-X: Sound high quality
I knew earlier than I received began with the LCD-X that it might sound nice, however I did not notice simply how nuanced the sound can be till I really used the headset. I am not exaggerating once I say that that is among the many best-sounding headset you will discover within the sub-$2,000 section.
Quite a lot of that has to do with the bass response; the LCD-X delivers a quick assault that is normally a attribute of all planar headsets, nevertheless it achieve this with significantly better emphasis and many element. You get a pleasant rumble and texture, and the LCD-X does extremely properly within the sub-bass part, and also you’re assured to listen to notes in your favourite tracks that you just missed earlier than.
In an analogous vein, mids are detailed, and also you get wonderful instrument separation with a forward-facing vocal presentation that sounds nice. The treble has good extension total, nevertheless it misses out on a little bit of sparkle. The general sound signature is impartial, and that is not astonishing contemplating the LCD-X is designed for mastering.
Audeze nailed the technical particulars right here, with the LCD-X providing wonderful imaging and dynamics. Actually, aside from a barely laid-back treble, there is not a single flaw to level out right here. The impartial tuning means the LCD-X works properly throughout numerous genres, and I can attest to that, having listened to traditional rock, heavy steel, folks music, classical, and lots of DnB within the month I used the headset.
With a sensitivity of 103dB/mW and coming in at 20Ω, the LCD-X is remarkably straightforward to drive — you should utilize it with nearly any moveable supply. I used the headset predominantly with the Fiio K9 Pro and the Fiio R7 network streamer, and utilizing a supply with a bit extra energy makes the headset actually shine.
Considerably serendipitously, I began utilizing the LCD-X on the identical time I arrange Roon, and that turned out to be a great factor, as a result of the software program has customized presets that unlock the complete potential of the headset. Roon’s preset provides the LCD-X rather more airiness and element, and it’s a fabulous pairing. Should you’re shopping for the LCD-X or any Audeze headset and have a big offline music assortment, I suggest signing up for Roon and giving it a strive — you will love the distinction it makes.
In fact, you’ll be able to at all times manually tweak the EQ to realize an analogous impact, and the LCD-X affords lots of headroom on this space because of the low distortion. The one disadvantage (because it had been) in relation to sound high quality is that the treble is somewhat relaxed, however that may be simply corrected, and the terrific bass and mid-range provides the LCD-X a clear-cut benefit.
Audeze LCD-X: The competitors
There are many alternate options within the high-end section, and for those who’re after a great-sounding planar headset, the HiFiMan Arya ticks lots of the fitting containers. It makes use of massive planar drivers, has a equally sturdy design because the LCD-X, and has a terrific sound that pairs properly with quite a lot of genres. It additionally has a quick bass that is energetic, and has good total decision and a large soundstage. Coming in at $1,299 on Amazon (opens in new tab), it’s in the identical neighborhood because the LCD-X, however the one think about its favor is that it weighs 404g, over 200g lighter — so if you end up not liking how heavy the LCD-X is, it’s best to check out the Arya.
Focal’s Clear can be a sensible choice to think about, with the headset delivering a refined sound and a stunning design that is according to the French model’s different merchandise. The headset is delicate to be pushed by moveable sources, you get lots of equipment within the field, and at 450g, it’s snug to put on. The Clear is now obtainable for $1,249 on Amazon (opens in new tab), so you are not paying that rather more than the LCD-X.
Audeze LCD-X: Do you have to purchase it?
You can purchase this if:
- You desire a high-end planar headset with a balanced and impartial sound
- You want a sturdy construct high quality that may final a long time
- You are searching for a headset with plush cushions which might be snug
- You want a planar headset that is straightforward to drive
You should not purchase this if:
- You desire a light-weight planar headset
In the end, Audeze received lots proper with the LCD-X. Certain, the sheer dimension and weight of the headset can be a deal-breaker for a number of, however truthfully, having used it for over a month, I do not thoughts the load in any respect. The truth that it’s distributed evenly ensures the heft is not a problem throughout prolonged use, and the construct high quality is phenomenal — this factor is constructed like a tank.
There’s lots to love in relation to the sound as properly, with the LCD-X delivering a impartial sound that permits your music to shine. The low-end and mids are extremely detailed, and the treble has no sibilance in anyway and respectable extension. But it surely’s the soundstage and imaging that set the LCD-X aside; this is without doubt one of the greatest the reason why the headset is so extremely regarded.
Whereas $1,199 is lots to pay for a headset, you’re getting lots to your cash, notably with the Creator Package deal. I am not going to say it’s a good worth, however what is obvious to me is that the LCD-X is an outstanding headset that is constructed to final for many years, and the sound signature is unimaginable. The one situation right here is the load; for those who do not thoughts that, the LCD-X is a simple advice.
The LCD-X combines a strong design with snug leather-based ear pads, and the redesigned sound signature means they ship a impartial sound that means that you can get essentially the most out of your music.