Audeze have just released their new flagship Planar Magnetic headphones – the LCD-5. We have taken an in-depth look and listen, and they really are something special with an airy and detailed sound that steers away from the typical darker response Audeze have normally gone for. There is more detail in the upper midrange and they are also much more comfortable due to reduced weight, watch the full video to find out more!
Oscar has a written review of the LCD-5 here. If you want to get your hands on a pair, you can preoder an LCD-5 here
It’s been a while since Audeze released a closed-back model in their LCD range; the XC model was (and is) beautiful but it is a little treble-heavy for this particular listener. So it’s great news that we now have an alternative LCD to play around with!
Design and appearance
The Audeze LCD-2 closed-back takes a slight departure from the XC model in terms of looks; gone is the polished wood, and instead we have black earcups with white chevrons painted on. It’s not unattractive, and gives the headphones a nice update for 2018. The cable is a black and white braided affair, and matches the look of the headphones well.
We’re well used to Audeze treating us with extras such as a carry case and 3.5mm adapter, but this is not how the closed back LCD-2 comes. All we get are the headphones themselves and 3m cable (with 6.35mm jack). To be fair, this could just be a way for Audeze to offer better headphones for less money, and there is always the option to purchase a carry case later if needed.
Durability & build quality
The closed back LCD-2 is pretty rock solid. There are no obvious weak points and with care, these headphones should last a lifetime. The cable is similarly well constructed with strain reliefs at the top and bottom, and Rean connectors for attaching to the headphones.
Comfort
With a weight of 646g, the LCD-2 is not for those with delicate necks. This reviewer is feeling the weight a little bit after 30 minutes, but it’s not a problem. A longer listening session might change this however!
Suitability for intended application
The closed back design may lend itself well to outdoor pursuits, but most smartphones would have difficulty running the LCD-2 closed back. With a 70 ohm impedance and a relatively low sensitivity of 97dB, these headphones are better suited to devices with greater powers of amplification. Having said that, the LG V20 does a fairly good job but the headphones could be powered a lot better with proper gear such as a dedicated headphone amp.
Sound characteristics:
When compared to the open back version, the closed back LCD-2 does of course have the advantage of much greater isolation but there is of course some compromise due to the need to deal with internal sound reflections and resonances. Bass is more present, but with slightly less detail. Midrange is full and syrupy, and high frequency detail takes a slight hit too.
For this review, the closed LCD-2 is powered by the Questyle CMA600i, which provides some very clean audio and won’t make the headphones any warmer-sounding than they already are.
Bass
Sub bass is indeed impressive on the closed LCD-2; it’s very well rendered and has a very wide and deep feeling to it. Bass presence is enough to make its mark, but without causing many problems for higher frequencies. There however the feeling at times that it affects an otherwise spacious feeling within the midrange.
Mids
Generally the midrange has a good speed about it, with a quality which is neither too dry nor too lush. It sits well between the bass and high frequency ranges, making a cohesive sound which is very slightly recessed when compared to the bass level. Vocals are comfortable within the mix and are rich and detailed.
Treble
Perhaps comparison with an open-back LCD-2 is unfair here, but the open back does do better in terms of the high frequency detail. However, the closed back version still has a lot to offer with genres such as classical, with still a good sense of space in the recording. Presence is about as much as it can be, whilst still feeling like a warm headphone. This reviewer is a fan of warm headphones such as the Sennheiser HD650 and Oppo PM-2, and the closed LCD-2 would serve as a good closed-back alternative for those who want a similar sound.
Soundstage & Separation
This LCD-2 is surprisingly good for a closed back model; soundstage is impressive although there’s not so much of an ‘airy’ feeling here. Separation is very good too, with instruments giving a good impression of sitting in their own spaces within recordings.
Music genres good for and why
Given the slightly bass-centric tuning, the closed LCD-2 is well suited for studio genres such as dance, pop and rock. However, it can give a good rendition of a classical or acoustic performance if you’re more fond of a weighty feel within the music as opposed to a light and airy one.
