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.
Full review
Open-back design and build quality
The Audeze LCD-X features an open-back design with planar magnetic drivers that deliver what reviewers describe as an immersive listening experience. The headphones incorporate ultra-thin diaphragms thinner than a human hair, contributing to their distinctive sound signature. The build quality is described as robust and premium, with a rugged plastic equipment case containing the headphones, cables, and adapters. Reviewers note the headphones are substantial in weight, measuring 612 grams, which some find excessive but others appreciate for its solid construction. The ear cups are large and feature premium leather ear pads, though a vegan microfiber suede version is also available. Home Studio Basics calls the headband adjustments somewhat odd but functional, resembling Grado adjustments but feeling more robust. The overall construction suggests durability, with reviewers noting that the headphones can withstand abuse and are built to last.
Weight and comfort considerations
Reviewers note that the weight makes it feel like wearing a small elephant on one's head, with some describing it as uncomfortably heavy for extended listening sessions. The clamping force is described as good, but the overall weight leads to discomfort, with recommended listening sessions limited to 30-45 minutes for most users. Some reviewers mention taking breaks during extended use due to the overwhelming heft. The large ear cups and substantial headband contribute to the overall weight, though the design is considered functional and well-constructed. Despite the weight, the headphones are noted for their comfort when properly adjusted, with some reviewers finding them comfortable enough for studio use, though not ideal for casual, long-term wear.
Bass response and low-frequency performance
The bass response of the LCD-X is described as remarkable and powerful, with reviewers noting it delivers deep, resonant lows that extend far beyond typical expectations. The bass is characterized as rich and nuanced, with excellent articulation that brings individual bass notes to life. The headphones are praised for their ability to portray bass notes with ease, making the bass not just present but a key player in audio performance. The low-frequency response is described as authoritative and full, with reviewers noting that it's among the best in its class, even outperforming dynamic headphones like the HD800S. The bass is said to be deep, hefty, and delivers authoritative slams without dominating the other frequencies. However, some reviewers note that the bass can sometimes lack distinct microdynamic contrast, possibly due to its thicker style, which is typical of Audeze's LCD lineup. The bass performance is considered a highlight of the LCD-X, with reviewers noting it's one of the standout features of the headphones.
Mid-range clarity and vocal presentation
The mid-range performance of the LCD-X is described as full-bodied and rich, with a slightly warm and full character that adds texture and velvety softness to vocals. Reviewers note that the mid-range is less colored compared to previous LCD models, leaning towards a more natural sound that appeals to a wider audience. The tuning is said to subtly enrich the texture and add a touch of warmth to vocals, making them more present and engaging. The LCD-X is praised for its clarity in mid-range instruments like pianos and acoustic guitars, with vocals having a vibrant richness. While the mids are described as less dramatic than in older models, they still offer excellent clarity and presence. Some reviewers note that vocal harmonics are more pronounced than in earlier LCD versions, though occasional sibilance can be detected, particularly in female vocals. The mid-range performance is considered a significant improvement over previous generations, with reviewers noting that it's more balanced and less colored.
Treble extension and high-frequency detail
The treble performance of the LCD-X represents a significant shift toward neutrality and clarity compared to previous models. Reviewers note that the headphones deliver a more articulate and transparent high-frequency response, with ample treble details and extension. The treble is described as walking a fine line between sibilant and articulate highs, with minor peaks around 6kHz and 12kHz adding brilliance but potentially introducing sibilance in female vocals. The transition from lower-treble to air and sparkle regions is smoother compared to lower-end Hifiman models, avoiding sharpness or ethereality. The upper treble is characterized as cautious, avoiding the harshness often associated with Hifiman planars. While the treble is not typically bright, it offers better clarity and extension than previous LCD models, making it beneficial for identifying imperfections in recordings. Some reviewers note that the treble performance is a major improvement, with the dip around 4kHz helping to ease excess energy at around 6kHz, resulting in a well-balanced overall sound profile.
Soundstage and imaging capabilities
Unheard Lab calls the soundstage of the LCD-X commendably expansive, particularly in terms of width, a trait shared with other LCD models. Reviewers note that the headphones offer a wide and open soundstage that contributes to the immersive listening experience. The imaging is described as precise, with instruments and vocals positioned accurately within the soundstage. The open-back design allows for excellent spatial awareness, enabling listeners to perceive the relationships between different elements in the mix. The soundstage is praised for its ability to create a sense of depth and width that enhances the listening experience. Reviewers note that the headphones excel at creating a sense of space and separation between instruments, making complex arrangements easier to follow. The imaging performance is considered one of the strengths of the LCD-X, with reviewers noting that it allows for accurate positioning of elements in the mix.
Amplification and compatibility requirements
The LCD-X requires significant amplification to reach its full potential, with reviewers noting that the headphones shine best when paired with quality DACs and amplifiers. The headphones are described as having low THD and being capable of handling lots of EQ, making them suitable for both studio and high-end listening applications. Reviewers recommend using dedicated amplifiers like the SPL Phonitor XE, Grace Design SDAC + A90, or JDS Labs Element II for optimal performance. The headphones are noted to work well with both USB and analog connections, though the USB connection with a DAC is preferred for the best audio quality. The headphones are said to be demanding in terms of amplification, requiring a powerful source to drive them effectively. Some reviewers note that the headphones can be driven by various sources but perform best with dedicated audio equipment.
Versatility and studio applications
The LCD-X is marketed as a studio headphone designed for professional mastering engineer use, and reviewers confirm its suitability for critical listening and mixing applications. The headphones are described as sounding very flat across the frequency spectrum, with an incredibly vivid presentation of space, making them ideal for accurate audio reference. Reviewers note that the headphones translate accurately between studio monitors and the real world, making them valuable tools for mixing and mastering. The open-back design allows for long listening sessions without fatigue, as it doesn't push the eardrums around with a hyped bass response. The headphones are praised for their ability to reveal small clicks, missed crossfades, and panning details, making them useful for critical listening tasks. Reviewers note that the LCD-X is not overly flattering or hyped, which makes it suitable for studio reference duties. Tape Op considers the headphones beneficial for anyone needing to work on mixes in apartments or other environments where cranking it up is not an option but accurate representation is required.
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
- +Wide frequency response claimed from 5 Hz – 20 kHz, extended to 50 kHz
Watch-outs
- −High price point at $1,200 for the Creator's Edition
- −The headphones are heavy and bulky
How it compares
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.
Rating sources
“I would describe them as sounding very flat across the frequency spectrum, with an incredibly vivid presentation of space. They have lovely detail without any hype.”
“The bottomline is, I can enjoy the LCD-X 2021 without tampering the tuning with EQ.”
Our 4.1 score is the average of the 4 scored reviews above; 3 more reviewed it without printing a score and are not in the average. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
