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

Audeze LCD-X vs Sennheiser HD 800 S

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 800 S comes out ahead by a narrow margin (4.2 vs 4.1). The gap is mostly about audiophiles with high-end setups seeking clarity — 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 800 S
Higher ratedRanked #3 in Best Open-back Headphones For Mixing
Sennheiser HD 800 S
10 sources3 derived

The Sennheiser HD 800 S delivers outstanding detail and clarity, with an expansive soundstage that sets it apart from competitors. Reviewers noted its comfortable open-back design and minimal clamp force, though the headphones require dedicated amplification to reach their full potential. The build quality is refined with a sleek dichromatic aesthetic, though some reviewers expressed concerns about the lightweight plastic construction. This headphone appeals to audiophiles seeking premium sound reproduction and is best suited for users with high-end audio setups.

Strengths
  • — Exceptional detail and clarity in audio reproduction
  • — Impressive soundstage with wide stereo separation
  • — Comfortable open-back design with minimal clamp force
Watch-outs
  • — Very lightweight construction may feel less durable
  • — High price point
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 800 S

The HD 800 S provides exceptional clarity and expansive soundstage, outperforming the HD 490 Pro in detail and the HD 650 in openness. While it's more expensive and lighter than the Audeze LCD-X, it lacks the planar magnetic drivers that give the LCD-X its edge in resolution and avoids the bass over-emphasis found in the K-712 Pro.

Specs side-by-side

SpecAudeze LCD-XSennheiser HD 800 S
DriverPlanar magnetic56mm Ring Radiator dynamic transducer
Impedance20 ohms300 Ohms
Sensitivity103 dB102 dB (1 V)
Frequency Response5 Hz – 20 kHz (extended to 50 kHz)4 Hz - 51,000 Hz
DesignOpen-backOpen-back, Over-ear
Connector4-pin XLR combo4.4mm (balanced) and 6.35mm (unbalanced) jack plugs
Cablebraided OCC copper 4-pin XLR combo cable with single-ended 1/4" adapterSpecially tuned symmetrical cable
Weight—330 g
← See the full ranking of best open-back headphones for mixing