Pros:
There’s now a choice of LCD closed backs (along with LCD-XC)
Good isolation
Great soundstage for a closed back model
Cons:
More utilitarian looking than most designs
Accessories are spartan
Can be heavy for some
Summary
Audeze’s new closed-back LCD-2 promises to offer more privacy and isolation for fans of the warmer sounding Audeze models, and it delivers admirably.
Audeze keeps going from strength to strength (the strength of our bank managers, that is). Ever more glitzy offerings are produced which are sure to exceed the last model at least in terms of price, but does the performance match up? We’re sure the folks at Audeze HQ realise that expectations go up along with the levels of cash we’re asked to part with, so they’d better have the trousers to go along with the proverbial mouth they’re exhibiting..
Pros:
Sturdy construction
Great looks
Smooth sound for those who want it
Sub bass is impressive
Cons:
Single-ended cable only
Heavy!
Some may require greater treble presence
Durability and Build Quality
The LCD-4z is built to last, with an all-metal construction. It’s weighty, coming in at 610 grams without the cable attached; so along with your brass, it demands a good neck. The cable itself is strong and well constructed. It’s a single-ended design ; it would have been good to see a balanced option in there too.
The carry case is quite large; much bigger, and we’d have been looking for wheels and a slide out handle for lugging it around. However it’s fitting for such a premium model and offers adequate protection should you wish to take it anywhere.
Comfort
As mentioned above, some may be affected by the weight of the LCD-4z during longer listening sessions. Clamping pressure is fairly high, but mitigated by the leather earpads which are soft and comfortable.
Sound Characteristics
The Audeze LCD-4z was tested with a Chord Hugo mk.1 as DAC and amp; it’s ironic that this is far cheaper than the headphones themselves! A more substantial setup may affect the LCD4z’s response somewhat.
Overall the LCD-4z has a warm feel to its output, with a sound which is comfortable and luxurious.
Bass
Low extension is very good which is well voiced and natural-sounding. If a particular track means to hit us with sub-bass, be sure to have your fillings certified by a qualified mouth doctor prior to listening.
Further up, bass presence may be a little too much for some in relation to mids and treble. This may be a nod toward those who are demanding more in the way of bass presence these days. Definition is very good; there’s a certain rounded quality to it which feels like it’s impinging on the midrange but it doesn’t get in the way of midrange detail.
Mids
Vocals are rich and very detailed; it feels like we’re peering into the singers’ throats with a broad wooden spatula. Backing vocals are very seductive, with some nice separation giving the impression of singers standing about the listener.
With tracks which generally push the limits of comfort in terms of midrange presence (such as with the upper registers of the clarinet), the LCD4z does rein it in a little, so if fatigue is an issue for you the LCD-4z is an option. Overall it’s a gooey, fun midrange and a very alluring one.
Treble
Treble presence is ideal for this self-confessed Sennheiser HD650 fan; some may find it a bit muted for their tastes but it allows the music to ooze out without the feeling that it’s being forced. It continues on from the midrange in a natural and pleasing way.
Fine details are well rendered with subtle harmonics present; trumpets and other brass instruments are really quite enjoyable.
Soundstage and Separation
Soundstage is about average for an open-back model, with imaging and separation doing a decent job whilst maintaining a natural feel.
Music genres good for and why
The warm nature of the LCD-4z complements modern, studio-produced genres such as pop and rock. If you like sub-bass laden offerings such as with rap or drum and bass, then the LCD4z is a sure winner. However those who favour classical, opera or live recordings may require a little more bite where it comes to treble.
Summary
Audeze’s new LCD-4z hits us hard; both with sub-bass and credit card bills. However, relaxing with a set of these in place will certainly mask the insistent knocks on the door from bailiffs.
