Audeze LCD-X

The pursuit of high end audio ends with these handcrafted headphones

The problem with most of our portable devices, whether it be the latest iPod or iPhone, is that they can’t supply enough power to headphones for the desired output. And you will never really carry a pre-amplifier with you. This is where the Audeze LCD-X reference-level planar magnetic headphones come in.

Designed to extract the maximum power out of low-powered amplifiers and portable devices, the LCD-X is an extremely efficient headset. It is no wonder they are a favourite among recording engineers and musicians. The LCD-X produces a fast, dynamic and accurate sound while keeping its focus on clarity.

The LCD-X comes with two cables, each 8.2 feet (yes you are reading it right) long. One is terminated on a 4-pin XLR to a dual 4-pin mini-XLR cable and the other (1/4in) to a dual 4-pin mini-XLR cable. There is even a 6.35mm (1/4in) to 3.5mm (1/8in) stereo adapter to allow you to plug it into your iPod, apart from a rugged travel case. The headphones are capable of delivering 15 watts of music (remember that your typical headphones reach a tiny fraction of a watt).

But all this comes not only at a price but with a heavy weight too. The LCD-X weighs about 600 gm, more than double the weight of your typical headphones. However, they are not uncomfortable to wear. As a matter of fact, their real lambskin leather-padded ear cushions feel great on the ear, and their large 50 mm drivers surround you with a relatively natural presentation. You can also go for a microsuede (leather- free) version.

The LCD-X is what one would call a top-of-the-line headset, with full-bodied vocals and a vivid bass. It projects a power that ensures you enjoy every beat of the music you are listening to. And just in case this is not enough, go get yourself an amazing headphone amplifier, sit back, grab a glass of Henri Jayer Richebourg Grand Cru, and let Coltrane take you for a heavenly musical ride.

Audeze LCD-Xaudioheadphones