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Head-to-head · Best Open-back Headphones For Mixing

Audeze LCD-X vs Sennheiser HD 650

Which is the better buy? Side-by-side on rating, price, strengths, and watch-outs — with the published ratings we averaged to get there.

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The short answer

Sennheiser HD 650 comes out ahead by a clear margin (4.4 vs 4.1). The gap is mostly about audiophiles seeking neutral reference sound — read the strengths below before deciding.

Audeze LCD-X
Ranked #5 in Best Open-back Headphones For Mixing
Audeze LCD-X
7 sources2 derived$1,199as of Sep 25

The Audeze LCD-X headphones feature open-back planar magnetic drivers with ultra-thin diaphragms, delivering a flat frequency response and vivid soundstage. Reviewers noted their exceptional comfort and lack of listener fatigue during extended use, making them suitable for studio mixing and critical listening. The headphones come with premium leather ear pads and detachable cables, enhancing longevity and customization. While praised for their accuracy and build quality, the $1,200 price point and slightly heavier weight compared to prior versions are noted drawbacks. These headphones are ideal for professional audio work and discerning listeners seeking accurate reproduction.

Strengths
  • — Planar magnetic drivers with ultra-thin diaphragms deliver detailed audio reproduction
  • — Premium leather ear pads (with vegan microfiber suede option) offer comfort and durability
  • — Detachable cables allow for easy replacement and reduce risk of cable damage
Watch-outs
  • — High price point at $1,200 for the Creator's Edition
  • — The headphones are heavy and bulky
$1,199 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →
Sennheiser HD 650
Higher ratedRanked #2 in Best Open-back Headphones For Mixing
Sennheiser HD 650
9 sources3 derived$299as of Sep 25

The Sennheiser HD 650 remains a benchmark reference headphone with its 42mm dynamic drivers and 300 ohm impedance delivering exceptional accuracy and musicality. Reviewers consistently praise its natural sound signature and build quality, though its high impedance means it requires a quality amplifier to fully realize its potential. While the proprietary cable connections may limit compatibility, the HD 650 continues to be considered a classic choice for audiophiles seeking neutral, transparent sound reproduction.

Strengths
  • — Nominal impedance of 30/300 ohms provides excellent compatibility with high-end amplifiers
  • — Iconic plastic design with spring steel headband offers comfortable long-term wear
  • — Natural and musical sound signature praised by audiophiles for its neutrality and transparency
Watch-outs
  • — Cable termination uses proprietary connectors that may limit compatibility with some devices
  • — Lack of isolation and sound leakage
$299 · Check Price on AmazonFull review →

Derived means the reviewer published no score, so one was inferred from their written verdict. Everything else is a number the publisher printed. How we rank.

How they stack up

Audeze LCD-X

The Audeze LCD-X surpasses the HD 490 Pro and HD 650 with its planar magnetic drivers and wide frequency response, offering more detail and soundstage. While it's heavier and more expensive than the K-712 Pro, it avoids the bass over-emphasis and treble dip issues that affect the AKG model, making it ideal for critical listening.

Sennheiser HD 650

The HD 650 offers unmatched neutrality and build quality compared to the HD 490 Pro, which has less neutral high-mids and treble. While the HD 490 Pro provides better sub-bass extension, the HD 650's 300 ohm impedance and proprietary connectors make it more suited for audiophiles with high-end amplifiers, unlike the more versatile LCD-X or K-712 Pro.

Specs side-by-side

SpecAudeze LCD-XSennheiser HD 650
DriverPlanar magnetic42mm dynamic
Impedance20 ohms300 ohms
Sensitivity103 dB103 dB (1 V)
Frequency Response5 Hz – 20 kHz (extended to 50 kHz)10 Hz - 41,000 Hz
DesignOpen-backOpen-back, Over-ear
Connector4-pin XLR combo1/4" (6.35 mm) stereo jack plug
Cablebraided OCC copper 4-pin XLR combo cable with single-ended 1/4" adapter3 m
Weight—260 g
← See the full ranking of best open-back headphones for mixing