The Best Planar Magnetic Headphones

Planar magnetic headphones (also called orthodynamic headphones) make use of an insulated diaphragm that is sandwiched between multiple magnets to produce sound. They provide a clear, controlled audio experience which captures all the leading edge of instruments and vocals for amazing musical precision.

They also typically require a headphone amplifier in order to effectively drive the drivers. It's a small price to pay for a pair of headphones that will reveal new nuances and details you didn't know existed in your music.

1. Dekoni Blue HE400SE

The Blue is the new definition of T50RP MK3 with a more neutral sound. It's not as neutral as the Philips FidelioX2HR but still a good choice for those who don't need too bass and prefer a more warm headphone that is natural. The vocals are soft and feminine. (Listen to Feel Good by Dominique Fils Aime). It has a great balance of low and high frequencies that can be enjoyable for long listening sessions.

The planar magnetic structure promotes accurate sound positioning with the ability to project sound in a wide and transparent area. This lets music breathe and gives you the experience like you are in the middle of a concert. The treble range is clear and non-fatiguing, giving you a detailed and clear sound.

Its bass is also very impressive for a budget headphone. It's incredibly clear and powerful yet it does not distort when listening to loud tracks. Its fidelity is also top-notch with a good midrange energy and excellent detail retrieval.

2. Audeze LCD-2

Nearly everyone who's heard of Audeze headphones knows about their premium open-back design and strong sound. These headphones are also bulky, heavy, and do not isolate well. They will not be suitable for all. However, they're an excellent option for those looking for a headphone that can produce a strong dynamic climax and punch.

These headphones have a huge planar magnetic driver that has been specifically designed inside the ear cups. They provide undistorted, crystal clear sound. They are able to penetrate low frequencies, which other dynamic drivers aren't capable of reaching. This is among the most sought-after audiophile headphones that is a planar magnet.

Audeze's LCD-2 was their first headphone. It has the best audio quality of its class. It has a rich bass, full-bodied sound with real transparency and almost zero distortion over 10Hz. It has a natural-sounding treble, with the appropriate levels for sibilant sounds. It dips at 9khz to account for concha interactions.

The LCD 2 Classics are a great alternative to the original LCD-2. They have the same iconic design and sound, but at a cheaper price. They're an excellent combination with tube amplifiers, and they have more impedance than other open-back headphones, so you'll need to use an amplifier for your headphones. These headphones are not very air-conditioned and can cause your ears to become warm after wearing them long periods of time.

3. HIFIMAN Ananda Nano

The HIFIMAN Nano brings the egg-shaped design of the past and open back window shade of its predecessor to date, with a range of impressive technical upgrades. The Ananda Nano comes with the latest NEO ultranano diaphragm, which is 75% thinner than the predecessor's. It also has stealth magnets to provide greater clarity.

The midrange feels spacious and airy and clear, with plenty of resolution and a warm tone to it that will amaze listeners with its clarity. This is also a bright headphone with a little edge to its presentation that helps it stand out and add character. It's not harsh and doesn't suffer from any constriction.

The low-end of the HIFIMAN has a slender texture, but it doesn't sacrifice any power or dynamics. The treble sounds crisp and clear without being too bright or harsh. In contrast to some headphones that sound sluggish and closed-in, the treble of the Nano is a an impressive extension and is able to create a sense and clarity even when playing at high volumes.

The headphone is easy to operate and the acoustic clarity of its drivers will allow you to get the most out of your favorite sources. Don't believe the rumors about these headphones needing tons of power or high current - it's just a legend. I have used them for two seven-hour work days and long gaming sessions, and they're still comfortable.

4. Audio Technica ATH-M1070

Many music lovers, especially those with other priorities in life, may not be financially able to purchase planar headphones. If you are willing to do some investigation it is possible to find headphones that won't break the budget. Monolith by Monoprice's 1070C model is a closed-back model with magnetic planar technology priced at $299 USD.

While the Monolith by Monoprice 1070C may not come with the features you might expect from a higher-end set of headphones, that doesn't mean it's not lacking in performance or quality. These headphones sound impressive and can be tuned to your personal preferences by a little tweaking from the source of music you use them with.

The Monolith by Monoprice headphones are high-impedance and require a little help from your DAC/portable music player to drive the sound effectively. Thankfully, the company has multiple cord options in the box with the headphones including a three-meter Coiled cable that has an adapter with threaded 1/4 inches and two straight cables.

The Monolith by Monoprice headphones 1070C have a 106mm planar drive that provides a full, detailed soundstage with a sense of depth. The headphones make you feel as if being at the back of an orchestra when listening to music such as Phil Collins' In The Air Tonight. The treble is clear and clear, and the mid-range is smooth and warm without becoming too bassy.

5. Audio Technica ATH-M50X

The Audio Technica ATH-M50X are closed-back headphones with an impressively large pair of ear cups that comfortably fit over your ears. The Audio Technica ATH-50X is a closed-back headphone that comes with Ear cups that are big enough to comfortably rest over your ears.

The ear cups have a soft faux-leather covering that is comfortable for your ears and head. They also have a good seal to reduce outside sound. The headband is padded and fits around your head. However some users reported feeling uncomfortable due to its stiffness. They have a great soundstage, but some high-end details can be lost in the powerful bass response.

These headphones feature an exciting sound profile that is perfect for electronic music or other genres that are based on a beat. The headphones have a powerful bass boost that makes kick-drums punchy, and bright treble that emphasizes every note in a song or guitar riff.

The ATH M50X is a favored headphone for audiophiles and musicians. However it's not suited to all situations. It lacks the flat frequency response and even the articulation that is found in higher-end headphones like the Beyerdynamic 990 PRO, and can also be a bit warm in the low range for some.

6. Audeze LCD-XC

The LCD-XC is a closed-back planar magnetic headphone and the first from Audeze. It is large and heavy, with full wooden ear cups and the metal frame around. It is the heaviest headphone on the list and one of the heaviest closed back models anywhere.

The Audeze LCD-XC has quickly become the ultimate tool for musicians, recording engineers and audiophiles around the world because of its impressive neutrality and clarity. The closed-back design of the Audeze LCD-XC offers all the advantages that magnetic headphones with a planar design, such as increased isolation and reduced ambient noise. This gives you a quiet listening experience. Your music of choice will explode from the background, taking on a life all of its own.

They feature a unique innovative planar magnetic technology which makes use of space-age materials as well as an ultra-thin diaphragms that are 4 times larger than standard headphones for fast response times, dramatically reduced distortion and better resolution. Their unique driver design shifts a large, ultra-thin driver between magnet arrays for incredible air movement, resulting in their distinctive, powerful bass and a natural, extended treble. The LCD-XC is a true, reference grade headphone designed for professional mixing, tracking mastering, and high-resolution listening for personal use when connected to an external source device that can be carried around or Planar magnet an amplifier of the highest quality.

The treble is an clear and precise sound, with no artificial coloring or coloration. Vocals are also superb with a rich and deep midrange, as well as a natural, crisp and clean treble, which gives an authentic sense of intimacy.