Audeze EL-8 Open-Back – Land of Open Glory – Expert Review
Intro
Based in Sunny California, Audeze have endeavoured to spread a little spare sunshine around; even to the point of piercing the gloom here in the UK! We’re all aware of the effect The Golden State’s orange juice has on us in the mornings, and it appears that its headphones aren’t far behind in being able to part the clouds, if only in terms of dazzling audio resolution.
The planar magnetic EL-8 Open-Back is a bit of a departure from Audeze’s other designs; it’s smaller, lighter and and more travel friendly with an ability to be folded flat – not that the idea of stopping listening and packing these headphones away is particularly alluring.
Design and appearance (e.g. attractiveness, feel)
I say that the Audeze EL-8 Open-Back is lighter than the other models; and while that may be the case, they still have a fair bit of weight. When compared to the average portable out there they won’t win any Oscars unless there is a strong supporting cast. But if viewed as a headphone for any quiet scenario such as for home use too, the EL-8 Open-Back returns to the podium like something out of Ben-Hur.
They’re decorated with a wood-like veneer design around the edge of the earcups, which looks a little more understated when compared to the LCD range, but still follows the Audeze theme of natural wooden tones.
Despite the initial surprise at the headband which consists of a relatively thin band of steel with a sprung pad in the middle, plus the departure from other Audeze designs where the yokes are concerned (the pivoted parts holding the earspeakers), we were reassured of the solid build quality when handling the headphones. Nothing about the Audeze EL-8 Open-Back goes against Audeze’s pedigree where build quality is concerned.
Even taking the design of the headphones into account, the cable is perhaps the greatest departure from previous designs. It’s ribbon-style and the connectors are more reminiscent of those you might find on a memory card, with 4 separate contacts on each side. Being 2m/6.5 feet long, an extension cable may be required for home use with full-sized amplifiers as the Audeze EL-8 Open-Back was primarily designed for portable players.
Comfort
When nestled on the head the Audeze EL-8 Open-Back is quite comfortable and does not feel heavy, but we all have different opinions where weight is concerned. At 460g (or just over a pound) they are lighter than the LCD range by a fair margin. The headband cushion is comfortable too, but when adjusting the headband back or forward there may be a tendancy for the headband’s rubber coating to pull on the hair.
Suitability for intended application
Being an open-backed portable, this EL-8 version is obviously for those who want a low profile way of taking great quality music to the office or to enjoy in quiet spaces outdoors. These headphones may run into problems in noisy environments, or if the wearer wishes to not cause a nuisance to those nearby. There is a EL-8 Closed Back for such scenarios, so take your pick!
Portability
The earcups on the Audeze EL-8 Open-Back fold down flat and so can reduce the size of the headphones in a bag or case; however the travel case supplied with them could be more substantial, amounting to a soft cloth pouch which will protect the headphones from dust.
Sound characteristics
Bass (e.g. punch, low extension):
Being a planar magentic model, bass comes naturally to the Audeze EL-8 Open-Back! It’s all in proportion of course, there’s no bloat for the sake of it. It’s emphatic when called for and never steals the show. It is tight and detailed, enhanced by harmonics within the unfettered midrange and upper frequencies.
Mids (e.g. vocals, acoustic instruments):
The mid-range can be zoomed in on and enjoyed whether there’s a lot of action or not; it is all taken in the EL-8 Open-Back’s stride. This headphone can certainly keep its head.
Nuance is not lost and every tremelo and vibrato within a vocal performance is faithfully served up along with accompanying reverb trails, making for a very convincing and moving presentation.
Treble (e.g. high hats):
The upper frequencies are a perfect complement to the rest of the range, neither too bright or too dark. This is a personal opinion of course as we all have a differing amount of sensitivity to this region, but Audeze have obviously put some thought into this and hit a perfect balance between sharpness and dullness; they sparkle without glare, and massage auditory systems in a non-drowsy way.
