Dan Clark Audio
Dan Clark Audio Ether 2 System
Best open-back headphones for audiophiles seeking long-term comfort and sonic versatility.
The Dan Clark Audio Ether 2 is a flagship open-back planar magnetic headphone designed for exceptional comfort and realistic sound. Constructed from titanium, aluminum, and carbon fiber, it is remarkably lightweight at only 290 grams, making it ideal for extended listening sessions. The Ether 2 boasts a deep and wide soundstage, delivering an incredibly realistic acoustic signature. It features three distinct, interchangeable ear pads—perforated, suede, and solid—allowing users to customize the sound and fit to their preferences, offering a versatile listening experience for various music genres.
$2299.99
More ETHER Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
791
/ 6142
#791 in Headphones
Price vs Category Average
+291%
Above average
Earpad Material
Synthetic Protein
/ Synthetic Protein
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking transparent and immersive sound reproduction
- Listeners prone to fatigue during long studio or home sessions
- Collectors valuing premium build quality and long-term reliability
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers prioritizing value over high-end performance
- Minimalists avoiding the complexity of external amplification gear
- Commuters or office workers needing isolation from ambient noise
Performance breakdown
Ergonomic Comfort
Featherweight construction makes these disappear during marathon listening sessions.
Soundstage Realism
Expansive imaging creates a remarkably lifelike and immersive acoustic environment.
Sonic Versatility
Interchangeable ear pads allow for precise tuning of the sound signature.
Build Integrity
Premium carbon fiber and titanium ensure long-term durability and structural rigidity.
Detail Retrieval
Advanced driver technology extracts subtle nuances from even complex recordings.
Driveability
Low impedance design allows for easy pairing with most high-end amplifiers.
Key Specs
Earpad Material
Synthetic Protein
Wearing Style
Over-Ear
Type
Open-Back
Cup
Carbon Fiber
Cable
1/4 in. 2 m VIVO, 4.4 mm 2 m, 1/4 in. 3 m VIVO, 4-pin XLR 2 m VIVO, 4-pin XLR 3 m VIVO, 2.5 mm 1.1 m, 2.5 mm 2 m, 3.5 mm 1.1 m, 3.5 mm 2 m, 4.4 mm 1.1 m
Impedance
16 Ω
Driver
71 mm x 45 mm Single-Ended Planar Magnetic
Driver Matching
+/-1.5 dB to target curve, channel matched to 0.5 dB weighted 30-9 kHz
Features
- Ultralight construction with titanium, aluminum, and carbon fiber for superior comfort.
- V-Planar driver processing enhances bass response and reduces distortion.
- Trueflow V2 technology improves resolution and dynamics.
- Includes three distinct ear pad types (perforated, suede, solid) for customizable sound and fit.
- Second-generation motor with improved acoustics for clear, warm, and detailed sound.
- Driver is 70% lighter than previous models for enhanced detail retrieval.
- Magnets are moved away from the listener to further improve sound clarity.
- Includes a carrying case for portability and protection.
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Dan Clark Audio Ether 2 System for its exceptional sound quality and remarkable comfort. Listeners frequently highlight the headphones' ability to deliver a detailed, natural, and expansive audio experience, often describing it as a significant upgrade. The lightweight design and ergonomic fit contribute to extended listening sessions without fatigue, making it a preferred choice for audiophiles seeking both sonic excellence and supreme wearability. This combination of superior audio performance and user comfort stands out as a primary driver of positive feedback.
Know before you buy
The perforated pads generally offer a more open, airy sound, while the suede pads provide a slightly warmer, more intimate presentation. The solid pads tend to emphasize bass impact and isolation, allowing you to tune the headphone's acoustic profile to your specific music genre or preference.
Yes, at just 290 grams, it is exceptionally lightweight. The combination of a nickel-titanium headband and high-quality materials ensures minimal pressure, making it one of the most comfortable flagship headphones for extended use.
With an impedance of 16 Ω, the Ether 2 is relatively efficient for a planar magnetic headphone. While it can be driven by many portable devices, a high-quality dedicated amplifier will better reveal the full resolution, dynamics, and soundstage capabilities of the drivers.
Yes, as an open-back headphone, the Ether 2 allows sound to pass through the ear cups in both directions. It is best suited for quiet environments where you can enjoy the expansive soundstage without disturbing others or being distracted by ambient noise.
V-Planar technology allows the driver to move more like a flat surface rather than a dome, which significantly reduces distortion and improves bass extension. This results in a cleaner, more realistic sound that maintains detail even during complex musical passages.
Yes, the Ether 2 uses a detachable cable system. It is compatible with a wide variety of VIVO cable terminations, including 1/4 inch, 4.4 mm balanced, 3.5 mm, and 4-pin XLR, allowing you to easily match the connection to your specific audio setup.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$2300