Soundstage & Separation
Soundstage may suffer a little from the grill on each side; the larger earcups of the LCD range give audio a good chance to breath but this should have been scaled down for the EL-8 Open Back along with the earcup size itself, with a greater chance of any otherwise reflected audio escaping.
Separation is as good as any open backed headphone in the EL-8’s price range; even bringing out details I had never conciously noticed before such as that rhythm guitar low down in the mix, or that backing singer who was multi-tracked and not the subject of a delay effect.
Music genres good for and why
Genres from classical to slow and heavy EBM were tested with the EL-8 Open-Back; the headphones are sensitive and precise enough to convey the finer touches and emotion of the Brandenburg Concherto, as well as vibrating the skull with Rhesus Factor’s ‘Commando 242’, an unremitting heavy synth track of little subtlety! The relatively neutral tuning of the Audeze EL-8 makes it a perfect jack of all trades, and a master all of them as well.
Pros:
Removable/replaceable cable
Sounds amazing
Small and light (in comparison to Audeze LCD Series)
Ver comfortable to wear
Cons:
Some may still find them just a little heavy on the head
Carry pouch not as substantial as a hard case
6 foot / 2 metre cable only
Please take a look at our video review for the Audeze EL-8 Headphones below:
The Audeze LCD-XC is definitely one of the top-tier headphones available now, and is a worthy stablemate to the similarly closed-back but smoother Fostex TH900.
Pros
Exceptionally comfortable
Sumptuous build quality
Amazing detail
Well balanced
Separation and imaging fully immersive
Sturdy travel case
Cons
May be too heavy for some
In the world of headphones we get the odd celebrity now and again; the flagships sail in and are esteemed due to their value if nothing else. But as with everything, a high price needn’t necessarily equate with a good product. Is this particualr celebrity just famous for being famous, or do they actually have some talent?
Key Features
Those shiny wooden earcups are a treat for the eyes, and the build quality is exceptional. Solid is definitely the word, but this may count against the Audeze LCD-XC as some necks may suffer under the 650g/1.4lb weight; those with the fortitude to ‘press a head’ should be well rewarded though. The tough carry case protects them in transit, and the supplied ribbon-type cable is ‘tangle free’. Also in the case is a little bottle of wax for keeping the shine on the earcups.
First Impressions
Having tried Audeze’s offerings before, my appetite was suitably whetted and it was not disappointed. By now the obvious build quality and good looks are meeting with blasé reactions – we all know what to expect from Audeze! The weight issue was in my mind, but since I’ve been enjoying the HifiMAN HE-400 for some time now with no issues I was not worried, and indeed the LDC-XC’s weight did not bother me.
Sound Quality
I first tried the Audeze LCD-XC with a Chord Hugo; both to feed as good a signal in as possible, and to try the Hugo’s resolution with the LCD-XC. The presentation was very accurate and crisp; I found it just a little too far into bright territory for my tastes. Then I tried the LCD-XC with my humble Fiio X3; the X3’s output is a little warmer than that of the Chord Hugo, and this was reflected within the sound of the headphones. Where before it was a little cold and uncompromising with the K120, it came to life and into colour for me with the X3. The LCD-XC is like a mirror for the amp; it brings out the best traits of the available equipment.
The closed-back nature of this model is possibly a down side, if only because so many great headphones in this price range are open and so have an advantage in terms of soundstage. As we all know however, isolation is often necessary if we aren’t to be distracted (and don’t want to disturb others), and the LCD-XC does not sound like a closed headphone. The soundstage is appreciably wider than the physical limits of the headphones, and the closed nature of them does not remain so obvious when in use.
Summary
With the asking price in mind, it’s no surprise to learn that this is an exceptionally competent headphone which can hold its own among some cutting-edge competition. If you are considering a highend closed-back model and you find the Fostex TH900 a little smooth, the Audeze LCD-XC may be just for you.
